Giveaway!

I am busy in the Basement this weekend, but I wanted to take time to announce a Giveaway! T0 celebrate my 125th blog post, I will be giving away a monogrammed tote!

made out of oil cloth (15" x 14")

The giveaway ends at midnight Saturday, 11/28/09, a winner will be drawn on Sunday 11/29/09.

Enter by leaving a comment on the blog.

Extra entries can be earned by:
1. Posting about this giveaway on your blog (leave a comment to let me know)
2. Writing about this giveaway on Facebook (be sure to tag me with @Basement Bags)
3. Announcing this giveaway on Twitter (use hashtag #BasementBagGiveaway)
4. Sign up to be a follower on my blog (leave a comment to let me know you already are a follower)
5. Sign up to be a Facebook Fan
6. Become a follower on Twitter

This tote would be a great gift for someone special on your gift list (including yourself!) and it can be ready in time to be placed under the tree!

Good Luck!

Everyday things

I often tease that I'm on a mission to 'monogram the world'. Monogramming transforms those everyday things into something special. I'm at home today nursing a sore toe (had an ingrown toe nail removed yesterday...how gross & painful!) and using the 'dayoff' to catching up on some little projects.

CuTees

Long sleeve tee shirt with Christmas Design and name or initials

email Susan@basmentbags.com to order

$18.00 each plus shipping

this is Coopers' shirt, there's also one for Jack & baby Paul...what a Susie!!! ;)

Whew!

Will there be a monogrammed purse under your Christmas tree?

Working hard in the basement! This is the time of year that going to work Monday-Friday is like resting..lol. Had to come up & take a couple of 'sunshine breaks' , we're having beautiful weather.

Happy Sunday, y'all.

'Tis the season...

....to get orders in for Christmas! I've got lots of great, affordable gift ideas...grab a cup of coffee and come shop with me at Basement Bags.
I'd love to make something special for everyone on your gift list, including you!!

Just finished this Fancy Zebra bag. It's off to FL tomorrow morning. Unfortunately that's the last set of those adorable polka-dot handles. But I have plenty of zebra fabric and can makes shoulder straps from fabric or black webbing...almost as cute as the handles.

I never get tired of making gift sets for baby showers. This set includes a newborn cap & bib, burp cloth with ice cream cone applique and a onesie foofed up with ribbon and appliqued letter.


I'll be sewing all weekend...thankfully, I'm in the mood. Y'all take care.

Did you hear that?!?!?

At the end of the evening news, Brian Williams said "50% of all children in America are on Food Stamps and 90% of African American children are". That is a shocking statistic. What happened to personal responsibility? Seriously, do politicians and feeble minded freeloaders think there is any balance or fairness in that amount of 'dependency' in our society? Sure, my heart bleeds for the poor children. My exasperation is with the adults who contrived the system and those who feel entitled by it or worse, abuse it. And to add to the agony...my radio station just switched to it's 'All Christmas Music All The Time' format...for crying out loud! let us get the witches & goblins packed away first! Anyway, I made these cute things today.

Personalized totes, lunch bags & houndstooth clutch

Are you a Gator fan?

I'm not really into sports. During my college days, tailgating at Clemson was the best. NC State is my North Carolina team pick. Although I've never been to a game, my brother claims NC State is just like Clemson, minus the lake. I'm definitely more of an ACC girl, but have to admit this 'Gator Bag' turned out pretty cute.

Monday & Tuesday we are out for Fall Break....I'm extremely excited. I'll most likely spend my 'time off' catching up in the Basement. School is great, but working at home is wonderful!

It's rainy and cool here today...wish I'd made vegetable soup or chili. Oh well, we're not above eating the canned stuff.

Hope you enjoy what's left of the weekend!

They're back!

Hot flashes, irritability, memory loss, night sweats....menopause symptoms! I've lived through adolescence (mine & the girls!) wild college days (again, mine & theirs!), 28 hrs. of HARD labor, an unhappy marriage, excessive weight gain (and loss and regain), single parenthood, financial difficulties, and I swear right now menopause feels like the plague to end all others. It got really bad this summer. So after lots of research, a few trials with home & OTC remedies I finally decided to try a mild antidepressant. We are not strangers to psycho-girl drugs in our house and they have helped us maneuver through some tough times. Since mid-August the meds seemed to be doing the trick and symptoms were much better...until this past week...and now they're back with a vengeance. I'd love to hear about your experiences, especially coping mechanisms, if you are living with this special life event. And we thought menstrual cramps were the curse. Ha!

I've got lots of work to do in the basement, but think I'll take part of the day off and go to 'Christmas Made in the South'...check out the competition. Y'all have a great weekend.

Haven't left ...

.. the house all weekend. Actually don't think I've been outside since arriving home Friday after school. We've had no visitors. I've done no housework, except a few loads of laundry which need to be put away. I've cooked only one meal. But I've been busy in the basement! Check out these super personalized gifts, all under $20!
Child Tote Bags

Wet Bathing Suit Bag

Checkbook covers

Show us what you make

Clutch Bags for Bridesmaids

Over at Kelly's Korner, her post yesterday was 'show us what you make' and there are some fabulous sites (over 400) full of handmade goodies. Check it out, but come on back to Basement Bags for the real cute stuff! Speaking of, here's some of what I made this week....

It's wonderfully 'fallish' here today...love it. Sleeping late this morning was heavenly! Paul is doing great, although we
still don't know the cause of his sickness. I have several fun projects to work on and look forward to sharing when they are finished.
Hope y'all have something fun planned for the weekend.

Thinking Christmas yet?

I know some of you are already shopping for Christmas ... heck, so of you may be FINISHED shopping for Christmas!!! For those of you that are still in the 'planning' stages...hope you'll remember all the fabulous, reasonably priced items at Basement Bags.

I just reduced the price of monogrammed slippers to only $18.oo...now that's a deal! a stinkin' cute personalized gift for less than twenty bucks!

Good news

Paul got to come home today. Yeah!!! They put in a PICC line so he could get IV meds at home while we continue to wait for test results. He looks great and his Mom & Dad are so happy to be home. I know big brother Jack is also glad that they are all together for the first time in almost two weeks. Thanks again for all of your prayers and well wishes. In a situation like this one doesn't think about the cost until everything settles down...no doubt it will be staggering.....guess we shouldn't worry about it. Just heard 'they' voted and passes the first bill on Obamacare. I'm sure they will take care of us good ole working middle class folks and our medical needs.
Raise your hand if you believe that.

Baby update, beauty products and compacts

First, thanks for all of your concerns and prayers. Your well wishes mean so much to us. We still don't have a firm diagnosis. Maybe a viral infection, maybe a metabolic disorder...test results aren't all in and more test have been ordered. Paul was moved to the main hospital in Charlotte yesterday...bigger facility, more specialists, parents feel good about the change. We are hoping for some answers soon...in the meantime, please continue to keep us in your thoughts.

Wanted to share my new favorite beauty product. Clinique Even Better Moisture and foundation. I had been using a very expensive glycolic acid
skin care line and just didn't feel like I was getting enough 'bang for my buck'. A few months ago, when it was time for new foundation, I got the Even Better and almost immediately noticed improvement. I decided to try the moisture. In just a few short weeks my skin is smoother and more even toned than in years. Hubby even noticed without being prompted! And it's much more affordable than the other stuff, that alone makes me feel better.

I love repeat customers! Makes me feel like they really appreciate my work. Last year Molly ordered cosmetic bags for the girls on her cheer leading team...black and white polka dot with red monogram. This year she ordered them matching compacts. Too cute!
Happy weekend y'all.

PICU

Paul has been in PICU since Sunday night and they are still doing test. Hopefully we will have a definite diagnosis by tomorrow. They believe he has one of the TORCH infections and are working to pinpoint which virus is making him sick. He will be hospitalized until the virus is no longer active...could be a month or more. We got to visit today... I was able to hold & feed him and he was responsive. His Mom said he'd had a good day and that he was more alert this afternoon than he'd been. Our precious baby is not out of the woods yet, but we are encouraged that he will continue to improve. The doctors & nurses have been wonderful and we are confident that they are doing everything possible to take care of Paul. Please keep us in your thought.

As life takes us down this bumpy side road, I have to reminded myself that things happen for a reason, to have faith that we will understand those reasons, and hope we have the courage to rise to the occasion. Business has been slow for the past few weeks, which usually worries me, but with the events of the last month, the extra time is a Godsend. I did finish this set of burps and matching bib.

I'm loving the fall weather, it's my favorite time of year. Hope life is being good to you this week!

Rough Start

This is week three in the life of our new baby Paul and unfortunately it's been a rough start. First week his Mom ended up at the ER, then the OR for a D & C. Second week she got mastitis....been there, done that and in my opinion it's one of the worse of the 'female things'. Then 2am Sat. morning we got a call to come stay with 2 yrs. old big brother Jack, they had to rush baby Paul to hospital. He had been extremely fussy and had high fever. He is still in the hospital and we are waiting for test results. Poor baby had a 'full work up' which included a Lumbar Puncture (spinal tap). They are thinking it's some type of viral infection and he's improving but it's scary for the little guy to be so sick. In this situation my maternal instinct to 'fix everything' leaves me feeling useless and frustrated. Luckily we have lots of family here that have pitched in to help. Jack has been wonderful, but taking care of a toddler wears me out! Please keep Paul and his parents in your thoughts. Hopefully when this passes we will have all sweet sunshine and fluffy teddy bears.

