Sewing Sisters

In Which my Sewing Machine and I are Reunited.

2012-02-10T06:39:00.010+11:00

So. This is to catch up on a few sewing projects that are long overdue for a spot on this blog, as well as some newly finished items.

First, some stuffed animals made from recycled t-shirts, socks and other such things, hand- stitched last summer.

This is a frog made out of a t-shirt.

Ok. I know it doesn't look like a frog, but that's what it's supposed to be, and (if I recall correctly) it was the first project in the book, Sew Me, Love Me by Hsiu-Lan Kuei. I like the wobbly button-bead eyes.

The following adorable item is made from a pair of my brother's outgrown dress socks, a yellow camisole and some fabric from my stash.

SO soft and cuddly.

Then I made this doggie, the perfect addition to any tea party. The other side of her face (not pictured) has a wide awake beaded eye.

And now to more recent creations.

To be quite honest, I don't like this fabric at all. Rows of cats wearing sunglasses. Seriously? But my opinion of the fabric was improved a bit after said material was turned into an apron with green rickrack-lined pink insets and waistband. What dost thou think, my readers?

A recent trip to the library found me bringing home a massive stack of cookbooks, sewing books, and two classic novels, (A Tale of Two Cities and Nicholas Nickleby). Flipping through The Perfect Handmade Bag, this bucket shaped owl bag from the "kid's bags" section caught my eye and I fell in love.
The tree and leaves are appliqued on, leaving part of the hole open in which to insert the little owl.

I didn't actually have enough of any fabric to make the entire bag, so I pieced what I did have together, and am pleased with the result. (On examination you will see a seam across the middle of the bag, and another one through the tree.)

I wanted the inside to have a pocket, so I added one (pictured [not very well] below).

On of my favorite parts of making this bag, was realizing that homemade bags can have a cute little handmade tag. I was delighted with the idea of a little french-knotted tree on either side of the tag, and got started. Problem: No matter how I tried, I could not make a french knot. After much trial and error, aggravation, and looking at several books (all with different methods for accomplishing this feat of french knotting), my mommy sat me down and showed me one more time, slowly, the way to make a french knot. I'm afraid I cannot duplicate what she showed me in words, but all I know is that it worked. And the results? See for yourself.

The last feature of this bag before moving on to the final projects is the button on the back. The purpose? To make everything inside stay inside.

I was looking at Sew Sunny Homestyle (a book which, the more I look at it, the more I like the ideas inside it), and saw a pattern for some jewelry mannequins. I'd been looking for a new way to store jewelry-- it looks like this will be it.

My (very nice) older brother took some time from studying to make me the stands on which the mannequins are mounted.
Which is your favorite?

The first one is trimmed with a bit of "lace" from my collection and the second with some gathered ribbon.

On last thing: This is an owl I made when I was in Australia, visiting my sister and brother-in-law. My sweet sister gave me a little kit with felt, thread, buttons and a pattern for Sinterklaas Eve.
She found a picture on pinterest which led to the pattern, here.

And between uploading photos and writing I've just finished another one. :) Pictures later.

Aprons

2011-05-10T04:53:00.007+10:00

I recently went through an "apron phase" and thought I would share pictures of the aprons that I made. I will always love the way a pleated apron looks-- so crisp and smooth, yet with a feminine ruffle to it. This one was made with what scraps of fabric I had laying around (thus the unusual fabric combination).
Speaking of ruffles...
This light blue apron took a while to make because of the time it took to gather the ruffles, but I was pleased with the outcome.
This is my "hostess" apron. The lace encompassing the edges was tea-dyed to match the fabric.

I enjoy making half-aprons because they don't require any binding. The insets in this one give it more fullness.
One of my favorite features of this apron are the pockets (positioned at the top of each inset). Since they are made with the same fabric as the rest of the apron, they are rendered almost invisible.
And my favorite apron...
The fabric is so colorful that it matches anything! And it has rick-rack-- which is always fun. And paisleys. I love paisleys.

Thank you for reading! Which apron is your favorite?

Simple Woman's Daybook

2011-03-01T06:00:00.005+11:00

For Monday, February 28, 2011

Outside My Window... I am presently in the basement, and therefore, there are no windows in sight.

I am thinking... that it's lovely to start one's day with breakfast in bed, while listening to Andrea Bocelli 's operatic arias, and reading Shakespeare 's The Taming of the Shrew .

I am thankful for... love and patience.

From the kitchen... the clatter of dishes being washed.

I am wearing... a mismatched collection of pajamas. Yes, at 1 in the afternoon.

I am creating... an apron-- so excited about it-- and I have many ideas for future projects, including some bags and totes, and hopefully a purse or two. And some more aprons. I love aprons.

I am going... to step out into the warm morning air soon.

I am reading... Ivanhoe by Sir Walter Scott, Under the Sea Wind by Rachel Carson, The Taming of the Shrew by William Shakespeare, When People are big and God is Small by Edward T. Welch, & Guidance and the Voice of God by Phillip D. Jensen and Tony Payne.

I am hoping... to see Josh Groban this spring!

I am hearing... the parakeets singing upstairs.

Around the house... the time for spring cleaning approaches!

One of my favourite things... spending time with friends and talking about books while we sew, bake, or do other fun things.

A few plans for the rest of the week: Read books, write letters, sew, practice violin, and prepare for my final orchestra concert this Saturday.

Here is picture thought I am sharing... a renaissance shirt and cape I made, donned by my brother and a friend.

Thanks to the Simple Woman for hosting this.

January Sewing

2011-01-30T09:52:00.016+11:00

I've been inspired of late by a book that my mom checked out from the library for me, entitled Zakka Sewing. I thought I would share pictures of the projects.
The first I made were some applique pot holders-- an excellent way to use up little scraps of fabric.
The next project was a basket-- made of some batik left over from a skirt-- to hold all my sewing tools that I so easily misplace.

This sparrow pot holder is one of my favourites:

I loved the basket I made so much, that I decided to make another.

This one quickly found its way to my dresser.

Using the same fabric as for the last project, I made a "purse" for a pair of headphones my brother gave me for Christmas.
Other projects, not from Zakka Sewing:

A strawberry for pins:

And another ever-useful hot pad:Hopefully you are inspired. I intend to make an apron soon from another find at the library, A is for Apron. Happy sewing!

Simple Woman's Daybook

2011-01-12T10:56:00.004+11:00

For Wednesday, January 12, 2011

Outside My Window... glossy wet pavement and grey skies.

I am thinking... it's a mystery why my dental floss is made in Ireland.

I am thankful for... the privilege of hearing my husband preach each week.

From the kitchen... a languishing bowl of sourdough starter. I should feed it.

I am wearing... yellow-green t-shirt, black gored skirt, lavender Ugg boots.

I am creating... a home-life full of books, music and laughter.

I am going... to step out into the warm morning air soon.

I am reading... A bit of this, a bit of that. This morning, I've read three portions from the six books in my stack. Newest book, Three Men on the Bummel.

