Im sure most of you who cruise around blog land regularly have heard about the big holiday ornament swap that is put on every year. I participated last year, and it was held again this year too! I found that while excited about the swap, it was simply an un-needed stress too close to the holidays for me to participate again. (I probably should have relaxed a little about the ornaments i was trying to make , and kept it a little more basic too!)

But I did just discover that Brooklyn Bride is hosting a holiday card swap this year. All you have to do is make a card (or 5)! Here are all the deets. Im seriously considering doing this...am i crazy!?!?! Is a card less stressful than an ornament?

I can see a fun girls night of card making and wine. What a good excuse to get together and relax before the holidays kick into high gear!

I was thrilled to come home on Saturday and find Baltimore Magazine in my mailbox. I always look forward to getting a new issue in the mail, but i was impatiently awaiting this issue because I am included in the local crafters section (under accessories). Not only is there a little mention about my work, there is also a large image of one of my latest brooches on the bottom of the page! Hooray!!!!

Aside from including some of the hip-est local artists around, the entire magazine is dedicated to shopping local this holiday season, and covers/shows a lot of handmade gift ideas. Great issue!

Such a quick weekend! I cant believe its Sunday night already!
Here is my weekend in pictures...

Im embarrassed to admit that it's taken me so long to discover Red Tree in Hampden. SOOOOO awesome! If your like me and haven't made your way into the store yet, do it now! Ive also been totally converted to a knitter. I do it at work, at home, before bed.... I love it! LovelYarns is down the street from Red Tree, and a must see if your into knitting!

I also managed to get tons of work done this weekend too! Here are some new images that will be used in my work in 2009. Some may even appear in some pieces for Holiday Heap next weekend. All are hand drawn by yours truly!

After a bit of a funk, Im happy to say im having a wonderful day!

The day is here!!! Be sure you take the time to vote today!

Then head to Krispy Kream or Starbucks! Both chains are showing their support for voters today by offering free coffee and doughnuts! yay!

Now that Halloween has passed, my mind is starting to wrap itself around thanksgiving and Christmas's. Mainly these aspects; preparing thansgiving dinner since we are hosting my family, and wondering what Christmas gifts i can make this year to save a little money! (aren't we all thinking that this year....) (ps, VOTE TOMORROW : ) )