Weekend

We spent the a rainy, but very enjoyable weekend in Sevierville, TN. My Dad and Nina (my bonus Mom) had a condo for the week and invited us and my brother to join them. The drive up was a little dicey, it rained most of the way. Saturday morning we ate the breakfast at the fabulous Apple Barn ... then we HAD to walk it off with a little outlet shopping. Seriously, a little is the truth, I went into only one store, but we won't talk about how much a spent in that one store. It was Chico's for crying out loud and I had a gift card! Then it rained buckets all day long, but it was the perfect excuse to stay in and just catch up, we had a wonderful 'visit'. Today the weather was beautiful, a day made for convertibles. Loved the ride home with the 'top down' but I swear my neck got sunburned.

I finished up an order of clutch bags that you see pictured here. This is a great time for me to share my 'secret weapon' for clutch bag making....my Hubby the 'crimper'. He crimps the frames and then hand polishes every bag. What a man! Of course, crimping is only one of his talents. He is one of those guys that can do everything. The kind that makes it hard for daughters when selecting potential life partners. Not many guys can measure up to Danny Daddy! He also brings me coffee (while I'm getting ready for work) and makes my breakfast every morning! I am a lucky girl!

Still here...

Life is crazy busy, but I'm still here. My only exciting news is our new grandson, he is so sweet. His Mom had a little set back, gave us a scare and a Friday night at the hospital. She is fine now and all is well. I have been running the machines wide open ... thank you wonderful customers! Sorry I don't even have a project picture to share. What a slacker!
Back to work now...promise I will try to post something fabulous next time.

He's here!

Precious Baby Paul

Proud Susie

Weekend

It's been a productive weekend in the basement. Didn't take pictures of everything, but here are a couple. The tote and two sets of monogrammed towels will be graduation gifts for May '10...I do love the customer that plans ahead! Hope you ladies will remember me when you start making out your Christmas gift lists and order early.

I designed a logo and embroidered hoodies and polo shirts for the 'Fine Arts' teachers at a neighboring school. Their school colors are purple and teal (like those soooo much better than our orange/black..yuck!)

Speaking of orange & black, these key fobs are not for Halloween, they are the colors at Northwest Cabarrus High School, where I teach. My class usually makes these as a fund raiser for our program. The past two years were have made over $800 ... great way for the students to realize that sewing can be a profitable skill. I made up a 'batch' because we wanted to include one in a gift bag for a special guest coming to our school on Monday. The Governor is coming to visit us! We were named a 'School of Distinction' and it's a huge honor to get all the extra attention.

Despite my political opinions about this Governor, I think it's great from our students to have this experience and for our school to get the recognition.

Cute Hats and Green Dresses....

I have a customer, Deborah, who just opened her own web store reallycutehats.com featuring these precious fleece hats! With fall upon us and winter just around the corner, these cute hats are the perfect accessory for your little sweetie pie(s). Go check out her 20% off special on school spirit hats.

Another friend, Judy, has an eco-friendly boutique that is a fabulous place for us practical-minded & budget conscience girls to shop for special occasions. Her website is for buying and selling beautiful, handpicked clothing. She connects buyers and sellers of pre-owned "wore it once" wedding and party attire...'Green dresses', if you will. I love this concept! Hope you will visit her site The Green Hanger Shop.Com

I'm very glad it's Friday...was this really a 'short' week? Have a stack of orders to process, so I'll be in the basement all weekend....send me some love.

Come on Baby Paul

We are anxiously awaiting the arrival of our Baby Paul. He is due around the 25th, but his Mom wishes he would come sooner...like yesterday! Maybe he's been waiting for his slacker 'Susie Mama' (me) to make him some cute baby stuff...here's the first installment. Stay tuned for more.

Giveaway clutch

Giveaway Clutch for 'Life of a Southern Bell'

Bag for the traveling shoes

Finished these two items this evening...the 100th Post Giveaway Clutch and a snappy shoe bag. My wonderful postman, LG, will pick up the packages at my back door & get them on their way...if you mail packages and haven't used USPS Click-n-ship, you should...best thing since sliced bread! WooHoo for never going to the Post Office again!!!

Now it's time for bed! Sweet dreams

AWOL

Absent without leave? or just crazy with back to school?...either way, I've neglected my blogging and miss it. Hopefully my body & mind will adjust and I will get back to normal soon...normal, really? Whatever that is. Our new early start time for school is kicking my butt...have to be at my duty post at 6:45am. I've always gotten to school early, but now that is on time...amazing how much difference 15 little minutes makes to us "I hate mornings people". Anyway, between school, trying to keep up in the basement and the new workout plan that hubby & I are doing together, I'm going to bed exhausted every night and back to living for the weekends!

I've also neglected to take pictures of projects but remembered to snap this one before shipping out this cute Tooth Pirate Pillow.

The pillow has a back pocket for the tooth and the 'loot'. I also make a girl version with a whimsical tooth fairy design.

Hope you are having a great week...tomorrow is hump day!

Winner!!!

Congratulations to "Life of a Southern Belle", she is the winner of my 100th post giveaway! Thanks everyone for entering...wish I could send each of you a clutch!



I used RANDOM.ORG to select the winner and 'Rachintherealworld' was actually first name drawn. Since she is my daughter I didn't think that would look on the up & up, so I did a second drawing. I feel sure Rach will be compensated in the end...lol.

http://www.random.org/draws/details/?draw=805

Shining new faces

I have three classes full of the most delightful students...I'm so excited about working with them this semester...but righ now, I'm too tired to wiggle!

Don't forget to enter the giveaway!

Lunch bag-Flower Girl Gift...what a cute idea!

100th Post Giveaway

100th Post Giveaway Clutch

WOW! Can't believe this is already the 100th post...man, I 'talk' a lot! I'm giving away a Basement Bags Clutch bag to a lucky blog friend. The winner gets to select the fabric, monogram style and thread color. Here are the entry rules:

1. Giveaway begins 8/23/09 and ends 8/28/09 (midnight)
2. Comment on this post for one entry
3. Post about the giveaway for one entry (tell me here that you are posting)
4. Post my Basement Bags logo on your blog for one more entry (copy & paste logo below)

Routine

I am back to my normal routine. Weekdays include school, exercise (or nap, maybe both), sewing, dinner, more sewing, bedtime. Housework, laundry, lots of sewing, a trip to the lake, eating out or movie date on the weekends...a very exciting existence I tell you! It works for us.

We took our friends to the airport this morning. They are off for another year in Morocco (he works for the State Department). We will miss them.

Made this cute tote with a brides' new initials this afternoon. I like the navy and lavender together. Hope all is well in your corner of the world.

Countdown

In NC teachers work 190 days/year. Two down and 188 to go...I'm just saying.

ugh...

It's 6:15 am and I am going 'back to school' in a few minutes. Someone pinch me! wake me up from this bad dream...surely my summer vacation is not over! The 'back to school' enthusiasm that all good teachers are suppose to feel right now totally eludes me. I am certain that a full day of meetings and Open house tonight will inspire me. Hope you have a Wonderful Wednesday!

Random stuff

Today I'm breaking from the normal 'look at this cute stuff I made' post and will share some random tidbits about myself.

• hot flashes feel like being sunburned on the inside
• the new flimsy plastic used for bottled water = squired in the face on every first sip
• Crocs flipflops rescued my achy feet
• Styrofoam cups feel yucky in my mouth, only drink coffee from 'real' cups
• my favorite clothing stores are Chico's and Christoper & Banks
• per my definition I'm a fluffy size girl...14/16 clothes, 9 shoes, 8.5 ring...but only the tiniest iPod ear buds fit my ears
• based on the amount of brown hair everywhere in our house, it's amazing that I'm not bald
• I don't like shopping & despise trying on clothes in the store, call me the Queen of Returns
• my husband and I met 'on line', dated for 3 yrs & will celebrate our 8th wedding anniversary in a few weeks, we're living the 'happily ever after'
• I get my hair colored at one salon and cut at a different one
• blogging is my only 'social' networking outlet...no facebook or twitter for me
• when I find something that I like or that fits, I buy one in every color
• cutting grass and ironing are two chores I find relaxing
• my favorite 'treat' is getting a manicure/pedicure

And lastly... made these adorable bib/cap sets this morning...you didn't really think I wasn't going to share some cuteness with you, did you?

Cuteness

Even future sports stars need to start with some cuteness.

Wish I'd made the design on the towel a little larger...still learning!

100th post Giveaway coming soon from your favorite basement!

Still time to tell me what item you'd like to see up for grabs.

One of those days

You know what I'm talking about?...one of those days...when nothing seems to go right. That's my day so far. This precious baby set took about twice as long as normal to make and there's a hooded towel in the trash can...expensive mistake...I'm just turning off the machines and going upstairs for a while. It's raining here and just a blah day, in more ways than one.

Would love more comments on 'tell the truth' post from yesterday.

Just noticed I'm getting pretty close to post #100...so maybe I'll do a little giveaway to celebrate...what would you like to see me giveaway?

Tell the truth

I so hate having my picture taken, but I need opinions.

Old glasses on the left, new ones on the top.

Which do you like best? Tell the truth!

The beginning

Yesterday I made this 'Chocolate Dots' purse. Cute, huh? Would you ever guess that it's made out of a placemat? Yes, one like you use on the dinner table. They were uber popular several year ago. Matter of fact, placemat purses are what got me started in business. The original purses were simply monogrammed placemats with ribbon handles...cute, but a bit flimsy for my taste. So I added a lining with pocket, webbing (belting) or wooden handles, ribbon & bows & lots of other trims...the variations are endless! I made placemat purses for cheerleading teams, to match sports teams, for Red Hat Society groups, for teachers, nurses, and on & on. Wish I'd kept track of how many I've made in the past five years! Customers still order them, not as often as in the beginning, but I still love making them.

I'm off to the dentist today. I hate the dentist. Oh, don't get me wrong...I love clean teeth...just hate the process. My teeth are ultra sensitive so it hurts. But the bigger issue for me is the noise in a dentist office. Repetitive noises drive me insane! Like when hubby leaves the keys in the ignition, leaves the door open and then walks off...eek!...like scratching nails on a blackboard (for those of you who remember blackboards!) Anyway, you get my drift, I hate the noises. But for the sake of clean, healthy teeth I will endure the torture. Also have to pick up my new glasses today...hope they are decent since I picked them out after my eyes had been dilated.

