For my creative block....

I've been in the midst of a creative slump lately, but got a few pieces of advice lately that have helped:

1. "'Do a little bit everyday or whenever you can'. Then you can look back and see how those little bits add up to a lot." Thanks, J-Bo (and Ryan)!

2. Get the projects you are putting off DONE! That way you can actually look forward to creative stuff you WANT to do. This advise is going to be used tonight!

and

3. Steal Like an Artist by Austin Kleon of Newspaper Blackout

Thank you!

Creative Slump

Lately, I've been in a little bit of a creative slump....

I have lots of projects I would like to be doing, but by the time I get home from work, I am lacking the energy and motivation to do them. The great thing is: my job keeps me thinking, and on my toes. The bad thing is: I have creative things at home I want to do too! The past few weeks though, I am worn out by the time I get home, and eat dinner.

I know I have a lot of creative friends reading this. How do you stay motivated? I have some really cute fabric (aptly named Hope Valley), and a great pattern for a tunic that I really want to sew!* Also, the business cards (and brochure) I was commissioned to design unfortunately won't design themselves.

The funny thing is this: as I write, I keep remembering very recent projects I've done that I haven't posted yet.

STILL, please let me know what you do to keep your motivation up, after a long day of _________ing! Thank you!

*I also have 2 meters of Marimekko shirting that is aching to be a duvet cover!

7 Things I LOVE About Our Portland Neighborhood

Here are 7 MORE things I love about our new neighborhood (and the list could go on and on....):

1. The house (with its many flowering trees) two blocks away

2. This sweet (and slightly fancy-pants) grey house (with lime green trim!) in Alameda

3. The many daffodils in bloom, that make the sidewalks so warm and sunny!

4. The "Old Portland" style Bungalows and Four-Squares that are EVERYWHERE

5. Well, this house has a little windmill and aqua watering pots on the porch. I don't need any more reasons, do I?

6. This simple red house with the striking blue chairs and door, around the corner. This house isn't all that "Portland" though!

7. This cute little bungalow that is directly across the street from our house. The people seem nice too! Now that spring is finally here, we will probably meet them on the way to get groceries!

Be honest now: is it obvious that living here is making me a little itchy to buy a house? We go on very long walks, and it is ridiculous how CHARMING some of these houses and gardens are! I have to be patient though - now is not the time for us. You need money to buy, right?