I’m feeling a little giddy this morning because I finally finished up my little swan that I have been working on for AGES.  And when I say that, I’m not exaggerating.  For those of you that read my olde blog, do you remember this?:

I went back to the post to find the photo to show you and I reread it.  I totally forgot that this original version was 2 YEARS in the making, and that post is dated almost 1 year ago, to the date.  So, what, that makes this a 3-year craft project?!

Ha, I’m actually a little embarrassed to admit that it would take me that long to finish.   But I’ve become aware that may happen; I mean, just the other day I was saying I won’t commit to any sewing project on this blog because I know that it might take forever to finish (if at all).  But 3 years?  Sheesh.

Anyhow, back to the felt-y one.  Yay!  I’m glad she’s done.  I cut these pieces out a month ago and since I decided this new version was going to be stitched by hand, I figured that it would take me a long time to do it, so then I just didn’t feel like it.  You know, it’s very satisfying to post a project on this blog.  I feel like a little kid coming home from school, “Mom!  Look what I made!”

Ok, it’s not 100% finished finished. (Scandal!)  The crown is not stitched on yet, just kinda floats there for the picture.  Oh, I’ve decided that I love making silver pipe cleaner crowns.  Just bend bend bend.  Maybe I need metallic gold pipe cleaners too.  You know, for gold crowns.   And the wee scarf was a last minute thing as I still like my scalloped capelet from the first one.  But this scarfie is cute too.   I love the vintage foil-backed buttons attaching the wings but wouldn’t covered buttons be sweet as well?  And I’ve got some other ideas for the head dressing.  Oh!  Why don’t’ I just make felt critters all day?

Forget the 3-Hour Sweater, how about the 2-HOUR SWEATER?! This lovely 1930s model (seriously, isn’t she adorable?) is wearing a little pullover that the pattern claims will only take you a mere two hours; visit hardrockzombie for the pattern (via Ravelry).  You know I’m going to have to try this out (and it looks like it’s going to cut in line in front of most of my knitting projects).

Also, via Ravelry, I found this wonderful doll shop: Little Black Crow Studio.

I’m truly inspired by all of her deliciously spooky, vintage-looking handmade dolls - they have so much personality.   You can see the love and attention Blackcrow has put into them and I really appreciate that.  They are seriously making me want to revisit my bag of forlorn patterned doll parts (a.k.a. “graveyard of souls”) and try my hand at doll-making again.   I mean, I’ve collected more than enough fabric for them!

Just for the record, you’ll probably never see this many photos of me in one post!  But I wanted to share a few of my favorites as well as ones in which you can see my dress (which is important, right?)  And, of course, the elusive husband makes his debut.

Chloe Aftel is the photographer and she did a wonderful job, as you will see; I was so excited when she agreed to take them and I feel lucky to have such lovely wedding photos.   (Sorry if these photos are huge for those of you with a slower connection or monitor resolution!)

I’m so glad that we went with a small (tiny) wedding.  All things considered, everyone was relaxed (Yes, including me for the most part!).  It felt really intimate and special even though this all took place at a public park, Greystone Mansion in Beverly Hills.  Like Chloe said, it’s like Alice in Wonderland there! And without further ado…

Macaroons (including rose, my favorite) from a local French patisserie displayed on my grandparent’s wedding china and some vintage napkins:

In the living room before the ceremony:

The men:

The women:

The rest:

Edited to note: Oh, I amost forgot to mention that the six of us went to dinner immediately afterwards, back at Osteria Mozza (the place of the proposal!).  It was delicious - best. wedding. food. ever.

I don’t recall if I ever mentioned that there will be polls on this blog besides in my Twitter feed.   One recently ended and I just put up another at lunch today, see the sidebar. —>

Just a fun little thing to do!  This poll asks the question, “Vintage: The Real McCoy or Reproduction?”  I’d love to know your thoughts!

Last night I designed the invitations for our “non-reception” wine and cheese party that we’ll hold in October.  I’m feeling pretty lucky, I mean how many people get to design multiple themes for their wedding? ;)  It helps that I’m not letting myself over-design anything.  October will be the perfect time to have a gathering at our place - the weather will most likely (*knock wood*) cooperate but still be warm and comfortable.  Plus the party will have an autumnal theme which is a nice way to kick-start the holiday season.

Today I’m finally working on some shop stuff!  It’s been so long it seems, as if I forgot that I’m trying to put up my Liette shoplette.  So many ideas have been swimming and pooling inside my head, it’s about time they come out.

Oh, and yes, the wedding photos are coming!  I’m hoping to post them by next week.  The wonderfully sweet and talented photographer is processing them right now.  So I don’t want to show you any of our own point and shoot homegrown photos until you see the official ones - I hope you love them, I have a feeling you might!

AND thanks for all the well-wishing and comments lately.  It really warms my heart, the thoughtful things you say.  I love logging in in the morning to read a kind thought here and there and I feel extremely fortunate that such nice people visit my blog.  I know I’m behind in responding, with the wedding and all but I’ll remedy that soon!

Ok dears, enjoy the poll!