Tote-ally Green

My soon to be married little sister had a "Stock The Pantry" bridal shower. So, along with the recipes, I gave her the ingredients for dinner, dessert, plus some extras. I didn't have a gift bag to put everything in, so I  made a tote that doubles as a grocery bag. I've been meaning to make some for me, so I can do my part by being a little more enviromentally friendly.
I took note of some measurements from an existing bag I had. I used a thrifted Pottery Barn sheet. I thought the colors were just so summer-like! It would also be a great tote to take towels to the pool, or library, the places are endless!
I started with 2 ( 13-1/2" X 14-1/2 ") pieces. Sewed a 1" top hem.

Cut 2 (5" X 46") strip. Folded it in half

and then in half again.

And ended up with 2 (1-1/4 ") strips for the handles.

I pinned the strip 2-3/4" from each edge.

Sewed 1/8" from each edge of the strap.

I ended up with the front and the back of the tote.

I cut a 42" X 9" rectangle for the side and bottom of the tote. Also sewed a 1" top hem.

I pinned front of the tote to the side matching the top edge. With a 1/2" seam allowance, I sewed along both sides leaving 1/2" at the bottom. Then sewed along the bottom making a mitered corner (that's were the 1/2" was helpful.

Did the same with the back of the tote.

Enfored the handle.

Some minor embelishments . . .

And here it is!

I might just make a few more out of some vintage sheets, but now, I better get started on a few things I need to have ready for little sister's wedding!

Mirror Mirror On The Wall

Our downstairs bathroom has been finished for nearly five years now, except I still hadn't gotten around to hanging a mirror. I've had this old mirror for nearly two years. It came with an old set of dressers I bought for my craft room. I finally got around to it . . .
Here it is before:

Here it is after a fresh coat of Snow White paint!

Now who's the fairest one of  all?!

I Like Fresh Air

Half of our family has been out of commission for over a week (including myself). What's the deal with these summer cold viruses that sneak up and keep you down for days! I find it to be one of the most difficult things as a mom, taking care of children, when all you want to do is lay in bed. Luckily, things are turning around . . . if we can keep it from spreading some more, I might just  find the energy to do something.

Fortunately, we were able to enjoy the 4th of July Holiday weekend (right before the microscopic pathogens hit).

We were able to enjoy a little hike up the canyon and partake of some higher elevation weather. Crisp, cool air and green scenery throughout!

                                                                              Our home is that way!

We enjoyed a packed lunch, and had some Chex Mix, which we shared a little bit with a new friend . . .  Introducing:  "Chimpmunk Chex"!

Overall it was such a nice day. It'll  be nice once this head cold clears up, and I can finally breathe again.  Some fresh air would be nice!