status

life is happening at an alarming rate. be back soon.

Monday is a day for sewing...

new things... exciting things... things that are needed to make my kitchen brighter, my couch comfier, my bathroom... less like one that I wore flip flops in while I was in Barcelona. Monday is a time for cleaning up after the whirlwind of a weekend left maple syrup on the dining bench seat, huh? weird and a trillion rhinestones on the floor... there was a crafting incident that I barely walked away from.

This stinks....

The one skunk that lives under our ancient jacuzzi has multiplied into three. This solves the mystery of who ate the baby sunflowers. Freeloading skunk family.

Scrap Day or Free Time Sewing Day

Wednesday was our sewing class's first official free sewing day. Meaning, I brought most all of the scraps that I save all year long and I gave the girls the opportunity (for the last half of class) to make whatever their little hearts desired. This is something that I have not been able to do as of yet for the reason that machine skills were still being developed and I wanted to get a few projects under their belts before I asked them to be creative. The past few weeks have shown me just how creative they can be, what with their cute little additions to some of our planned projects bows, pockets, stripes, etc. So the free sew day was a go. (Also it gave me some much needed time to perfect the hat we will be working on come next week... hats are fussy, if you didn't know =)

I cannot believe what some of them came up with. Pocket clotheslines, masks worthy of international spies, purses, some girls added pockets to the insides of their beach bags. Darling little flowers and bears that are very similar to the appliques that we will be putting on the messenger bags in the summer classes. Jewelry and hair accessories.

Needless to say, I was very impressed. Free sewing allowed me, but more importantly the girls, to see that they have come a long long way since class began. I promised the girls that we will definitely do this again before summer and I really cannot wait to see what they come up with next. I will take some pictures of their creations next week if they let me.

the sewing teacher

This is so exciting...

I am blogging from my iPhone. Now we can talk all of the time.

You are going to get so sick of me.

I am not sure how to post pictures yet. But when I figure it out...Watch out!

Technology.

Foggy and in need of a shower

I woke up in a fog after a dream about the IRS asking me too many questions about off shore accounts... which I don't have and I still get the pleasure of dreaming about. thanks brain.

so i exercised and still could not beat the fog, nor could the hot cup of tea. I did my shopping and the fog followed. I am still in a fog. So. now I am going to shower in hopes that that might lift the fog. we'll see.

A day like today....

oh brother. seriously. today was a doozy. I think I slapped my forehead with my palm several times in utter disbelief. A day like today is what a person needs to enjoy the good ones. Yes, needs. If you didn't know how bad it could get, could you or would you truly appreciate the good stuff and be grateful for it? I don't think you could or would. I really don't.

That is why I would like to say thank you. Mostly to be silly. But seriously, days like today make a good day so much sweeter.

Thank you super hairy spider that made a web from my side mirror to the tree therefore casting a net across my walkway designed to catch me... by the FACE! on the way to exercise this morning.

Thank you final bill notice that was not prefaced by a first or second notice...EVER. I'll be sure and pay you immediately considering I do not have a choice in the matter. Do you take MasterCard? greeeaaattttt.

Thank you impossible directions for seemingly simple tasks. You didn't mention I needed an algorithm to use this can opener.

And finally, thank you person who states the obvious. I did not know that the throbbing pain on my chin was a zit. You are so helpful. Perhaps I may one day return the favor. Until then enjoy your clear complexion...

Most truly and sincerely, Thank you. Without you I could not appreciate the good stuff.

Back in town...

Here I am again. Why is it so difficult to get back into the swing of things after only two days of vacation and relaxation? I am not complaining. I had fun. Good food, really good food and sun bathing.

But, I must hit the ground running tomorrow, which will be easy because the first thing that I am going to do is exercise and then... back to the sewing table.

Carole

gone fishin'

The blog will be quiet this weekend. I will be out of town. Livin' it up' in delayed celebration of our first wedding anniversary. Looks like at least one of the flashy ties that I made my husband will come in handy. Photos to come.

Have a lovely weekend.

In case you missed it...

Note: July will be AM classes and August will be PM classes.

