Praise Garments

I Got Hold of a New Toy or...........

2011-01-24T21:22:00.009-06:00

maybe it's got hold of me. It's one of those crazy iPads.

I saw somebody with one at work and I thought it looked interesting (or more like intriguing). So I said to myself, "I think I would like to get myself one of those cute little machines". When it was delivered to my home, it looked quite harmless. In fact, when I turned it on I thought, "What a waste of money. I don't even know what I'm supposed to do with thing". But then, my husband showed me around the device a little bit. He also introduced me to the mad, mad, mad world of apps. Now, one would think this thing has been surgically attached to my hands. I NEED HELP, but I don't want help. I want to get more apps.

I have managed to do a little crocheting. I am loving making neck warmers, cowls, mini scarves (whatever suits your fancy). I have a few more to show later. I like to step away from large projects and complete some smaller ones just so I can experience a feeling of accomplishment. Does anyone else do that?

I am working on a lovely tweed suit that I hope to finish and review within the next couple of weeks. Good thing we have such long winters here, since I will still be working on my fall/winter wardrobe clean into March (possibly April).

Meditation Monday
Yesterday, the message was about God's faithfulness to his people and to his word. The Lord constantly reminds us throughout the scriptures that he is faithful. He wants us to know that he can be trusted; and whatever he has promised - that will he do. Just remember, some of God's promises are conditional, if we do what he tells us to do, then he will do what he says he will do.

Only be thou strong and very courageous, that thou mayest observe to do according to all the law, which Moses my servant commanded thee: turn not from it to the right hand or to the left, that thou mayest prosper whithersoever thou goest.
This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success. Joshua 1:7-8

If we can trust God to keep our souls, then we can trust him to keep his promises.

...and now back to the show.....

2010-12-30T22:10:00.002-06:00

Wow! I can hardly believe it has been nearly two years since I posted anything. I am going to just write as if somebody out there remembers me and will bother to read this blog.

A lot has happened in the two years since I last posted. The one major thing is that me and my BFF started a small business. We make jewelry and personal gifts. Please check us out online at www.elegantinspirationsonline.com

I have pretty much settled into my new job after many months of training. I enjoy my job and still have lots to learn.

I have been sewing and will post some pictures as soon as I have some time to do so. I look forward to sharing and reconnecting with all of you. You know who you are (because I certainly don't remember, LOL)!

More Sewing Than Showing

2009-02-05T20:02:00.002-06:00

I have been sewing quite a bit - but have been slacking in the photo department. In fact I completed several UFOs but never got around to taking any photos so I didn't submit them in the UFO contest on Pattern Review. Right now, I'm feverishly sewing from my stash and will definitely be making time to photograph and review these items. I need to get this done over the weekend because I will be out of town on business all next week.

It has come to my attention that I don't have a pair of black dress slacks. Who doesn't own a pair of basic black slacks? (Apparently, I don't.) How did this happen? Anyway...guess what's at the top of my list of things to make when I get back in town.

I received my copy of Cool Couture by Kenneth D. King. Has anybody read it yet? What do you think? I just flipped through it briefly, and I noticed that many of the photos are from his old book, but I am hoping that the information is new/updated.

Long Weekend

2009-01-19T21:29:00.008-06:00

I hope everyone enjoyed Martin Luther King, Jr. Day.

It has been so cold here for the past few days that I have just stayed inside, except for extreme emergency like picking up the grandkids - that's always important. One good thing about staying in the house I can tackle some things on my sewing list.

First up, is a nice knit top (V8534) that I really like. One tip, the pattern instructions leaves the neck edge raw/unfinished, but that just doesn't work for me - so I hemmed the neck first, them sewed down the pleats. This top is pretty versatile - it can be worn belted or even with a turtleneck underneath when the weather is really cold (like negative 20 degrees - you know what I'm talking about Cennetta).

I also made this nice burnt orange tweed skirt from V8505. The pattern didn't call for a lining, but I added one anyway.

I have a jacket for this skirt, but it is still a UFO that I will finish during this month's contest. I just have to figure out how I want to finish the sleeves. I was thinking of some dias binding trim.

I made another printed knit top (B3438). The pleats at the center front and just under the armholes make this top very comfortable. And I really like the colors in the fabric.

Yeah, more knits.... This is a 3-piece ensemble that was very quick and easy.

Last one for now (And guess what? No knit.). A while back I upgraded my KitchenAid mixer to the 600 watts with the 6 quart bowl...

- but I kept putting off upgrading my cover. So I still had the same old, dirty, stained cover over my new mixer; and it didn't even fit.

I saw a larger cover in the store for over $20, but that seemed a little too expensive. So I made one.

That it's for now. I will do proper reviews as soon as possible. Unfortnately, I don't even have time to include my Monday's Meditation today, but I will add it later.

Later.

Where Have I been?

2009-01-08T21:54:00.002-06:00

That's what I'm asking myself.

Firstly, Happy New Year to everyone - let's make this one better than ever.

I have been very busy since I last posted (which has been quite some time). I have been working on my fall/winter wardrobe as previously mentioned. Unfortunately, I don't have time to post any photos tonight, but I will real soon.

I have joined two contests on Pattern Review (Stash and UFO's) so I should be posting some of those items soon as well.

I recently picked up embroidery software to go along with my Husqvarna Viking Diamond Sewing Machine - the 4D Professional and it is fabulous. Expect to see lots of embroidered stuff.

Yeah, I'm noticing a theme here. You can expect to see a lot, but right now I gots nothing to show.

I plan to upload photos this weekend. See you then.

Long Time - No.......

2008-10-03T23:04:00.010-05:00

I cannot believe it has been over two months since I last posted anything. I know, I know, I say that everytime I am away for over two months. And unfortunately, I don't have much to show today either. I have been extremely busy at work (this is not a complaint by any means, as jobs are being lost everyday).

We suffered a large loss (relatively speaking, of course) a couple weeks ago, when the rains from Hurricane Ike (no Tina jokes here) beat up on NW Indiana. We had about four feet of water in our basement - I was tempted to put the house on the market, and say that it included an indoor swimming pool. LOL. We are in the process of stripping our finished basement down to its studs.

Our area wasn't designated a flood zone so we weren't able to get flood insurance. We lost everything we had down there (furniture, gym, my husband's music studio, water heater, furnace etc.), but STUFF can be replaced. We are just praising the Lord that we survived this disaster. One house in a nearby town, exploded as a result of the flood waters.

I had been planning a fall/winter wardrobe, but was sort of dragging my feet. Well....since all of my fall clothes were stored and "safely" tucked away in my basement I can no longer afford to drag my feet anymore. I need all new clothes, and I have no money to buy fabrics, patterns, etc. This means I am forced to use things from my stash. I have to really get moving because the temperature here is dropping faster than Adrienne Nixon can knock out one of her cute knit dresses. In other words, it's getting cold fast.

