Bubble Ball 2014

The Bubble Ball is an annual event in which artists' stationary or runway-ready interpretations on a chosen theme via the medium of Bubble Wrap are presented and auctioned off to benefit the worthy programs of Childserve, a local agency that works with children in the Autism spectrum.

A harbinger of Spring, the event is a well attended gala for a well deserving bunch.  It's also liberating and challenging to the artists and their support teams for obvious reasons...who doesn't want to play with yards and yards of Bubble Wrap and Duct Tape?  It's a great way to beat the Winter blues & jump into a fine creative community...... and it's time to get popping!!

The time is NOW if you are considering getting involved on any level.  Though the program is open and B.W. is provided, there are steps you should be taking to assure participation.  The co-ordinators are thoughtful and responsive, and we artists must do the same by attending the kick off event where questions are answered, snacks are nibbled and supplies are distributed.  There is a great theme this year  and to avoid duplication, a system is in place to sort out who's doing what.  To do this, you need to get in the email loop asap, and keep the evening of Jan. 30th open for the meet & greet. 

Please email  hollycraiger@iowarealty.com (our contact person)  if you are an Iowa artist up for some serious fun:) 

Layer on the Goodness

Well, there's no denying it's Winter in the Midwest... 2  or 3 people actually like it, and most just endure and make the most of it.  It helps to have a strategy, and here are some tips you may want to try. 

First of all, give some attention to all 5 senses intentionally.  Wear comfortable clothing that is warm and flattering.  A hoodie from Acanthus Apparel fits the bill it most any situation.  Like a cocoon of cotton and rayon to insulate you from the chill and drear until you can emerge new and improved in the Spring. 

Employ scented soaps and candles that elevate you through the sense of smell.  I enjoy all things lemon, the citrusy brightness never fails to cut through the gloom, and the freshness of the salty sea when properly captured, can offer a quick escape to far off shores.

The new year is a great time to hang some new art in the homestead, something that evokes the tone for journeys ahead, for now is the time to plan and dream.

It's also empowering to expand your musical horizon, it's great to hit the turntable with your favorites - but consider turning the table with some new sounds and start a revolution in your soul.  I recommend the playlist we use at Vitae: http://www.birp.fm/  Every month they amaze us with fresh picks and spoil us with a great mix.  We stream it...no need to subscribe or download if you don't want to.

Hmm...the sense of taste.  It's Winter, so give in a little.  Enjoy in the richness of stews and baked goods. Try some new things and balance out indulgences with a side of endorphins - that is, excersise...you will feel, and you will be amazing.

 It's kind of kooky, but I will share a little mind game I am using to give some measure to the seemingly endless post holiday pre-awesome weather season....think of this time as a long flight to Hawaii - about 8 hours from Iowa.  It's essentially 8 weeks till we turn the corner towards Spring.  More actually, but once February is behind us we're in the clear.   Each week delivers us 1 hour closer to our destination if you play along.   Do something significant each week to mark the time....something that will blossom into awesomeness with a little coaxing.  Set some things in motion...for we are moving toward it, whatever it may be.  Happy New Year!  Welcome 2014, sooo glad to meet you:)

Dressing up for the New Year

Santa's not watching anymore - be naughty and be nice to yourself this New Years with some fresh pretty dresses from Vitae.

The Dear Creatures Marquis Dress has a charming 'Diamonds are Forever' motif & looks cute with Maude Wren button drop earrings and this chevron stripe necklace from Be Joyful.

  

Be a snow angel in this Winter White lace tablecloth from Rock N Reconstruct, then pack it as a cover up when you make your getaway and hit the beach!  

Essential necklaces are from Girl Friday and Luxe Debris.

Give Them That Warm Fuzzy Feeling!

Mmmmm, the bandana scarf from Whitly Craft Works 

Whitly Craft Works Pom Hat,  Downtown Bow Brown Pull Through Infinity Scarf and Bow,

Julia Pinkerton Arm Warmers

 Downtown Bow Brown Necklace Scarves

God Bless the knitters! ...and the Bakers, the Soup Makers, and those people that chop Firewood and bundle it for us and sell it at the gas station.  They make our lives warm and cozy just by doing what they love...I for one am not planning to ever learn to knit - it seems to involve counting and keeping track of things (shudder) - no thanks!  Yet is the essence of home made, and it's just one of those things I'm glad I don't have to do for myself   or be faced with the not lovingly made mass produced varieties.. which are acceptable & all that, but hand knits are..... divine:)

Gift Ideas!

Here are some great gift ideas available at Vitae!

Acanthus long sleeve aviator shirt, Girl Friday earrings, Black Apple print, grey knitted cowl by Julia Pinkerton and a Christmas card by Wit and Whistle. 

Bark Decor printed leggings, Antler and Chain earrings, Acanthus Apparel Indian burnout baseball tee, Midcoast Design headband and Florence Oliver clutch.

For the little one. Acanthus Apparel bee t-shirt, Crafty Curiosities felted elephant head, Azul camera, Oh, Little Rabbit lunch bag, Whitly Craft Works cowl and Wee Marcel over the knee socks.

Black Apple postcard collection, Acanthus Apparel skull v-neck, Girl Friday necklaces, Julia Pinkerton fingerless gloves, Oh, Little Rabbit dish towel and Wit and Whistle decoder holiday card.

Acanthus Apparel elephant hoodie, Ruff House Art card, Decadence leather cuff, Field Trip iPhone case, Whitly Craft Works hat, Forever Gold Volume 2 photography book and Sweet Marcel over the knee socks.

For the Foodie on Your List

'Tis the Season for baking and enjoying  festive meals together.  Relish it with quality cloth napkins and pretty hostess aprons from Trouves!  Made in Iowa.

Great Gifts Under $40.

Antler & Chain 

Bark Decor

Magpie

Decadence

Friendly Trade gifts - made in America by really nice people:)