Time to turn on the machines and get busy...lots of babies needing adorable bibs & burp cloths! I am going to miss my coffee/blogging time when school starts.

Terrific Totes

Terrific totes for bridesmaids to be stuffed with all kinds of goodies!

Today is the first day of my last full week of summer vacation...where did the time go?!?! Seems like I waited so long for it to get here and it went so fast. Oh well, my waistline is telling me it's time to get back on a schedule. Shame on me 'cause I can't even remember the last time points were counted. We won't even think about the pizza and birthday cake I consumed yesterday. So I'm fifty-one now. Don't think it's going to be much different than fifty, but pretty certain I can't pull off the '36' anymore. Hope you are having a Marvelous Monday!

Ribbon rules

So I've shared with you before that I love ribbon...proof is in the pictures. If a little is good, then a lot is GREAT!

Check out the 'mammajamma' ribbon rack that son-in-law built. Y'all it is beautiful!...furniture quality construction! He's a very talented craftsmen. I am tickled with it and love that there is some 'growing room' so I can add to my selection.

This is about 100 more pieces of ribbon that aren't on spools. The ladies at one of the local craft stores save spools for me, but if anyone has an inexpensive suggestion of how to hang my ribbons, please share.

I store narrow ribbons these display boxes.

BFF4Real

Made a 'mad dash' to SC yesterday to attend a dinner party for 'Retired Teachers & Friends' in my former hometown. I taught there for 21 yrs. before relocating to NC seven years ago. I love my life here, but still miss my friends. This is a picture of me & my all time very best friend...we taught across the hall from each other for 15+ years and we were a force to be reckoned with! I miss her the most! This is so corny, but if you look up the word 'friend' in the dictionary, her picture will be there. She is beautiful inside & out, a fabulous listener and can always make me laugh. I'll post more pictures later. Hope you are having a Fantastic Friday and have happy weekend.

Babyrama

Hot Pink Lady Bugs
Fun Plaid Applique' Letter

Yummy Watermelon

Is everyone having a baby?

I hope so...love, love, love making these precious baby things.

Do you have a favorite?

Missing thumb

Green thumb that is....I don't have one. Every year we purchased beautiful ferns for the front porch & although I really try to keep them healthy, sometimes they get pretty ratty looking . No green thumb, but fortunately a sweet little plant food recipe that snaps them back into shape almost overnight. I'll share in case you are 'plant care challenged' like me!

Plant Food

1 gal. tepid water add 1 tsp. baking powder, 1 tsp. Epsom salts, 1 tsp. salt peter, and 1/2 tsp. household ammonia.

Water once a month.

*I only use this on ferns, not sure if it works on other plants.

"Back to school" time is quickly approaching.

Thank you very much television/radio commercials that constantly remind me that my glorious vacation is almost over! Anyway, this is my week of 'appointments' .... all those 'once a year 'things we do ... just easier to do them all at once and while school is out. Eye exam today.

Dilation + sunshine = monster headache

Hope those new frames I selected while blind look alright.

When my vision returned to normal, I stitched out this adorable baby blanket. This is absolutely the softest blanket in the world! and they make wonderful personalized gifts.

The price of being cool

We had to replace one of our air conditioners this past week. :( Besides the obvious financial shock...my body is reeling from the experience. You see, the air handlers are in the basement...yes, my basement! And since the hoses, wires and all that other 'necessary to make air conditioning work stuff' feeds to the outside units through a hole in the basement wall. The old stuff had to be torn out and the new go in. Hole in the wall was enlarged, the ceiling tiles had to be removed...I don't know all the specifics, just that everything had to move ... embroidery machine, plastic drawer thingies, furniture, treadmill, Boflex ...everything! "Oh my aching back!" Anyway, what better time to continue the make-over of my work space? Now walls are freshly painted, Luster White - no, not exciting, but man does it reflect the light! which is a good thing in a basement. And it looks soooo clean! Everything has been dusted, organized and moved back to it's rightful place. New shelves (more plastic thingies) were purchased to hold fabric, embroidery blanks and other assorted sewing stuff. Had to order an additional set of shelves and am waiting for my ribbon rack to be finished and installed. Just need new floor covering and I will be totally satisfied with the basement. As you can see in the picture below, right now we have the most gosh-awful mis-matched pieces of carpet that were salvaged from hubby's office when they remodeled. Would love to hear some your suggestions for flooring...low budget flooring (very low budget...air conditions are crazy expensive).

One in every color

For their upcoming family vacation

mom ordered a wet bikini bag

for each daughter.

Pretty sure she included one for herself...my kind of shopper!

There are reasons

This is a NEGATIVE POST...just a warning ...read at your own risk.

There are reasons I love my basement and feel most comfortable here. Here are a few:

• I do not like to drive, especially in unfamiliar places (yes, I got lost trying to meet Rach for dinner)
• I can not drive, talk on the phone, and read road signs at the same time
• I am the only driver in NC that uses a turn signal & understands who goes when at a 4 way stop
• People who are overly tattooed and talk with cigarettes hanging in their mouth scare me
• Exposed breast, fat rolls, butt cracks & underwear and ill-fitting clothes disgust me
• Women talking on cells phones in public whilst ignoring their screaming children annoy me
• Stores that have 50 check out lanes but only 3 open frustrate me
• I am baffled by the number of people living in the US who can't/won't speak English
• Same non-citizens buying groceries with EBT cards (electron benefits transfer...food stamps!) enrage me
• EBT cards that look like credit/debit cards make me sick to death of political correctness
• I am irritated by people who say they will contact me and then don't, especially for business transactions
• Politicians appall me with their arrogance and their total disregard of wishes of the people.

That should do it for now...thanks for letting me rant.

Airplane widow

You've all heard of (and you may be one) golf widows, football widows, fishing widows ...you get my drift...well, I'm an Airplane widow! One of hubby's hobbies (mind you I said ONE) is flying. He has a sweet Cessna Cardinal. He loves me, the girls and his plane. Hopefully in that order!
But not this week...Cardinal takes first billing. It's annual inspection time. Not only does he love flying the plane, he likes tinkering with it. He would be offended by that description, because it really is more like mechanicing. He takes the entire plane apart, bolt by bolt. Cleans every part, greases, paints, replaces worn parts, takes pictures of everything...really intense stuff. He is meticulous. Which works for me since I fly around in the thing with him! If he wasn't an Engineer, he would be an airplane mechanic and he would be a good one. He dreams of building his own plane someday and I have no doubt he will. The inspector will be here tomorrow and without question said plane will pass with flying colors. Excuse the pun.
Meanwhile, I've taken advantage of the empty house to catch up on some projects. Started some of that cleaning mentioned earlier. Dang, I hate housework! My back aches today, but my floors and bathrooms sparkle! The basement is shaping up too (at least my side). Fabric is all nice & neat, organized by color and everything in it's right place. Embroidery blanks are stored away in labeled drawers. What did people do before they invented those plastic storage thingies?
Almost finished the order list, here are pics of what I did today. Don't know which I like best! Pretty in Pink (top) is my most popular girl gift set right now. This one includes a hooded towel.
The 'church tote' (center) goes with the gift set I featured yesterday.
The last photo shows the new infant bibs and caps that I picked up at market earlier this month. Just added a little ribbon and monogram, so sweet! Pink for girls and blue for boys. Will be adding them to the website soon.
Three & a half weeks before school starts...I usually start 'mourning' about now. I love summer vacation!

Feeling froggie?

This is my new favorite! A little different from the typical sweet baby pink or blue , but it really works for me.
I 'm trying to work myself into a cleaning/organizing mood. The basement is a mess...new inventory is arriving daily and there's no place to put everything. I can not stand clutter, so something must be done. My A+ son-in-law took measurements to build a 'ribbon storage rack' to hang on the wall. Can't wait...it will be a great organizer, I'll be able to see all of that beautiful ribbon all of the time & it will free up several (6...so I like ribbon!) drawers for other stuff! I suspended the house keeping service for the summer....trying to save a few dollars & no reason I can't do it since I'm home,right?...yeah, well that's not working for me. We need some serious, old fashion Spring Cleaning up in here! I have been cleaning out a drawer or cabinet here and there, at this rate I'll be finished by winter! Might have to give my girl a call...need orders, please! so I can be 'just too busy to clean'.
Hope you have something great planned for the weekend...I'll be hanging out here.

Fruits of my labor....

This is what I did in the Basement today.

Mom is here visiting but I still managing to get a little work done. Tote w/diamond monogram

I love khaki & black

So classic, good for all seasons, goes with almost everything!

Bikini Bag for the winner of our giveaway!

Doesn't get more preppy than this.

Don't be jealous, yours is just a click away!

http://www.basementbags.com/Bikini%20Bag.htm

We have a winner....

First of all, everyone who entered is a winner and I appreciate your participation. Hope you will visit 'My Basement' often and shop with me at Basement Bags. A million thanks to Preppy 101 for hosting, she is fabulous! Now...Congratulations to Bitsy and Olive, she is the winner of an adorable personalized Wet Bikini bag. This was my first giveaway and it was so much fun...you have my word there will be more in the future.

Show & tell....

First shippment of new ribbon purchased at market arrived today...love it!

Gift Set for Baby "S"

Gender & name unknown...nice that some couples still want it to be a surprise!

This set includes two burp cloths, bib, hooded towel and a matching paci pal.

Clutches, complete with frames. I showed you the insides a few days ago.

Don't forget to enter our giveaway...deadline is midnight!

"Welcome to My Basement!"

