purses

Felted birdie bag — Mia’s felted birdie bag

It’s always a good day when you find something lovely that makes you stop, smile and wonder who created it.

I was instantly taken with Mia’s hand knit, needle felted purses, bags and cozies with their charming big-eyed birds, adorable animals and colorful flowers. How could you not smile at something like this:

Felted cat&birdie — Felted cat and birdie bag

or this:

Using 100% Finnish wool and vintage fabrics, Mia designs, knits, sews, felts and decorates each and every piece herself. The birdie pouch and bunny cozy I ordered arrived on my doorstep zippity quick.

You can just feel the love and care she puts into her work. Holding one of her cheery creations is like getting a warm, joyous hug from the Land of the Midnight Sun.

Mia’s cozies are perfect for smart phones or smart bears. 🙂

I’m so glad Mia agreed to visit us today all the way from faraway Finland. Yes, she does take custom orders and also makes a few Moomin items. Enjoy! 🙂

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It is well established that Paris has the best pastry.

*kisses fingertips*

Not too long ago, I rhapsodized about the mighty macaron, a wonder of airy-crisp almond flour, egg whites, sugar and buttercream. Très delicieux!

It is good reason, along with a fortifying pain au chocolat or sweet crêpe, to flee the States and embrace the Seine.

Until that happens, I can always get my French fix by visiting Bonjour Mon Coussin, where luscious food images adorn pillows, purses, scarfs, pencil cases, aprons, mugs and jewelry.

hot chocolate fever — Foulard Carré Hot Choc

These oh-so-fetching, eye-popping products are created by Claire Eglizeaud and Paul Moreau, a designer and graphic artist from Bordeaux, who are inspired by vintage postcards and advertisements as well as objects found in their own modern world.

Of course their designs encompass more than food — I LOVE this book bag: