A Year of Challenges and Milestones

Writing a post once a Year? I can't believe a year has past and I am just getting back to posting. Well I guess I could say I was busy, but that isn't the reason. I have at numerous times started a few lines of post but then would get distracted or tired or lose my thoughts and figure I would get back to it another day. I can say it it has happened at least 6 times over the last year. So what I have I been wanting to write about for the last year? Well few things...

Challenges

This year has been a challenge for me Mentally. Mentally realizing that my brain can be used in other ways other than figuring out how to create jewelry and finally using some of my Math degree some 20 something years later actually using what I learned in college. I also had to retrain my brain as well and that was tough and tiring. A challenge that I still work everyday and self teach myself with online tutorials and books. Who said you can't teach an old dog new trick, either had a dumb dog or wasn't talking about this old dog.

Milestones
Not only did I reach a milestone birthday last year, I also reached a milestone physically. Over the last year and half I have lost just over 25 pounds. I have always been physically active and a decent weight but became very last lazy over the last few years and had gained some unwanted weight. I started slow by walking on my lunch and then adding going to the gym after work. Changing my diet and how and what I eat have made a huge impact as well. This was not quick weight loss diet or fad workout, just a general commitment to the working out and eliminating really bad food choices. Is tough work but every milestone is worth it and then it's time for another goal.
So what is going to happen in the new year? I am not sure yet, but I think it will be full of challenges and milestone, and I will be sure to keep you updated by years end.
Enjoy

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Ipad Pillow Stand

I like to watch tutorials on my Ipad and although I have a cover that converts to a stand, it isn't always the best solution for viewing. So I decided to make one of my own inspired by these Iphone stands I found on Etsy. They are sold by dognamedbanjo and are really unique and lovely. So I thought I could make one similar to it and here is how i did it. First I started with a 1 yard of a fabric in my two favorite colors. Then I cut the following pieces 1 Pc 13" x 13" 1 pc 29 x 13" 2 Triangle pieces 13" x 13" x 13" Next I sewed the top square to the two triangles. This is will be the sides and the base. Next I took the large rectangular piece and sewed it to the bottom of the square. Now I don't have photos of the last few steps since once it start forming a pillow it is difficult to photograph, but the process is not that difficult. Next I sewed each side of the the rectangle to one side of the triangle on both s...

Neck Tie Upcycled to Cuff

I found a large stash of Neck ties at an Estate Sale this past weekend and I had to buy them since I had the perfect idea for an upcycle project. They were mostly from a long since closed store here in Buffalo,NY and I felt the need to preserve them as well as the tags. I started by washing them on gentle and removing them immediately and laying flat to dry. They came out a little disfigured but nothing that a little ironing wouldn't fix. Next I took a seam ripper and opened up the back to take out the interfacing. I did this for two reasons, it was discolored and had a little odor and it would be easier to sew without this bulk. I next cut the tie into a piece 10" long and hemmed the edge. Then I sewed two pieces of velcro to each side to make my cuff. The last step was to sew on a few antique buttons and beads and my cuff was done. Wow! Looking at this I can't believe how it turned out!.But wait... I made a few more! Love this one.. Antique Maple leave button and golden...

Ultra Mini Dress Form

My obsession with mannequins continued this week when I remembered a free pattern for a tiny dress form pin cushion that I saw back in January. It's a two page download at www.thediydish.com with a video that takes you thru step by step of the process. I wanted to make a few of these for my craft room but thought they would also look lovely adorned with my recycled jewelry. So I started by selecting a few fabrics in colors that I love. Blues and greens are my favorite and make me feel like spring is not far away. After cutting and sewing the simple patterns and easy instructions (via video), I had these three stunning ladies in my craft room. They require very little fabric and can be mounted on candle sticks or spools. I made the long green dress form about 4" longer than the pattern since I wanted a bit of height and enough space to hang pedants. I added glass drawer knobs and beads for the neck inserts. I then added a few necklaces. I chose just a...

Janet of All Trades

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