DIY, Sewing

DIY Pouch for Reusable Utensils

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The constant negative news about how human activities and waste products are hurting the environment and wildlife have motivated me to make some changes. For example, determined to reduce my use of plastic, I made a carrying case for silverware to put in my purse. Now when I grab a quick bite out, I don’t have to use a plastic fork. Below are instructions for making this simple portable pocket, which is fast to sew and also makes a thoughtful present.

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Birds, Nature

Permission to Err: Counting for eBird

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On December 29th, there were thirteen bald eagles in sight all at once, the most I’d seen on the lake at the time. Excited by the high numbers, I posted about it on Facebook. A friend asked if I was sending my data in to eBird, and I had to confess I wasn’t.

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Books, Gratitude, Lord of the Rings

Belated Thanks to Christopher Tolkien

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J.R.R. Tolkien’s son Christopher died this week. Fans of Middle-earth are mourning the loss, and no wonder. We owe him much. As his father’s biggest fan, he knew what the rest of longed for: more. More history and stories of the world where hobbits live, and we got it. Without Christopher, The Silmarillion would never have been published.

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Drawing, Nature, Nature Journaling, Travel

How Nature Journaling Inspired Me To Solve A Mystery

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On our trip to Utah, I made a point of drawing daily. But my real goal was to journal about the natural world. Inspired by The Laws Guide to Nature Drawing and Journaling, I made an effort to more closely observe my surroundings and to ask questions about what I saw. I found myself looking around for the answers as well.

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Art, Creativity

Keep The Channel Open: Creative Advice From Martha Graham

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It’s easy to keep yourself from creating. All you have to think is “This has been done before” or “I’m not good enough.” But in a letter to Agnes de Mille, Martha Graham wrote the following:

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