Here's a big ole "Hey ya'll" to all of my new blogger friends! Mega exciting to see so many new faces ... thanks for stopping by ... please take a minute to check out www.basementbags.com
Hopefully I'll be around to visit you, your blog that is, soon. Good luck with the giveaway!

Shoes will travel in style

Bag for Purple Shoes!

Brides and wedding planners constantly amaze me with their attention to detail and their ability to come up with unique touches that make the day completely memorable. This shoe bag was commissioned by a MOG (yes, Mother of the GROOM!..I'm so impressed with her thoughtfulness!) for her future daughter-in-law to transport her purple wedding shoes. The wedding colors are purple and green...this fabric is a perfect match! As for the bride wearing purple shoes?... I love the idea of a little color tucked away in the traditional sea of white.

Have you entered our giveaway?

click here for details

Giveaway!

We're giving away this adorable

Wet Bikini Bag!

The fabulous Preppy 101 is hosting this giveaway, check her blog http://southernandpreppy.blogspot.com

for entry rules. Good luck!

Cute inside & out

Clutch bags waiting for frames

Since someone {me!} didn't order enough clutch frames this set of bags is just waiting for the shipment to arrive. So much for staying ahead of the game! Anyway, it's a great opportunity to show you that these bags are as cute on the inside as they are on the outside!

I was fortunate to have two amazing women in my life who guided my induction into the Wonderful World of Sewing. When I was 10 years old, my (favorite) Aunt Emily (also a Home Economics teacher) started teaching me the basics. Then in high school, my Home Eco. teacher, Mrs. Garrison, challenged me to perfect those skills. She encouraged me to always keep learning and pushed me to make a more difficult project each time. Of all the things she taught me, I think the most important was to value my talents. One of her favorite sayings was: "Your garment should look as nice on the inside as the outside"... I didn't really understand it then, thought it was just a way for her to torture us into doing more work. I realized later that she was teaching us about quality workmanship and taking pride in your product, even the inside part that others typically don't see. I think of Mrs. Garrison every time I pick out a fun fabric for the lining of a bag, it's just another way to make each one special and "as nice on the inside as it is on the outside"!

This little piggy went to market....

Three, 18 story buildings connected by sky walks, jam packed, wall to wall stuff for sale! Our first trip to AmericasMart in Atlanta...Absolutely overwhelming! My feet are actually bruised from all the walking. Didn't really know what to expect and may never go again, but it was definitely an experience. Picked up some great embroidery blanks- newborn bibs & caps, garment bags & matching duffles, linen hand towels (some really cute ones for Christmas) and ordered ribbon that is to die for! I could have spent a kazillion dollars! But of course I played it 'safe' and didn't buy anything outrageous. Great wholesale prices, but when you figure in the expenses: air plane fuel (hubby flew us, 5.5 hr drive vs. 1.5 hr flight, no contest!), hotel, meals (that very nice bottle of wine!), taxi fare (OMG!!!) there's no doubt it is more cost effective for me to do my 'click & buy' right here on the computer. Hubby was a real trooper and we got to meet Kay (blogger/email friend) in person, she is just as nice in the flesh as on the computer. Now, time to process the stack of orders that waited patiently while I was off playing in the big city! Nice weekend, but next time market rolls around this little piggy will probably stay home.

Little lamb....

Ethan had a little lamb, little lamb....we are allowed to change the name, right? Lamb Roundy Applique shown here is one of my new designs, so sweet for the little boys! I changed bib vendors recently (old ones had Velcro that wouldn't stick). I love the colored trim and adjustable snap fasteners on the new ones. Hope you'll check out all the great baby gift sets at BasementBags!

Off to market tomorrow...can't wait to share all my treasures with you next week. 'Til then, take care!

Rules about being mad

So if you are mad at someone, then they can't be mad at you because you are mad at them, right? not everyone knows these rules and they need to read up on being mad or this could go on for longer than necessary. End of subject.

Been busy in the basement...do you love this set of clutches for a wedding party or what? The bride wanted them alike, yet different...I think we accomplished that. This was a fun project! The black and white bags are lined with hot pink satin so the bride decided she would do a 'reverse' bag for herself (with sassy zebra print lining). I've had an awful headache for the past couple of days and it just dawned on me that it's the new glue used to attach the fabric to the metal frames...dah! No wonder I have to order it from UK, probably banned in the United States...definitely need to leave the fan on next time.

We're home...

Hope everyone had a fun & safe holiday weekend. We just rolled in from the lake house (been there since Thurs) and I'm so rested it is sinful! I'm ready to crank up these machines and produce something. It was a very nice long weekend - all of the girls (and friends) were there at one time or another. Hubby has the whole week off but he has so many projects planned that I probably won't see him much. We are taking a quick trip to Atlanta at the end of the week to attend the 'market'...this will be a first and I'm so excited. Hubby is excited too, but mostly for an excuse to fly me there!
Stayed tuned for some new pictures...I'm working on a fun set of black/white/hot pink clutches for a wedding party.

I believe....

...there are two things that should 'stay done' once they have been accomplished

1. weight loss
2. house cleaning

I hate doing both.

Pretty in Pink

Pretty in Pink Gift Set: onesie, bib, burps

For someone who claims she is not a shopper, I sure am doing a lot of click & buy on the computer...does that really count as shopping? Anyway, it's too easy - will have to keep an eye on that bottom line. Bought lots of new embroidery designs today {I adore this baby stuff} and with instant downloads I don't even have to wait for packages to arrive. Look for them soon on the website.

Tomorrow I'm off to visit my Mama for a few days. I hate to leave the basement, but it's always nice to go home. The trip will include a stop at Mary Jo's {FYI...monster fabric store in Gastonia, NC}...Ooh, that's more shopping isn't it? It's business! Now, hush.

Hope you have a wonderful week and weekend...catch ya on the flip side {is that corny or what?}

Good wedding, good fun...good God it's hot!

My friends Chip & Dianne

Opening line of the 'welcome speech' from Father of the Bride: "could they have picked a hotter day for an outside wedding?" I think not. It was a stifling 94 degrees @ 6pm .... add our famous Carolina humidity and we were all melting within minutes. Still the bride was gorgeous, the ceremony was memorable, the food was scrumptious, the band was fabulous, sharing time with friends was priceless ... all-in-in an A+ evening.

Too fast...

" Golfing Baby" Gift Set: bib, burps & hooded towel

Navy Tote


Black Tote

Black tote

My first week of vacation just flew by! I can't account for every minute (that's one of the great things about vacation-you don't have to!) but was busy in the basement and just enjoyed being on MY schedule. Above are pictures of some the completed projects. The baby gift set was bartered for house cleaning....sewing is soooo much more fun than cleaning house! She got an adorable shower gift and I got a clean house...that's a win/win in my book. I also finished 8 bikini bags, 2 cosmetic bags, 4 personalized key fobs, monogrammed 6 napkins and a bread basket cover for a wedding gift. I read 'Sail' by James Patterson, walked at least 30 minutes everyday, went shopping for the infamous 'black wedding outfit' and treated myself to a manicure/pedicure. All-in-all a pretty productive week for someone on vacation.

Help me out here ladies...

One of my hard & fast rules is that guests should not wear black or white attire to weddings. (good ole' Southern etiquette here) I don't wear white before Easter or after Labor Day either, thank you very much! Back to my point...Today the Best Saleswoman in the entire world not only convinced me to wear black, but also a belt and bling! Don't know if I'll recognize myself! I say she is the best for several reasons. First because of my rule, second because I do not recall the last time I wore a belt...definitely pre-Rachel Ann...so that's at least 26 yrs.! Always thought a belt would draw attention to my middle, which is not my best figure feature. (biggest, doesn't qualify as best, right?). When Best Saleswoman suggested it, I went alone, just being nice, 'cause she had spent a tremendous amount of time with me. I felt she had been honest about this looked good or that didn't...so she put the belt on me and wow! was I totally surprised, it looked great! In the bag, that came home with me! Then she picked out the perfect earrings and bracelet , more in the bag! She quoted a Ouiser line from Steel Magnolias ..."The only thing that separates us from the animals is our ability to accessorize". Hope Best Saleswoman was working on commission today. Whew, that was a long way around to get to my question: Do you think it is alright to wear black to a 6pm wedding?

First Monday

First Monday...sounds like a great name for a weekly children's activity at church, but in my world, it's the first Monday of summer vacation...waaahoooo!...or maybe not?....this is my day so far:

• wide awake at 5:30 am
• WW weigh-in up almost 6 lbs.
• hubby departed for week long business trip
• 20 minute embroidery project has turned into hour long affair 'cause the blanking thread keeps breaking

This is the day I've been working towards for months and I'm not sure isn't going down in the books as one of my best. BUT wait, I am still wearing my shower wrap, sipping coffee and have no plans to leave the basement today... ain't life grand!

School's out for summer....

Don't even know how to spell/type words to express how excited I was when that last bell rang at 11:00...finally, summer vacation! I had some wonderful students this semester, their projects were amazing and I will miss them. Overall test scores - 97% proficient!!! Don't meant to sound boastful, but that's good ya'll...real good! Love what I do, but I am sooooo very happy for a break. 'Course I've got several weeks worth of BB work 'on the table' so it's not likely that I'll get too lazy over the next 8 weeks.

Five good things...

Monday isn't usually my favorite day, but today was an exception. Here are five reasons:

1. it is the last Monday of the school year.

2. my students did outstanding on NC State post assessment test (VoCats) - 100% proficient- WOW!!! - sure made me look good!

3. was complimented multiple times on my 'cute' outfit (was even told I smelled good?!?!?!)

4. we had dinner with our 'local' daughters/husbands/grandchildren...very nice...may be the beginning of a weekly tradition

5. it is the last Monday of the school year. Oh, did I already say that? well, it deserves two spots 'cause I'm oober excited!