I am hoping... to think of a plan for lunch before the time comes!

I am hearing... chirping birds.

Around the house... the colour red.

One of my favourite things... a crisp piece of toast sprinkled with Gestampte Muisjes.

A few plans for the rest of the week: write a letter, go to Saturday prayer breakfast.

Here is picture thought I am sharing...

Christmas brunch

Thanks to the Simple Woman for hosting this.

Books to Read in 2011

2011-01-07T06:17:00.003+11:00

This is a list of thirty-one books I plan to read this year. Many thanks to my wonderful friends and family who helped me get it all together!

Fiction:

Adventure

Chicot the Jester by Alexandre Dumas

Kim by Rudyard Kipling

Scaramouche by Rafael Sabatini

Comedy

The Imitable Jeeves by P. G. Wodehouse

Three Men on the Bummel by Jerome K. Jerome

Children’s Novel

The Secret Garden by Francis Hodgson Burnett

Detective

The Classic Adventures of Sherlock Holmes by Doyle

Fantasy

Invisible Cities by Itelo Calvino

Watership Down by Richard Adams

The Once and Future King by T.H.White

General Fiction

Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet by Jamie Ford

Utopia by Sir Thomas More

Gothic

Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte

Historical Fiction

A Tale of two Cities by Dickens

Ivanhoe by Sir Walter Scott

Romance

Persuasion by Jane Austen

Science Fiction

To Say Nothing of the Dog by Connie Willis

Nonfiction:

Biblical Studies

Gospel and Kingdom by Graeme Goldsworthy

Biography

A Portrait of Jane Austen by David Cecil

Christian Apologetics

Orthodoxy by G. K. Chesterton

Christian Living

Don’t Waste Your Life by John Piper

Guidance and the Voice of God by Phillip D. Jensen and Tony Payne

Start Here by Alex and Brett Harris

When People are big and God is Small by Edward T. Welch

Homemaking/Organization:

Living the Simple Life by Elaine St. James

Ordering Your Private World by Gordon MacDonald

Memoir

Girl Meets God by Lauren Winner

On Rue Tatin by Susan Herrmann Loomis

Nature

Under the Sea Wind by Rachel Carson

Religious Literature

The Great Divorce by C.S. Lewis

Theology

Reformed is not Enough by Douglas Wilson

Books Read in 2010

2011-01-03T13:38:00.016+11:00

Total Count: Thirty-four books, favorites are italicized

The Three Musketeers by Alexandre Dumas

Duels, secret missions, ambushes, romance, etiquette, the power of good over evil, and love against anything! How could I not love this book? I have never read a book so gripping. Never has a book called my name so insistently. Never was it harder to do anything but read.

Twenty Years After by Alexandre Dumas

My four friends from The Three Musketeers reunite. And twenty years hasn't done them any harm-- they are more mature, wiser, and stronger. But this time... they aren't all fighting for the same cause. It was heart-rending to watch them as they struggled between what they believed while still wishing to remain friends with each other. But with the son of Milady planning revenge, there's never a dull moment. I think, though the story is slower, this book tops The Three Musketeers.

The Count of Monte Cristo by Alexandre Dumas

This book stretched me. Near the end, the Count is saying to trust him-- but how long do I have to trust him? Especially when the story keeps going, and going, and I don't see him doing anything to make it have a happy ending! A beautiful story, that was so worth the wait. My favorite line:

"There is neither happiness nor unhappiness in this world; there is only the comparison of one state with another. Only a man who has felt ultimate despair is capable of feeling ultimate bliss."

The Face by Angela Hunt

The first book I've ever read involving the CIA. In fact, I don't think I'd ever encountered anything in this book before. With all the books by Angela Hunt that I've read, one would think that I'd finally start to catch on. To start expecting the unexpected. The ending surprised me. Shocked me even. It went so far as to make me cry. I don't know if I'd read this book again, but such a demonstration of what one does for one's loved ones will never leave me.

Unspoken by Angela Hunt

I didn't care so much for this book, but I must say that I did learn an awful lot about gorillas.

Peter Pan by J.M.Barrie

"All children, except one, grow up." I plan to read this book to my children some day. I had never suspected that Captain Hook was such a sentimental pirate.

Inkspell by Cornelia Funke

The sequel to Inheart. Entertaining, but I'm not sure if I'll read it again. However, one of my favorite lines must be shared:

" 'You are crazy!' whispered Meggie. 'You're a total lunatic!'

But her opinion did not impress Fenoglio in the slightest. 'So what? All writers are lunatics!' "

Inkdeath by Cornelia Funke

The last book in the Inkheart trilogy. I enjoyed despising the villains. I usually feel some remorse for their demise, but not this time. And I do love a happy ending.

Dragon Rider by Cornelia Funke

Not as well written as the Inkheart books, but I enjoyed being introduced to such creatures as the homunculus, the brownie, and the basilisk. I wondered at first if Funke was making these creatures up, but the dictionary proved me wrong.

The Thief Lord by Cornelia Funke

Now I can say that I've been to Venice. Venice fascinates me-- even more now that I've read a book set there. Detectives, children, a magic carousal-- need I say more?

Mansfield Park by Jane Austen

This book made me think quite a bit about etiquette and how things have changed over the years. Many critics dislike the protagonist for lack of wit-- but wit and beauty are not everything as I learned in Mansfield Park. Watching Fanny stand strong for what she knew was right, even in the face of adversity was such an encouragement to me. And good always triumphs over evil.

My favorite Jane Austen so far.

Sense and Sensibility by Jane Austen

I found myself pondering the meaning of the two words sense and sensibility throughout the entire book. At first I sympathized with Marianne, but after a while her sensibility went too far. A wide variety of characters, made this book interesting, and I mean to read it again, because I'm sure that there is still more for me to gain from it.

A favorite line:

"And they sat down together in a most promising state of embarrassment."

A Long Fatal Love Chase by L.M.Alcott

I will describe this book in one word-- melodramatic. I still found it enjoyable, and call me gullible, but I never suspected what was to ensue. I still need some time before I can decide whether it was a "good" book or not.

Spoiler alert!

Last line:

"Like a fallen spirit shut out from eternal life, Tempest looked at him a moment, then, as the old fire blazed up within him for the last time, he drove a hidden dagger deep into his breast and, dropping on his knees, gathered the dead woman in his arms, saying with mingled love and defiance in his despairing voice, 'Mine first-- mine last-- mine even in the grave!' "

The Fencing Master by Arturo Pérez-Reverte

My first real murder mystery. And the last for a long while.

Princess of the Midnight Ball by Jessica Day George

The first book I'd read by this author, soon to be followed by more.

Dragon Slippers by Jessica Day George

I am fascinated by the idea of incorporating the pattern of stained glass windows into embroidery! This book inspired me to learn embroidery so I can sprinkle my historical costumes with it. Also, I never knew that dragons collect things other than gold. Shoes for instance...