This is what I started with: V8505

I am making every single piece at least once. They are simple, quick and easy-to-sew pieces, but with the right fabric, will make a nice fall collection. I hope to finish and post photos real soon.

My First Burda

2008-07-21T21:31:00.005-05:00

I know! I know! I said I was going to be more consistent with my posts, and two weeks have passed since I last posted - but it wasn't my fault. I was out of town on business all of last week and I just never had the time to do anything. In fact, I was in the City of Brotherly Love and thought I would get a chance to show some love along "Fabric Row" (Elaray of Another Creation even offered to be my Fabric Tour Guide - thanks again Elaray) but alas, I was stuck at work until late into the evenings.

I began my Burda suscription over seven months ago but I kept putting off trying it because the tracing looked scary. I kept reading other people comment on how easy (or not that bad) the tracing was. So this week I finally decided to take the plunge and am using my very first Burda pattern. I tried it, and guess what? It really wasn't so bad after all. I don't know why I had been so intimidated all this time.

So here's what I making. I only needed a few of my drafting tools. And voila!

Monday Meditation

Yesterday, we studied the Book of John chapter 9 where Jesus gave sight to the man who had been born blind. When the religious leaders asked the man who opened his eyes, he told them about Jesus. They became so bothered by his response that they cast him out of the church. When Jesus heard about what happened, He went to find the man and made him "whole" through salvation. Jesus goes on to say that it was those with natural sight who were really blind.

Sometimes people will ask you about your faith, and when you share with them the Lord Jesus Christ they will often become angry and dismiss you, discredit you, and cast you out of their circles. But once our eyes have been opened to the truth we must continue to stand on our belief that Jesus is the way, the truth and the life. When all others have turned their backs on us because of our faith in Christ, He will come to us and comfort us.

Jesus heard that they had cast him out; and when he had found him, he said unto him, Dost thou believe on the Son of God? John 9:35

Staying Connected

2008-07-07T21:17:00.004-05:00

I don't have much to report today, but I don't want to let too many days go by without posting something. I have learned that three or four days can easily turn into two months of no posts.

I was hoping to be able to show my completed living room curtains this evening but that didn't happen. I will try for Thursday night now. Today was my first day back to work after having 10 days off, so to say that I was pretty non-productive when I got home this evening is quite the understatement.

Monday Meditation

Sunday we were studying from a very familiar passage of scripture where Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead. Here is where we read the shortest verse in the bible "Jesus wept." (If you are like me, you might remember choosing this verse everytime you were asked to recite a verse of scripture from memory in Sunday School. LOL).

But the thing I want to meditate on is the fact that Jesus learned of Lazarus's condition while he was still ill, but did not go to him until four days after he was dead. So instead of healing him of his illness, Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead. Jesus resurrecting Lazarus should serve as a reminder to us that no matter what has happened in our lives, no matter how dead some of our hopes and dreams may seem to be, it is never too late for the Lord to resurrect them. But just like Martha was reminded in verses 25 and 40, we must first believe that he is the resurrection.

Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live...John 11:25

Addition to the Family

2008-07-05T22:17:00.011-05:00

Yes, it's true I have a brand new "baby". Weighing in at about 40 pounds and approximately 30" long she is quite an armful. I took the plunge and purchased the brand new Viking Designer Diamond. I have been wanting a Viking for quite some time and it has finally happened. This big ticket machine sews beautifully. As I post future pictures of finished projects on my blog I will point out some of the many wonderful features of this fine machine.

Isn't she just lovely?

She comes with three bags: one for presser feet, one for the embroidery unit and the large pulley bag for the machine.

One great feature of the machine is the embroidery. I made this skirt out of a light cotton and underlined it with an organza to give it enough strength to support the embroidered border. I still need to shorten the skirt, hem it and attach the lining and waistband.

I was able to complete the border around the entire skirt without the thread breaking or birdnesting one time. YAY!

Another wonderful feature is the feed teeth (Viking doesn't call them feed dogs). I had some gorgeous silk fabric in my stash that I thought would be perfect for a sheath dress, but I didn't have quite enough to cut out the dress in the traditional way. So I had to peice some scraps together (cutting against the grain) in order to get all the pieces cut. Since the fabric is a vertical stripe I ended up with two strips of horizonal stripes in the back. I needed the stripes to match up along the zipper so that the dress wouldn't be too buzy back there. I didn't have to use a walking foot or do any other tricks to get the stripes to match up because the feed teeth did such a great job of feeding the fabric through.

Needs to be hemmed and taken in at hips and shoulders.

Hand-pick stitch on the visible seam of the lapped zipper.

In order to sort of justify the purchase of the sewing machine I have decided to part with two other machines. My Brother ULT 2001 and my Singer XL5000 - If anyone is interested in purchasing either (or both) of these machines and all of their accessories just make me an offer.

It's actually all boxed up and ready to go!!!! Make me an offer.

I have lots of accessories for the Singer too - I just haven't gotten around to taken photos yet.

One last thing, I will be in Philly for one week, beginning July 13th. I will be staying in the historic district, does anyone know of any must-see fabric shops? Please advise.

New Fabric

2008-04-28T21:44:00.004-05:00

I got my new Amy Butler fabric in the mail over the weekend. I really like it. I think it will be perfect for my Kimberly bag. I also think I have enough fabric to make a skirt too.

I have been working on a few layouts for my scrapbook and here are a couple of samples.

This is my cousin and me when we were about four years old. Check out our grown-up handbags.

I would normally include a Monday Meditation when I do a post on Monday, but it's getting pretty late, and I'm getting pretty sleepy, and I have to get up at 4:15 a.m. so I think I will post my meditation tomorrow instead. I hope you all had a great weekend and are off to good start this week.

Whew!!!

2008-04-22T21:32:00.008-05:00

I have been extremely busy for the last few months. As I mentioned earlier I got a "huge" promotion at work and I have been in extensive training sessions. This new position will require a ginormous time commitment. But I am still very excited about the opportunity.

I know that some of you have still be checking in and seeing no activity for quite some time, but I am back now, and I really do appreciate your patience.

First off, I got a new digital camera so I am able to post some pictures. Yay! And...I have actually been doing some stuff, therefore, I have pictures ( a lot of pictures) to share.

I hosted an All-Day Craft Day at my home about a month ago. We did scrap booking, card making, crocheting, machine embroidery, machine and hand knitting, quilling, quilting and jewelry making. I thought it would be a great way to introduce some new comers to the exciting world of crafting. It turned out that everyone had a great time, and each person was addicted to scrapping by the time they left.