The Right Tools

The "Rachie Clutch" is one of my best selling bags, but one of the most frustrating to make...until now! The sewing part is a snap, but attaching the bag to the frame has resulted in the muttering of many 'ugly' words. However, as with most tasks, having the right tools makes the job a breeze. After some research and web-shopping, I found a couple of purse-making tools (one is actually called a purse making tool) and some kick-ass (pardon me!) glue. I'm thrilled with these experimental bags that I made this morning. Don't you love the new frames with the extra large ball clasp? So very trendy! During the web-shopping couldn't help noticing, again ,that my bags are soooo reasonably priced compared to many out there. Clutches just like mine (minus the monogram) for $50-75?!?! Would be interesting to know how many they really sale. I know there are lots of people that think a high price tag automatically means better products. And some of those same people love to throw around brand and store names. Whatever floats your boat...guess it's cool to have the same thing hundreds of other people have. Still I'd put a Basement Bag up against any out there for quality, price and customer service. I can say that with confidence 'cause I know the owner. ;)

Have it your way

"Custom designs" is my middle name. Sometimes my customers come up with the best ideas and I love making items that are totally unique. In this case, a bride-to-be selected colors to match her wedding theme....her bridesmaids will loves these cute bags!

Going with an 'early bedtime' tonight. Sweet dreams!

Zero

Zero is the number of full school days left in this year!!!! Yippee!!! Four exam days then "school's out for summer"!

Iced tea, please

87 degrees at 7pm, are you kidding?!?! did we skip ahead to July when I wasn't looking? So here's the real kicker...the air conditioning unit upstairs went out yesterday. Wonder which I'll fret about the most...sleeping in a stuffy bedroom or paying the repair bill? It's always something. Thankfully it's cool in the basement. I'm loving all these baby gift orders!

Why?

Why are weekends so short? Especially ones like we just had here in NC. Two days of the most gorgeous weather you can imagine. Boating, skiing, connecting with 'lake friends' after the long off-season, dinner prepared on the grill, glass(es) of wine by the chiminea, hours of carefree leisure...a totally perfect lake weekend! Of course our frivolity means no 'order processing' in the basement-I'll catch up this week. Tomorrow is the last regular Monday...are you keeping tack with me?... 4 days, then exams...the end is in sight!

Just added 'Home" by Michael Buble' to my IPod...what a mellow tune-aah, that anticipation of coming home ... my favorite place in the whole wide world ... home. Have a good night and here's wishing the days of our work week pass quickly.

Rained out

Our lake weekend got rained out. We had maybe half a day of sunshine and D skied a couple of times. Three of the girls came down and we enjoyed catching up & dinner from the grill. I made yummy chicken salad and L brought the best fresh strawberries. Crazy how sunshine & water make me want to eat non-stop...the scales were not friendly this morning! Anyway, summer showers are typical at the lake and normally I don't mind. We have a metal roof over the porch and 'sky chairs' so I can usually sit there for hours getting lost the sound of the rain. Very relaxing. However, after 'resting' so much this Spring following my surgery, I had no patience for just sitting around this weekend. So we packed up and came home yesterday. Sleeping in my own bed is so much nicer. Used my day off at home to put together another baby gift set. Hope you enjoyed the holiday weekend.

Eight regular days, four exam days and two workdays...not that I'm keeping track or anything!

Do your kids know?

At school yesterday my students (and I) were so excited to have a holiday weekend coming up. I asked what they had planned...assorted answers-going to 'the race', the lake, the beach, sleep all weekend (teenagers!)...then someone asked "what is Memorial Day anyway?" Are you serious?!?! Are our kids really this misinformed? add to my shock & amazement, no one could give a clear answer. I don't teach history, but jumped on that opportunity to stamp out ignorance. I would like to think we teach this in public education, but just in case-do your kids know the meaning of our holidays? know more than it's just a day out of school? I hope you have something great planned for the weekend...hope it includes remembering the men & women that gave their lives defending our freedom.
For us, the 'girly boat' is primed and headed to the lake. Have fun & be safe!

Grocery shopping

My weekly trip to Super Wal Mart has become intolerable so it's time to shop around for a new grocery store. Love Harris Teeter, but it's just too expensive. Food Lion is ok, nothing to write home about and their produce isn't usually too great. BiLo was my favorite in SC, but there aren't many stores around here and it's changed ownership anyway. Today I tried Target...much better than Wal Mart, but again, the prices are much higher. I buy pretty basic stuff and it probably cost 10-15% more at Target than Wal Mart. I just don't know if the great selection and variety, cleaner store, buggy that actually rolls, associates that look like they bathed before coming to work, fewer screaming children with not-as-scary parents and mega cute clothes & home deco are worth the extra money. Gees, wish I wasn't so 'frugal', it'd be a no-brainer. Wonderful Wednesday...three down & two to go!

Babies and big girls...

Here's another bib/burp cloth for a sweet baby boy ... I'm liking the look of the fabric patch and band instead of just ribbon.

My babies are big girls now and there seems to be a dark cloud over them. A few days ago Hannie got twisted up on the stairs, fell and sprained her ankle. Second degree sprain, will be in walking boot for about 6 wks. Not so good for college girl that earns rent money as a waitress! Then today some jerk(s) broke into Rachel Ann's car (broad day light, in the parking lot of her office building)...smashed the window, tore up the console trying to get the CD player out, took her IPod and GPS. Just makes a mother sick when 'stuff' happens to her children, no matter how old they are. Hopefully the cloud will show it's silver lining and something happy will happen for my babes.

Lucky baby

Another rainy day in NC, another great day to be in the basement. Just finished this gift set (bib, burp cloth, diaper cover & pacifer clip) for a lucky baby girl. I am thankful for my talents and love sharing it with others, especially precious babies.

I'm moving on to a Sunday afternoon ritual, ironing my clothes for the week. I know...nobody irons anymore, except me. I don't put my clothes in the dryer and it's just not in my nature to be wrinkled. So I turn on PBS and iron-very relaxing- nerdy perhaps, but satisfying. Let's see, three more Mondays 'til summer vacation, that's doable!

Something new

Took a few minutes and Mom's suggestion to stitch up a new product... Personalized Tissue Cover...what do you think? No more ripped up plastic and messy tissues all over your purse. I can totally see a fabulous set of matching purse accessories...tissue cover, cosmetic bag, lighted compact mirror, key fob...this is a preppy girls dream! I'd love to make something special for your favorite babe (and that can be YOU!)

Sleeping late this morning was heavenly , can't wait to do it again tomorrow! Unusual rain storms off & on all day...perfect 'stay inside & sew day'. It's Race Week in our corner of the world, so most 'locals' stay home if at all possible. But it sure is some good people watching if we venture out.

BTW...car has been inspected, oil changed, washed inside & out (including the engine...a Danny thing) and tires will be rotated on Monday...I am 'good to go'! Time to close up shop for the day...had just enough work in the basement to say "I didn't have time to do laundry" . Works for me. Sweet dreams!

Alive and well...

I've been awful about posting and taking pictures of projects but I really am alive & well & working away down here. Nothing spectacular happening in the basement but here's a quick update...WW total 23.8 lbs!!!...17 regular days/4 exam days/2 work days left 'til summer vacation!!! plenty of orders on 'the list'!!! so many ideas that I can't wait to stitch up!!!...oh,please hurry end of school.
Made a quick trip to SC for Mothers' Day...very nice to see family and share a special day with my 'Mama". Hope all of you Moms had a memorable day.

Had a little 'trading places' episode with daughter, Hannie. She's borrowing my car while hers is getting a 'check up'. A few minutes after she drove away the phone rang and she informed me that my inspection sticker had expired. Isn't talking on the phone while driving illegal?!??! Maybe I will report her! Must admit she did a pretty good 'mother' imitation...scolding me for not being responsible, going to get a ticket...blah, blah, blah...she must have a tape recorder in her head, cause I swear she played it back verbatim. Lord, is that what I really sound like?!?!? And then only seconds later another call with more rantings that I was 3,000 miles over the scheduled oil change...engine would blow up...blah, blah, blah! So like every good wife, I found D and fussed at him for not taking care of my car...car care is 'man work'! Now.

All done!

Zebra bags are finished, packed up & ready for shipping. Whew! glad to be done with that project. Now we're on to orders that got 'delayed'...thankfully, the work never ends!

I'm seriously on the 'countdown'. As usual, students have awful 'senioritist'...even the freshmen! All of you teachers out there know there comes a time in the semester(year) when it just needs to be over! We are quickly approaching that point. Fortunately, since my curriculum is a very 'hands on' I'm able to keep them busy with fun projects so each class period just flies by. Still, hurry June 12!!

Our girls are busy with life...Dana & Hannie are studying for exams and scramblin' to complete final projects-I am sooo jealous that they will be finished with school next week!...Rach is working hard to diagnose all the genetic disorders of the world, studying for 'boards' which she will take in Sept and trying to win the Jeopardy trip to Galapagos (she's been once, but thinks going with Alex would be fabulous)....Lauren is relieved for tax season to be over and starting to look pregnant. BTW, she is having another boy, due in September. I was secretly hoping for a girl, but honestly will be happy with another beautiful, healthy baby of any gender. That's it from the basement today...have a restful Sunday & a great week!

One down...

...and four to go! for this week. The countdown is on...27 regular days, 4 exam days, 2 work days, then glory! summer vacation! I have lots of Seniors this semester and our excitement level & anticipation of June 12 is about even. Twenty-seven years in high school, wonder if I'll get a diploma this time?
I'm finally feeling almost normal...still having to be very careful about my diet. I'm still using WW online, but not doing so great with tracking and exercise. Total loss is 20.4 lbs and I"m within ounces of the 10% goal...hoping to hit that milestone next week.
I'm making remarkable progress on the 'big' order. 53 out of 71 bags finished. Rach was here this weekend and for the price of a 'Mexican date' she rolled up her sleeves and helped. She learned how to 'finger press', cut & seal ribbon and tie zipper pulls. She was also my 'spell checker' which is real important when one is making personalized items. None of the girls have ever shown much interest in sewing, but it's nice to know they can help in a pinch...maybe it's genetics?!?!?
Time to turn on the machines and get busy. Hope you had a great Monday.