Dragon Flight by Jessica Day George

Sequel to Dragon Slippers, and another plot to take over the world.

Dragon Spear by Jessica Day George

The end of the Dragon trilogy-- at last, Creel gets her prince. :)

Sun and Moon, Ice and Snow by Jessica Day George

Based on a Norwegian myth-- and as usual, the author does an excellent job of keeping one interested to the end.

Les Miserables by Victor Hugo

I was expecting the book to be more... well, miserable. Instead I found an adventure. I found love--poetically written, as it should be. There was certainly sadness entwined into the story, but for every sadness, there was joy.

The Princess Bride by S. Morgenstern

Not well written. For once the movie is better than the book. However, I did enjoy the part not included in the movie about Inigo and Fezzik going into the Zoo of Death to rescue the Man in Black.

A Little Princess by F. H. Burnett

I don't know why I'd never read it before, but it was good.

" 'Whatever comes,' she said, 'cannot alter one thing. If I am a princess in rags and tatters, I can be a princess inside. It would be easy to be a princess if I were dressed in cloth of gold, but it is a great deal more of a triumph to be one all the time when no one knows it.' "

The Wind in the Willows by Kenneth Grahame

I didn't like the way there was no specific protagonist. Even in third person, I think there should be more consistency of narration.

The Two Towers by J.R.R.Tolkien

I find Tolkien's Old English writing style to be hard to read. I may wait a while before I read The Return of the King.

Princess Academy by Hale

The transformation of a mountain girl into the makings of a princess.

The Blue Cross by G.K.Chesterton

My first Father Brown mystery. His genius amazes me.

The Queer Feet by G.K.Chesterton

My second Father Brown mystery. Again, splendid.

The Phantom Tollbooth by Norton Juster

Technically I had read this book before, but it was so long ago, that I didn't remember much of it. I love how Juster changes perfectly sensible things into the nonsensical.

Boy Meets Girl by Joshua Harris

The sequal to I Kissed Dating Goodbye. I shall probably re-read it when the time comes.

A Hazard of Hearts by Barbara Cartland

I liked the story, but not the way in which it was written. I felt like I was reading a next-to-last draft of the book.

The Problem of Pain by C.S.Lewis

This helped me understand why there is pain. One of the lines that sticks with me is, "Pain is God's megaphone."

Crazy Love by Francis Chan

God gave everything for us. Why aren't we don't we do the same for Him?

Forgotten God by Francis Chan

I never really understood the Holy Spirit, and this book was an enlightenment.

The First 5 Pages by Noah Lukeman

I have trouble editing, and this book helped me get my manuscripts into more readable condition. :)

Congratulations! You've made it to the end! Hopefully, this year, I will make shorter, monthly posts about the books I've read.

Summer sewing musings

2010-11-16T20:36:00.002+11:00

It's been a while since I've opened up my sewing machine. The last project I did was a child's quilt, during the last few days of winter. But it won't be long now before I get it out once more-- I'm bursting with ideas!

My first project will be a cinch-- simple leaf shapes cut from bright coloured felts, sewn into a garland for a Thanksgiving day decoration. Something like this. My other ideas are a bit more ambitious.

I'd love to sew a dress from Jenny Chancey's Elegant Lady's Closet pattern, which I received as a birthday gift last year. I've got the perfect fabric: a soft tan cotton with woven-in gold and silver stripes and a bit of stretch. My eye is on the crossover bodice design. I like the idea of incorporating a diagonal stripe into it. Hopefully this pattern will be just as user friendly as the first Sense and Sensibility pattern I made. The detailed instructions on the website gave me the confidence to try more daring pattern alterations than I'd done in the past, and I ended up making three or four different versions. My red dress is my favourite, and I'm still wearing it a couple of years later.

And lastly, I'm thinking of making a quilt for our guest bedroom. Australian-themed fabric, I think. I've seen some interesting designs at the local fabric store.

I wonder how many of these ideas will become reality?

Simple things together...this blog as a word cloud

2010-10-16T13:18:00.001+11:00

HT: Luke

Simple Woman's Daybook

2010-03-08T16:33:00.005+11:00

For Monday, March 8, 2010

Outside My Window... Windblown lemon and lime trees, withered tomato plants.

I am thinking...that I'd like to find out more about Charlotte Mason. Perhaps a visit to handy dandy Wikipedia is in order. ;)

I am thankful for... Health and strength and daily food.

From the kitchen... John and I just finished a loaf of cinnamon raisin bread. Yum!

I am wearing... Blue jeans, red blouse.

I am creating... Patchwork cards from scraps of paper.

I am going... to dinner at a friend's home tonight.

I am reading... a memoir of a woman who came to Australia from England in the 19th century.

I am hoping... to go on a walk.

I am hearing... the wind rattling the laundry room door.

Around the house... Stacks of books.

One of my favourite things... a clean kitchen.

A few plans for the rest of the week: Go shopping, cook for company.

Here is picture thought I am sharing...

One of said stacks, with an (apparently) deathless flower arrangement.

Thanks to the Simple Woman for hosting this.

Homemade Laundry Detergent

2010-02-08T15:02:00.004+11:00

Monday is laundry day. After sorting the piles of dirty clothes this morning, I realized I was all out of laundry detergent. Time to go to the store? No--time to grab a few simple ingredients from the cupboard and make my own.

First, the supplies:

1/4 cup Liquid Castile Soap (can be found at health food stores)
1 cup Washing Soda (can be found in the laundry aisle of most supermarkets)
1 cup Baking Soda
1 cup White Vinegar

Mix together, adding vinegar last. The mixture is foamy at first, and then gradually lumps together. The mixing bowl will get quite warm as you stir!

Let it sit for a while. Now comes the fun part. Dump the mass in a thick plastic bag, place on a hard, flat surface, and BEAT THE LUMPS AWAY WITH A HAMMER!

The detergent is now all ready to use. I use 1/2 cup per full load of clothes.

Here's another, easier recipe that was my favourite until the supermarket stopped selling Borax:

2 cups soap flakes (or grate bars of soap yourself)
1 cup Washing Soda
1 cup Borax

Use 2 tablespoons per full load. I always put 1/2 cup of vinegar into the rinse cycle, to make sure there was no soap residue on the clothes.

Both these recipes can be scented with a few drops of essential oil. (try Lavender or Peppermint)

Why make my own laundry detergent? Well, first of all it's fun. Secondly, it's cheap. But most of all, I'm not worrying about things like unhealthy chemicals and optic brighteners any more. And no more watery eyes when I scoop the detergent into my washing machine!

I found these recipes and more here. Soon, I'd like to try one of the ones for liquid soap, but till then, I'm happy using my funny, lumpy powder. :)

My first patchwork

2010-02-05T13:18:00.004+11:00

Over the Christmas holiday, my mother-in-law helped me start my very first patchwork projects. We went to the fabric shop just to browse, really, but came out with several lovely cotton fabrics to make some much needed potholders and a cushion cover for my ubiquitous couch pillow. I was so glad to have Mum there to help me buy, because I am still a bit overwhelmed with the whole metric system. Fabric measurements in yards and inches I can understand. But metres and centimetres? Confusing!