July 5th-9th: Summer Blouse or Tunic- 9:00-10:15(Advanced) 10:30-11:45(Beginning)
July 12th-16th: Ruffle Skirt - 9:00-10:15(Advanced) 10:30-11:45(Beginning)
July 19th-23rd: NO CLASSES NO CLASSES NO CLASSES
July 26th-30th: Messenger Bag 9:00-10:15(Advanced) 10:30-11:45(Beginning)

August 2nd-6th: Beach/Picnic Blanket - 9:00-10:15(Advanced) 10:30-11:45(Beginning)
August 9th-13th: Summer Blouse or Tunic - 5:00-6:15(Beginning) 6:30-7:45(Advanced)
August 16th-20th: Ruffle Skirt - 5:00-6:15(Beginning) 6:30-7:45(Advanced)
August 23rd - 27th: Messenger Bag - 5:00-6:15(Beginning) 6:30-7:45(Advanced)
August 30th-September 3rd: Beach/Picnic Blanket- 5:00-6:15(Beginning) 6:30-7:45(Advanced)

In order to determine your child's advanced or beginning status you may email me. I would say that most of the current students will be able to handle the advanced class however, if you child feels they would rather take the beginning class they are more than welcome to do so. But please email me if you are unsure. The same project will be given in both the beginning and advanced with only slight modification according to skill level.

Workshops are $100.00 per student/per week. In order to reserve your spot you must email me with you class request including student(s) names(s) and week/time slot(s) requested. I will send you a confirmation and you then must send payment before May 31, 2010 to reserve your space(s). If your child plans to attend more than one workshop you must indicate this in your email. Spots will fill quickly and I will do my best to fit everyone in.

The photos of the projects will be available sometime next week. For now here are some photos of the projects as they appear on the patterns. I do like to make my own adjustments to fit my classes particular needs and I also like to make things cuter... you understand, I am sure. In the case of the beach/picnic blanket, I do not have any images yet... I wish I could send a picture from my brain to your email but this technology will not be available until 2015...or thereabouts, either way, I am sure it is coming.

Can't wait for the summer!

Summer Sewing and other stuff to jibber jab about

Summer sewing classes are filling up nicely. Just thought I'd let you know. I cannot wait to start these workshops the projects are sew cute (see how I did that? sew instead of so).

Other news. Not much. Just sewing. I made about four ties for my husband on Tuesday. They are very flashy ties. My husband in a flashy man. So the ties match the man for sure. I'll post pictures when I figure out this machine,

Summer Sewing Classes

Remember to sign up for a summer sewing workshop. You can email me directly at:

Carole@ladiessewingcircle.com

I need to know the student(s) name(s) and the week(s) and time slot(s) desired.

When I receive this email from you I will return a confirmation email.

Classes fill up quickly. Save your space.


Carole

Summer Summer Summer Classes Info!

***Classes will all be held in Ladera Ranch as per usual. Additional info will be given to new students upon confirmation regarding specific address. For information on classes in other areas please email me carole@ladiessewingcircle.com.

Hello All -

It's about that time to start thinking about summer sewing classes. I thought I'd put this information out now for those of you who like to plan ahead and coordinate with other exciting summer plans. Spots will fill up quickly so be sure to reserve your spaces now! I only take 6 per class and there will be only two time slots available for each project. I offer each project twice to ensure that all current and new students will have the opportunity to attend the workshops of their choice.

The Details:

Here is how it going to work for the months of July and August. Classes will be held workshop-style Monday through Friday in two time slots. Each week is a new workshop/project. Here are the list of class time slots and corresponding projects.

Note: July will be AM classes and August will be PM classes.