Zebramania

Been away so long, had to think about the password before signing in...it was the same thing at school last Monday after being on Spring Break. We ended our week with a wonderful trip to Wilmington/Carolina Beach.

This morning I am knee-deep in zebra print cosmetic bags, there will be 71 of them when I am finished. It's a fun project, but I see black/white stripes every where!

Thanks everyone for your patience while I'm so busy...35 more school days and maybe we'll get all caught up.

This is great!

It's final-I want to be a stay at home Mom! I know my children are grown and don't live here anymore, but that shouldn't matter. Yeah, hubby will reply "wish in one hand....". I just l-o-v-e being at home! Spring Break should last forever! The countdown 'til summer vacation will start Monday and believe me, June 12 can't get here fast enough. Although I enjoy teaching & love my students, this working 'outside' the home is simply overrated.
Since I'm still 'recovering', we're taking it easy this week. I've almost caught up on orders and we are taking a quick trip to Wilmington tomorrow. Got my fingers crossed for a couple of clear & warm days. I'm no sun worshiper nor do I care about 'tanning', but sunshine and ocean sounds are soooo relaxing.
Been doing a little closet cleaning. Between WW and surgery, I've dropped a size or two. Went shopping Monday with the explicit goal of buying something that was NOT black...came home with black linen pants, blk/white sweater, blk/white/taupe jacket, blk sandals, and green pants...lol...one out of five? Goal accomplished!

Points vs. Fat grams

Do you remember when 'low fat' dieting first hit? was that some time in the 80's? Remember stories of women fighting in the grocery store to buy SnackWell fat-free cookies, so they could go home and eat the whole box! "0 fat grams", they would say...but 100,000 calories...dah!...that's advertising for you. Anyway, the concept was to eat less than 30 grams of fat a day...remember how impossible that seemed? Well, my post-surgery diet is low fat, less than 20 grams per day. I thought, no way! but soon discovered that too much fat equaled pain! so my average fat intake for the past two weeks has been between 13-18 grams per day....impressive, right? So you'd think the pounds would be dropping off, right? Well, not so much. However, enough pounds lost that my WW points have dropped...that's a good thing, right? All I really know is this: yesterday I prepared a lovely Easter lunch for my family...glazed ham, macaroni & cheese (the real kind made with elbow macaroni, extra-sharp cheese, eggs,milk, baked in the oven), deviled eggs, green beans, steamed carrots, dinner rolls, and lemon pound cake w/ice cream and I ate grilled chicken breast (unseasoned) & green beans. Oh well, at least they looked happy.

Did I mention I'm on Spring Break this week? .... YIPPEE!!! Have lots of sewing to catch up on and might do a little closet cleaning, but I'm mostly going to rest and hopefully get well.

I made this lunch tote and cosmetic bag last night...love the fabric & colors.

Hope you have a great Monday!

Happy Easter!

Been pretty slack with the blogging and pic posting...hopefully I'll be back to 'normal' soon. We're on Spring Break next week and it will be nice to have some unscheduled time. Hope you have a wonderful Easter!

This is one of projects from today-monogrammed church bag...Florida Gators?!?!?...I just make what the people order...lol. I'm negotiating an order for 71, yes! SEVENTY-ONE cosmetic bags...that will be a record and I may hate zebra fabric in a couple of weeks!

Just cuttin' grass

I'm told (now) that one of the biggest problems with laparoscopic surgery is that the recovery seems to be going well, people get a false sense of being 'back to normal', then they over do it (something as routine and innocent as cutting grass) and wham! pain!!! Who would have thought riding a lawn mower could play such havoc with ones insides? I'm also told to feel relieved that a trip back to the hospital wasn't necessary...I mostly just feel stupid!

Thanks everyone for your patience & well wishes these past few weeks.

Back to work

Surgery is not something that I would opt for very often and I have enjoyed a few days off, but it is time to go back to school. As expected, my substitute fell in love with 'my girls'...I've been teaching for 28 yrs. and can honestly say this is collectively one of the best groups I've ever had...all three classes! Really look forward to seeing them and the projects they have worked on in my absence.

Today I made another jon-jon for baby Jack and an 'airplane' outfit for Cooper. Maybe if the weather cooperates the boys can 'match' for Easter. My girls tell me they hated being dressed them alike, but they grew up alright! So will Jack & Cooper. It makes me happy for my babes to look cute.

Leslie also shared the 'lemonaid award' with me, thanks! Stay tuned, working on my list.

I'm honored...

The Gifting Gumshoe bestowed this lovely award to me! Thanks!
Per the rules: these blogs are exceedingly charming. These kind bloggers aim to find and be friends. They are not interested in self-aggrandizement. Our hope is that when the ribbon of these prizes are cut, even more friendships are propagated. Please give more attention to these writers. Deliver this award to eight bloggers who must choose eight more and include this cleverly-written text into the body of their award.

I'm relatively new to blogging and this is my first award so hope I'm doing this correctly. Below are my lucky picks!

1. All Things Southern & Preppy (Preppy 101)

2.. A Southern Accent

3. Confessions of a Preppy Bumpkin

4. Odom: Party of Five

5. Rach in the Real World

6. the smith family

7. Through Cooper's Eyes

8. Adventures of a Southern Newlywed

This is my heart

We gathered to celebrate our last March b'day and for once I remembered to snap a pic. Here are six of my reasons for living (from left to right) Rachel Ann, Lauren - holding baby Jack, Hanna, Cooper and Dana. Looks like Beau got her head in this shot too. We enjoyed pizza, cake & ice cream, but mostly just being together!

PS...we do have men in our lives...Danny & Dean were here, Brian was at work.

Nip, but no tuck

So the gall badder won and was removed on Thursday. Surgery went well. Other than the terribly bloated abdomen (which they say is normal) and the wobblier-than-usual head, I'm recovering nicely. To my disappointment the surgeon forget to do the lipo, tummy tuck and face lift...oh, well! we'll, save that for another day.

Made this precious jon-jon for baby Jack yesterday while I was 'resting'. The picture is not great, one day I will master the camera! These cute airplanes are one of my new embroidery designs and fonts, hope you'll visit BasementBags to see them all.

March is a big b'day month in our family. We're having our last of what seems like weekly parties today. Rach will be 25 tomorrow...that makes me feel old as dirt! Enjoy your Sunday.

Almost Monday, again?!?!?

Where did the weekend go? and I had an extra day...sort of. Spent most of Friday with the doctor, as my digestive system has been acting quite ugly! She asked a zillion questions, poked around, then ordered a bazillion blood test and an ultrasound...abdominal, not baby/pregnancy kind...Lord, help us if that were the issue! I remember those too-the excitement of finding out if it's a girl or boy (although 'back in the day' ultrasounds were still iffy on gender identification). This time the news will likely be gallbladder or ulcer or more of our yucky old friend, IBS. Hmmm, I think girl babies was much better news! Anyway...I'm just like "fix it already"! So tired of feeling blah and hopeful for some answers. Sorry this isn't my typical 'look at this cute stuff I made' post...didn't actually do much sewing this weekend-just needed to whine a little to someone other than poor D. To borrow the words of my heroine, "After all...tomorrow is another day' and I hope you have a fabulous Monday.

Crazy for Paisley

I l-o-v-e paisley and my #1(meaning oldest, not favorite) daughter does too. I'm thinking she'll be looking for a dress & hat to match this clutch for the upcoming Carolina Cup...isn't that how it works - accessories first?!?!?

Ahoy!

Maybe it's Spring Fever Frenzy or March Madness (for the basketball fans), but I can't get new products online fast enough. The new machine is amazing and it's exciting to make even more cute-fun stuff! I just added Onesies to the Basement Babies collection. The quality of this onesie is impressive: super soft 100% cotton, double stitched neck/arm/leg binding, three sturdy crotch snaps and lapped shoulders for easy on and off. Onesies are available in several sizes and colors and there are lots of design options. As I read blogs, seems like everyone is pregnant! Hope you'll remember this for a perfect gift for the baby in your life!

One for her, one for me

I adore the gift shopper with the 'one for her, one for me' philosophy. Everybody wins! It's getting hard to be in the basement so much with the gorgeous Carolina blue sky & sunshine peeking through the windows! Spring fever is setting in...hold on the weekend is coming!

Beau & Ru

Here are Beau & Ru with their 'doggie stuff' bags...cute canines, huh?

Exciting additions

So, Friday I hurried home from school, anxious to use the new embroidery machine! And a few short hours later, melt down! I had lots on the 'to do list' and the first attempt on the 'wonder machine' was a total disaster! I was too tired to figure it out and very frustrated to have this new toy and not know how to use all the features. Shot off a quick email to new online friend, K , and she responded right away with several great suggestions...thanks again! Anyway, I'm slowly but surely getting the hang of it. Completed all the orders and made some great samples to add to the website. Don't you love the slippers? Those are going in the Easter Baskets of some lucky girls! Thanks to my brilliant webmaster, hubby D, everything is posted and I'm ready for new orders to come rolling in! I added the totes, lunch bags (see above), and monogrammed onesies and diaper covers (bloomers)-hope you'll check 'em out. More Bib/Burp sets and caps will be coming soon.

Another doggie bag

We all know about sibling rivalry, but what about 'dog cousin rivalry'??? Or maybe it's really just a sister thing--either way, looks like this bag is getting dubbed as the 'doggie stuff tote'! That works for me, I just enjoy coming up with new designs. If you have a pet pal maybe you'll treat them to this cute accessory! It will be on the website soon.

