Where the wild things were

This weekend all the wild things seemed to be right at home in Baltimore! One of my favorite things about living in Charm City is that our rowhome is a half block from Patterson Park. Yesterday was a perfect example of how lucky we are with the annual BARCStoberfest and Great Halloween Lantern Parade. The Strut Your Mutt Walk is always my favorite afternoon event. Who doesn't enjoy a hot dog dachshund? And last night the Lantern Parade featured tons of Poe-inspired lanterns (along with a Natty Boh and Utz Girl), tunes from the [Bad to the] Bone Band, and a host of delicious treats.

The only thing I wished I had at the parade (other than another spinach samosa - yum!) was a fall cap. Piper & Paisley's white and black speckled hat with wooden ring might be just the thing to warm me up next time!

First Scarf of the Season

The first day of Fall may have officially been September 22nd but I think it really hit me this weekend. The leaves are turning those striking burnt orange colors so the down comforter has emerged from the cedar chest, Julia Child's Ragout de bouef tout simple was made for dinner, and I've started washing my scarves to wear to work this week. I have a few knitting projects underway so I went to Etsy this morning to see if I could find a new pair of "glittens" as inspiration.

Instead I set my sights on Nan Lawson's pen and ink drawing, Autumn Girl ($10). This sweet redhead is the perfect embodiment of the weather today here in chilly Baltimore. (Nan also has an Autumn Boy and Autumn Nerd available.)

This is a 5x7" print from an original ink drawing that was digitally painted.

The Maryland SPCA's Shop-A-Paw-Looza

Taking out a couple days here and there for the day job, catching up on Tivo, football games and family/friends visiting there are really only 8 weeks left until the holiday madness of craft shows start. So, do you want the good news or bad news first?

The good news is you can get a jump start on all your holiday shopping through the Maryland SPCA's Shop-A-Paw-Looza. There are over 347 auction items available so let the bidding begin.

This 11x14" pet portrait and card set from FuzzyMug is totally sweet for you - and for the homeless pets you are helping!
Auction runs October 2 – 27, 2009 (It's totally the cat's meow!)
Website: www.mdspca.cmarket.com

The bad news? Fortunately for you, it only applies to me. I only have 8 weeks to get all my new prints ready for you!