Monkey Shoes

I have come to the conclusion that I'm more of a 'big picture' person when it comes to sewing. If I am to spend hours on a project then I think it should have some mass about it. This realization came to me as I was making these little monkey shoes for Collier. Denim and felt plus iron-on adhesive, velcro, ribbon and a little embroidery were required.

In other words, there was a lot of work involved for something so small and seemingly insignificant. (I've always kind of felt that way about shoes.) Anyway, they're done and I hope he'll get a little wear out of them before he outgrows them. I do know that they'll look cute on his little feet. Of course I expect he'll pull the ears off first thing!

Sewing Again

Ava's party kept me hopping for the last couple of weeks but this week the sewing studio beckoned with an Etsy order that I'd put off until I could really devote some time to it.  I have done these mock Roman shades  before but they look so fresh with this customer's fabric intended for a nursery.

Ava's 90th Birthday Party

Dale's mom, Ava Taylor, turned ninety this weekend and we threw a party. Saturday afternoon found us at the Old Mountville Schoolhouse welcoming friends and family to celebrate with us. I was busy, busy most of the time making sure the food, drink, and mementos were in ready supply that I snapped very few pictures. (I didn't even get one of the birthday girl.) But, there were others taking up the slack.
We used a winter theme with evergreens, snow covered branches, snowflakes and birds. We served homemade desserts, fruit, coffee and tea. The weather cooperated with chilly temperatures, sunshine and no snow. Lots of family from Virginia and North Carolina were in attendance, plus her local friends and churchmates. She was thrilled with it all.
Ava is a wonderful lady and does many kind deeds. I am happy that so many honored her on this special day.

Kathy Lowman made this gorgeous cake!

Another Chair Project

Years ago I purchased a Chippendale-legged chair at a flea market for $15.  I refinished the legs at the time and left the green vinyl cover in place. We've used it in several places in our house but lately I've had it in the den. It wasn't a particularly comfortable chair; the padding was flattened ages ago. But it had good bones so I decided to reupholster it. It seemed like a simple project--looks can be deceiving. Dale and I worked together on this project and it took hours to complete. Now it's all padded and nail-headed up and looks great.

 

                                                

I'm Baaack

I'm not sure why I haven't been interested in posting anything lately but I did take a few pictures over Christmas vacation so before the holidays are a distant memory here are the results.

Santa brought Hamilton a workbench



Fatty doesn't want to feel left out





Travis gave Collier this cute stacking toy.



A new tool!





Claire worked diligently on the latch hook rug kit we gave her.

Seth models the apron I made for him which says Embrassez le Cuisinier (Kiss the Cook)