So there has been some grumbling about my lack of posts lately -- I do apologize. For the last month, I've spent most of my free time working on assignments for the online food writing class I'm taking. It's called Food Writing Boot Camp, and they really mean it -- I feel like I'm in the midst of a journalistic marathon. But it's great, I'm learning a lot, the other people in the class are talented and I love the teacher. So you see, I'm neglecting my blog for a very good reason!

In other news, Milhouse likes his leash -- or at least doesn't hate his leash -- and has a new found love of chewing on dead grass in the backyard. It didn't take long for him to get used to wearing a leash, but every time I put it on, it does take him several minutes to get used to being in the big bad world once we are outside.

I have several craft and apartment decorating projects on hold right now, awaiting the end of my class. I'll be back with those soon!

What's better than an unexpected gift in the mail? An unexpected paper doll made by the one and only Chisako, my friend and former paper doll teacher. She sent it as a thank you gift for the article I wrote about her on Etsy.

Seeing a Chisako-made doll up close, I finally understand that all the dolls I made were nothing compared to what she can do.

She transforms paper into fabric. Look at the draping!

I'm not exaggerating when I say this is something I will treasure forever. Thank you, Chisako! ありがとうございました!