This week, I've been working away on a custom order for some bigger (bigger being size 4) kids t-shirts. The custom order, from a persistent and very friendly buyer was the inspiration for the big box of organic kids clothing I imported from the United States last week. Sadly, I've been unable to source quality organic blanks in sizes larger than 18 months from New Zealand (if anyone reading this has ideas about that, I would love to hear them!) The clothing I ordered is wonderful -- great colors and designs. But....when taking into account exchange rates, shipping, import fees, and 12.5% (soon to be 15%) GST, well -- it seems as though I should keep searching for good alternatives closer to home.
Anyway, the custom order was for a Poppies print, a Hen print and a Fantail -- all except the Fantail are still in progress. If I'm doing multiple layers of inks or detailing post-print, the prints can take a few days while I wait for each layer to dry.....The Grass shirt I've done at the top isn't part of the order, but I'm really loving the simplicity and the lushness of the greens against the natural white background.
About a week and a half in, I'm still (mostly) coffee-free. I've had a cup once or twice (ok, twice) when going out to a cafe with friends, but otherwise it's been green tea for me. Aren't I feeling virtuous! Actually, I'm mostly just feeling good. A bit calmer, a bit more hydrated, and counter intuitively a bit less tired. My husband used up the beans we had in the house, so they haven't been a temptation. Also, I've been making green tea with leaves in the press, so I've been able to retain some of that ritualistic feel I love so much. I believe everything is fine in moderation; it's all about balance, right?
Kirsty from Kootoyoo is away this week, but I'm sure lots of other bloggers will be keeping up the creative spirit on their own sites this Thursday all the same.
