Some new handmade things in my life

I'm happy to say that I lucked into winning a couple of SMS giveaways! I wanted to show off the prizes here as well as thank the bloggers who so generously gave away their handmade things.

I won this fabulous scarf from Elizabeth who writes the blog Toile. Her blog is new to me, but with her love of crafting and literature, I think I'm going to be visiting quite often. 

I have to say that this scarf my new favorite summer accessory. I've started trying to plan my outfits so that I can wear it nearly every day. Here's what I love about it: the colors, the floral print, the weight of the fabric--so light--and its versatility. At first I thought I would have to wait to wear this lovely scarf because summers in Kentucky are so hot and humid, but it's actually perfect because restaurants and shops blast the a/c this time of year and can be too cold. 

I mostly wear this scarf like you see in the top photo, just tied in the back (or, as my husband says, like a cowboy). I also like to twist and wear it as a chunky necklace. I haven't worn it out as a headcover yet, but I think it would be perfect to wear like this while working in the yard or on a hike. 

Elizabeth also made this green crocheted grocery bag, which I love. It's great for the farmers' market.

The bag on the left is a morsbag that I won from Steph (forgive the wrinkles, I've already been using it for groceries). I actually won two of these morsbags, which Steph made from thrifted sheets. I was really in need of some more reusable grocery bags, so I'm completely thrilled that I got these. 

On her blog, Steph encourages everyone to use their own cloth grocery bags. If you sew or know someone who does, she's offering a little incentive to get you to stop using plastic bags. She'll send you a morsbag kit for free--fabric pieces cut and pressed, plus a morsbag label--and all you have to do is sew it together and start using it. If you aren't already taking your own bags when shopping, what are you waiting for? It's an easy way to cut down on your plastic consumption. If you already use cloth bags, maybe you need another or know someone else who does. Check out Steph's post here for more information. And if you believe that little things can make a difference (I do!) leave her a comment letting her know. 

Thanks again to Elizabeth and Steph! Handmade things make me very happy!