We are in full blown summer vacation around here and it’s nice to have a different routine… and maybe not so fun to hear more squabbling, but we are working on it and I’m working on ignoring the conflicts!

One thing I am determined to accomplish this summer is to work on projects together. Enjoy the time we have and scrap my “to do” list. My kids are at such fun ages that it’s my goal to be totally present with them. I am such a focused kind of gal that I’m afraid that I may allow time to “slip by” before I know it.

First thing: a handmade beach blanket for my sister’s birthday. The kids all designed their own block and took about a day to stitch. It was so fun to sit in the living room and just work together- it wasn’t all peaceful (especially since there were lots of tangled floss ), but it was time I could tell the older kids really appreciated.

Didn’t it turn out cute?

Here’s an update of the month:

* Enjoyed the beginning glimmers of Spring and denied the few days of snow and freezing temperatures.

* Had a lovely visit with my sister and her kids. Unfortunately our kids Spring Breaks did not line up, we still managed to enjoy our time with shared meals, hikes, playing games and just being together. (my parents pictured with all their “grands”)

* Ellie managed to read all the Harry Potter books in 3 weeks and is actually re-reading them now. Yikes.
I finished reading The Book Thief (LOVED) and I’m almost finished with The Piano Teacher (it’s OKAY).

*I finally completed Penny’s quilt- sorry this shot is so boring, but you can see what it looks like. I thoroughly enjoyed hand sewing the binding on…and was so happy to see Penny thrilled to receive an early birthday gift.

*I filled out a job application that took a lot of my focus away from regular life, but completed it in 3 days and I’m just waiting…oh, it’s to be a part time Art teacher…actually at the high school I attended. I would love the position, but consider myself lucky that I love what I’m doing now too. Speaking of which, my schedule has increased and I will be baking more…so, that will probably mean you will see more baking photos and less sewing, but…

*…I do have a few sewing projects (always have to!). I am loving this simple sun dress I made for Ellie and plan to make more and just tank tops. It’s McCalls 5419 and you can make something in less than an hour- no hemming, no buttons or zippers and totally my thing.

* I have also been pretty distracted with Facebook, THE BIGGEST TIME SUCK, but my guilty pleasure. Want to be my friend? My husband has over 300- I guess he has an advantage over me with being a teacher ( a cool one, you know).

* I’ll be posting later this week. It will be filled with fairies, cupcakes, and a very happy almost to be 5 year old.

Considering that all 3 kids will need some new clothes for the upcoming warmer months, it’s a tad bit overwhelming especially when the cash flow is becoming stagnant. SO- I really am challenging myself with using fabric I have OR using my coupons here and there and MAKING SURE I SEW SOMETHING WITH IT THIS SEASON. Sure, I will buy some t-shirts for the girls but the rest will be made by my me…Simon will just be the one with all store bought clothes, I don’t do boys clothes…especially for an 8 year old.

Anyway, here are some details on the featured dress:

1. Burda 9978…why oh why did they discontinue this pattern?

2. I needed to make adjustments on the dress since the pattern was cut out for size 3. Why did I do this? I should have cut out the largest size and then trace…lesson learned.

3. Yes, Penelope is on our kitchen table.

4. Why? The light was bad today and so the table was our best bet.

5. I took about 50 photos of this kid. She made me crack up with all her modeling moves. Completely her doing.

6. I added the apron. I used a flour sack cloth that was meant for me to do some cute embroidered kitchen towels.

7. I’ve had this fabric for a long time and was waiting to use it for “something special”. Ever done this?

8. I totally enjoy having some embroidery to work on…I imagine that’s what some of you knitters experience while waiting for kids, watching movies, etc. I finished this apron on Saturday night while watching Babette’s Feast. I love that movie.

9. I’m in a winter slump. How can I be with this girl at my side? Maybe I need another photo shoot with her.

10. Anyone else finding themselves sewing more for themselves or their kids? What patterns are you using?

By the way, thanks for all the kind birthday wishes for my Simon!

Since Ellie’s birthday in August, I set some serious goals in regards to gifts for the kids handmade by me…

1. Create and Complete each kids’ baby book.

2. Organize all of their photos from baby to present.

3. Make a quilt for their bed (did this for Ellie in 2007).

I am pleased to say that I HAVE FINALLY MADE SIMON A BLANKET FOR HIS BED! I have been promising him one for at least 2 years and now their is no reason to feel guilt.

Things I learned:

1. I love fabric and get all nutty when I have to choose just a few designs.

2. When I put my mind to something, I can actually get it done within a reasonable time.

3. I have no patience and did not hand stitch the binding. I did this for Ellie’s twin sized quilt. Good grief, full sized would have me really crabby.

4. Hand stitched binding is really the way to go. Glad my personality is reflected in Si’s blanket. HA!

5. It really is beneficial to pay attention to when organic batting goes on sale.

6. I am not a quilter and really appreciate those that do…

7. I had to remind myself to set aside my ego and enjoy making something for my son. Who cares if it is not perfect and there are wonky stitches. Simon doesn’t care, he will be thrilled to have something made from me!

I’m sure this list could go on, but now I am off to make curtains for his room. I’ll be sure to share shots of everything in use. And, yes, the other goals with photos and baby book are being checked off too. Nothing like the winter to get things accomplished.

I thought after the party on Sunday I was pretty much done with projects, but…no. Something possessed me to add a few more “to do’s” and I am loving it…seriously, no stress.

This weekend I am attending 2 Cookie Exchanges and I am so excited! I have never been to one and plan to make the above, “peppermint cremes”. This batch will go with teacher gifts. These cookies are SO easy to make! AND fun for the kids to help with…no joke! I do suggest using peppermint extract and not just mint…the mint is a bit too “toothpasty” in my opinion! Aren’t these so pretty? If you would like the recipe, just let me know!

I stumbled upon these mirrors while at the craft store and know some little girls will love them! I was planning to paint them a bit more, but my instinct was to just cover them in glitter! And who doesn’t love the Martha Stewart glitter? It really is the best.