Basket Case

A few years ago I purchased 2 sets of 3 baskets. They were on clearance, and very inexpensive. I wasn't sure what I was going to use them for, but I knew I'd figure it out eventually.  Four out of the six baskets ended up in my youngest boy's room. There was nothing wrong with them before . . .

. . . Other than they were just a little plain. So I put my mathematical, geometry skills to work, (which by the way are not quite up to par, and has become even more apparent when I was trying to figure out how to make a skirt for oldest daughter a couple of weeks ago. I might post it some other time) and made new linings for the baskets.

Rather than make a little tie, I added a button from my stash.

Seems one thing always leads to another. . . Since I liked the fabric so much . . . I made a pillow.

Here's the back: (Or the front, depends what mood fits youngest boy)

Here's the front (or back!)

So don't underestimate the power of cheap baskets, and cute fabric. As I said, one thing leads to another . . . To go with the pillow, I would like to make a new quilt for youngest boy's bed in these colors. But it may be a while. I'll later post youngest boy's bedroom furniture make-over, (that I haven't gotten around to posting...) which is what led me to the baskets!

Play at the Park

As I've mentioned my little sister is getting married very soon. Days after learning of their engagement, I knew I wanted to make them a quilt. So while I've had the quilt done and ready to go for months, I couldn't post it until they saw it first.  She had a "Time of Day" bridal shower. I was assigned 8:00 p.m.
I enjoy seeing Plays at the local parks, (as well as others done on a more professional level). But there is that added bonus of being outdoors while watching and enjoying an art performance. Last year hubby and I went to see The Sound of Music, the outdoor setting couldn't have been more perfect! (It's one of my alltime favorite musicals, along with Brigadoon, Seven Brides for Seven Brothers, The Twelve Dancing Princesses, and Into The Woods (All of which we saw out in the open air.)
Since the plays usually start around 8 p.m, I gave them the quilt for the shower.

I monogrammed their initials (which I did before they had their wedding invitations monogrammed!)

I used fleece for the back.

I just thought this fabric was perfect for the border.

I also made a strap to hold it together.

I must mention that while I know of several husbands that refuse to go see plays with their wives, I'm glad hubby will go with me, and I know my Brother-In-Law To Be, will go with my sister (They've seen two already!) So, wether they use the quilt for an outdoor concert, play, picnic, or whatever else, I  hope they enjoy it together for many years to come!

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!