What you can make from trash

You can make this. Cool, huh? Yesterday, my husband and I took the kids the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden. We've never been with the kids, and I don't think I've been in at least 10 years. It was sort of rainy, but it actually turned out pretty nice (kept the crowds away). So, not only did we get to see elephants and tigers and snakes and giraffes and flamingos and a bunch of other awesome animals, we also got to stroll through the Zoo's beautiful gardens. This piece in one of the "green garden" areas caught my eye because it's made entirely from trash! Who knew trash could be so lovely?

Here are a few animal shots just because they're cute. I can't believe they let that one with the orange striped shirt and umbrella out of its cage. It's quite wild.

I've been glancing at various blogs and Facebook posts about Quilt Market, held this past week in Salt Lake City. But I can't wait to dig in tomorrow and read a bunch of wrap ups and see inspiring pictures. I'm debating going to Houston for the fall market to cover it. I really want to see what all the hubbub is about firsthand, but I have to figure out if it makes any business sense go to.

As for what's up on this blog next, I've got two Q&As in the works, both with fabulous giveaways. Also, you can check out an interview I did with Stephanie over at 365 Days of Sewing. She'll also be giving away a copy of Sew Retro. It should be up in a few weeks. I've barely sewn anything in the last month or so because of other deadlines, but I'm working on something for Quilts & More, and I've got a bunch of summer projects it the pipeline (my own designs, and bunches from the many books on my sewing shelf).

Here's to a productive week!