Collaboration

A few months ago, my friend Dawn asked if I had a pattern for a jewelry roll. I didn't but I offered to help her make one. Last week we got together and trolled the internet for some ideas and went to the fabric store to purchase the materials. She brought the vision and I contributed my sewing experience and expertise. We drew out our own pattern and with a little trial and error created a beautiful travel jewelry case for her mother. She did most of the sewing herself, with a little pushiness advice from me.

Here is beautiful Dawn pinning together the final stages.

Here is the finished product. We found some gorgeous Sari Satin at the local Fabricland. It is a beautiful pale green that darkens towards a olive green towards the edges, with a gold pattern throughout.

It's a three fold case lined with ivory moleskin. We used heavy interfacing to keep the case stable and added a layer of felt for some padding.

We had to test out the case with her watch and my engagement ring. The four tabs are for necklaces and the pocket is for earrings. We used a piece of plastic mesh for the earring holder.

I will definitely make one of these again, maybe for Christmas presents (look away Auntie Ducky). I will definitely NOT use the sari fabric. It's beautiful, but nightmarish to work with. Also, I will make some modifications to the pocket as it still seems a bit awkward.

It was fun collaborating on this project. Usually, I just sit down and hammer out things by myself. We agreed that we will have to do something similar another time, once we are through with school.

Would anyone be interested in a tutorial or a pattern? I can't imagine when I would have time to do one, but can add it to my list of future posts if anyone would like to make one. I get so much inspiration by visiting blogs that it would be nice to give something back.

New 'do

It's true. I change my hairstyle like some people change their underwear. Mostly it's because I'm very fickle when it comes to hairstylists. I try to stay with the same stylist but it's challenging when they move away or do a poor job. Obviously, I'm also bad at giving second chances. I think I like this one. Lizzie also got her hair cut too by the same lady. She might be a keeper. The stylist I mean. Lizzie was always a keeper.

That's one sassy apron!

I've had these photos sitting around on my hard drive for a while now, meaning to blog about them. This is the apron I received in the Sassy Apron Swap from Calico Daisy. Isn't it pretty? She embroidered my first initial "T" on the pocket. So lovely.

It even has this jaunty green & white bow!

I've signed up to participate in the next apron swap. This time we have to use a summer theme. I've had some ideas percolating around my head for a while. We just got our swap partners last week. I'm so excited about the apron I'm putting together. I will post photos.

Now, who's curious about what the "T" stands for? I've been debating revealing my real first name. No secret that I'm not really an "Ollie". I'm taking guesses here.

10K

I could have been sitting on the couch sipping coffee, enjoying myself, relaxing, reading a book. However, this morning I participated in a 10km race. My friend and I decided that we should do a race together. We could have signed up for 3km or maybe 5km, but no, we went all the way and signed up for 10km. Take note that the last time I ran was when I was late for class a month a go.

We didn't come in last. There was one (literally) person behind us.

But we had fun. Neither of us had any illusions that we would place or even run the whole way. We ran, we walked, we chatted, & got to know one another a little better.

Now I relax. If you are looking for me, I'll be on the couch, sipping coffee, enjoying myself, relaxing, reading a book, and maybe having a nap. Crazy women.

If life throws you permanent stains

Make applique!

This is my first foray into the world of applique & I think I may be addicted. The words "I wish you had more stained clothes so I could do more applique" came out of my mouth before I had a chance to stop them.

It was pretty easy. I cut out the flower from an old pillow case I had in my stash. Ironed it on to some of the fusible stuff (yes, I'm sure that's the technical term). Removed the paper backing & ironed it on to the shirt, then sewed around all the edges with the applique stitch on sewing machine. Voila! The shirt is wearable once more.

The Webkinz Extravanganza

If there was ever any doubt I was a good over-indulgent mother, here is the proof.

This morning I dropped my little angel off at school and headed to a local pharmacy, where they were giving away a free Webkinz with a $10 purchase. The store opened at 9:00am. I was there at 9:01am & there were people in front of me. Some parents even let their children go in to school late so they could have the honour of picking out there own free toy! I'm not judging, mind you. Each to their own and all that, but seriously. 