For the love of dogs

All of our girls have 'inside' dogs and like children they have tons of doggie stuff to take along. We even have one 'career' dog that goes to work several days a week (her

'mom' has a pet friendly office-what a concept!?!?). Anyway, this should be a great tote for getting all of Beaus essentials from here to there. (BTW Beau is a girl, but the name works) Stitched this up on the 'new' machine - took less than 1/2 the time of the old one -think it's a keeper!

Church bag

Did someone say we are in a recession? Basement Bags has been a one woman 'economic stimulus plan' this past month-without government bail out money no less!
First the basement 'face lift' and then yesterday I went totally bonkers and finally bought a new embroidery machine. I'm an emotional wreck, such a huge decision. You see, although I love having nice equipment and supplies, I hate spending money! I am serious about my little business, but still consider it a 'profitable hobby'. I've been looking at this machine for almost 2 yrs....pricing it, researching it, watching YouTube video demonstrations, chatting with other small business operators...it's just intimidating to me...like buying the machine was saying 'you are doing this business stuff for real now'. I'm thrilled because with the new machines, my monogramming capability has increased tremendously. I can now do pre-made totes, lunch bags, hats...almost anything! Such ambivilance! Hurry summer vacation so I can really learn how to use this wonderful new machine! I stitched up this 'church bag'....just playing around-design could be larger, will take some practice to get everything just right. What do you think?

Not so bad

If you are a follower, you know my Saturday mornings & sleeping late are cherished. IF the alarm goes off, it's an accident, we (D) forgot to unset it and then I'm usually 'mad' (for a few minutes) - however today the alarm was intentionally set and I had to drag myself out for Saturday School. Just unnatural! And to make matters worse, it's a gorgeous, warm, Carolina Blue Sky kinda day. How funny, four inches of snow on Monday then five days later, 70 degrees. Anyway, school was not so bad and we have one make-up day behind us. Although I should be in the basement working, my new Threads magazine and the front porch hammock are screaming for me attention. Later.

Oh, joy!

Did I enjoy the day off? Maybe not so much since getting the call that we will make up the time on Saturday! But honestly...1/2 a day on Sat. vs. whole day of Spring break....gotta vote with our 'leader' on this one. And I really did enjoy doing the 'SuSu' (that's Grandmother at our house) thing today, so I'm not complaining. The four-day weekend sure spoiled me, could definitely get used to this schedule. I've always thought switching the allotment of days in the week and weekend would be a great idea....work two days, have five off...now that's a schedule!

Some of you might be wondering what happened to my WW updates, still on 'the plan', have just forgotten to share. I'm down 14.2 lbs!!! Feels good.

Sent out this purse & checkbook cover this morning (click pic to enlarge). Thank heavens for USPS click-n-ship and carrier pickup! My local guys do a fabulous job and are greatly appreciated.

Ya'll have a great evening now!

Questionable call

We have a wonderful Superintendent and he seems to make good decisions-but I have to question our 'no school' today. Yes, there is still snow on the ground- yes, the 'weatherman' said there would be 'black ice' everywhere- yes, the temperature is still below freezing, so the original two-hour delay made sense...but the early morning call informing me of no school???? Oh well, everything happens for a reason. I'm needed for 'Grandmother Duty' and am happy to be available. Too cold in the basement for sewing today!

Snow? without dancing?

It's true. It's snowing like crazy and I didn't even dance this time! Looks like we'll be getting a three-day weekend, it's all good. Guess we'll have a Saturday school or dip into Spring Break to make this up, but we'll just take it one day at a time.

I forgot to take pics of several orders before I packed they up...finish some really cute slippers and more zebra print checkbook covers. Above are some precious baby gift sets. Is that dinosaur adorable or what?

If you have wintry weather, be careful and have a hot chocolate on me!

"it's Saturday!!@$!%@&*&#^%#@"

And someone forgot to unset the alarm clock!!! I was not a happy camper when that obnoxious sound awoke me at 5:15...for crying out loud! it's Saturday! I'm over it now, can't stay mad at D! Already finished these two cuties this morning - the flip flop ribbon is one of my favorites. The pacifier clip is a great way to keep track of that baby essential! (click the pic for a closer view) Hope you are having a great Saturday.

They're back!

Ok, ladies, they're back! Cutest little personalized lighted compact mirrors you've ever seen. No more fumbling in the dark to put on lipstick! These are made by stitching on kiwi paper, which is a special paper made for machine embroidery. Initially, I had trouble using the paper, it kept tearing and I was too busy to 'play with it'. I took them off the site-big mistakes! The request started rolling in, so I brought them back...shippment of compacts arrived today! I've perfected the stitching method and just love the results. Just one more accessory for gift giving or self-pampering!

I'm so glad tomorrow is Friday....we're sleeping late on Saturday!!!!

Zebra Print

I am not a 'pack rat' and was never one to have stacks of fabric, ribbon, buttons and other sewing notions like many seamstresses. That was before Basement Bags. I always keep the basics on hand, but used to buy materials one project at a time. Again, that was before Basement Bags! I was surprised during our 'make over' at how much stuff has accumulated. I definitely have a weakness for cute ribbon...drawers & drawers and spools & spools of adorable ribbon. It's fun for me when a customer orders a combination that I haven't put together before. This zebra checkbook cover and matching key fob are just too snazzy!

Checking 'em off

Here's what I finished yesterday. The matching cosmetic bag & checkbook cover are such cute accessories...great gifts for secret pals & birthdays. This set would also be a wonderful 'treat' for yourself! I love making baby gifts ...."Duckie" is a popular design and is great for boys and girls. Click the pic for larger view.

Minnie Mouse...

Now this is a box of bags! Twenty monogrammed cosmetics bags - black & white polka dot , trimmed in red to match school colors...going to a cheer leading squad in Ohio. I had thoughts of Disney World and Minnie Mouse the whole time I was working on this order. This is a big check off the 'to do list'. Time for bed, there will be more tomorrow.

Ready, set, .... wait!

Gracious, the 'go' part has eluded me this week. One reason (excuse) is it's been one of those unusually busy weeks...lots of extra stuff, Open House, appointments, blah, blah, blah...a couple of days I stayed in my 'school cloths' until bedtime! But the main reason (excuse) is that I don't want to be get the basement messy....isn't that the craziest thing? Fixed up this fabulous work space and now I don't want to work...I love just sitting here taking it all in. Unfortunately the 'honeymoon' ends right now...thanks to my wonderful customers, there is a stack of orders on the 'new' table that I have to get busy with. Hopefull I'll have good pics of a productive weekend to share. Forecast is calling for a cold & rainy weekend, so being 'down under' won't be so bad, especially since I have these sunny yellow walls all around me. Hope you have some kind of sunshine in your weekend.
BTW...for anyone keeping track...WW update...-12.8 and subtracting!!!!

Valentine's Day Face Lift

This face lift started with "D, I need a file cabinet" and voila!...face lift! Words can not express how excited I am about my new 'Basement Bags' space. D and I have just laughed at these before & after photos...we didn't realize how bad it looked! After all it was just a basement...hand-me downs, jerry-ridged, the K-Mart shelves and hodge-podge this & that was fine. However, as my business has grown and we spend more and more time 'underground' it really was time to freshen up a bit. D has been a great sport about this, unfortunately he lost lots of space in the transformation...but we aren't finished...he is getting a new table and we'll be adding more shelves on his side. No doubt there will be more additions and some tweaking as we work to get it all just right. I think we are both amazed that we did it all in one day! Of course, we were tired puppies when we went to bed at 1AM... unheard of for us! We'll tackle the rest of the basement in phases...more paint, new floor covering...more storage. OK...now I gotta get busy embroidering & sewing...new bills to pay!

Passionate for Paisley...

This adorable brown/turquoise shoe bag is shipping out tomorrow morning. A thoughtful Bride ordered it to give someone at the rehearsal dinner...what a great gift! I love this fabric, brown continues to be a popular color and paisley is just a classic.

Why not have cute?

Why would anyone have a "plain, ugly came with the checks" checkbook cover when you can have something as cute as this one?!?!? This is actually made with paper for machine embroidery...I have lots of patterns...would love to make on especially for you!

PS...one day I will learn to take good pictures.

So confused...

...what day is it anyway?!?! As one who always know when it's Friday, I was totally off track today...the snow day messed me up... two days on, one day off, two days on, now two days off...hummm, I could really get used to that schedule...wonder who I need to talk to about this?!?! I did love the day off, but I must admit that going to work is no problem...have absolutely the best classes this semester...advanced students are wonderful! It is so much fun to share all my 'sewing secrets' with them...they are working on heart shaped pillows right now...learning how to attach piping & ruffles and they are doing a fantastic job! I'll post a few pics of their work when they are finished.
Forgot to tell ya'll that my total weight loss is 9.8 lbs....really hope it will be a full 10 for Monday mornings 'official' weight in...I'm liking how the pants are fitting!
Hope you have something fun planned for the weekend, it's suppose to be gorgeous weather here...I'll be lookin' at it through the basement window, there are orders to process.
C'ya!

My dancing has improved...

...Snow dancing that is. We got more than a dusting, we got a day out of school...yeah! Never mind how mad I'll be when we have to make it up, just going to enjoy a day off! Roads are icy so D is working from home, that makes the day extra nice! Think I'll catch up on making some baby stuff...have a couple of gifts that are months overdue...kids will be walking if I don't hurry up! That's it for now, from the 'lazy girl in the basement', stay safe & warm today!

Come on 'dusting'

Forecast calling for a 'dusting' of snow tonight....hope they have underestimated Mother Nature...a day out of school would be lovely... just dog tired here! I'm off to do my 'snow dance'!