We started out by cutting the pieces for the potholders. I'd chosen two blue fabrics from the scrap bin. After measuring the rectangles, we knew that we had enough for eight squares. I wanted to do a simple four-triangle design, so we marked and cut two squares diagonally. I started to sew them together following the 1/4 inch mark on my sewing machine, but found that the seam allowance was too generous for patchwork. That's when I realized what the 1/4 inch piecing foot is for--scant seams for patchwork! After I put that on the machine, all went well. I tried a different piecing technique for the second potholder. (Detailed instructions here) Much easier than cutting out triangles, and trying to sew on the bias.

After I'd pieced the blue fabrics together, I layered each square with batting, and secured it by stiching in the ditch. Finishing was easy: Place right sides together, sew around the edges leaving room to turn, turn, close opening.

The second project was a bit more difficult. I wanted to make a cover for my couch pillow, so that it wouldn't like like something that belonged in a bedroom. The design inspiration was a cushion that Mum made for John:

She helped me cut out all the pieces, and introduced me to a new concept: Fussy cutting. This is cutting out portions of fabric to highlight specific motifs. It's not as economical, but it does make for a beautiful finish. We did the center patchwork together, and then it was time for her to go back to Tasmania.

It took me a while to get back into sewing after the Christmas rush, but I finally decided to finish the cushion cover last week. After stabilizing the center patchwork with batting, I attached rectangles of the red fabric to fit the pillow case measurements, and made a button fastening on the end. It was fun to try another new thing: machine-stitched buttons! I couldn't believe it would work at first--I still can't get over all the exciting features of my new sewing machine. (I had to leave my old Singer back in the States--too bulky and heavy to put in a suitcase!)

Here is the finished project:

Front

Back

Now that I'm back into sewing, I know that I've finally settled in to married life in Australia. Happy days. :)

Simple Woman's Daybook

2010-01-26T10:37:00.004+11:00

For Tuesday, January 26, 2010 (still Monday in the USA!)

Outside My Window... The barbecue grill that John and I put together yesterday, using a screwdriver and spanner (wrench). I love learning new words!

I am thinking... It's about time to sit down with my Latin book.

I am thankful for... Wikipedia. I've learned some interesting things lately--most recently, I've been reading about locusts. (see "Hoping" to find a clue why)

From the kitchen... we'll be cooking outside, for Australia day! Lamb chops, veal shanks, veggie kebabs marinated in Italian dressing.

I am wearing... Coral cardigan, floral top, sand coloured linen capris.

I am creating... ideas for Valentine's day. I want to make this cute heart garland.

I am going... nowhere. Grocery shopping is already done for the week. :)

I am reading... Asterix (finished four in the last week) Asterix the Legionary is my favourite so far.

I am hoping... to read aloud to my husband later today. I'm introducing him to the Little House books, and we're up to On the Banks of Plum Creek.

I am hearing... birds chirping, washing machine sloshing.

Around the house... Blue and white in the kitchen: Dutch tile and windmill plates on the wall, a clog on the windowsill, the new hotpads I made hanging by the stove.

One of my favourite things... Affogato.

A few plans for the rest of the week: Finish a book or two, catch up on correspondence.

Here is picture thought I am sharing...

Melting sun

Thanks to the Simple Woman for hosting this.

2010-01-11T14:14:00.005+11:00

For Monday, January 11, 2010

Outside My Window...bright Australian sun, and a house under construction.

I am thinking...that I've never experienced such heat before! (42.7 Celsius/108.8 Fahrenheit)

I am thankful for... a shaded clothesline.

From the kitchen... I'll be making Chapati tonight. The quickest, easiest, and most yummy flatbread I've made so far.

I am wearing... Green t-shirt. Capris. Black sandals.

I am creating... A cushion cover. My mother in law helped me start the patchwork at Christmastime.

I am going... to stay at home today. :)

I am reading... Soul Survivor by Philip Yancey. It's a book that makes me think--and sometimes makes me uncomfortable. But that's the sort of book I need, to help me grow.

I am hoping... to finish planning the week's meals this afternoon.

I am hearing... the hum of our air conditioner.

Around the house... maps on the walls: Kansas in the 1870s, Ancient Iran...

One of my favourite things... Reading at the beach with my husband.

A few plans for the rest of the week: Starting daily Latin study again, attending Bible studies, cooking for company.

Here is picture thought I am sharing...

Sandringham beach

Thanks to the Simple Woman for hosting this.

An adventure in the gourmet....

2009-10-15T07:04:00.005+11:00

Recently, I was reading a book in which was mentioned: Pan-fried Italian Gnocchi with grilled chicken and rosemary. Just the sound of it inspired me to make some. I'd never had Gnocchi before and so I read up on it, discovering that it is an Italian pasta made from potatoes, and to make it crispy, it is simply cooked in a skillet with a little olive oil. Here I found an easy recipe for gnocchi with plenty of pictures! I recommend rolling and cutting your gnocchi a little smaller than the recipe says, as mine turned out too big and something like a strange and rather sticky dumpling. I then had one of my brothers put the chicken on the grill while I continued with the next step of this dinner. This is what it looked like once placed in bowls and topped with the cheese, grilled chicken, and a sprig of rosemary:

It would take several more tries and tweaking of recipes to get it just to my liking, but it made a lovely dinner, and I hope someone else will now be inspired to step out of their comfort zone and into the range of "gourmet" cooking.

Simple Woman's Daybook

2009-05-26T02:04:00.002+10:00

For Monday, May 25, 2009

Outside My Window... the birds are singing, and my brother and Dad are working. :)

I am thinking...that I like my new hair-do! check out: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GLHcVeyd530&feature=channel
It worked really well!

I am thankful for... My sister.

From the kitchen... I'm wondering what we should fix for lunch.

I am wearing... a blue striped shirt, grey lounge pants and black sneakers.

I am creating... or, will be creating a black cape for my brother.

I am going... to (probably) read today.

I am reading... The Two Towers (still), Desiring God... and some other that I can't think of right now.

I am hoping...that I can get my violin and bow back from the shop soon.

I am hearing... the aforesaid birds chirping outside, and my mother rattling hangers and cleaning.

Around the house... all sorts of things, only two more weeks until Kara and John's big day! :)

One of my favorite things... chocolate. yum.

A Few Plans For The Rest Of The Week: finish cleaning my room, write some letters, read some books, do some school...

Here is picture thought I am sharing...

I don't have one right now, but will have to share one later!

Thanks to the Simple Woman for hosting the Monday daybook!

