The Chicago Top Ten for the Week of Sept. 29

I guess there's no mistaking that fall is here. This was one of the coolest summers I can remember in Chicago. The chill came early and has decided to stay. If only winter decided to be as mild...but while the weather always changes in the Windy City (did you know that name has nothing to do with the weather but rather the verbosity of our politicians?) creativity is always constant and always changing. So, in no particular order, here is a sampling of Chicago's best:

Fence by zegami
When I look at art there are several criteria that run through my mind: could I have done that? (answer: no), do I wish I could? (answer: yes) Would I want that in my home? (answer: yes?)
Not only this one, but there are others in this collection that are stunning!

Vest by jollarocknrolla
I've knitted clothing before and I don't get the kick out of it that others do, but this is a cute, funky top that got me thinking I could probably dip my toes back in that fountain. (And to think she lives in my town!!)

Shell Mosaic earrings by westbyron
I was actually considering another item from this store when the photo of these caught my eye. I can see me wearing these with both casual and not-so casual outfits.

Toilet Paper Cozy by HappyKATT
There's no reason for your Tp to go through the winter naked - so it might as well look like a cupcake! CUTE!!

Felted bag pattern by bonniegoldingpurses
Options are always nice and you can make the base bag and then go hog wild crazy on the fringe you put on. This bag will be you and only you!

This week's shout out is to Judy from Bellissma Trucco I love it when folks, especially women, decide to make a change and then go for it and discover their own happiness. I'm still not there yet, but I love that I am at least giving it a go. Visit Judy's beautiful shop for cosmetics and skincare and a green thumbs up for starting the recycling program for her empty jars!

Calypso Scarf by brendaabdullah
The COLOR! That's another thing I look for in scarves, hats, etc. especially if they are not knitted. I look at them and I instantly get a feeling of "I bet i can knit that!!" And that's a good thing. I love the colors and it stokes my creative fire.

Flower Hat Pattern by lmferg1
I used to prefer crochet over knitting - I don't anymore, but I would totally whip up this hat! Good thing she has the pattern for sale where I can get it - but it's the finished product that's making the list!

Quartz Pendent by beadifuldesigns
Gimme! Gimme! Gimmee!

Gypsy Tote by beesnetta
I look at tote bags and think: knitting project! That's what I thought when I saw this one and besides, it's cute as it can be!

Floral Motif by savvygal
How cool is this? Artsy decals for the wall! You don't have to worry about what goes with the paint and all that because this artwork really goes ON the wall. This is a stunning motif and check out the shop for other interesting ones!

OK, so this week turned out to be a little bit heavy on the needle arts, but that's what happens when the weather gets cooler. You have to believe me when I say I don't plan these things, it's how the universe shakes out. It's cosmic creativity at it's best and I love it.
I hope you love it, too. I hope you check out these shops and then go to Etsy and in the search box put in your own city and see what's right around the corner from you!