getting my second wind

2009 – the year I figured out how to sew.

Let’s see – I finished 2 quilts, 10 bags, 1 skirt, 1 shirt, and 1 much-beloved jacket.  And I’m starting the year with 2 quilts to finish (late Christmas gifts) and lots of plans.

I don’t normally “do” resolutions – but this year, I”m setting up goals.  First, I”ve added a new page called WIP (Works in Progress) which is where I intend to put my projects as I start them – and hopefully as I complete them. I want to document this learning process and also to become a little more accountable.  I also need to figure out a better work/personal balance.  I’m a happier person and more productive when I do things outside of work that’s not more work. With all of that being said – here are my 2010 goals:

1. stop wasting so much time on my beloved Bejeweled Blitz, Mafia Wars and Facebook.  Oh,how I’ll miss thee – but really, time is too precious.
2. work at home less than 3 nights a week and limit those work hours to less than 4 hours a night.
3. increase my organization in my office so that i can snatch snippets of time to work on projects.
4. find a tried and true (TNT) skirt pattern – I have high hopes that this one will be it.  But if not, perhaps this one.
5. Make a dress to wear to work and out of work.  I’m thinking perhaps this one (the one with the stand up collar) or this one.
6. make this jacket
7. make this shirt
8. make 4 new quilts – including one for dominic.
9. use my walking foot and quilt at least one of the quilts myself
10. make myself a new messenger bag

so, let’s get going on 2010!

It’s hard to believe that 2009 is over – and yet truthfully, I’m glad to see it go.

The year ended roughly for S & I.  S’s dad was in an accident in Colorado and, after being brought back to KC, went into cardiac arrest on Christmas morning and passed away on the 27th. We had the memorial service on the 31st and I think I’m not the only one that feels like this has all been surreal. I think we’re all numb.

There’s a lot to be said about his dad and what he meant to us all. But what I will take with me was his incredible ability to like and to be liked by everyone he met.  He could make anyone feel welcome and part of the family immediately upon meeting them.  I know that he did that for me and that I will miss him dreadfully.

Hm… well, it’s certainly what i’m looking for lately. But I don’t know if I would say that I’m a peaceful person – or at least that’s not how others would describe me.

Your Word is “Peace”

You see life as precious, and you wish everyone was safe, happy, and taken care of. Social justice, human rights, and peace for all nations are all important to you. While you can’t stop war, you try to be as calm and compassionate as possible in your everyday life. You promote harmony and cooperation. You’re always willing to meet someone a little more than halfway.

Yep – today my last grant (I hope) for the 2009 season is due.  Which means, let the handmade holidays begin!  Well, after a celebratory potato pancake dinner at my parents.

So, until then, I leave you with these funnies…

“Dude, what the heck are you wearing?”

“Really, is this embarrassment necessary?”