Sometimes I worry that I sound like a broken record. Hmmm... is that phrase antiquated? Should I say like a scratched cd? Anyway I feel like all I've posted lately is purses and today is more of the same. At least I'm consistent. I'm so happy to have purses waiting to be made and I feel like I'm working at a good pace. It's been a variety of styles this week. More Machine Made Patchworks inspired bags. I used a leather strap on a couple of these. One of my favorite fellow purse makers Craft Apple posted about using saddle straps for handles. I had to do a little searching since I don't live where the West begins, but I did find saddle ties that worked wonderfully as handles. Who knew? Well, Linda knew, that's who. Thanks Miss Apple. 
The wonderful thing about commissioned purses is many times I end up with something I never would have designed myself. This black patchy-patchwork bag for instance. My personal taste is more neutral and understated, boring maybe. This bag is bright and cheerful and will suit its new owner perfectly. She asked for a black bag with patchwork in jewel tones. This is my interpretation. Hope she likes it. So that's what I've been up to, but what's been on my mind? As the title says, paint. Not spray paint. I'm itching for some change and not my typical quick change that involves a little fabric and some spray paint. No, my mind has been drifting to thoughts of hardwood and new wall colors, painted kitchen cabinets, slip-covered sofas. Do I have time for this? More importantly, do I have money for this? NO! That's a big fat No to both questions. The hardwood lust has been going on for quite a while. In fact 11 years ago when we were building this house I wanted hardwood throughout. The builder all but laughed at me, knowing our budget. So I had to settle for hardwood in the dining room and carpet in the other rooms. Carpet is supposed to be really bad for those with respiratory problems (me). It harbors dust mites and all sorts of other things I'd rather not think about, add to that training a new puppy. Try as I may to stay on top of things and keep an eye on him at all times, there has been the occasional accident. So hardwood has been on my mind. Now if only my mind could come up with a way to pay for hardwood. A less expensive project that's also been dancing in that head of mine involves paint (I can't be blamed for this one). How can you look at this kitchen and not want to paint? I've never been crazy about my dark wood cabinets. I know, I know... it's a sin to paint oak...bla, bla, bla... I'm just not a wood kinda girl (except when it comes to floors of course). I really want to paint them, but it's kind of like getting a tattoo. I know that I better love the color I choose because I'm going to be stuck with it for a long time. I'll paint most things on a whim, my philosophy is it's only paint, but this particular project is going to be no small undertaking involving lots of sanding and removing of doors and hardware and taping off and, and, oh my... You see now why I haven't done it yet. Oh the dreams of a crazy purse maker. I didn't even tell you about the walls I want to paint or the slipcovers I want to make. It's an exciting life I lead isn't it?
I'll leave you with this picture. Toby, guardian of the food bowl. No matter who is eating, Toby is standing by. Watching. I'm not sure if he just likes watching them eat or he's making sure they don't eat it all. I'm guessing the latter. How'd you like to eat every meal with an audience?
That floor is laminate by the way, not hardwood.