There was one attendee who was bitten by the sewing bug, so I am giving her lessons. I will be posting her first completed project sometime next week. Please stay tuned.

I did manage to sew a dress for myself. It just needs to be hemmed and ironed. The fabric is a painted knit. I love the colors and it's lightweight enough to wear throughout the spring a during most of the summer.

Next up, is the Kimbery Bag by Amy Butler. Is this not the cutest little bag? I ordered my fabric and it should be here shortly.

Perhaps I will make this quick, summery dress in the meantime. I will do an embroidered border and neckline instead of beads.

I think that's enough for now. Thanks again for not forgetting about me.

No Photos - No Camera

2008-03-05T22:15:00.003-06:00

My digital camera has not been cooperating lately. But honestly, that's not the only reason I don't have any photos to post today, it's really because I don't have anything interesting to share yet. I hope to make great progress on the 4 or 5 or 20 things I'm working on.

Adrienne, if you are reading this, do you remember the date you did a list of suggested digital cameras? I need to purchase a new camera and this time I want to get a really good one. When I say really good one - I mean as good as I can get for $300 or less (I ain't trying to be all professional and what not) LOL.

Cidell (Miss Celie's Pants), if you are reading this, Thank You-Thank You-Thank You. When your blog was private I took it personally. I thought it was because I hadn't posted anything in a while so you counted me unworthy to view your blog. Okay, I'm exaggerating a bit, but I am glad to have access again.

I hope to have my new camera and some finished projects by Monday night, with my having a three-day weekend coming up and all. Until then.....

Kid's Stuff

2008-02-18T00:22:00.003-06:00

My BFF's granddaughter absolutely adores Dora the Explorer. So I made her an overnight set for her birthday. This is a small bag with a quilted bottom and a twin/full size pillow case.

I also made a pair of simple pajamas. I still have to hem the sleeves and bottom of the top and attach the neck facing. I even made a personalized card using the motif from the fabric.

Everything fits right into the little bag so she can just grab it and go when she is spending the night at Grandma's.

Tomorrow I begin sewing for me. YAY!

All Over the Place

2008-02-13T21:35:00.006-06:00

I can't believe how long it's been since I've posted. And sadly, I don't have much to show for my absence. I have been very busy at work - as a matter of fact I have gotten a huge promotion and will be needing to revamp my entire wardrobe. I feel a SWAP coming on!

I did finally manage to get pictures of my granddaughter in the the skirt/vest I crocheted for her and the top I sewed. You can't tell from the photos but the skirt is underlined with the same fabric used to make the top. Cute!

This is a top that I am working on. I will try to get a better picture when it's done. I did hong kong finishing on the seams since the fabric is so ravely. Brown is the main color of my upcoming SWAP.

So one day my husband comes in from work and announces that he promised his staff that he would bring them some homemade baked goods the very next day. So guess who had to whip up something really quick, on a week night no less. He said they really enjoyed it.

I attended a scrap night a couple of weeks ago, and had a wonderful time. I have now been in scrap mode ever since, but need to sort of snap out of it because I have a wardrobe to make.

There should be many pictures coming your way soon. I have a three-day weekend coming up [YAY!] I hope I can get a lot done.

I'm Here I'm Here

2008-01-08T21:57:00.001-06:00

I can't believe it's been over three weeks since I've posted anything. Unfortunately, I don't have any photos today, but I did want to take a few minutes to send hopes of a wonderful and prosperous new year to all of you. I have been sooooo busy. Hopefully, things will slow down in the next few days and I can show some pictutes of some of the things I've been working on. Hold tight - and please don't stop check ing in on me. I will be back in full force real soon.

I'm Working Too

2007-12-16T16:48:00.000-06:00

Sounds like everyone is busy with holiday crafting. I hope you all are getting everything done. I managed to work on and nearly complete a couple of things this weekend.

First up, is my jersey knit dress. I got the fabric from JoAnn's for less then $2 per yard. It's not the prettiest fabric I've ever seen, but it was cheap and that makes it look much better to me.

I brought a bubble coat for my granddaughter. I wanted a nice dark color (for obvious reasons). But then I thought it looked to boyish - not girlie enough.

So I did a little embroidery on it to girlify it a little bit. I did her four initials = yes, she has four names.

I digitized the "A" to look like a shooting star. I think it will look even better once I finish her brown and white fleece animal print hat and scarf with pink piping.

Add....I have been working on this adorable Debbie Bliss baby dress.

I decided not to do pink or any other traditional baby color. I figured she would have enough of those colors.

This yarn (Baby Bamboo) feel soooo good. I will also make a puff sleeve blouse and some booties.

Up next, is a gorgeous wrap dress [for me] made from a hand painted knit in burnt orange. Stay tuned.

No Sewing FOR ME Yet

2007-12-05T22:04:00.000-06:00

I have not done any sewing for myself this entire week. I got up early and went to my parents house before work (you don't even want to know how early I had to get up in order to do that). Anyway, my thinking was I could take care of what I needed to do for them before work, that way, after work I could go right home and get some sewing done.

However, when I got home there was still about eight inches of snow on my walk and driveway and since my husband's motorcycle accident he has been unable to do much physical work. So that meant I spent nearly two hours clearing away the snow - by hand. I own over $12,000 worth of sewing machines but we don't own a snowblower. Yeah, I have my priorities straight.

Speaking of sewing machines - you know how I keep mentioning how I am really desiring to get the Bernina 730e sewing/embroidery machine, but I really can't justify buying one. Well, I think I have come up with a guilt-free way of getting one. I think I can get the machine for around $6,000. So here's my plan: Firstly, I will HAVE TO bless someone with one of my current machines (I must give one away, I can't sell it, as that will cause some sort of counter reaction to my guilt-free approach). Secondly, (and this might be the hardest part) I have to earn at least $2,000 from my sewing/crafting in order to prove that my s/m are valuable investments. Thirdly (no, this might be the hardest part) I have to trade-in one of my current sewing machines. And lastly, I will use some of the money that I am saving for a my new SUV to pay the balance. I think that will work. Now to sell the idea to my husband.

BTW, I enjoyed hearing from two of my favorite bloggers simultaneously. If you have not had a chance to listen to Andrienne's podcast please do so. She did a delightful interview with Mimi. I am sorry that I am not computer/blog savvy enough to do the link thingy that will take you directly to their blogs. But that's Adrienne at Adriennes Little World and Mimi at DomesticHeaven. I'm sure you all are familiar with these two very talented ladies.

Also, Nancy W. at encue creations has a wonderful video on her blog that tells the story of a millinery shop in CA. The video is creative, informative and entertaining.

Sorry, I have not pictures today, but should have some finished works by the end of the week. As always, thanks for stopping by.

