Determined

I generally do yoga during the week because I get home too late to walk.  However, I usually have at least 3-4 opportunities to walk over the weekend so I try to make sure to do it because I enjoy it and there is an instant sense of accomplishment.  I got a late start today so instead of the early morning when the weather is still cool, I walked at about 3:00.  I knew it was 100 degrees out, but I was determined not to wimp out.  One thing that I have learned about myself over the years is that if I start allowing myself to make excuses about not doing the right things, pretty soon, I won't be doing them at all.  I decided to get my boys (10 and 7) in on the action because I want to set a good example for them early on to be proactive and include fitness in their lives as part of a normal routine rather than being forced to do so after their health has been compromised.  We only walked about 3/4 of a mile but between the weather and dodging the wasp, it seemed like we were out there an hour rather than the brief 20 minutes.  I've started wearing a heart monitor when I work out so that I can make sure I'm getting the most benefit from my work out.  You can find them at Target, Wal-Mart or any sporting good store and I got mine on Amazon.com. 

Black and White stripes - Mimi G Off the Shoulder Maxi Dress

I made this dress months ago but hadn't worn it.  It's made using an ITY which of course you know is a thinner knit.  Since the dress is designed to be body skimming, it was telling all my business months ago but it has since learned the value of discretion. For those who are interested, I am trying a new strapless bra by Goddess Bras that I found at JC Penney but that is available through other retailers.  So far it's the best one I've tried as it stays in place, and holds up to the weight.  In fact, the only downside I see would be trying to get into by yourself because the structure is so sturdy, it really works best to put it on and have some one fasten it from the back.

Butterick 5645 Weekend Wear

 

I love to dress up.  But when I'm not dressed up, I still like to look pulled together.  Here's my twist on jeans and a T-shirt.  This shirt is soooo comfortable and it wore very well.  Sometimes I have trouble with tops like this because of my sloping shoulders but not with this one.

 

Pattern Description: MISSES' TOPS: Close-fitting.

Pattern Sizing: Combinations: Y(XS-S-M), ZZ(L-XL-XXL)

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it? I think so.

Were the instructions easy to follow? I didn't need them but I read over them and they were good.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?  I like this modern spin on the basic "T-shirt".  Split sleeve, draped neckline and elastic waist.

Fabric Used: Bamboo Knit

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made: No design changes.  The pattern does have a lot of ease so I cut according to the flat pattern measurements rather than the size indicated on the pattern to get the fit I wanted.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? I would definitely recommend this to others. I may make this again in the future but I have lots of others I want to try.

Conclusion:   Definitely and easy and versatile pattern.  Great for beginners.

 

 

New Page on the Blog!!!!

Hi,

I've decided to start blogging a bit about my weight loss journey, including what I'm eating, exercise and other random thoughts (just keeping it real, LOL).  For those who are interested, check out the Food and Fitness page above.   For those who aren't I wanted to keep the original sewing/fashion content front and center, so the home page will remain the same.  Stop by when you have a chance and let me know what you think and what you'd like to see.

OOTD: Another Old Navy Find

I was back at Old Navy this weekend and came across this cute little number.   As you might guess, I don't subscribe to traditional fashion "rules" so I was not deterred by the horizontal stripes.  I believe your clothes should be an expression of you and you should wear what makes you feel good.  From my perspective, confidence is my best accessory and with it, I can rock whatever I want.

This is a simple little T-shirt dress that would be like any other but for the shearing on the sides.  I LOVED that little detail which prompted me to buy it and for $22 it was a great deal.  I got this cute jean vest there too.  I like to get my jean jackets at Old Navy versus some of the plus size specialty stores, because I think the proportions are better suited to my 5'4" frame.

Needless to say, I will be knocking this dress off MANY times as it is an easy, cute dress that can become a wardrobe staple.

S2391 - Modified

I've spent a lot of time lately trying to revamp the Princess's summer wardrobe. She's grown so much over the past few months and she can't fit anything so I thought I'd make her a bunch of easy breezy pillow case dresses.  I first made this dress here:

The dress came out cute and she looked cute in it but I felt like it could be improved to wear a little better. The dress was a little wide on the shoulders and I saw her adjusting the straps a couple of times during the day. I also wanted the ruffle to be fuller and thanks to Candice of Regal Appeal, I was able to improve the finish on the back opening.  After making the necessary adjustments, this is what I came up with.

I realize this may be a process so I'll see how this one wears and see if it needs further adjustment. 

So she wore her dress today and she loved it.  In fact, I had to convince her it wasn't a good idea to sleep in it.  I think we have a winner so I'll be making her a few more.  I love how it's so easy to put together and to dress her yet she looks so pulled together.