It's not a creative outlet for me

Most people are surprised when I say I don't like to cook. They think it's shocking that a creative person doesn't like to "create" in the kitchen. That doesn't mean I don't appreciate fine food. My husband is a bit of a foodie, and I'm a huge fan of "Top Chef". But yesterday I tried to bake. And the results were horrible. Today I did a lot better. Making three batches for upcoming holiday parties. But I have to say, as proud of my results as I am, I think I'm done cooking for the year. Some things are better left to the professionals. Like Charm City Cakes. Now these guys are artists.
http://www.charmcitycakes.com

I used to be afraid of patterns

If you know me, or at least knew me twenty years ago, I was the one in black. All black. But maybe it's a sign of getting older, or wanting to try something new, that I have turned into a lover of pattens. Not only do I love textiles, but it's snuck into the way I dress. The more color, the better. I also love dresses. Now as I look at a recent photo of my daughter, it's obvious that it's transferred over to what I buy her. Although at four, she is now capable of picking out her own clothes. This one was all her idea. I just hope she doesn't start dressing like a little Kimora Lee Simmons. I was hoping more for a Kate Spade kind of dresser. Vintage and skirts. Maybe in forty years we'll find out.

Former designers turned indie artists

Yesterday I went to the Renegade Craft Fair in Chicago. There must have been hundreds of exhibiters and a ton of shoppers. I guess no-one worried to much about the recession when you can buy a $25 dollar long sleeve hoodie with edgy type. Once we found a spot to park in the non-plowed side streets of Wicker Park, it was amazing to see so much creativity in one place. It was obvious by the business cards (which I have to say were quite creative) that many of these people were/are graphic designers. With more t-shirt lines and letterpress cards, I felt bad I didn't find something. Although as usual picked up a little something for my daughter. If you can, check it out.