Tiramisu :)

2009-05-15T00:54:00.007+10:00

A few weeks ago, while working at the Farmers Market for a friend of ours, I (Christina) decided to run into the health food store that was nearby. While browsing the many interesting foods, I came across a cheese that I have been looking for, for a long time-- mascarpone cheese. Why would I want this cheese, you might ask. Because after tasting Tiramisu several years ago, I have been longing to make it myself! (and by the way, Tiramisu with cream cheese is just not the same).

So I went home (after purchasing the cheese, of course!), and searched for a recipe, and that Friday I made Tiramisu-- and as one the recipes said I would, I metaphorically "fell in love" with it. Since I couldn't decide what recipe to use, I will be sharing a combination of the recipies I used. (and I made the ladyfingers too-- yummmmy!;)

Ladyfingers: (I made these the night before)

Yield: approx 2 dozen

INGREDIENTS:
*2 Tablespoons butter
*3/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons sifted flour
*4 egg yolks
*1/2 cup sugar
*4 egg whites, beaten until stiff
*pinch of salt
*1 teaspoon vanilla
*powdered sugar for dusting

DIRECTIONS

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Grease and flour 2 baking sheets with 2 tablespoons butter and 2 powdered sugar and 2 tablespoons of flour. Mark parallel lines in the flour across the width of the tray about 4 inches apart. Put the eggs yolks and sugar in a large mixing bowl, and with an electric mixer beat on medium-high until the mixture is pale yellow, thick, and has tripled in volume, about 8 minutes. Add the egg whites, rmaining 3/4 cup flour, salt and vanilla, fold to mix thoroughly so the mixture is smooth. Fill a large pastry bag with a 3/4inch plain tube with the mixture. Pipe fingers about 4 1/2 inches in legth on to the baking sheet, using the lines as a guide. Dust the ladyfingers with the powdered sugar. Bake for 15 to18 minutes, or until just firm on the outside and soft in the center. (You may want to check them, as they probably won't need to be baked as long as it says)

If there are any left after you finish sampling them then you can move on the to next step of making the well worth waiting for, Tirimisu.

TIRAMISU (it means "pick me up" in Italian!)

INGREDIENTS:
*6 egg yolks
*1 1/4 cup sugar
*2/3 cup milk
*1/2 cup rum (or more if you prefer) [I used rum flavoring with the amount of water the box said to bring it up to 1/2 cup]
*1 1/4 cups whipping (heavy) cream
*1/2 teaspoon vanilla
*1 1/2 cups espresso coffee, divided
*8 oz of mascarpone cheese (DON'T use cream cheese!)
*ladyfinger cookies
*bittersweet chocolate-- shaved (curled)

DIRECTIONS
In saucepan, beat egg yolks and sugar with wire whisk until well mixed. Beat in milk. Heat to boiling over medium heat, stirring constantly; reduce heat to low. Boil and stir 1 minute; remove from heat.

With an electric mixer, beat on high speed for about 6 minutes or until very thick and light yellow. Lower speed to medium and add 1/4 cup rum, 1/4 cup espresso, and the mascarpone. Whisk until smooth. Set aside.

Beat whipping cream and vanilla with electric mixer on high speed until stiff, fold into the mascarpone mixture.

Combine the remaining 1/4 cup rum and 1 1/4 cups espresso in a shallow bowl. Line bottom and edges of an ungreased 9x9 glass baking dish with the ladyfingers and brush with the rum/espresso mixture. Spread half of the mascarpone mixture, cover with a layer of ladyfingers brushed with rum/espresso, spread the rest of the mascarpone mixture on top, dust with baking cocoa and chocolate shavings. Refrigerate for at least 5 hours or overnight. Share.

Buon appetito!

Simple Woman's Daybook

2009-02-17T05:52:00.000+11:00

For Monday, February 16, 2009

Outside My Window...bright afternoon sunlight.

I am thinking...I didn't know a girl could be so happy!

I am thankful for... many years of prayer brought to fruition.

From the kitchen... I just finished savouring a bit of dark chocolate with cocoa nibs.

I am wearing... green, black, blue

I am creating... an idea for a special dress.

I am going... to Australia.

I am reading... The book of Isaiah. Gaudy Night. And lots of books with the letters W...E...D...in the title.

I am hoping...to be a help to an amazing man!

I am hearing... the hum of the dishwasher, my sister muttering over her geometry, and my brother making explosions as he plays with his army men.

Around the house... stacks of laundry waiting for me.

One of my favorite things... my sister's computer. ;)

A Few Plans For The Rest Of The Week: check things off my ever-growing list!

Here is picture thought I am sharing...

Thanks to the Simple Woman for hosting the Monday daybook!

Simple Woman's Daybook (Kara's)

2008-12-02T04:41:00.004+11:00

For Monday, December 1, 2008

Outside My Window...bare tree branches outlined in the blue sky, illuminated by noon sunshine.

I am thinking...on Psalm 1:2, and how I must delight in God's word .

I am thankful for...Central heating!

From the kitchen...too many yummy things to eat! Tine made some graham cracker pudding the other day, and I haven't even tried it yet! (it's a Thanksgiving tradition)

I am wearing...blue jeans, and a blouse with this painting on it.

I am creating...nothing at the moment. I'd like to make some stationery.

I am going...nowhere today. Later on in the week, I will accompany a violinist friend on the piano at several events.

I am reading...The book of Psalms, and Strong Poison by Dorothy Sayers.

I am hoping...in God.

I am hearing...Christina practicing Christmas carols on the piano.

Around the house... we are cleaning today, and catching up on laundry.

One of my favorite things... Re-reading favorite books. This is only my second time through Strong Poison, and I love all the literary allusions in the first couple of chapters. They make me laugh!

A Few Plans For The Rest Of The Week: Put up Christmas decorations, study Latin.

Here is picture I am sharing...

No photos today. I'll share a word picture instead, from a favorite poem:

The whole sky was blue;
And the thick flakes floating at a pause
Were but frost knots on an airy gauze,
With the sun shining through.

Thanks to the Simple Woman for hosting the Monday daybook!

The Simple Womans Daybook

2008-12-02T03:29:00.007+11:00

For Monday, December 1, 2008

Outside My Window...the sun shining very brightly against the grey clouds, and melting snow.

I am thinking... about replying to an email.

I am thankful for...God's love!

From the kitchen... my mother, on the 'phone,

I am wearing...mummy's red turtleneck shirt with snowmen on it, and jeans.

I am creating... ideas of Christmas presents for my family.

I am going...to do school in a little bit!

I am reading...nothing in particular, and everything in general

I am hoping... to get a really good violin practice in today!

I am hearing...the washing machine and the dryer do their thing!

Around the house... cleaning, so that we can get out Christmas decorations!

One of my favorite things... getting notes from friends and/or family. :)

A Few Plans For The Rest Of The Week: Work hard, accomplish things!

Here is picture I am sharing...

We went hiking on Kara's Birthday!

Thanks to the Simple Woman for hosting the Monday daybook!

New E-patterns from Sense and Sensibility!