Machine Down

2007-12-03T20:40:00.000-06:00

As I mentioned yesterday, one of my sew machines is out of service. I didn't get a chance to drop it off at the shop today; and of course, the longer it takes me to get it in for repairs the longer I will be without it. I didn't get to drop it off this evening because when I came in from work I had to get right to work. I had to embroider some company logos for a client.

Here's my challenge. I don't like doing any kind of sewing for other people because I always see it as taking away quality sewing time for myself. However, it's the extra money I make sewing for others that affords me the opportunity to indulge myself in my craft(s). To complicate the issue more, everytime I splurge on a new machine or gadget, I always justify it by telling myself that it will help me to be a blessing to someone else. I know, I know, I am so twisted. - but I'm working through it all one seam at a time. LOL.

I still haven't completely reorganized my craft room, but I'm getting there.

I have all of my magazines in one place. like this rack because it's fairly compact and it holds about 225-250 magazines.

and look a clear surface.

And here are a few layouts of my grandchildren. They are much older now but sometimes it takes me a while to get around to scrapping their pictures. LOL

Caleb used to be such a cowboy. He's wearing snake skin boots.

Got sippy cup - ready to work.

Arianna is simple and cute on this page.

Meditation Monday

Praise ye the LORD. Praise, O ye servants of the LORD, praise the name of the LORD. Blessed be the name of the LORD from this time forth and for evermore. From the rising of the sun unto the going down of the same the LORD'S name is to be praised. Psalm 113:1-3

This passage speaks for itself. We, His servants, are commanded (not advised) to praise His name. No matter how much others defile, misuse, take in vain, the name of the Lord - we must praise His name. Don't let the rocks have to cry out on your behalf, give His praise that's due his name.

One Scarf Down...

2007-12-02T20:11:00.000-06:00

I did manage to finish and take a picture of my Huckleberry Ascot. I like it, but I am a little disappointed with the bobbles around the ends. I think the magazine picture looks more "beefy" and mine looks sort of skimpy. What do you think?

I think I might make another one using some bulky yarn instead of the pure cotton that I used for this one.

I had hope to finish a dress last night or this evening, but one of my sewing machines got sick.

My Singer XL5000 is on the blink. It's not taking up the bobbin thread at all, so it goes to the shop tomorrow. Here it is all ready to go - it looks so pitiful.

I could use one of my other "big" machines but I already have my Brother ULT 2001 machine set up for doing embroidery, so I didn't want to use that one for sewing. I'm too lazy to keep taking the embroidery bed off and on.

I guess Iwill be using my "baby" Brother for regular sewing until my Singer is back from the s/m hospital.

I actually wanted to spend some type scrapbooking this week and playing with my new Cricut cutter.

Any of you scrappers have this machine? How do you like it?

It's no wonder my sewing/craft room was such a mess, I am trying to do too many things in one small room. I was hoping to post pictures of my new (meaning organized) space, but I have a fews small touches to add before the reveal.

I hope everyone has a wonderful week. Lots of stitches.

Here I Am!

2007-12-01T00:10:00.000-06:00

Wow, it's been some time since I've posted. I have been doing lots of reading other folks' blogs lately. I mentioned to Mimi at Domestic Heaven that I am so impressed with the organization and tidiness of her sewing space; so much so that I have been encouraged to clean up my act. I spent a large chunk of time over the Thanksgiving weekend rearranging and cleaning my sewing room. Here are some "before pictures", I will post some "after" pictures later this weekend, after I have done a few more things.

This is an insane amount of clutter.

Every surface is covered with stuff , including the floor.

My cutting table is somewhere under all that junk.

When I want to cut out something, it takes forever just to move all the other stuff out of the way. Fortunately everything in my sewing room is on casters.

Even the walk-in closet is full.

I had to move my patterns to our garage. Each drawer holds nearly 300 patterns, and all four drawers are just about full. Do you think I need to be buying anymore patterns any time soon?

I have a nice work table and craft cabinet in my garage, but the garage is not heated, so I can't work out there in the winter. Even though it's an attached garage, it gets very cold in winter.

I will be posting pictures of my new and improved sewing room this weekend. Along with projects I've been working on. I finished the Huckleberry Ascot. I am knitting an infant dress, and I'm sewing a knit jersey dress for myself.

Commute Knitting

2007-11-19T19:57:00.000-06:00

I have decided that I will knit or crochet everyday on my way to and from work. I mentioned before, that I have a 50 minute train ride each way, and it's amazing how much Ican get done during that time.

I knitted each of my grandsons a winter cap. I still have to make the lining from the beige fleece (shown below). They should stay nice and warm in these caps.

I have also started the "Huckleberry Ascot". This is such a cute project. I think I first saw this on Adrienne's blog and it grabbed me. I should have this done by the end of the work week (which is Wednesday afternoon - YAY!!!).

My plan is to knit/crochet all fall and winter long. I hope to put a huge dent in my yarn stash.
Here are the yarns I hope to use during the month of December while riding on the train.

The red wool will be knitted and felted to make a bag.

The taupe baby bamboo is going to be an infant/toddler dress.

The blue demin suede will be baby mocassins (sp?).

The pink suede will be baby booties

The purple and grey cotton is for a girl's hat and scarf set.

The multi-colored yarn will be my first pair of socks.

Monday Meditation

And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching. Hebrews 10:24-25

We need each other now more than ever before. With so much turmoil in the world, we need to be able to go to each other for love and support. Keep in mind sometimes love means correction, and we should be able to get that from our brothers and sisters in Christ. I know there are some who will say coming together as a body of believers is not necessary. But that is so not true. We need to come together to encourage, exhort and reprove one another. We even need to provoke (urge, push, persuade) each other to do what's right. Often times a close relationship needs to be in place in order to do that king of encouraging. Go and do all that the Lord has commanded you.

Picture Day

2007-11-15T21:45:00.000-06:00

I was finally able to get some pictures uploaded. Gray/blue skirt and top.

I made the top from this old Vogue pattern. I think its probably out-of-print now. The top is fully lined and fits great. The stitching at the side really accentuates the waist.

The skirt is made from M5194. I haven't hemmed it yet, but I was excited about showing it. I didn't have to line this skirt because the fabric is pretty heavy. Speaking of the fabric, it has gorgeous embossed flowers throughout. I like this skirt because it's kind of full, but not too full, and has a flirty swing.

This is what's next-a jersey knit dress. I found this fabric at JoAnn's. It was regularly $14.99 per yard. But it was on clearance for $7.00 per yard. I just happen to be in the store when they ran a 30-minute, unadvertised 75% off all clearance fabric. So I got this fabric for less than $2.00 per yard. Don't you just love getting a bargain?

I have completed knitting two caps for my grandsons. I just need to make fleece lining to put in them. I should have photos soon.

Thanks for stopping by.