So I got in line, clutching the cosmetics that I was purchasing to justify this insanity, along with the other mothers, some of whom were still wearing pajamas (again not judging!). I felt so stupid and embarrassed. No way. I'm not one of those mothers. Then I spotted some friends doing the same thing for their daughters, and realized that yes, I am one of those mothers, though I did make the effort to shower & get dressed before I left the house. I still felt a bit ridiculous, especially when I lined up behind the other children to select a free Webkinz.

Here is the object that I sought this morning. A simple, innocuous, little stuffed animal. A kitty. See that blue tag though. That's what all the fuss is really about. Contained within the plastic casing is a code, which children enter into a website, so they can enjoy a virtual version of their little stuffy. I tell you, these things are taking over Medicine Hat. They've been popular around here for more than a year now. All the little girls & boys talk about them when they get together & now they sell clothing & figurines & trading cards & lip glosses, etc. 

Did I mention that Lizzie already has 12 of them? And that's nothing, her best little girlfriend has almost 40! Insanity. 

Yet, there I was standing in line this morning. Adding to the collection.

All for that precious little girl.

Worth it? Yes. Every second.

Peace

I've been running around here like a chicken with its head cut off for the past few days. I'm so excited that I have no school work that I'm unable to settle down and enjoy my time off. I flit around from one task to the other, always thinking a few steps ahead. This afternoon I was up in my room folding laundry. That dreaded task. The one that never seems to get done. And a thought popped into my head. It was the word watch.

Last year around this time I was finishing up a clinical rotation with a wonderful nurse. She is this amazing woman who absolutely radiates joy. She takes pleasure in life. She's had many challenges, but she is resolute in her faith and love of life and God. I enjoyed every minute I spent with her. On our last day together, she passed me a DVD and asked if I'd like to borrow it. I said sure and took it, intending to watch it and return it to her right away. Last week, I was searching for some old photos and found that DVD tucked away in my cupboard. Ah, I thought, I must watch that and return it to her, and then promptly forgot about it. Until this afternoon. 

In the midst of all the things I thought I had to do, I felt compelled to sit down and watch this DVD. Of course, I had my knitting, because I have to do something with my hands. I'm so glad I did. The DVD features a man by the name of Ken Davis, a comedian, but it has a spiritual message and I watched this program and felt a sense of peace settle over me. What a wonderful feeling.

I struggle so much with my faith. I was raised in a church and continued to attend until I was in my late teens, when other things became more important. Ha. A few years ago, I started thinking about God again. It was this niggling, annoying little twinge in the back of my brain. I fought it and I still continue to fight. When I'm sitting in church, sometimes the tears start to flow. I'm so moved by the message that I am afraid to go sometimes. I don't want to give up control. I believe in God and want to be a "good" Christian, but I'm afraid to let go.

I constantly find myself comparing myself to others. I'm not pretty enough, smart enough, caring enough, creative enough, nice enough, just not enough. I exhaust myself trying to live up to the expectations that I think others have for me. But what I realized when I was watching this program is that I have always been exactly who I'm supposed to be, what God made me to be. It's something I've always known, but I guess today I needed a little nudge to remind me. 

It was a simple word - watch - but it gave me such peace today.

This is a difficult post to publish. I worry what people will think. Mercy, what will people think? That I'm some religious weirdo? Maybe. But it doesn't really matter. It really, really doesn't. 

I'm finally going to return this DVD to the nurse. And thank her for enabling me to receive this message today.

So now, I'm going to click "Publish Post" and release these words into the "blogosphere". 

And let them land where they will. 

Fantasy Birthday Wish List

Javier has reviewed my wish list & deemed it unsuitable to his gift-giving plans. So I've revised my list a bit. 

Lest you think I'm greedy or something, please know that I have everything I could ever want in the world. I truly want for nothing. I have such a wonderful family. We have a big, beautiful house. Great friends. We live in a lovely neighbourhood. We have several holidays every year. Next year I'll begin a fabulous career. I am grateful for all that I have.

However, we are still entitled to dreams & aspirations, so here is my fantasy list.

A full day of spa treatments (at a resort in Mexico maybe?)

The perfect little handbag, in several colours

A cute little camera to slip in my handbag

A selection of Le Creuset cookware

A new refrigerator...heck, why not a whole new kitchen?