2008-11-07T11:39:00.002+11:00

I'm excited to hear that Jennie Chancey of Sense and Sensibility patterns is now offering her designs for sale as downloads. For someone who never makes a pattern "as is", I see a lot of possibilities here! No more tracing. No more wishing I'd not cut on that line. No more frustration over lost pieces.

Interested in seeing what it's all about? Go here. Jennie has many wonderful historical patterns to choose from. So far, the Regency dress is my favorite. It's a very flexible design. I've blogged about variations I've done here.

Simple Woman's Daybook

2008-11-04T00:32:00.003+11:00

For Monday, November 3, 2008

Outside My Window...early morning sunshine.

I am thinking...that life is full of surprises.

I am thankful for...God's care.

From the kitchen...fresh apple juice.

I am wearing...pajamas.

I am creating...a plan to clean my room.

I am going...to gather with my church this evening to pray for our country.

I am reading...too many books, and not making much headway with any of them.

I am hoping...in God.

I am hearing...cars drive by our house, and a puppy barking.

Around the house... falling leaves.

One of my favorite things... good conversations with friends.

A Few Plans For The Rest Of The Week: Finish memorizing Titus 2, study Latin, get a new driver's license.

Here is picture I am sharing...

Christina playing In a Pickle

Thanks to the Simple Woman for hosting the Monday daybook!

WIFD Day 4

2008-10-23T14:16:00.002+11:00

Here's today's installment...

It's a cold, wet, windy day. Here we're heading out for Ladies Bible Study.

WIFD Days 1-3

2008-10-22T12:37:00.003+11:00

Christina and I had intended on participating in the Week in Feminine Dress hosted by the ladies over at the Sense and Sensibility sewing forums. The idea is to be a little more deliberate in how we dress, and to give ideas/encouragement to other ladies. Happens that I wasn't home long enough to upload the pictures til now. So here is the belated version. Maybe I'll be able to keep up for the rest of the week!

Day 1

Ready to go to church

Day 2

Off to the dentist (and only half awake ;) My hoodie came from Old Navy.

Day 3

Christina's most creative outfit yet. At least I'm wearing polka dot socks. (which my brothers think are weird)

Simple Woman's Daybook

2008-10-21T01:47:00.003+11:00

For Monday, October , 2008

Outside My Window...cloudy greyness and a breeze rippling the leaves of our maple tree. A lovely Fall morning!

I am thinking... about clean teeth, (went to the dentist this morning)

I am thankful for... my wonderful friend who is coming into town this weekend!

From the kitchen... nothing, but the silence of after-breakfastness!

I am wearing..., a jean skirt, shirt from mexico, a blue wrap w/specks of orange, blue and green, a leather string with a blue/orange/gold rock on it, and new shoes from a garage sale! :)

I am creating...a reformation costume! i've already finished the blouse, and am almost finished with the skirt! :) the vest is coming up!

I am going...to hem up my reformation skirt in a few minutes.

I am reading... so many things!

I am hoping... that Kara's practice goes well this morning/afternoon.

I am hearing... beautiful and calm silence. :)

Around the house... a few things that i should pick up.

One of my favorite things... the aforesaid silence.

A Few Plans For The Rest Of The Week: finish reformation costume, practice music, get along in French, schoolwork... etc!

Here is a picture I am sharing...

my lil' brother and i making popcorn balls! :)

Thanks to the Simple Woman for hosting the Monday daybook!

Oven Pancake Recipe

2008-10-17T10:46:00.003+11:00

In honor of the first frost, my brother Matt requested that my mom make oven pancake for breakfast. This is what greeted our sleepy eyes:

It's such a versatile recipe. You can eat it plain. You can dust powdered sugar all over. You can drizzle it with lemon juice. Or, (my favorite) you can top it with fresh peaches and whipped cream. Yum!

The trick is to get the skillet (iron works best) VERY hot before pouring in the batter. That's done easily by leaving the skillet in the oven while the oven preheats. Just make sure not to burn the butter!

German Oven Pancake

3 eggs
3/4 c. flour
3/4 c. milk
1/2 t. salt
1/2 t. vanilla extract
1 1/2 T. butter

Preheat oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit. Whisk all ingredients together EXCEPT butter. When very smooth, set aside while you melt the butter in a 12 inch iron skillet. Pour batter in skillet, and bake for 15 minutes. It will puff up beautifully--don't forget to show it off before it deflates!

Simple Woman's Daybook

2008-10-14T04:56:00.003+11:00

For Monday, October 13, 2008

Outside My Window...it's a blustery day.

I am thinking...it's Providential how the devotional of the day was just what I needed!

I am thankful for...the time together with my college-going brother on Saturday.

From the kitchen...a dead oven. But hopefully it's a simple fix!

I am wearing...Cream blouse with autumn print, khaki skirt.

I am creating...an idea for using some linen fabric. I think I'll dye it and make Reformation day costumes for my sister and I.

I am going...to practice/record an accompaniment this afternoon at a friend's home.

I am reading... Here I Stand, A Life of Martin Luther by Roland H. Bainton

I am hoping...in God.

I am hearing...My brother Rar-Rar slurping his imaginary soup. (Tim has quite an imagination!)

Around the house... Tut, tut. Did I mention it looks like rain?

One of my favorite things... Taking a walk with a friend.

A Few Plans For The Rest Of The Week: Accompany at various rehearsals, Latin class/homework, Memorize some more of Titus 2, Practice gratefulness.

Here is picture I am sharing...

A sunbathing turtle seen on a recent walk.

Thanks to the Simple Woman for hosting the Monday daybook!

Simple Woman's Daybook!

2008-09-30T00:16:00.005+10:00

For today-- Monday, September 29, the year is 2008

Outside My Window... the morning sunshine, cheerily brightening the back yard

I am thinking...that I really, really, REALLY, want to see Fireproof!

I am thankful for... my family, my friends, and best of all-- my Savior.

From the kitchen...ah, it should be, what is GOING to be in the kitchen... probably some Koloches, Cookies, Raisin Bread....

I am wearing... a shirt made in Mexico (although i've never actually been there!) with some vines, and a japanese woman on it, and a pair of camo crops.

I am creating... the idea of cleaning my room.

I am going... to start editing my novel sometime.

I am reading... Lies Young Women Believe (and the truth that sets them free) by Nancy Leigh DeMoss and Dannah Gresh. Good book! I've learned a lot!

I am hoping...to learn even more! :D

I am hearing... The Pink Panther Theme by Henry Mancini

Around the house... new-mown grass

One of my favorite things... Autumn.

A Few Plans For The Rest Of The Week: catch up on some reading, bake some stuff, work, learn, grow.

Here is picture I am sharing... my finished novel-- and the book that helped me write it!

Thanks to the Simple Woman for hosting the Monday daybook!

One Pattern, many looks

2008-09-27T09:10:00.004+10:00

I've been meaning to share my summer pattern alteration journey. It started out with a party dress made from Mrs. Chancey's Regency dress pattern:

I liked it so well, I thought I'd try making a blouse from it:

That was ok, but I didn't like how the front gapped when wearing modern undergarments. (I wore period stays for the party dress) Also,because of this, the waistline was too high, and tended to ride up.