Projects & Pounds

Here's what I worked on today....bags & a burp for Bethany. Finished several other projects, but keep forgetting to take pictures. D was in CA on business this week (hate it when he is away!!!) and since he's my photographer, we'll blame no project pics on him.

OK, so it's not 'official' because technically Monday is my WW weight-in, but as of this morning, I'm down 8 lbs! Yipeee! 'Course I won't really get excited until the number is much greater...like 4X's greater...but I am pleased with the first month and honestly, it hasn't been hard yet. Yesterday was the biggest challenge...WW frozen entree for lunch, one I'd never tried...sooo nasty, couldn't eat it...totally starving by the end of school. Add stress to starving...one of my favorite students caught her finger with the sewing machine needle...OMG...it was awful! Just a freaky little accident...needle broke off...trip to ER for it to be removed...won't she just love sewing from now on?!?!?! Checked on her last night and we ended up laughing about it...like I said, she is a great girl! Teachers always wonder if students will remember us...feel pretty sure she will. Anyway...thank goodness for carrots & those 'extra points'!

Bridesmaids & Babies

I love making every order that comes into Basement Bags, but gifts for bridesmaids and babies are definitely my favorites. Thanks to MLK Day & a 'snow day' out of school I'm way ahead on orders...just finished eleven wet bikini bags for a customer in NY....what a great treat for her attendants! My personalized cosmetic bags are also very popular gifts during wedding season (which fortunate for me is all year 'round) and I can usually customize to match wedding color schemes. And what mother can resist personalized goodies for their new baby? Basement Babies has lots of cute stuff...hope you'll check it out next time you need a shower gift.

In addition to finishing up orders in the basement, we finished up the semester at school. Students had exams Wed. & Thurs. and we had a 'work day' on Friday....so this was a week of 'teacher favorites'...snow days & work days! Monday we'll start the new semester...I excited!...two classes of 2nd yr. sewing...all my girls will be back to learn more about what I love! I have the best job in the whole school!

Three snow flakes

Winter in the south, gotta love it...three snow flakes and they call off school...what?!?!? Right in the middle of exams?!?!?....I'm betting a Saturday make-up day will be in order...oh, well...I have tons of sewing to do...bikini bags for a bridal party tops the list today. Funny, I'm stitching up goodies for a tropical retreat and there's a winter wonderland outside!

It's working!

A few years ago I calculated how many pounds I've gained and lost, gained and lost in my life and the number is too embarrassing to post. You could say I'm a YoYo Dieter...or maybe MEGA YoYo would be a more accurate description for me. Most women play with 5-10 lbs....not, this girl!, my swing is usually 20-30 lbs! So when I gain, it's just crazy and then so hard to get motivated to lose....I mean, 30 lbs?!?!? that's overwhelming! And then there's the self -loathing...why did I let this happen again?!?!? Anyway, for this losing cycle WW is my 'plan'. It's so sensible and flexible and it's working for me! Down 2.2 lbs this week...best week so far...total 5.8 and counting! Off to the treadmill. Cya!

Missing 'woman' gene....

I'm so glad that tomorrow is a school holiday! Without the typical 'get ready for tomorrow' evening chores, I'm putting in some extra 'blog reading' time. It's fun to have a glimpse at life experiences of others...some similar and some very different. Reminds me that there are a lot of typical woman things that I just don't enjoy. Topping that list are shopping, weddings and showers... eck! ... my husband teases me that I must be missing some of the woman genes! But here's how I see it:

• shopping-how much stuff does one need? too many people spending money they don't have, trying to impress people they don't know, buying stuff they don't need. I see post after post with pics of things they have bought or want to buy. I just don't need 'things'...unless you are talking sewing machines, fabric, ribbon...oops! did I just contradict myself?
• weddings-too much time & money spent planning an event, and too little attention paid to planning for a successful 'marriage'. Now my wedding was wonderfully 'us'...Tuesday afternoon, historic 'villa', 30 closest friends & family, tiniest cake ever (but oh so yummy!!), great music & food...all for less than $1,000...I swear! and we are JUST as married (and happy) as those who spend $40,000 +
• showers-a bunch of women being 'sweet' to your face, then trashing whoever leaves the room first...to me that's sort of like getting so drunk that you get sick, how fun is that?!?!? 'Nough said!

I'm sure all these opinions stem from some deep rooted insecurities or inferiority complex or something. Anyway, although I'm not one of them, I am very thankful for all the shoppers and shower goers out there...you make fabulous customers! So please keep shopping and celebrating! Until next time.

48 good minutes

I just kept walking...iPod cranking out my fav tunes....planned to do 20 mins....48 minutes later I pushed the stop button! Feels soooo good! I want to get back in shape big time! Started WW Jan. 1 and there is already 3.6 lbs less of me! I'm so happy to have reconnected with a dear college friend, Fran. We're WW buddies now...checking in on each other and sharing weight-ins...we're using WW online...it's great! So easy! She is losing too...think we can get back to Zeta weight? While entering my 'points' today, thought about a conversation I overheard a couple of years ago. I try so hard not to judge...but you know there are people who really have weight issues and then there are those who 'want' to have an issue and choose weight...I mean this woman was tiny. Doing WW on her own, probably because she was already too thin to enroll...anyway, someone asked 'how many points do you get each day?'...'18' she replied....huh, I thought....us big girls get 26!!!! LOL Then she went on to add 'it doesn't really pay to lose weight because you can't find a size 2 anywhere'......a size 2?!?!!? please! I prefer a 1 in front of my size number. It just takes all kinds. We got some extra special 'happy news' today...but I can't share yet....stay tuned!

I got a surcie!

Surcie = surprise...and I got one in the mail today. My oldest daughter (who is my favorite right this minute) ordered a monogram decal for my car. I'm so excited! In all honesty, was as a little disappointed that I did get one for Christmas, but this is even better...an unexpected gift for no reason...a surcie! Almost makes me wish I still drove a minivan (almost is the operative word here...was so glad to get rid of that thing!...love my girls, but also love this empty nest) The decal will look fab on the Camry! Thanks, Rach...you're the best!

Mmm...Saturdays are the best!

I told D before we went to sleep last night that there "better not be an alarm ringin' in the morning" and there was not. How great to wake up naturally and to have time to just snuggle. No rush to dress, eat and get to work on time...that's living! Of course I'm working today, but in the basement where the fabric & ribbon don't care that my hair is a mess or that my pants aren't ironed! I'm fixin' (that's Southern for 'preparing to start something') to hop on the treadmill but wanted to show you what a made this morning. I love putting together 'custom' orders and this unique camo bag was made for a new customer in KY. Really cute, hope she loves it. Now, where's that I-Pod?!?!?!

Is it Friday yet?!?!?!

I can not believe it is only Wednesday...I vote for going 1/2 days for a couple of days after a vacation. 'Course I'd also vote to go Tues-Thurs, 10-2...doesn't that sound like a fabulous schedules?
Thanks all you 'after Christmas shoppers' for the orders coming into Basement Bags. This is a great partnership...you get super cute stuff and I get help with my diet...that's right..."idol hands are the devils' workshop" (did your Grandmother say that too?)...in my case, idol hands mean non-stop nibblin'...so thank you, thank you, thank you for helping me stay on my plan! Looks like personalized cosmetic bags will be a favorite again this year...they are terrific for bridesmaids gifts, Mothers' Day and graduation that will be coming in the next few months.

Hope the rest of the week goes quickly and that everyone has something fun planned for the weekend. C'ya!

Back to School....

This has been one of the most enjoyable winter vacations in recent years. We didn't do anything grand...no celebrity balls, no trips to Disney World...just good gatherings with family and friends, good food, sensible gifts and lots of time to just kick back. Seriously worried about how difficult it will be to get up at 5:15 tomorrow morning after sleeping in for two weeks. It will be like 'pulling teeth' to get the kids back on track....but exams are just around the corner & my students are the best so we will muddle through! Speaking of school, I monogrammed this apron for my friend, Donna, who teaches 'Foods' .... she will look so spiffy doing her cooking demonstrations!
Hope you had a great weekend...go to bed early & have sweet dreams....Goodnight John-Boy!

Cute babies need cute stuff!

This blog will serve a dual purpose....a platform to air my thoughts and a place to showcase my work. I am blessed with a talent to sew...but please, I don't do alterations! Basement Bags is not only my creative outlet but also subsidizes my teaching income...how nice to earn extra money doing something I love! (what will I do with all this money when Hannie graduates & there's no more college tuition to pay?!?! LOL) Today I 'whipped' up this baby gift set (bib & matching burp cloths). Hard to believe I used to embroider by hand...thank goodness for my Designer I!

Stuff on the agenda

Hopefully putting my thoughts on paper (aka this blog) will free up some space in my brain...seems like there's a lot of useless stuff bouncing around in there. As I enjoy my coffee this morning, my thoughts drift to projects for 2009. The agenda will include that healthier diet & exercise thing. How many years has that one been tops on my 'resolution' list?...Oprah, I feel your pain! I inherited an IPod and already see that it will make my hours (OK, minutes!) on the treadmill more enjoyable (OK, tolerable!) Anyway, I'm setting some reasonable goals and that's a starting point. I will also continue my dedication to Basement Bags...2008 was a great year and I'm thankful to my wonderful customers. The current economic situation causes concern, but we are debt free and have nothing to lose. The girls tease us about the amount of time we spend in the basement, so I'll make more of an effort in 2009 to come 'above ground' and be more social. Just a few more days of vacation and still many things on my 'to do list'.

Happy New Year!

Had to start the blog over ... I won't be winning any prizes for being tech savvy! So I'm wondering if the New Years' day meal is tradition or susperstition?... it's definitely a southern thing. We've eaten our greens & peas & pork, so hopefully 2009 will be a year of health, happiness & wealth!