Hello! I’m Rosa Leon Riley. I live in sunny Naples, FL and wouldn’t want to live anyplace else. I am the oldest of five and have been a helper since I can remember. I am a licensed mental health counselor and when I am not crafting I work toward social change against domestic violence. I have always loved art, drawing, and reading. I can remember my first crochet lesson in my teens where I chained yards and yards of red yarn, but unfortunately never progressed much from making a rippled baby blanket that would not lay flat. Even earlier, I can remember trying to sew clothing for my Barbie doll and not understanding why my mom warned that it was not a good beginner’s project because the clothes were too tiny. I did not listen and again became frustrated and yelled something like, “Sewing is hard!”

In many ways I have connected with crafting and sewing all of my life, but it was not until my mom gave me a sewing machine about five years ago that the timing was right. Shortly after that gift, I attempted to make a dress because, of course in Rosa style, I thought it was crazy that my mom instructed me to start with a pillow case. I finished the dress and wore it once due to obligation since I spent so much time making it. This was definitely not a success.

I then made my first memory quilt for a friend who was moving away. As we talked about that quilt last week, we laughed at its quality but she whole heartedly defended it because she loves it. There is nothing nicer than the feeling of someone loving what you make for them, even if it is beginner’s level! Since then, I finally made the pillow cases and then moved to actually making a top that I still wear today and many other things. I’ve learned my limits but I do not let them limit me because I always want to learn more.

Today, I am feeling nothing but excitement writing my first post. In recent years I’ve contemplated creating blogs about things like mac and cheese (yes, I love it) or foot woes (yes, I’ve had multiple surgeries and constant issues with one of my feet) but very easily the time escaped me. When I revisited the idea I could not think of anything better than starting a blog about my favorite hobby — making things! I do have to note that I dabble in lots but am master of none. Some days it’s sewing and others it’s leaving trails of hot glue and sequins all over our kitchen table, which doubles as my official craft office. On other days I’m attending a class, making something for our home, or struggling with tangled yarn.

Today, on the day of friendship and love, I am celebrating by writing this first post for this new adventure. I hope that through this blog you find some tips, ideas, and share both my struggles and successes in crafting and life. Welcome, I hope that you are here to stay.

I made a few of these crocheted hearts two nights ago and attached safety pins so that they can be worn on Valentine’s day. This reminds me of a fond memory of when my mom made these for my class when I was in kindergarten.