Addiction

2 weeks have passed since my last craft confession, and almost no crafting has taken place during that time. I could tell you that it's because of my new Jazzercise schedule (which is partially true) or because of the major clutter clearing that is also happening at our house right now (also, partly true.) But the main reason is because I've been feeding a new, somewhat time-consuming addiction.


Jigsaw puzzles. Who knew! On our last couple days of winter break, Rowan and I unearthed all the puzzles we had in the house (none larger than 100 pieces) and filled our kitchen table with them. When they were all done, I had a strong itch to try my hand at a serious puzzle, so I put it on my Target shopping list. I told Rowan about how my grandma Helen used to always have a jigsaw puzzle going on her dining room table, and when a big family meal happened we would simply lay the tablecloth over the puzzle and dine. The last time I had worked on a big puzzle was in Jackson Hole, WY, when my siblings and I took Dad for a week-long 60th birthday excursion. The house we stayed at had a puzzle going, which had clearly been out on the table for years and the colors were warped from sun exposure. In the early mornings, warm coffee in hand, we would gather and work the Old Faithful  Hotel puzzle and by our last day in Jackson we had it finished. 


Well, the Target choices weren't great, but they did have one that inspired me, so home it came. My family lost my attention for several days running. We ate a lot of canned soup.

I must say, it was really cool to intimately get to know a famous work of art. Note to self: add other famous painting puzzles to birthday wish list!


Once this puzzle was done, I was anxious to start another so I borrowed a couple used puzzles from a friend and got to work. Puzzle number 2 was HARD. The colors on the actual puzzle didn't match what was on the box picture, and the box picture was really small and hard to see. Hmmm, perhaps the persistent headache I've had for over a week has to do with eye strain?

I've got a 3rd puzzle going now, but am pacing myself. What can I say, my family missed me and Rowan is sick of soup.


Now, to prove I have actually been productive around the house as well, here are some pictures of my totally organized, clutter-free basement storage area! The amount of toys, boxes, junk, crap, whatnot, had been significantly depleted. Oh joy! Sorry, I forgot to take "before" pictures, but just imagine wall-to-wall stuff everywhere.

Note: Games actually accessible, and camping stuff all stored in or on old dresser! (Also note: sad usage of nice Farha family heirloom rug in grody basement storage area. We feel a little guilty, but not enough to do something about it.)

Tools/paint/hardware: check. Sewing/fabric: check. Wrapping boxes: check. Memorabilia: check.

Lovely, lovely, organized and accessible "Holiday" section.

Puzzles, toys and clothing Brynn isn't ready for: check.

I mean, do I deserve to do a dang puzzle or what!!?!


And yes, the knitting needles have been picked up again - I'm trying my hand at fair aisle. Skulls and crossbones emerging!

I'm not thrilled with the seed stitch edge - it's a bit loose and unless it blocks out really nicely it will be my "trial" hat. I might do another one using a smaller needle for the seed stitch. Also, the pattern is meant to be 6 mos. size and fits Brynn. Hmmm. Need to tweak there as well. But the Cascade "Vintage" yarn feels really good and I like the color!


Now that the basement project is done, the next big thing on my list is to update Rowan's birthday scrapbook. Then do Brynn's. Then update the family album. Then update the girl's portrait albums. I've got my work cut out for me! Let the photo craziness begin...with a few breaks here and there to work the puzzle...