Busy Busy Busy - No Pictures Today

2007-11-12T21:42:00.000-06:00

I have accomplished a few things since my last post (almost two weeks ago). I have knitted two hats for my grandchildren (two more to go). I have finished a beautiful silk top and polyester skirt for myself. I will be posting photos soon - hopefully tomorrow. I need to make a couple of minor adjustments to my granddaughter's crocheted skirt and vest. I think I will make another similar set for one me my neices.

I received my HotPatterns Flippy Skirt pattern from Sewl Sista #1 (Nikia). Thank you again for the wonderful and generous gift. I ordered the HotPatterns twin set to go with the skirt, and I plan to make that outfit over the Thanksgiving weekend. I will keep this post pretty short, since I don't have any pictures to break up some of the text. I don't want to bore my friends.

Monday Meditation

And Paul, earnestly beholding the council, said, Men and brethren, I have lived in all good conscience before God until this day. Acts 23:1

Wow! What a wonderful thing to honestly be able to say: that we have no guilt, no regrets, no true accusations of wrongdoing against us, etc. You may remember Paul (who used to be Saul) had committed some terrible wrongs against the Church, however, after his conversion and his close encounter with the Lord Jesus he developed a new walk. After walking with Christ and following after Him, Paul knew he had been forgiven of all past sins and he lived with a clear conscience. We can all live free of guilt and shame no matter what horrible things might be hanging in our past. When we accept Christ and His forgiveness we are to make the same proclamation as the Apostle Paul.

A few scriptures to peruse: Proverbs 28:1; Acts 24:10, Acts 24:16; Romans 2:1; II Corinthians 1:12

I'm A Winner!

2007-10-31T23:21:00.000-05:00

I'm not doing any self-affirming technique - I actually won Sewl Sista #1's giveaway. I will be receiving a nifty HotPatterns skirt pattern. I am very excited about this as I have not used a HotPatterns patterns before. Thanks Sewl Sista #1.

Also, I answered the challenge presented by Mimi Jackson at You Can Have It Made. So I will send a lovely hand crafted gift to the first three (3) people who comment on my blog requesting to join this Pay If Forward (PIF) exchange. In order to give gifts that will actually be appreciated and enjoyed, I will survey your blog for a while and attempt to determined your style and/or preference. Mimi gave us one year to make good on the promise, but I'm sure it won't take me that long. I ask that you, in return, PIF by making the same promise on your blog. Let's keep the generosity going.

FINALLY!!!

2007-10-31T22:14:00.000-05:00

I am finally back. I have been very busy this week. One thing that has cut into my blogging time is the fact that Blogger is now a blocked site at work. I used to be able to check in every morning, make comments during lunch and finish up when I got home. But now I have to wait until I get home in the evening before I can even get onto the site. DRATS AND DOUBLE DRATS.

I am almost finished with Ari's outfit. I have to hem the blouse, block the skirt hem and put buttons on the waistband. I think it looks pretty good.

This is the pattern I used for the top.

I used the same fabric for the top and the skirt lining.

I hope to get some much better pictures when she comes over and tries it on for me.

Now back to my fall collection!

Patterns, Patterns, Patterns.

2007-10-23T22:14:00.000-05:00

A few days ago, Sewl Sista #1 called herself a "pattern glutton" - boy, oh boy can I relate. LOL. I need another pattern like a centipede needs another leg. But Simplicity and McCall's are on sale at JoAnns for .99 - need I say more?

I am obviously planning to make several hundred coats and jackets this fall, because I keep buying patterns for them. Here's what I got:

I need help with my pattern buying problem. But then you all might not be the best group of people to seek help in this particular area. LOL.

2007-10-22T14:18:00.001-05:00

Monday Meditation

I forgot to include the weekly meditation yesterday. I apologize - but I don't think it's too late for a moment of meditation.

Thou shalt be perfect with the LORD thy God. Deuteronomy 18:13

How many times have we heard it said, "Nobody's perfect." Well that's not exactly true. God calls his children to perfection; not just in the scripture mentioned above but we see this mandate in several others as well. (For instance see: Genesis 6:9; Genesis 17:1; Job 1:1; Matthew 5:48).

The perfection that believers are to strive for, is God's perfection - not man's. We can never be good enough to please all the human race. But we can be perfect in God's sight and he is the one we ultimately want to please. We are perfect when we walk with God and follow after his ways. When love as God has loved us; when we forgive as God has forgiven us; when we are merciful and kind as God is merciful and kind to us, etc...then we are perfect in His sight.
Be blessed and be perfect.

I've Been Tagged - So I'm It

2007-10-22T09:14:00.000-05:00

I was tagged by my good e-friend The Domestic Diva (Lisa). So here are eight things you would not know (and probably wouldn't care to know) about me:

1. I laugh at just about everything.
2. I have had to same two best friends for more than 35 years (since we were about 8 years old). We still talk on the phone nearly everyday; we still vacation together; our husbands get along with each other. All while living many miles apart at various times throughout our friendship. I'm not sure, but I think this is pretty rare.
3. None of my close friends (including my two BFFs) do any types of crafts at all.
4. My husband is also my pastor. Over the years I have learned to keep the two roles separate. For instance, I can still respect my pastor even though he happens to be the same person who sometimes leaves the toilet seat in the up position. LOL
5. I took off from work for two years in order to get my M.B.A., which would afford me the opportunity to get a better job. But after completing my degree and being off work for two years, I did not want to go back to work at all. But alas, I've been back in the corporate world for over two years.
6. I plan to go to law school within the next couple of years. SHHHH don't tell my husband.
7. None of my family or friends know that I have a blog.
8. I grew up with five brothers (no sisters) and only played with boy toys. My parents bought dolls for me, but I never played with them. However, I did make clothes for my friends' dolls.

So there you have it, eight things you never wanted to know about me. LOL

Now I am tagging seven other people. I'm not sure if they'be been tagged before, but here goes:

1. Cennetta - The Mahogany Stylist

2. Sarah - Chicago is 1230 miles from Maine

3. Linda - Danvillegirl Sewing Diary

4. Tany - Couture et Tricot

5. Sharon - Sharon Sews

6. Debbie - Stitches and Seams

7. Mardel - Sew Districted

Must Stay On Schedule

2007-10-18T13:47:00.000-05:00

Last week, I committed to having Ari's (my granddaughter) outfit done by the end of this weekend. I think I still have a shot at completing it.

The skirt, which consists of 32 squares, has been put together and blocked. I need to make and insert the lining and the zipper; finish the hem and make the elastic wastband. The lining/top is the lavender fabric beneath the skirt.

The vest, which consists of 21 squares, has been put together and is being blocked tonight. Now I only need to finish the edges (using a sc stitch all the way around). There's no lining under the vest.