So I lowered the "waist" seam about 2 inches, and dipped the pattern on the fold to get rid of some extra fabric across the bust. Problem: it made the underarm seam too high. I don't like having to be a contortionist in order to get into my clothes! On this blouse, I also omitted the back buttons, and did a drawstring instead all around instead. (Lesson learned: never rush through the last stages of a project. Don't look at my seams too close!)

So, final try. I wanted a summer dress with a more modern look. I used the skirt lining pieces instead of the normal gathered skirt-with-train. Tired of making on-paper changes to the pattern, I had my mom pinch out all the extra fabric in front on my toile (that's a practice version in cheap fabric), and I drew a new pattern piece. (also, I cut the underarm seam lower) It resulted in this:

I'm pretty happy!

Simple Woman's Daybook

2008-09-16T10:39:00.003+10:00

For Monday, September 15, 2008

Outside My Window...my dad and brother mowing the lawn in the deepening dusk.

I am thinking...about different prayer needs

I am thankful for...the Holy Spirit, who helps me in prayer when I don't know exactly what to pray

From the kitchen...My mom made an apple crisp. The scent is wafting through the house and making my mouth water.

I am wearing...Surprise! No apron today. Brown t-shirt and denim skirt, topped with a coral, knitted hoodie.

I am creating...a study space on my desk. My dad just helped me hang some new pictures on the bedroom wall.

I am going...Bound for the Promised Land

I am reading... Titus 2

I am hoping...in God.

I am hearing...Timmy playing, and my dad's footsteps.

Around the house... new-mown grass

One of my favorite things... Smiling. Or so my dad says. :)

A Few Plans For The Rest Of The Week: Memorize some Bible verses, work on finishing up the exercises in chap. 1 of my Latin text.

Here is picture I am sharing... sorry. I haven't had a chance to download any recently.

Thanks to the Simple Woman for hosting the Monday daybook!

Simple Woman's Daybook

2008-09-09T01:40:00.007+10:00

For Monday, September 8, 2008
Outside My Window... backyard, fence, backyard, fence, backyard, fence... welcome to Kansas.

I am thinking...that i should hurry this up so i can do History.

I am thankful for...Rainy days!

From the kitchen...i had a nice cup of chocolate peppermint tea this morning!

I am wearing... cargo jeans, and a black t-shirt daddy got me! :) and blue socks.

I am creating... the thought of cutting out a skirt today.

I am going... to post this once i finish it.

I am reading... Financial Peace Revisited by Dave Ramsey

I am hoping... to do well in school this year and to work hard.

I am hearing... a song by one of my favorite artists

Around the house... my room is almost clean! (wow... walking space--thanks mom!)

One of my favorite things... reading-- it's the best!

A Few Plans For The Rest Of The Week... school, and some hard practice on violin (seating auditions this weekend!) aaaannnddd.... we'll see what else comes up.

Here is picture I am sharing... my wonderful friend and I!

Thanks to the Simple Woman for hosting the Monday daybook!

Apple Butter Recipe

2008-09-07T01:35:00.002+10:00

Making apple butter is a fall tradition at my house. It's delicious on bread, waffles, pancakes or even plain. I get hungry just writing about it! Ironic that this year I didn't lift a finger to help fill the shelves....just so happened I was away when the apple windfall came, courtesy of some generous neighbours. Here's our recipe:

Apple Butter

18 cups apple sauce (we make our own--just cook apples down, cored and quartered, in some water and put through the food mill)

3 T. cinnamon
3/4 t. cloves
3/4 t. ginger
1 T. blackstrap molasses
3-4 c. sugar (depends on sweetness of apples)

Cook in large pot over low heat until desired thickness is reached. (I like to let it simmer for several hours, to get a nice brown colour) Ladle into jelly jars and process in boiling water bath for 10 minutes.

This is a great recipe to try if you're new to canning: there's no fiddling with candy thermometers and worrying whether it will gel!

The Work of a week

2008-09-07T01:11:00.006+10:00

While I was away from home for a much-anticipated visit to friends, my family (and especially my mother) was busy doing this:

Final count: 100+ jars of apple butter, several batches of pie filling, dried apple rings, apple jam, and more apples in the freezer.

Reminds me of an old favorite:

Recipes to follow!

Simple Woman's Daybook

2008-09-02T06:27:00.003+10:00

For Monday, September 1, 2008

Outside My Window... actually, mostly I notice the window itself: it's clean. (nothing like a good scrub!)

I am thinking...about all the things I should do this week. And pondering whether I have the courage for new things.

I am thankful for...my friends, especially Rachel, whom I was able to visit last week.

From the kitchen...Christina has some potatoes boiling for potato salad: we'll be grilling tonight.

I am wearing...never mind that. It's covered with a blue flowered apron, anyway!

I am creating...a plan of attack for school, the house, studying Latin...

I am going...actually I've already been. ;)

I am reading... The Gift of Friendship: Tolkien and C.S. Lewis by Colin Duriez

I am hoping...to continue to see answers to prayer.

I am hearing...the sound of silence.

Around the house... We moved most of the bookshelves into one area today. Soon, we will have our own "library"!

One of my favorite things... drinking Chocolate Caramel Enchantment Chai from Celestial Seasonings tea co.

A Few Plans For The Rest Of The Week: Practice piano, plan some menus.

Here is picture I am sharing...

Rachel's Twins: aren't they adorable?

Thanks to the Simple Woman for hosting the Monday daybook!

Simple Woman's Daybook

2008-08-19T21:57:00.002+10:00

For Monday, August 18, 2008
Outside My Window... a part of the back yard: green grass, two of the three pine trees, the neighbors back yard, the hedge trees behind the house

I am thinking...that I should get back to practicing violin soon.

I am thankful for... the nice cool weather--my favorite!

From the kitchen...some bread dough in a big shiny bowl. Probably rising now.

I am wearing... jeans, and a grey scoop neck t-shirt with little black hearts, and a blue hat that I crocheted.

I am creating... a novel. (I’m at 25,000+ words! :D :D :D)

I am going...to stay home today. :)

I am reading... Llama’s on the Loose by Jeri Massi (just reading it for fun), I’m also reading Anne’s house of Dreams by L.M. Montgomery

I am hoping... to get several thousand words in today.

I am hearing...Other than the air conditioner? Silence.

Around the house... pretty quiet right now. There will probably be some cleaning happening after a bit.

One of my favorite things... sleeeeeep. *yawn*

A Few Plans For The Rest Of The Week: writing-- serious writing-- maybe I should call a friend of mine sometime, work at the farmers market, violin lesson…

Here is picture I am sharing... well… I was going to have one, but it’ll have to wait until another post.

Thanks to the Simple Woman for hosting the Monday daybook!

