For My Children

I was recently inspired to make these totes for my children's piano music. I purchased the bags more than a year ago for half price at Hobby Lobby. I made a template using clip art I found online, and the fabric for the notes was from my stash. I secured the notes with Heat n Bond Lite, and I embroidered around the edges using DMC size 5 perle cotton. I used a blanket stitch on my daughter's, but I was running out of time when I got to my son's so I used a straight stitch for his. I am pleased with the results, and my sweet little ones were delighted with their gifts—delivered just in time for their first piano lessons of the school year yesterday afternoon!

My Artwork...

... was featured online at Blue Ridge Country magazine. I didn't realize it had already been published! Check it out here!

Some Knitting

I made some baby wash cloths for Laurel last week using Lion Brand Nature's Choice Organic Cotton yarn. One skein made four wash cloths with about two yards left over. I used the Grandma's Favorite Dish Cloth pattern repeating row two until I had thirty stitches on the needle. Throw in some Burt's Bees Baby Bee Shampoo and Wash, and you have a green baby gift! I hope you like it, Laurel!
Now I've got to go work on a little something I'm making for the kiddos. It includes some embroidery

A New Era Begins

For the first time on Friday, BOTH of my children went to school. My mom was here, so I had a fun day with her.

We spent some time sewing, and I finally made a pillow for which I had done the embroidery months ago. I think my aversion to the sewing machine may be waning ... a little bit.

We went out to lunch, and then we went to one of our favorite shops. I picked up a few things including some vintage buttons.

With the potential for so much more crafting time, I've really been inspired in recent days, and I anticipate much more frequent blogging in the future!

Thank you, Mom, for all of your encouragement and inspiration! I love you!