Something sparkly in a cute little blue box

Of course, there's always a healthy planet that will sustain our great grandchildren, 

but that's a bit difficult to wrap.

Photos courtesy of www.spamagazine.com; www.katespade.com; www.mostfashionable.com; www.william-sonoma.com; www.chickchatradio.com; www.nostalgiaco.com, www.worldpeacenewsletter.com

Favourite Corner #4

When I have a few hours to myself in the morning, I retreat to this corner of my home. It's in the living room. Just an old couch, but I'm always joined by a kitty or two. I stop at my favourite coffee shop for an Americano (my new favourite drink), grab my latest book (Jodi Picoult's Second Glance) and an afghan (made by my grandma), and settle in for a few hours. Occasionally, I'll also have a nap. Actually, it's looking pretty appealing right now. Gotta go.

 

Have a good day my friends.

D is for...

Done!

Yes, I'm finished with exams. No papers, nothing, until May 5th. Oh, I've got a little prep reading to do, but that I can handle. Now what should I do first? I spent the day cleaning the bathroom, doing laundry, knitting, and reading the latest Glamour cover to cover while drinking my morning coffee.

Now, unless your name is Lizzie or Javier, you don't have to read any further. I have a birthday coming up & they are looking for shopping ideas, so here they are...

Maybe a book or two? (psst-both can be purchased at Chapters)

A few items from here...

or here.

Pudding Yarn

Maybe a print from Inside a Black Apple to decorate our walls?

Snow day & some other stuff

Saturday's little dusting of snow was nothing. We woke up yesterday morning to a whole pile of snow. I'm not sure how much was out there, but I don't ever remember seeing this much snow since I was a little girl. We stayed pretty close to home, trying to stay warm & avoiding the slippery roads. Lizzie and her friends had a blast building snow forts and tunnels in the front yard. Of course, they weren't allowed to go inside the tunnels for safety reasons. They were outside almost all day. I had a nice snuggle with a tuckered out little girl last night, as well laid on her bed reading together before bedtime. 

We started reading "Wind in the Willows" a few days ago. I've never read it before, but I think Lizzie and I will enjoy the adventures enclosed within its covers. I picked it up at the second hand store after reading a recommendation on Alicia's website. She posted requests for reading recommendations on her blog recently and got many responses. If you are looking for a new read, have a peak over there for a great list (check the comments).

I had a chance to work on Linda's wardrobe. After much consideration, she has decided to follow my footsteps and become a nurse. Accordingly, I made her a set of colourful scrubs. I'm still trying to figure out how to make a tiny stethoscope and some duty shoes. Any recommendations?

hmmmm

It is with great great that I inform you, after weeks of spring-like weather, that it snowed last night. It cancelled our eagerly anticipated trip to Calgary for some spring/summer clothing updating. At least we were eagerly anticipating it since we decided two days ago!

This was the scene out my window just moments ago. Its forecasted to snow until Wednesday.

Come back spring, come back....i miss you already

One down, one to go

A is for Apple. It's also the mark I got on my exam yesterday & for the whole course! Hooray for me. One more exam to go and I'm free from (for at least a week)!

Have a great weekend!

Image courtesy of www.freefoto.com

A girl & a goose

It was a face off between a fearless 2-year-old and a hungry goose. In retrospect, I probably shouldn't have let Miss Lizzie get so close to the goose. They are known to be rather nasty beasts sometimes. It made for a good photo though, no?

This is for Liz over at Mabel's House.

I Am Crafty

Honestly, it's not just all about school & stuff. I've reached the point in studying where my brain has just shut down & refuses to absorb any more information. I have a page of things that I should be doing, like cleaning the house & getting life organized so my family will survive the next two months when I'm busy being a rural nurse. Yes, I have all these things to do, but I feel guilty doing them when I should be studying. So how do I solve this problem? I make toys.

Meet Linda Longlegs. I haven't finished her dress yet, so I made her a quick top with this fashionable scrap of fabric from the Walmart collection (wouldn't want to be accused of promoting doll porn). Isn't she lovely? Her hair is a bit wonky as she hasn't met with the stylist yet. She's looking forward to having some proper clothing as she's a bit uncomfortable sitting around in her lacy undies.