Simple Woman's Daybook

2008-08-12T04:29:00.003+10:00

For Monday, August 11, 2008

Outside My Window... The wind ruffling the leaves of the Father's Day maple tree.

I am thinking...that I hope the alterations I've made to my dress pattern will work this time!

I am thankful for...health. I was sick in bed for 4 days last week.

From the kitchen...my mom has another pot of salsa simmering on the stove. Yum!

I am wearing...red floral capris and t-shirt, sunflower apron.

I am creating...a pink summer dress.

I am going...to be leading a girls Bible study tonight.

I am reading...The Silmarillion by J.R.R. Tolkien. I'm determined to finish it this time around!

I am hoping...in the power of God to answer prayer.

I am hearing...My little brother and sister singing a Rar Rar birthday song. (Rar Rars are imaginary creatures invented between them)

Around the house...are a few messes I need to straighten. I let things slide for a while...

One of my favorite things...talking with my friend Tif on the phone. :)

A Few Plans For The Rest Of The Week: Sew the dress. Work at Farmer's Market. Organize my coupon box.

Here is picture I am sharing...

A Kansas Waterfall...there were heavy rains last week...

Thanks to the Simple Woman for hosting the Monday daybook!

A Goal Worth Having

2008-08-10T03:03:00.003+10:00

"I want to take such good care of my husband that whatever he is doing, he can do it better, because he has me."

Jacqueline Kennedy, as quoted in A Thousand Days of Magic by Oleg Cassini

This quote encapsulates for me what being a "help meet" is all about. This is what I, Lord willing, aspire to be.

Simple Woman's Daybook

2008-07-29T07:14:00.002+10:00

For Monday, July 28, 2008

Outside My Window... The big maple tree swaying in the wind.

I am thinking...that I am tired (from cleaning the kitchen), and that I should get the raspberry bars out of the oven soon.

I am thankful for...the ability to BREATHE! I'm also thankful that our van is now in working order.

From the kitchen... ack! my raspberry-nut bars! ...ah, yes, finally, safe from the oven

I am wearing...my sister's pink t-shirt, and black sports capris.

I am creating... more like I should be creating 3 summer skirts from the material that I've bought.

I am going...to practice violin... when I finish this.

I am reading... Anne of Windy Poplars.

I am hoping... to have time to come up with a suitable plot for a 50,000 word novel within the week.

I am hearing...air conditioner, Kara's sewing machine, & my brothers discussing where to next place the pet tarantula.

Around the house...it's clean! wow! :D

One of my favorite things... dancing... I haven't done that in a while.

A Few Plans For The Rest Of The Week: the aforesaid plot, work at the Farmers Market, violin lesson, and ...hoping for some serious progress on learning the guitar.

Here is picture I am sharing... nothing this week.

Thanks to the Simple Woman for hosting the Monday daybook!

Pattern Review: Itty Bitty Baby Dress

2008-07-27T07:40:00.003+10:00

It really is itty bitty! Designed for preemies or small newborns, it almost looks like a doll dress.
The pattern, available for free from Rae, is super simple to sew, and great fun to customize. My only addition to her instructions would be a recommendation to use French seams--it looks so much nicer.

The inspiration to make these dresses came from my mom, who wanted me to use up some of our fabric stash. (think DE-CLUTTER!!) Some of them may end up as gifts, but my favorites are going straight to the Hope chest. :)

These two were trimmed with piping and bias tape, as suggested on the pattern.

Here I got a little more creative, adding an underskirt of lace to the one on the left, and trimming the hem with lace and sewing an applique to the bodice of the one on the right.

This one is my favorite, because of its vintage look. :)

The Simple Woman's Daybook

2008-07-22T01:21:00.005+10:00

For Monday, July 21, 2008

Outside My Window... The morning sun lighting up our patio trellis.

I am thinking...many things. Most recently, that I need to figure out my shopping list for Walgreens.

I am thankful for...my littlest brother. He just turned 11, and is a joy to my heart. We've spent many happy hours reading stories aloud.

From the kitchen...my mom made crepes this morning. Topped with whipped cream and strawberries.

I am wearing...A yellow knit dress with coral flowers, sunflower/gingham apron and blue kerchief on my head: It's cleaning day at our house!

I am creating...a plan for sewing some summer clothes.

I am going...nowhere today. I love it!

I am reading...Power Through Prayer, by E. M. Bounds

I am hoping...to work on my memory verses (Psalm 2:6-8) before Bible study tonight.

I am hearing...the "thunka-thunka" sound of our washer in spin cycle.

Around the house...it smells like vinegar. Courtesy one of my healthful cleaning recipes. :)

One of my favorite things...listening to messages on my MP3 player while I work. Today I'll finish one by Douglas Wilson on "Christ in our Calling"

A Few Plans For The Rest Of The Week: Working. Planning the upcoming school year for my siblings.

Here is picture I am sharing...

Some poppies at a Dallas Arboretum, taking sometime in March.

Thanks to the Simple Woman for hosting the Monday daybook! I think it will be a fun feature for our blog. It has helped me think about some of the small things that might otherwise be missed in the business of life.

Journey to a Blouse

2008-07-20T09:00:00.002+10:00

I wanted to make a blouse. Either Regency (Empire line) or a peasant blouse; but I had no material, and no idea what kind of material I wanted. After a day of work at the Farmers Market we (Kara, Matthew, and I) made a trip to the fabric store. After picking out several batiks for some skirts, I made my way to the clearance section, and on a whim, grabbed a bright, green material with yellow embroidery-- it had possibilities (especially for $2 a yard). After reducing the numerous rolls of fabric I had picked up along the way, to a petty few, (a pink with brown splatters, a lavishly colored one, and the green), I had them cut. I distinctly remember the “cutting lady” saying ‘I can tell you like color’. Oh yes, indeed, I love color!

After considering, I set my heart on an Elizabethan blouse, McCalls 2293. Of course that wasn’t my original plan, but…flexibility is the key, is it not?

As Kara helped my lay out my fabric and pattern pieces, we soon discovered that there just wasn’t enough fabric for the blouse. Ok, time for Plan B— a peasant blouse, McCalls 2608. I was sure of what I wanted now; it had to be longer than “normal” shirts, and ruffles along the neckline and the short sleeves were a must. That meant pattern alterations. Simple alterations, but alterations none the less; we added 2 inches to the neckline, 2 inches to each of the sleeves, and 7 inches to the bottom edge.

It was the easiest pattern I’ve ever sewn. Even with the small alterations. For the ruffles I turned under about a ¼ inch on the neckline, sewed it, and then followed the instructions for the neckline, only I sewed the bias casing an inch from the edge! Hence, a neckline ruffle. Ditto for the sleeves. I finished it within the afternoon.

I am very happy with the result. A few things I’d do differently next time: make the slit in the sides bigger (I only did about 3in), make the sleeves a little longer (about elbow length) and in order to do that, I’d need to alter the underarm to make it fit right. But overall? I really like it… I’d like to make some more.