Save The Date

This is just an initial draft -- we're not done working yet -- but I'm happy with the progress. I'm thinking of using this tree image (inspired by the photo from yesterday) in a greeting card.

TGIF, guys! We're taking Ben-Ben to the mountain again this weekend. A three-year-old on skis is *way* cute, let me tell you. (I used to teach kids that age to ski, but it's even cuter when it's your own kid. Might have to share some photos on Monday!)

Ranch Wedding

I've been working on an invitation set for a lovely couple marrying at a beyond-beautiful private estate here in Bend. If it's this pretty in the middle of winter, I can only imagine it in July. The ceremony is taking place in a spectacular barn on the premises... tomorrow I'll share some small sneak peeks of our work.

A Free Film

So I thought for a good long time this morning about posting this heavy subject here on my light-hearted blog.

And I'm gonna go for it.

Tonight in L.A. there will be a film premiere. But not one with a red carpet or Brad & Angelina. It's a film, sponsored in part by philanthropists like Warren Buffett, about nuclear war. About a potential nuclear war.

The team of individuals "starring" in this film include two former Secretaries of State, a former Secretary of Defense, and a former U.S. Senator. A team of individuals who have dedicated their lives to this topic.

And today, if you wish, you can get a free copy of the film. Just click here.

I have not yet seen it (although I hear a download may be available soon). And if you do watch the trailer, beware: there are some graphic images. Colin Powell's endorsement is also available. It's heavy stuff.

Just thought, in case you didn't know, I'd pass along the info. It seemed appropriate for today, not only because of the film's premiere, but because of Mr. President's Address looming this evening.

Sigh.

Now I'm off to open that can of silver ink that just wouldn't budge last night. Where's my husband when I need him? :)

Writing Notes

I saw this discussed over at one of my very, very favoritest blogs last week and haven't been able to stop thinking about it. We certainly encourage the handwritten note over here at Simple Ink... just not the angry, Post It variety.

If ever I did receive a raging Post It on my door like this from a neighbor, I'd: (1) want to melt into the Earth out of embarrassment/horror and (2) hopefully respond this way.

So read this and tell me if it doesn't make you laugh out loud. And be sure to check out the author's blog, Alex Bogusky. Pretty darned funny, that guy.

Type

I'm excited about this new wooden type I picked up recently. The font is elegant and simple -- just what I'd been looking for. But it's big -- about 2" tall -- so what I'll do with it remains to be seen.

Still very exciting.

Friends

Ain't it good to have friends?

I was just sitting here reflecting upon all the wonderful people that have helped Simple Ink along this year. From my husband, to my mother, to a my wonderful web developer, letterpress teacher, blogger friends, and PR talents. And of course all of the wonderful store owners who continually offer encouragement.

Then I stumbled upon these photos from my little guy's 3rd birthday in October. This is my Benjamin (in green) and his bestest buddy, Matthew. We used to be neighbors and the boys saw each other often from the time they were babies. Our move across town last year, different preschool schedules and, well, Life, have conspired to make their visits more and more infrequent. Before the day these pictures were taken, they hadn't seen each other for months. I love that you can see their glee bubbling over. They could not stop laughing and holding hands.

It's great to have friends.

So thanks to Ben & Matthew for reminding me of that -- and thanks to all of the wonderful folks that have been friends to Simple Ink this year. I love you and I don't tell you often enough.

Origami Dragon

Happy New Year! Did you catch the Rose Parade on New Year's Day? I know I'm a paper nerd, but I thought the Origami Dragon float was the best I've ever seen.

And it only took 8,000 roses and 15,000 lemon leaves to create. Now that's a project.