The top, is still in flat form (somehow that sounds better than saying I haven't even started it yet). However, it's a very simple little top and I don't anticipate in taking more than a couple of hours to make from start to finish. (S5222 a discontinued pattern)

Also in the line-up for this weekend is S3804 . The skirt is just about done, I only need to hem it. The top has been cut out and I expect it to come together very quickly and easily. Now that I have looked at the skirt more closely, I see that I made a huge mistake when cutting it out. I did not have all the pattern pieces going in the same direction, so you can see the difference colors in the panels. This is not good. I think I have just wasted time and money ($19.99 per yard to be exact). I hate it when I make stupid mistakes like not considering the nap of the fabric. Stupid Stupid Stupid!!!

And finally....I might even be able to squeeze in the M5194 skirt. It too is already cut out; and it only have four seams and a wastband plus a machine-stitched hem.

If I don't have any major interruptions .... oh yeah, that reminds me, I lost a whole evening of personal sewing this week because I had to do alterations on a friend's wedding gown. I was more than happy to do the alterations for her but at the same time, in the back of my mind I was thinking about how much of my own stuff I could be getting done. But I do try to not be so selfish with my time and abilities. If you have read some of my earlier posts, you know I am working on living out my Christain values/virtues. Believe me when I say I'm a work in progress.

And finally, since today is Thursday, I want to mention a few things that I am thankful for that perhaps I sometimes take for granted or just don't think about at all.

Thankful Thursday

I am thankful that my mom (who is recovering from open heart surgery) is doing well and is getting better and better each day. [And not just because that will free up more sewing time for me because I won't have to go to parents house everyday after work to cook and clean. Okay, maybe I am a little glad for myself too.LOL]
I am thankful for technology. You ever think about how much more time it would take to sew if we didn't have so much technology to help us? Not to mention the fact that most of us (in Blogdom) would never have met.
I am thankful that my husband bought himself another motorcycle (he now owns two). Not because I am a fan of motorcycle, as a matter of fact I don't like them at all, but because now I won't feel bad at all about getting my dream machine. That would be the Bernina 730 with stitch regulator.

So much to be thankful for. Have a good night.

One Down

2007-10-15T20:30:00.000-05:00

I did manage to finish one item over the weekend. I draped the muslin for this simple top over two weeks ago, and I have just completed it this past weekend. I like how it turned out, but I am going to have to pick up the pace if I intend to do everything on my fall/winter wish list.

I also blocked the skirt I am crocheting for my granddaughter. Last week, I mentioned that I plan to finish the skirt, matching vest and a coordinating top by the end of this week. I still think I can get it done.

That means by Sunday night I should have completed my granddaughter's entire outfit, a stretch velvet top and skirt (S3804) and a bias cut skirt (M5194) for myself.

I just got in the mail today my first ever BWOF magazine. After seeing so many wonderful designs from Burda, I thought I should give it a try. Hopefully, I will be posting some results soon.

Meditation Monday

How that they told you there should be mockers in the last time, who should walk after their own ungodly lusts. Jude 1:18

When we think of mockers of our faith, we usually think of people who tease, belittle or perhaps disregard followers of Christ. However, according to scripture, mockers actually scorn, hate and even treat with contempt those who follow after the Lord Jesus. We have been warned that there are some who will hate us for our love of Christ. Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution. II Timothy 3:12 But we must continue to live godly and remember that we can find joy in being counted worthy to suffered for the cause of Christ. Stay encouraged.

Chicago Fashion

2007-10-10T21:21:00.000-05:00

This week students from the one of the art institutes in Chicago are displaying their fashions in various office buildings throughout The Loop (Chicago's downtown). I managed to get a few pictures of the fashions on display in my building's lobby. I would have taken more, and I would have gotten some close-up detailed shots, but I was advised by security that I wasn't allowed to take pictures in the building.

If you click on the pictures you might get a little better look. But these designs are wonderful. I am going to try to find other buildings with displays, and if I am allowed, I will get some more (and hopefully better) photos.

Some Progress

2007-10-08T20:52:00.000-05:00

I am posting pictures of the little progress I was able to make this past weekend.

This is the skirt I 'm making for my granddaughter. I still have to block the front and back pieces, add a waistband (with elastic), finish the hem, sew the side seams and make/insert the lining. I know it sounds like a lot, but it really isn't - okay, it really is but I will have it done by the end of next week. That includes completing the matching vest (no lining) and the top/blouse. I think I can, I think I can, I think I can.....

NOTE: In case you're wondering about the above dressform - no, it's not designed for very shapely little girls. It's actually a quarter model of an adult woman form (size 14-16 to be exact). My granddaughter is only 6 years old and she's really small for her age. I'm only using this form as a prop to hold up this skirt. I just felt the need to explain this picture because it was sort of freaking me out a little bit with the hips and all.

I also want to show you a picture of my first attempt at faux chenille. It was time-consuming and required lots of yardage but I like it. I think it will "fluff up" more with each washing. I used a Simplicity pattern, but I don't remember the number and I can't find the envelope right now. I think I will try this technique again, but I will make sure I use only rayon fabric because it will fray better.

Monday Meditation

Our pastor is still teaching on anger, and more specifically, some of the things that anger God. One of the passages of scripture we focused on this week was:

And whoso shall receive one such little child in my name receiveth me. But whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the depth of the sea. Matthew 18:5-6

When we hear of so many terrible things happening to children all over the globe, we might be tempted to think that God either doesn't see or doesn't care. Neither can be farther from the truth. But we can tell from the above verses that the Lord cares deeply for children, and he has carefully reserved punishment for those who would harm one of his children. So take care in caring for all the children in your life - for there is a great blessing in store for those who do. And remember, God's children come in all ages.

Weekend? What Weekend?

2007-10-07T22:13:00.000-05:00

Where! Oh where did the weekend go? I saw it coming - it was heading my way Friday, late afternoon. It was carrying with it, high hopes and great possibilities. I looked into its bag of dreams and fantasies and saw myself finishing my purple, silk wrap top. I saw myself sewing my red knit top and skirt that's already been cut. And of course I saw myself beginning at least three new projects.

Here it is Sunday night and I got very little done in terms of sewing, knitting and/or crocheting. It all began to go down hill when my three grandchildren showed up Friday night. I can't resist those cute little faces, so they had to spend the night. Two of them went home late Saturday afternoon and I thought for sure I would get some sewing done with just the one grandchild underfoot. But no, we had to play TMNT (Turtles). That brings me to Sunday, and we have morning and afternoon services at my church on first Sundays.

However, I did make it to JoAnn's to buy four Vogue Patterns and one McCalls Patterns. How many of you know I do not need to buy one more pattern? How many of you also know that patterns buying has little or nothing to do with need, but everything to do with patterns being on sale.