She's based on a pattern from this book and is helping me procrastinate quite well, thank you.

It's been fun making her. I have always loved dolls, so it's very sad for me that Lizzie was never really interested, aside from the token effort with Polly Pockets and Barbies. I'm using Linda as a practice piece, because she certainly isn't perfect. I'm thinking that perhaps I'll offer her up as a draw? I'm sure there are lots of little girls out there that would just love to play with her. I'll make up some more accessories and see what happens. Keep checking for updates.

Favourite Movies

I'm supposed to be studying for finals, but I'm having a motivational problem. Seven days is just too long between classes ending and exams. I am doing a bit of studying, but I've figured out that I've passed both classes without even writing the finals, so I'm not too concerns. Actually, I lie. I'm always concerned with doing well on an exam.

So instead of studying, I'll tell you about some of my favourite movies. I started this post a while ago, thinking there were tons of movies that I loved. I realized that I actually like a lot of movies and truly love very few. 

Big Fish. This movie makes me smile every time I watch it. This is my favourite scene in the movie. It's just the most perfect movie moment. He's dying and she can't imagine living without him. The whole movie is just filled with fantastic stories and wonderful imagery. 

Amelie. I think this is on a lot of "favourite" lists. Audrey Tatou is the cutest little actress ever. I just wanted to pack my bags and move to Paris after I saw this movie. For my 31st birthday, we screened this movie in our home theatre for a bunch of our friends. Birthday dinner included Coq au Vin, Foie Gras, Gratin Dauphinois and French bread with a selection of French cheeses. Dessert was Tarte aux Myrtilles and creme puffs. Everything was homemade. Of course, the French wines flowed freely. My birthday gift that year was my own garden gnome. I also got tickets to a Dave Matthews concert in Atlanta, which is not French, but an extremely cool gift.

Anything with Katherine Hepburn or Cary Grant. Philadelphia Story, Bringing Up Baby. I love older movies, although I hardly think of watching them these days. 

The Sound of Music. I own the DVD, but I still have to watch it on television, whenever it comes on. I can't get the music out of my head for days. Makes me want to run away and join a convent, only to be kicked out and become governess to a bunch of unruly children & one very handsome Captain Von Trapp.

A Mighty Wind. Actually any of the Christopher Guest movies are wonderful. I just love how they are all filmed as "mockumentaries". We used to own the soundtrack for this movie and always have it on in  the car and all sing along. At least Javier & I used to. In hindsight, I think Lizzie must have been mortified. Ah, the memories.

There must be more movies, but I think these are my favorites. 

When I have a chance I will post some photos of some new projects that have been distracting me from my studying. I finally finished my cabled sweater, except for blocking & buttons. I turned out wearable, I think.

Must get back to studying, my lovelies. Have a great day!

Battle of the inner selves

I have an overly ambitious bedtime self. Bedtime self thinks its a good idea to go for a run at 6:00am. Prime study time, thinks bedtime self, so quiet and uninterrupted. How about getting up early to read the newspaper or just enjoy some alone time? Bedtime self even decided to make a cake one early morning. A cake? Silly bedtime self.

Morning self grumbles when the alarm goes off, gets out out bed before Javier pushes her out, and stumbles downstairs to feed the kitties. And curls up on the couch for a few more zzzz's. Morning self is lazy & selfishly climbs into Lizzie's bed for a few more minutes.

I envy people who can go with little sleep. I had an instructor who woke up every morning at 5:00am, even on her days off. Granted, she was slightly obsessive, but think about how much she accomplishes every morning, while I am still slumbering away.

I try to convince bedtime self that morning self will NEVER agree to exercising at 6:00am or preparing elaborate baked breakfasts for my family, but to no avail. Bedtime self is very optimistic, you see. 

Image Source: www.alarmclocks.us

Javier

Six years ago today, I married the man of my dreams. I had the usual criteria...tall, devastating handsome, wildly successful, interesting, but I also hoped that the man I would marry would make me laugh and understand that sometimes I just need to be silly.