July 5th-9th: Summer Blouse or Tunic- 9:00-10:15(Advanced) 10:30-11:45(Beginning)
July 12th-16th: Ruffle Skirt - 9:00-10:15(Advanced) 10:30-11:45(Beginning)
July 19th-23rd: NO CLASSES NO CLASSES NO CLASSES
July 26th-30th: Messenger Bag 9:00-10:15(Advanced) 10:30-11:45(Beginning)

August 2nd-6th: Beach/Picnic Blanket - 9:00-10:15(Advanced) 10:30-11:45(Beginning)
August 9th-13th: Summer Blouse or Tunic - 5:00-6:15(Beginning) 6:30-7:45(Advanced)
August 16th-20th: Ruffle Skirt - 5:00-6:15(Beginning) 6:30-7:45(Advanced)
August 23rd - 27th: Messenger Bag - 5:00-6:15(Beginning) 6:30-7:45(Advanced)
August 30th-September 3rd: Beach/Picnic Blanket- 5:00-6:15(Beginning) 6:30-7:45(Advanced)

In order to determine your child's advanced or beginning status you may email me. I would say that most of the current students will be able to handle the advanced class however, if you child feels they would rather take the beginning class they are more than welcome to do so. But please email me if you are unsure. The same project will be given in both the beginning and advanced with only slight modification according to skill level.

Workshops are $100.00 per student/per week. In order to reserve your spot you must email me with you class request including student(s) names(s) and week/time slot(s) requested. I will send you a confirmation and you then must send payment before May 31, 2010 to reserve your space(s). If your child plans to attend more than one workshop you must indicate this in your email. Spots will fill quickly and I will do my best to fit everyone in.

The photos of the projects will be available sometime next week. For now here are some photos of the projects as they appear on the patterns. I do like to make my own adjustments to fit my classes particular needs and I also like to make things cuter... you understand, I am sure. In the case of the beach/picnic blanket, I do not have any images yet... I wish I could send a picture from my brain to your email but this technology will not be available until 2015...or thereabouts, either way, I am sure it is coming.

Can't wait for the summer!

/>

***project photos and descriptions are available on sewmamasew.com for further information.

LATE POST!

Here I am! Better late than never.

I am simultaneously drying my hair, eating breakfast and typing this post.

This weekend was bananas. I will tell you all about it later.

Carole

One year ago today...

... we got married at the Madonna Inn. And it was just the way we wanted it. Animal masks, magicians, a giant pink cake and all. I have to say that I never knew it was going to be this wonderful. I am grateful.

And Happy Mother's Day too!

Saturday morning minus the cartoons

There is a long list of projects for this weekend. Remember when the only thing on our lists were Saturday morning cartoons? I can honestly say that I have more fun now. I really don't wish I was a kid again. I have definitely had enough of being a kid. I was the nine year old that wanted a job and a sewing machine that didn't have a mouse picture on the side. I remember thinking that when I had my own life I would only do fun things. Well, we all know that you cannot have fun all the time... still, I"ll take the long list of projects over cartoons and no responsibility any day. Just sayin'. Have a lovely Saturday.

Carole the grown up lady

unusual mid-day update...

I completely forgot to tell you that I ran into a herd(?) of wild peacocks yesterday while exiting the Farmer Boy drive thru. No Kidding. For those of you who don't know, Farmer Boy is like a Henry's Burgers, one of those everything is on the menu, from burritos to gravy and this particular drive through is in an industrial area near my house. So needless to say, wild peacocks have no business there. Especially in the right hand turning lane. Did I mention there were four!? If I hadn't been so shocked I might have been able to take a picture with my camera phone. Also, every time I moved my car forward they got right in front of it. I am really not sure how they got there, why they were there, etc. Unusual and worth mentioning. Just in case you are thinking of going to Farmer Boys.

Annnnddddd... I realize that I might sound a little crazy telling you this but I am being terrorized by a butterfly. He(?) is one of those black winged white dotted variety (morning cloak?) and he makes sailing/diving maneuvers at my head every time I am watering and nearly misses my face. I swear I felt his wings on my chin the other day. He is there everyday without fail. He chases other butterflies away. I went outside this morning to get a picture and he was no where to be seen, so I turned on the hose and there was an erie stillness BOOM! He came whirling out of the neighbors yard and came right for me, nearly missing. This butterfly is a total jerk.

I am not even going to tell you of the nasty creature that I found lurking on out ceiling the other night. I'd have to go and take another shower if I went into it. Let's just say it had spotted legs and a grin.

I am being invaded by the animal/insect kingdom.

Carole

you ask, I answer

Sharon said...
I'm wondering why when you go to a strawberry stand, they always place the nicest strawberries at the top of the box. Do you think they would mind very much if I dig to the bottom before I commit to a box?