I picked up V2967. This is a Sandra Betzina top that I believe will be very figure flatterning.

I also got V8259 . This is the ultimate Coco Chanel type jacket by Caire Shaeffer. Although, the upper pockets seem to be a little "off" on the pattern cover.

Then I purchased two accessory patterns V8140 and V8440 . I have some beautiful gray leather that would make a beatiful bag.

And finally I picked up M5512 by Hilary Duff. I plan to sew view B along with some leggings.

Tweaking the Plan - again!

2007-10-02T21:43:00.000-05:00

I think I am making another major change to my fall/winter wardrobe plan. First, let me say that it's a good thing that we tend to have fairly looooong winters here (Chicago), because its going to take months to finish, or perhaps start, my collection.

I still plan to make all the pieces previously mentioned using all of the fabrics shown in my September 11th post. But most of those items will be addressed whenever I can get to them. The main focus of my wardrobe will be the color brown.

I have always liked the color brown, and I am seeing brown used with so many other colors now, especially in home dec. So I will be pairing brown with blue, pink, green, cream, red and gray (Yes, gray. I've seen it together, and it's very fresh. No, really.) So even though I never quite finished either of my first two storyboards, it's off to start a third one.

PLEASE HELP! I want to be sure to include one elegant (somewhat formal) dress in a gorgeous, dark, chocolatety, shimmery brown. Does anyone have any suggestions for pattern(s) and/or fabric(s)?

I am just about done with the crocheted skirt and vest set for my granddaughter. I hope to post photos by this weekend.

Did Some Sewing this Weekend

2007-09-30T22:22:00.000-05:00

I was finally able to make some progress on my fall wardrobe over the weekend. I actually cut out two skirts and two tops. One of the tops is an empire waist wrap top. I wanted the "wrap" to fit smoothly across my bust so I decided to drape the top on my dressform.

After draping the top I laid out the muslin to make my pattern.

I even eeked out enough time to prepared dinner for my husband and myself. We had grilled shrimp and pasta, roasted sweet potatoes and a vegetable medley (corn, broccoli and spinach).

Here is the top so far. I think it's coming along pretty well.

Monday's Meditation (today really is Monday, but I started this post yesterday, that why it says Sunday in the heading)

We are in a very interesting study series at our church. The topic is anger. Last week we mostly talked about controling our anger. This Sunday we looked at some of the things that anger God. One of the things really hit home for me.

Then Moses heard the people weep throughout their families, every man in the door of his tent: and the anger of the LORD was kindled greatly; Moses also was displeased. Numbers 11:10

If you read the entire chapter you will discover the people's weeping was really complaining. I think we (I) sometimes complain to the Lord more than we (I) praise him. To know that complaining actually makes God angry, makes me want to guard my thoughts even more.

Learning to be content,
Tracey

Sewing Still On Hold

2007-09-24T22:00:00.000-05:00

Unfortunately, I still haven't gotten any sewing done. I am still working on my crochet skirt. Yes, I have decided that it will be a skirt rather than a dress because my enthusiasm is starting to wain. I'm ready to move on to another project. So I have only a few more squares to complete before I start connecting them together. Then I will begin making my family's hats, scarves, socks and maybe gloves for the winter.

Monday's Meditation

"Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath।"
Ephesians 4 :26

This is a pretty well known verse of scripture, but I think it is often misquoted and misunderstood. Many married people will say it means "if" we get angry at our spouse we should make sure we have resolved the matter before we go to bed at night. I'm sure this approach can be very beneficial for a marriage, however this verse is saying more than that.

First, notice we are being told to "be angry" and to "not sin". We need to be angry at the same things that anger our Lord. However, we are not to sin. Scripture tells us that the Lord is angry with the wicked everyday; yet we also know that he allows the sun to shine on the just as well as the unjust. So we should never cease being angry at sin, but we should never allow it to cause us to sin. Stay encouraged.

Happy Birthday To Me!!!

2007-09-23T19:39:00.000-05:00

I noticed on two blogs that I enjoy reading, each mentioned that yesterday was their birthday (Happy Birthday Erica B.'s D.I.Y. Style and StacySews). So I thought I would share with you that today happens to be my birthday (it's even noted on PR's home page as "tcusic"- I feel so special). Today is also the first day of fall.

I would love to be able to say that for my birthday, I completed my entire fall/winter 2007 wardrobe. Actually, I could say that but it would be a total lie, a huge untruth, a gross exaggeration of reality.... In other words, I have not gotten much sewing done.

I did however, pack up my summer clothes and put them away. Yeah, yeah, I know, I am just procrastinating.

Speaking of fall/winter wardrobe, I have found another outfit I would like to sew. It's what Mandy Moore is wearing on the cover of Lucky magazine.

For the skirt I would either draft my on knock-off or use the skirt from V2951. I would only need to smooth out the pleats in the front, widen the waistband/yoke and lengthen the skirt.

For the top, I think M5336 with some modifications would be a good choice. I'm not sure what I will do about the short sweater. Maybe I will hand knit one.

Thankful Thursday

2007-09-20T08:30:00.000-05:00

I thought it might be a good idea to call Thursdays "Thankful Thursday". Whenever I post on Thursdays, I will list a few things that I am thankful for. This is just a way for me to remind myself to be grateful. Maybe if I make a concentrated effort to show gratitude for what I have, I will be less likely to be whiney. Sometimes I find myself being whiney and complaining, even though I am so richly and wonderfully blessed.

I am thankful for:

The fact that the top I'm making doesn't require very much altering/adjustments. I have only done the muslin so far, I will make the real top in a green, silk paisley print. I will post a photo this weekend.

The fact the sewing isn't fattening. When I think about it, many of the things in life that I enjoy are very fattening. So I am thankful that I can sew all I want and not gain an ounce.

Living in a country where I am free to practice and live out my beliefs. I am glad that this holds true for every citizen in this country. Even though we don't all believe the same thing, we can all openly express what we do believe.

I thank God for each and every day, but I seem to thank him more for Fridays. So thank God tomorrow is Friday.

Have a productive and wonderful weekend everyone.

Making Progress - Sort Of

2007-09-17T21:30:00.001-05:00

I didn't exactly do everything on my list for this past week, but I did get some things done. I started working on my muslins for the wardrobe pieces in McCall's 5194 (earlier post). I hope to have the top and skirt put together in just a couple more days.

I mentioned earlier that I am working on a crocheted dress or skirt. If the work moves along fairly quickly, it will be a dress, if it's slow and I begin to get bored, it will probably be a skirt. Here is a single square and a group of squares abutting each other (click on the image for close-up view).

Once I "block" the pieces they will be perfectly squared and there won't be any spaces between them. I will sew them all together then crochet a border/hem and a waistband. I am still trying to decide what color to use for the lining. I think I am leaning toward a dark brown.

