Weekly Reader

I launched this new Weekly Reader series last week to keep you guys apprised of what I’m loving, where I’m writing, etc. Let’s start this second installment with some Instagram highlights.

So this was awesome

Craft tutorials

papier mache dogs –Hounds of Bath via All Things Paper
lily of the valley embroidery pattern -Wild Olive
mother’s day brunch spread -love + cupcakes
removable wallpaper from chasing paper -How About Orange
painted arrow vase -offbeat+inspired
ice cream paperscape -Jiani Lu via Discover Paper

Movies/shows

• I fell in love with two movies while crafting last weekend: Dirty Girl, an indie comedy & Jig, a documentary about competitive Irish dancing (both available on Netflix).
• Catching up on Parks & Rec, there was an awesome episode about Jerry’s retirement featuring lots o’ scrapbooking. Observe:

I chose this segment to GIF because it’s basically a conversation my husband and I have once a week. 

Reads

• Recently finished: Matched by Ally Condie. Not my favorite dystopian YA novel ever, but it was a fun, quick and relaxing read. I’m really excited about reading the rest of the series.
• Started re-reading: Once Upon A River by Bonnie Jo Campbell. The book group I lead at my Librarian job will be discussing it this month.
• Been listening to*: The Jungle. I loved it in high school, but can only take the depiction of complete misery in small doses these days. Still excellent so far. *I love audiobooks and always have one going. 
• Ripped from the headlines: Last fall I read Room by Emma Donoghue. It’s about a woman kidnapped and held captive in a room from 7 years, during which time she has a son by her captor. Sound familiar? The book was fantastic and chilling. If you’re fascinated by the terrifying news from Cleveland this week, you might want to read this book.

In case you missed it…

• On Monday, I showed you guys how to revamp a lampshade with woven ribbon.
• Yesterday, I gathered 6 of my favorite recent Mother’s Day craft ideas.
• There’s still time to help me out by taking the 10 minute Hands Occupied Reader Survey and/or voting for me for Chicago’s Best Indie Crafter.
• As always, I shared a bunch of sweet candles at Craft Gossip, for I am their Candle Making Editor.