 

I despaired I would never find such a fella, until the day I attended my 10 year high school reunion. There he was. I knew from the moment I saw him. We were friends throughout school. Had known one another since grade 4. I hadn't seen him for 10 years & never even considered dating him. But there he was & almost 2 years later, we were married.

The past 6 years have been busy. We moved. We bought and sold a house. I quit working and went back to school. But we've always been able to laugh together. He's the rock to my crazy inconsistencies. My shoulder to cry on. He's inspired me to achieve my dream to be a nurse and reassured me when I didn't think I could go on. Most of all, he's my partner and the person I look forward to growing old with. I love you, Javier.

I really need to carry a purse

I'm one of those rare women who've never got in the habit of carrying a purse. A tote bag, yes, but only when I have to go to class or something, and then only the bare essentials. My car sort of acts like a purse. I leave all the odds and ends in there that I just don't want to carry with me.

I've had two occasions recently that makes me think I need to start carrying a purse. The first happened a few weeks ago. We had some last minute scheduling changes and Javier was trying to get a hold of me. My cell phone was at home I think, or in the car. I was out and about doing errands and out of range or something like that. The end result was that he incurred 2(!) speeding ticket trying to ferry Lizzie across town to an event, because he couldn't contact me. I feel bad. I mean I didn't make him speed, but had I had my cell phone with me, it definitely could have been avoided. You know what a great method would be to ensure I always have my phone...yes, a purse.

The second event took place today. I have this nasty habit of carrying my wallet in my hand instead of being comfortably ensconced in a purse. When I grocery shop, I normally tuck the wallet in with my shopping bags so I have my hands free to push the cart. I had all my groceries put in the back of my car before I realized my wallet was missing. Backtracking my steps and going through all the bags didn't reveal my lost wallet. No one turned it into customer service. Frustrated and angry at myself, I immediately cancelled my credit & debit cards. Less than an hour later, a lady called my house stating she found my wallet in the parking lot of the grocery store. I still have no credit cards, but my intact wallet will be returned shortly. I think it might have fallen out of the cart or someone snatched when I looked away for a moment.

Lesson learned - use a purse. Many times, I've been out and set down my keys or needed a pen or a kleenex. I've decided it's time to be a grown up and carry a purse. I've made many bags before and purchased some too. None have ever been quite right, so now I'm on the search for a new one.

I made these little tote bags as Christmas presents for my sisters-in-law, which I gave along with some books. Maybe I should make a new one for myself...and quit complaining.

A nice cure for tears

Warning: I wrote the following post when I was very tired and it contains extreme sappiness. Beware, gag reflex may be engaged.

I'm not sure how many of you are still experiencing your college days or remember what it was like in those last frantic days at the end of term. I know at least one of you is experiencing it now from the other side. My experience thus far has been that when time crunches come in to play, stress levels reach an all time high, and tears generally result. This was the case on Sunday night. I felt so tired and disheartened by the amount of work left to do, that I got mad, and I also seem to cry when I get mad. So anyway, there I was crying away, so I decided to reward myself with some visits to my new friends in the blog world. My very first visit was to dear Amanda who gave me this award. She always brightens my day with her sweet remarks.

I admit, more tears flowed. It was a case of getting something at EXACTLY the right time. I've loved having this blog so much. It has encouraged me to break out my camera more often and write down my thoughts and experiences. And I'm so thankful for the "friends" I've made. It's hard to know who to pass this on to, but I think that MJ is highly deserving of this today (she's the one dealing with stressed out students!) and she was my very first commenter, who welcomed me so warmly to this wonderful world of blogging.

I tried explaining the world of blogging to my mother-in-law recently and had difficulty finding the right words. It's like this wonderful world-wide community of such genuinely kind women. Kind of like having a whole bunch of penpals. I've "met" people from many parts of the world, and I look forward to continuing these friendships for a long time.

Have a nice day, my friends.

Daydreaming and a little kitty love

I've been sitting at the computer for the past few hours trying to make sense of a term paper that's due on Friday and my thoughts are wandering. I wish, more than anything, that I was laying on the beach, watching these two frolic in the waves. I'd have my trashy mag with me and maybe some thick "chick-lit" novel. Nothing taxing for the brain. Just me, my family, and sunshine. Well we do have sunshine today, but sadly, no beach.

