Big Spoon Roasters

I am such a sucker for packaging. I'm pretty sure that's probably what got me to mail order peanut butter!?! I saw a brief write-up for Big Spoon Roasters in Bon Appetit—along with a cookie recipe—and click, click, clicked my way through to two jars of heavenly goodness. Curses to the 21st century because now I am addicted.

Based in Durham, NC, Big Spoon makes artisanal, hand-crafted nut butters laced with the perfect trace of sweetness from wildflower honey. I ordered the Peanut (my favorite of the two) and Peanut Pecan. I will not divulge how long they lasted in the house.

A dear friend from Ann Arbor moved to Chapel Hill for the summer, so of course I pointed her to the Big Spoon. She rewarded me by delivering two jars on a recent return visit. I can't wait to try the Peanut Cocoa—so new it's not even listed on their web site.

But who will be my next mule?!?

Logo design: Leocadia

I recently completed this logo design for a wonderfully warm and talented woman in the Cincinnati area who makes all kinds of sewn goodies with the most beautiful fabrics and great care: clutches, purses, children's clothing, accessories and more. Leocadia was the name of her grandmother who was a very successful hatmaker from Grand Rapids (I love the Michigan connection!) and the creative inspiration behind Patty's work and business name. She will be launching an Etsy shop in the coming months and below is a look at the shop banner I put together for it. Keep an eye out!!    

Book Business Tuesday

There is some serious book business this week! This coming Sunday is the annual Kerrytown BookFest — hooray! Rolling out a sparkly new logo designed by Ann Arbor artist and designer Susan Skarsgard, this year's event is packed with an amazing roster of signings, workshops, demonstrations, readings and artists. I hope you'll come down and take a twirl around.

I have been extremely fortunate and thrilled by the positive response my calendars get each year — thank you, thank you, thank you all for being so supportive. I am doubly excited to announce that I will be releasing my illustrated 2013 calendar at the BookFest this year. I thought I'd show you a little taste of it here … I do so hope you'll love it!