I also did a "practice" bag like the one in the current (and unfortunately the last) issue of Sew Stylish magazine. I did this one in a faux suede cloth, but the next one I will do in a gorgeous soft real hide/suede. I am also contemplating embroidering a design on the next one.

Monday's Meditation

"And David fled from Naioth in Ramah, and came and said before Jonathan, What have I done? what is mine iniquity? and what is my sin before thy father, that he seeketh my life?" I Samuel 20:1

There are so many things that we can learn from the life and experiences of King David. One of the things in this particular passage that comes to mind is the fact that you don't have to do anything to cause someone to seek your life. For one thing, the enemy of our soul is after us all the time - his duty is to kill, steal and destroy.

Simply being a follower of Christ and doing what is right according to the scriptures will automatically cause some to be at odds with you and some may even want to see you eliminated. They might wish for you to relocate to another state, to be transferred to a different work location, or even to be take your membership to another church. But don't be discourgage, continue to show love and compassion and remember that God is for you - and he is more than the whole world against you. Your job is to do those things that becometh a believer.

Remembering...

2007-09-11T13:08:00.000-05:00

Of course today marks the sixth anniversary of a tragedy. I know this is primarily a sewing blog, but I would be remiss if I didn't acknowledge the fact that six years ago life changed for people all over the globe, not just in this country. Though it was the precious lives of nearly 3,000 Americans that were taken that day, I believe people all over the world were greatly impacted by this tragedy. While there is nothing any of us can do to change what happened, there are things that each of us can do to affect what happens next.

We can commit ourselves to loving the people close to us wholeheartedly. We can remember to be grateful for all that we have and not complain about the things we don't have. We can pray. Pray that this nation will turn its heart to God. Pray that those who seek to harm us, will be consumed by the love of the Lord. Pray that God continues to bless America. And let's not just do this on 9/11 but let's remember to do it everyday.

To now talk about sewing might seem a bit trite, but isn't that what we have had to do as a nation? We must go on living and not let the enemy rob us of enjoying the life God has given us.

I think I have found the perfect fabrics for a good part of my fall/winter collection (that's what us designers call it - a "collection"). My plan is primarily going to consist of neutral colors like black, brown, navy, grey and cream/tan with a few splashes of accent colors like red, aubergine (purpley), pumpkin and yellow. Sounds kinda busy doesn't it?

Take a look at what I have pulled from my stash so far. Did I mention that I have a rather extensive stash?

Green Silks and Brocade Navy Wool Suit with Purple Silks and Grey Satin

Classic White Shirt

Red and Yellow/Gold Tans/Creams and Blue Accent

Okay - Plan B

2007-09-10T13:43:00.000-05:00

Another weekend has flown by, and I have not completed on single garment. Alright, alright, I have not sewn a single stitch. However, on the plus side of things, I spend the majority of the weekend with my mother (remember, she's recovering from heart surgery) and I am happy to report that she's doing very well. We are just so thankful to the Lord for how he is restoring her.

As my mom gets stronger and stronger I will be able to devote more of my "spare" time to sewing/knitting/crocheting/crafting/creating.

As today's title indicates, I am moving on to Plan B. Plan A was to complete my Fall/Winter Wardrobe storyboard. Then I would organize, arrange and schedule my sewing in a logical sequence. Then I would carefully go through all the fabric in my stash. But I've no time for that now - I must now proceed to sewing. The temperature here (Chicago, IL) dropped significantly over the weekend and I am just itching to get my mitts on some fall fabrics.

Even though at last count I had over 700 patterns in my arsenal, I have to go to Hobby Lobby after work and after preparing dinner for my parents but before going home (I have one very patient husband) to pick up the McCall's pattern below (click in the box). McCall's patterns are .99 this week at Hobby Lobby. Need I say more?

So here's the new plan:

9/10 - 9/15 - cut out a muslin for the jacket, skirt, top and pants this week. Find appropriate fabric in my stash.

9/17 - 9/22 - take care of fitting issues for all four pieces and complete the top since it will probably be the easiest to fit and to construct (yeah, I know I could have simply said "sew" but "construct" sounds like I'm really working hard and not just being a big ole slow poke).

9/24 - 9/29 - complete the skirt and pants. Start on the jacket.

Notice I don't include Sundays in my sewing schedule. That's because I'm in worship services most of the day and spending time with my family the rest of the day. So I don't even anticipate getting any sewing done on Sundays. If all goes as planned, I will have just about 25% of my entire fall/winter wardrobe completed by the first week of October. I think that's a pretty good for such a late start.

One last thing, it's not sewing related, but interesting nonetheless. I thought it would be a good thing to include a short snippet of the previous Sunday's message each Monday.

Monday's Meditation

He staggered not at the promise of God through unbelief; but was strong in faith, giving glory to God. Romans 4:20

God had made Abraham an incredible promise, and Abraham never stopped believing in what God had said he would do. We should practice that same attitude when we look through the scriptures and see all of the many promises God has made to all his children. Stay encouraged.

A Little Disappointed

2007-09-04T21:21:00.000-05:00

I am at the end of a five-day weekend. I had great plans and high hopes of getting a lot of stuff done. But I will be back to work tomorrow and I failed to accomplish anything on my sewing/crafting list. I was, however, able to spend a great deal of time with my parents and take care of my mom.

I worked on the clutch style handbag in the current issue of Sew Stylish magazine (page 33). It has to be the simplest design I have ever seen, but I can't get the pieces to come together. After working on it for about four hours today, it's still not together. I must be experiencing some sort of mental block.

I have managed to complete a total of nine squares for my crocheted dress (or skirt, depending on how long I am able to stay focused). Yes, that's right, I have completed nine squares - only about a million more to go.

I intend to post some photos of my progress this weekend. This is assuming that there will actually be some progress by week's end. I can dream.

Finally Starting to Blog

2007-09-02T22:57:00.000-05:00

Today is my first attempt at blogging. Unfortunately, I don't have any photos to post right now, but I thought if I put it out here in writing I would be forced to get myself going. I am working on several things right now.

First, I am playing nurse to my mother who recently had open-heart surgery which resulted in five (5) bypasses. She is recuperating at home and doing quite well. Thank the Lord. This has prompted my entire family (more about them in the uncoming days and weeks) to change its eating habits.

In terms of sewing/crafting, I am working on a planned (make that a "well- planned") fall wardrobe. The color scheme will be grey, black, navy, brown and cream along with some bold accent colors. I am also working on whittling down my UFO pile. Then there's the crochet dress or skirt (depends on how much stamina I have) that I'm working on.

Now that I have put it in writing here, I have to get cracking on cranking out these projects.

Thank you for looking and photos are soon to come.