My little friend Oliver is sleeping on the couch next to me.  He's a sprawler. We got him as a kitten and he was this tiny little wisp of white and dark brown fur, with these huge blue eyes beckoning to me. I had no intention of getting a pale, long-haired, male cat. In fact, I had my heart set on a pretty little short-haired female, but alas, fate intervened. Lizzie & I walked into the pet store and it was love at first claw.

The majority of the time, he drives us crazy. This includes my poor little Rain. See the look of disdain she gives him. It's a usually look for her when dear Ollie is around, poor thing. He makes he life miserable. He'll jump on the couch to be near her and little lie on top of her. We've caught him several times with his big meaty paws wrapped around her neck. I'm not kidding. She actually gasped for air when we pried him paws off. I thought he just liked being near her, but writing this, I'm not so sure. Do you blame her for looking a bit unhappy?

He trolls around the house every morning meowing incessantly, leaves clumps of long hair in all the corners, and bullies Rain out of her food. He's like the annoying house guest who never leaves. So why do I love him? I can't really say, because honestly he doesn't have a lot of redeeming features...won't cuddle on demand or purr when I pet him...other than his beauty. Maybe I'm one of those mothers who loves her son, even if he is a completely delinquent.

I leave you with a parting shot of my handsome young delinquent boy.

Sewing Machine Cover

In the end, I only completed one project this past week, it was a good one. Last year, I decided to retired my somewhat unreliable Sears Kenmore circa 1968ish sewing machine that I got for free and bought myself a nice little Janome number. It doesn't have all the bells & whistles but it's definitely an upgrade...it even does buttons & button holes. 

I was inspired by this photo from The Crafter's Companion.

I know it doesn't look quite as nice, but it was my first try.

I found some dishtowel material at the local fabric store and did the embroidery ages ago. It's been hanging over the back of the chair waiting to be sewn together for a few months.

I used an vintage pillowcase to line the cover and some cute bumblebee ribbon for the closure.

Here's my lovely little machine in its natural habitat. 

Only three more days left until school is officially over and I can't wait. My last assignment is due on Friday, but its a team project so hopefully my work is mostly done. 

I had a brief reprieve this past weekend. I went to a movie with Javier & Lizzie. Helped Javier assemble Lizzie's new basketball hoop. I say this very lightly, as I really just sat by and watched and read until he asked for my help. I helped Lizzie put together a jigsaw puzzle. I knit a little, read a little, and transfered some embroidery patterns. I was like a little bumblebee myself, buzzing all over the place. I just couldn't decide what to do. Definitely not the worst problem I've ever had!

Our neighbourhood is for the birds

I had wanted to participate in "Bling your birdhouse day" on March 27th hosted by Karla's Cottage and Beth Leintz, but I completely missed the boat on that. I guess I was too busy. However, I still want to share these marvelous creations.

When we purchased our house, we inherited three birdhouses. They were all made by the father of the previous owner. He is tremendously talented. There were more scattered around the yard, but the owner couldn't part with them. He also built our back deck, and it is also quite lovely.

Here is Birdie McMansion. Note, I've never seen any birds hanging out around this place, even when there was food around it. I think I remember that some grass may be growing in the front "porch" it's too early yet to tell if we'll see any this year.

 
Here's Robin's Hood. I'm just making these names up as I go along. Sadly, I've never seen any robins here, but I believe there might be a nasty wasp's nest inside. I'm afraid to find out.

Finally, the Little House in the Big Wood (or Tree). I'm wondering if the birds are a little intimidated by these houses. Maybe they have lower expectations or something. We have a lot of birds around here so far as I can tell at 6:00am on spring and summer mornings (they like to wake us up).

On a completely different note, I have less than one week left in the semester! Woo hoo! I've had such a great time the last while, working in maternity and NICU. It's kind of sad to move on, but I've decided that I want these areas for my final senior focus next fall. After next week, I have finals, then a couple weeks of break, then we come back for spring semester. It will be fun though, because we get to go do rural nursing. Everyone is posted to a hospital in a smaller community and the experiences are apparently quite diverse. I'm sure I'll have lots more nursing adventures to share in the next months, with respect to confidentiality of course.