"Frugality is one of the most beautiful and joyful words in the English language, and yet one that we are culturally cut off from understanding and enjoying. The consumption society has made us feel that happiness lies in having things, and has failed to teach us the happiness of not having things." ----------------Elise Boulding

Here's the bag that I finished for Karen who is retiring from 30 years of service and work in the Agriculture Department of Placer County. She will really be missed. So, maybe a few bugs will remind her of all of us still working toward the same goal.

The inside of the bag. Granted: not some expensive, consumer-driven bag with a "name brand" (although I DO have my own labels...does that make it a "name" brand?) but, nevertheless, a bag hand-made by me with fabric that I already had in my stash so I didn't need to purchase more. It gave me a great sense of satisfaction to be able to get back to my drawing again. I miss it! Hello Fall---here I come, pens in hand, ready to hit the paper!

And, here's another bag I made last night and finished up this morning. It is a birthday gift for my friend at work who turned 60 today. She is having a party this afternoon and probably couldn't have picked a better day. It is SO cool; almost cold really. Clouds have come in, there is moisture in the air, and the wind is blowing. I quite enjoy parties where you get to bundle up with lots of clothes. Hot, summer parties are not quite my style. I guess in that respect, I am like Willow. She stays inside when it is hot. If I didn't HAVE to be outside in the heat, you can bet I wouldn't be. And, as I sit here typing this, I hear the patter of rain drops hitting the roof! YIPPEE!!!! A change in the weather. It only puts me closer to Fall. Goodbye Summer, hello Fall.