Bodkins are a Girls Best Friend

Don't worry, I didn't know what a 'bodkin' was until today either. My family has this accumulating stack of gym pants/shorts and hoodies, where the drawstring has been pulled out. Some drawstrings have gone missing so I made a trip over to the fabric store to buy a few yards or cording and offhandedly asked the woman at the cutting counter if she has any magic tricks for reinserting the buggers.  Her eyes lit up and she said "Follow me!" A Bodkin! This little miracle worker costs less than $2, and I had all of our clothes restrung in less than 5 minutes! This little metal needle has pincher's on one end instead of an eye, and a ring that clamps it shut; it's genius.

First Sewing Lesson

I got E a sewing machine for Christmas last year and it kinda landed on the back burner, what with starting home schooling and all. It's so cute, and very functional for a first timer. Well, we've all done a bit of growing this summer and she was definitely ready to take on this challenge. I loved teaching her all about her machine, and the important steps in running it and she is an eager leaner. She paid very close attention and really respects this machine. Her first project was a pillow for a stuffed animal and she did great! I'm looking forward to teaching her a few more things over the next year, and D and I are really excited that this could be another creative outlet for her!

Custom Alphabet Pillow

My friend Brian alerted me to these sweet pillows on Esty, coincidentally arranged in my initials!