What happens when you can’t give gifts like normal people? You make them like a goofy person, of course! I don’t really know where I was going with that. I just want to share a sorta ridiculous present I put a lot of time, supplies, and effort into, with hopes of sharing the joy and maybe inspiration.

So, I needed to figure out a gift for Alex for our 1 year anniversary, but came across the challenge of having a grad school budget despite wanting a gift that really dazzled. I figured putting together a photo album was a great idea, but that didn’t feel like enough. I could design it to look professional on Shutterfly? I could paint the cover like I did here for my 2021 photo challenge? Hmmmm, maybe… But then it hit me– make a pop-up book. Have I ever made a pop-up book before, such that this would be a natural consideration? Nope. But as I’ve seen before with myself, I have a craftsy background and the queer audacity that I can make anything I put my mind to (and make a Pinterest board for). I rounded up ideas, made a lot of messes, and, what ended up being a few months later, I had my final project.