a sewing frenzy...

I have had the bug to sew lately. I think it's because "sewing weekend" is coming up. I always start feeling the urge to sew when I know I'll be visiting Nancy's Notions. The mecca of fabric and all things sewing.

So. On my list of projects...

1. a pillowcase for Calla-girl's (eventually) new room.

2. summer dresses for an upcoming trip.

3. a shoulder bag for same said trip.

4. a thank you gift for the providers of said trip.

Part of Calla's birthday present from me was a box of fabric pieces with the agreement that she and I would sew together. She is forever asking me to sew with her.

I know that the right response would be,

"Absolutely, lovely daughter-of-mine. Let's sit together and sew and bond as mother and daughter over a wonderful hobby to learn."

But, alas, I am not June Cleaver. Or Martha Stewart for that matter.

My response is usually an internal,

"If I have to sit to teach you how to sew, it may drive me bonkers. I am a perfectionist when it comes to crafts. You, my darling 8-year-old, are naturally not going to do it perfectly. This will cause great frustration in your sewing instructor, providing several teachable moments and a great dose of patience."

This internal response is usually verbalized with a simple, "Probably not right now."

But when I give the gift of a sewing lesson, I can't use excuses too long. We finished our pillowcase project in just two lessons. It's not perfect, but she loves it!

I have the thank you gift cut out and ready to sew.

I have the fabric for the dresses in the wash.

I have several bag patterns coming to me tonight to sort through.

I love to sew. The possibilities are endless...

all in 8 minutes...

Sometimes the van rides to and from school spark the most entertaining and memorable conversations. When four people are sequestered to a small space, daily, for any length of time, chatter ensues.

This morning was no exception. Family was the topic of choice.

"Since we have a Mother/Daughter Banquet, I wish we could have a Father/Daughter Banquet." Calla begins. "But, you couldn't go if they had a Mother/Son Banquet, right, Mom? Maybe you could have a Sister/Brother Banquet and ask Uncle Bo to go."

"Mom, do you have a brother?" Amelia asks.

"Yes. Uncle Bo is my brother."

"Are you older or younger than Uncle Bo?"

"I am the oldest."

"No, Amma is the oldest!" Amelia reminds me.

Yes, Amelia, the mom is always older than her children...