Strawberry 'stagers' are a dishonest bunch. I mean really? Where DO all of those busted strawberries come from. ABC strawberries, a lot like ABC gum. Strawberries are fragile... that is Italian for really breakable. Some strawberries make it through the growing, picking and boxing stages in one piece and those are the ones that make it to the top of the box. I am quite certain that you would find strawberry mashola at the bottom of all cartons. So here is my solution.

So, I say, you order a box of 'top quality strawberries' wink wink and while the proprietor is telling you that all of the strawberries are 'top quality' you skim the pretty strawberries off the top of enough cartons to fill up the pockets of your culottes (you know you have a pair) and make a run for it... in your culottes. You might pair your culottes with another dated accessory, like some LA Gears, Hammer pants also work, but running is not an option.

I hope this helps.

As always, Carole.

Blurb

What do you think? Really, I'd love to know.

About anything... I'd really like to know what you think about all day.

Tell me.

Carole

Life without the internet...

So for the past few days I have had to live without the internet. My laptop is very ill and needs some R&R and refuses to turn on... even with a brand new battery. sheesh. This is a strange strange life without the internet. I have had several instances where I needed to know something and sadly there was no world wide web to peruse for answers. What is the alternative source for information? Should I call people for answers? The library? Encyclopedias A-L or M-Z? I dunno.

This will also explain the absence of pictures from my posts. I know that I can use this precious time that I have now to look for stylish pictures for you to oo and ahh over but really I cannot. This fancy pants laptop has way to many buttons for me to navigate through. I seriously just said that. Lazy? No. Stuck in my old ways of the right click cut and paste? Yes. I know how to do many things. No brag, just fact. But I am afraid that if I took in one more technical thing it will push out some crucial bit of knowledge.

You: Why is Carole wearing her underwear on the outside of her pants?
Your friend: Well, she is really good at working on her husband's laptop now, but her knowledge of proper and appropriate attire has gone right out the window. Sad.
You: Should we tell her?
Your Friend: Nah.

Btw, your friend is mean.

In other news. I got quite a bit of catch-up work done today. Could this be directly related to a lack of internet and television. I'd rather not say.

Thank you and have a lovely Wednesday. If my laptop works today there will be a celebratory post. If not... well, I'd rather not say.

Things I Like...

1. plaid
2. elephants
3. wax bottle caps
4. my yellow purse
5. the black moth that lives in my backyard
6. grape bazooka
7. Elvis Costello
8. Christmas decorations
9. knitting
10. running, jogging, running and then walking
11. googlie eyes
12. chickens
13. red tennis shoes
14. Otis Redding
15. T.V. tag
16. picnics
17. looking on the bright side
18. saying yes
19. singing to my plants
20. orange flavored tic tacs

I'm Back!

I know, it has been really quiet around here for the past two days. I have a long list of excuses for you, beginning with one about my busted laptop battery. That is the best one from the list, second only to impromptu European vacation, which is just not true and too cruel to joke about.

But I am back and I missed you all. In the desperate moments after realizing the fate of said computer battery, I decided that I would turn my post into a flyer and deliver them to all of your homes. There were problems with this idea as you can imagine. So needless to say, I had to just wait it out. Still though, I do not have a working computer, so I am using my husband's laptop and all of the keys are in the wrong place and its cold and it keeps correcting me. This computer thinks it's better than me. It needs to stop being so shiny and foreboding.

In other news, I bought a whole bunch of canning supplies this weekend. I have never canned a thing in my life. But I have some help...more about that later. The reason I bring this up is that I made a trip to the Farmer's Market this weekend to collect some fruits and/or veggies to can. I ended up with 50% canning foods and 50% tamales which is good, the odds are stacked against me in a situation where foods and samples are displayed. I am excited to get started. But I am three steps behind a mountain of projects that is catching up with me and I can't seem to get a thing done. This is where life gets funny (not funny ha ha, but funny strange)... because it seems to me that the more I have to get done the slower things move forward, the less I feel like being productive and the less that ultimately gets done. Lame Carole, really lame..got a job to do? get started. Pep talk to me and I hope it works.

Happy Monday!