A pause for thought

A short long while ago I was very flattered to be awarded a Thinking Blogger Award by the lovely Anne at Bunny Tales. I’m not sure that I quite deserve this acolade  – since having kids my ability to think has been severely compromised, but it is a very warming thought that what I write here is enjoyed by others. It has taken me a while ages to take up the baton on this one because there are so many inspirational blogs that I love to visit daily, most of which are listed on the sidebar to the right. How do you whittle a list of nearly 80 blogs down to 5 faves? It’s been hard to do but in keeping with the tag here are my 5 nominations along with a little bit about why I love them. Consider yourself thinking bloggers ladies!

An Irishcraftworker’s good life
Rebecca’s blog was one of the first that I discovered and one that I’ve eagerly followed ever since. I admire her brave and bold lifestyle change, the wonderful warmth and friendliness of her writing and her willingness to share all aspects of her craft and family life. Through her writing I am able to experience life on a small holding – and dream of one day having my own (and discover lots of tips along the way). Rebecca inspires me to think more about my impact on the world and to try and live a simpler and more ecologically sound life.

Raspberry
Alice’s beautiful creations in felt are gorgeous and I am very priveledged to have one hanging on my wall. Reading about her inspirations and methods is fascinating and I love the expressive, emotive quality of her work. I really enjoy her writing – a style that instantly invites you in and makes you feel a friend. Her site is a perfect place to visit if you need a special present as she also makes the cutest softies and gorgeous corsages. Alice inspires me to want to try new things and to look beyond the surface of things that are familiar.

Domesticali
Ali’s blog never fails to please. I love her sense of humour and fun. She’s a wonderful mum to her boys and her love of crafting, food, and parenting make her blog an essential daily read. She shares some fantastically mouthwatering recipies, makes some fab cakes and generally exhibits great taste. Ali inspires me to want to be a better cook and to make more time to do involve my children in simple, fun things and delight in their enthusiasm and childishness.

Quilt While You’re Ahead
Monica takes such wonderful photos and so visiting her blog is always a delight to the eye. She’s a dab hand with a needle and can turn her hand to just about anything sewn, embroidered, knitted or crocheted. She writes intelligently and humorously about her projects and her family life. Monica inspires me to want to sew and create in different ways. Her images encourage me to look at things in a different light and appreciate beauty in simple things.

Flibbertygibbet
Gail is passionate about knitting and crafting and always has great projects on the go. Despite going through a really painful break up and divorce she still voices a wonderfully wicked sense of humour. She’s forthright and honest and that’s a very refreshing thing. Gail inspires me to want to make more than knitted toys and also to focus on positive things – she shows me that even on dark days there’s a light shining somewhere, you just have to be prepared to look for it.

Creativity in daily life is the common thread that runs through these 5 blogs and the majority of those on my faves list – I love to read about other people’s inspirations and creative projects whether it’s knitting, stitching, painting, or food related. I love that blogging gives access to an on-line community, a forum to share ideas, encourage and support each other and just celebrate the joy of creating stuff (and of course show off pictures of new shoes – sorry I am shameless – I’ve only just discovered the joys of Crocs – well, better late than never!)

Have a happy and creative weekend – whatever you’re doing!