Lately

The Makes family is dealing with a bit of adversity in the new year. Our downstairs neighbors are quite noisy. Our bedroom is right on top of their living room, and we can hear loud movies, thumping music, slamming doors and laughter.  Often well into the night.

We are working with management to try to get them to quiet down, but after two notices in two weeks, I notice no change. In fact, it seems like they are even louder now.
So we’re going to have to move.
Again.
I did not want my daughter’s childhood to involve moving 4 times before her 7th birthday. I know I’ve read that children need stability, blah blah blah.
Kid Makes is excited to move. She enjoys it! She likes having a new place, and being able to visit the old place.
I must admit, I am also excited about possibly renting a house. With a backyard. And no shared walls with neighbors!
I look forward to planning a kid room that is functional and easy to clean (pipe dream, I know). I am looking forward to doing the same for my ultimate craft room.
And perhaps a kitchen that is bigger than a postage stamp for Papa.
Send us your positive vibes, dear Imaginary Readers.

How’s the new year treating you and yours?

Mistaken

I screwed up at work today, but I’m really happy with how I handled it.  After I discovered my mistake, I took immediate action to amend, then let my boss know so she wouldn’t be taken by surprise when she got to the office.

I feel such relief that I can make a mistake and then take a deep breath and deal with it honestly and without fear of shame or reproach.  It’s a blessing to work with someone who is calm and patient and understanding.

Makes up for a lot of little irritants about my job.  I work with awesome people, and we make a positive difference in the lives of dying people and  their families.

Not too bad.

Do you like your boss/job/field?

Resolute

Vow with me to increase self-care in the new year. Finding movement you enjoy and increasing comfort through regular movement. Not by losing weight, but by loosening up your joints and muscles. Increase flexibility.
You deserve to take up as much space as you need. Do not diminish yourself in 2012, expand. Fill your life with people and activities you love.

Amplify: Street Art Utopia

Spend some time checking out the amazing street art in this (hugely image-laden) post at Street Art Utopia.  A selection of my favorites after the jump.

Merry Merry Everybody

If you celebrate, I wish you very happy holiday(s).

If you do not celebrate, I wish you warmth, shelter, food and friends.

See you in 2012!

Top 5 Regrets of the Dying

From an article by Bronnie Ware,  which is now a book.  Please check out the link for more information about the writer.  I believe that the patient’s she had experience with were dying of old age, so they were raised in a very different time and culture.  That said, I still believe that everyone can benefit from their message.

Holiday Craft Linkfarm

Felt House Ornament - whip up

Star Wars Snowflakes – Anthony Herrera Designs

Amigurumi Teddy Ornaments - All About Ami

Melted Snowman Cookies - Truly Custom Cakery

 

Holiday Card Decor – Mod Podge Rocks

Linkfarm – Crafty is as Crafty Does

USA Map out of Scrapbook Paper – My Life and Kids

Patchwork Placemats – whip up

Button Monogram – The Crafty Scientist

Snappy Coin Purse – SEW Timeless

Christmas Zen Garden – Happy Looks Good on You

Infamy

(Image Source)  Edited to add an Update