Sewing Diaries

I took Fashion Design freshman year in high school and that is where I learned the basics of sewing. I might have struggled the first few weeks during that first class but I ended up falling in love with sewing.  The teacher, Ms.

 Singer (no, I'm not kidding!) Was the perfect teacher to teach this class. Her patience and straight talk, made the class even more fun. Her classroom was casual, we moved around the room as we wanted to using the tables to cut patterns or fabric, to use the sewing machines or sergers( only year 4 students or Ms. Singer), to ask Ms. Singer, a question or for help perhaps for sewing or for life advice, to the changing room to try on our creations. 

She welcomed everyone. She helped everyone. Her kindness had no limits. 

That first year, we made boxer shorts and pin cushions and simple dresses. Each year we put on a fashion show to show off our projects to family and friends. It was a huge production and it was a lot of fun. 

 I ended up taking three years of sewing. After I graduated high school, I didn't sew much. I sewed tiny pajamas for my stuffed monkey (with monkey print fabric). 

Last summer, I got the urge again to sew. I didn't 

 

 

Book Reviews

 

Among the Bros by Max Marshall

(Audiobook found on Spotify)

This book was a wild ride. I went into this book blind; a fraternity and its antics- cool sign me up. I thought this book would be more like Total Frat Move by W.R. Bolen. I think in a way it was like TFM but also it was SOOOOO outlandish that for a while in the beginning, I thought it was a fiction story. I kept saying to myself, this couldn't happen. BUT to my surprise, after a few Google searches, its completely true. I am glad I listened to it as an audiobook because I don't think I would have actually finished it. The author used a variety of sources, both first hand accounts of persons who knew him and also through hearsay and police reports. 

I felt like the main character of this story, the frat bro that was the ringleader of the multimillion dollar college drug ring, was a lot like Billy McFarland of the Fyre festival fiasco, which is funny because the bros were arrested in 2016 and the Fyre festival happened in 2017. 

If you are looking for a story that contains fraternity life, drug use, college life, prison and a thriller like story, check this book out. I know the cover is creepy looking, if you can get past it. 

My rating: ⭐⭐⭐/5 stars

Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt

(Audiobook found on Spotify)

I went into this book blind. I had no idea what it was about, what the reviews were; all I knew was I really liked the bright colors of the cover. This book was amazing. It was well written, the characters were vibrant and funny and honestly unexpected. The story was organic and silly and perfect. I have thought about this book each and every day. I didn't think I would be so sad to actually finish it.

I think one of the reasons why I felt this book so deeply was because the person(s) narrating it were so dynamic and fit the characters perfectly. After finishing this book, I read some reviews and  they ALL had the same sentiment that I was feeling- this is a delightful book. 

If you are looking for a story that contains family relationships, unlikely friendships, new adventures in life and joy, this is the book for you. 

My rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/5 stars

The Frozen River by Ariel Lawhon

(Audiobook found on Spotify)

I picked this book to participate with Shay from Mix and Match Mama's Book Club. I won't lie, I was hesitant reading this book. This isn't my normal genre.  I found this audio book very captivating and really interesting! The narrator was perfect for this book. I ended up LOVING this book and even more so when I realized the very last chapter was the author explaining certain parts from the book more in depth. Martha Ballard, the main character, is more than meets the eye. The different story lines, the characters and the plot were engaging and I was always left wanting more. It was very well written and the ending was perfect. I was pleasantly surprised by the book and now I want to read more from Ariel Lawhon. 

Modern feel

If you are looking for a historical fiction book that is based on a real persons/events; a step into the past and curious characters, this book is for you. 

My rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐.5 /5 stars

ADD PHOTO OF BOOK COVER

This Story Will Change by Elizabeth Crane

(Audiobook found on Libby)

Chaotic. Like my dating life. I can tell if this is a true memory or made up. (Its a completely true story written by authorWhen listening to it, it sounds like a conscious stream of thoughts in one's mind (kinda like my mind goes).

If you are looking to jump into someone's stream of consciousness, this is the book for you. It was weird 

My rating: ⭐⭐.5 /5 stars

ADD PHOTO OF BOOK COVER

Transcription by Kate Atkinson

(Digitial book found on Libby) 

Reason #1 I chose this book: Flamingo on cover 

Reason #2 I chose this book: the premise sounded intriguing and I seem to be on a historical fiction kick.

Reason #3 it sounds interesting 

ADD PHOTO OF BOOK COVER

The Heiress by Rachel Hawkins

(Audiobook found on Spotify)

I picked this book to participate with Shay from Mix and Match Mama's Book Club.  Takes place in Asheville, NC.

Money comes with hidden fees. 

Happy Easter!

 Happy Easter to my friends!

I hope you are spending this holiday with family and friends. 

I hope you all have a blessed day. 

[[It is finished.]]

Friday's Joy

   

Hi friends!
I'm linking up with Erica and Andrea this week for Friday Favorites! I can't wait to read your posts:
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(Photo from week) 
Week in Review
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This and That 
(New section this week!) 


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Looking Ahead 


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Links


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Posts 


Did you miss any of my posts from this week?
Find them below:


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Dear March

My sewing machine and I spent a lot of time together this month

February seemed to creep by while March was do 90 in 60 mph speed zone. It was so weird. Don't get me wrong I am very happy that March sped on by but I felt like it went too fast in a way. I had to put a pause on WGJ towards the beginning of the Month because I was feeling overwhelmed and I needed a break. While I'm still trying to find a rhythm that fits me with blogging; ive been trying to get to some of my other hobbies, sewing specifically. I didn't sew anything in January or February. This month I started again and I was reminded how much I truly do enjoy it. 

I cannot let this month go by and not talk about how 4 years ago everyones' lives changed. C0vid was wild and uncertain and sad. Every March since 2020 I think to myself, HOW? 

March, thanks for being weird. 

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Here are some words that were prominent during my month:  

Weird/// This month was just plain old weird. I couldn't put my finger on exactly why but it was. Things happened, words were said, people came and people went, symptoms appeared and then disappeared without an explanation. All in all I am glad you are over. 

Accomplished/// Work wise, this was BUSY! I had a full to do list each day. By the end of the day, my hair was messy, my desk was still covered in documents and almost every pen and pencil was spread across my desk. It continually put a smile on my face to know that I worked today and got things done; even when I didn't feel well.  

Hopeful/// This month, also gave me hope. Hope for goodness to come. I had a rough time last year and I have spent a lot of time doing the work on myself to improve myself and do better in the future. I hope to see that, that work I did will start to pay off. 

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Emoji of the month:

😅
A smiling face with a drop of sweat, conveying relief or slight embarrassment

How it worked in my month: There was a lot of times I had a sense of relief wash over me and slight embarrassment was had as well. I always take this face as a laughing face so I did that ALOT this month too. 

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This Time Last Year

in 2023, I was on cloud 9 in life and in general. Everything was exciting and fun and new. I actually love this gabrielle; she was so hopeful and full of excitement. She truly wanted the best outcome for everything. 

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Gym Update

I took a break from the gym in the beginning of the month BUT I did 7 times towards the end of the month. Early mornings are still my favorites and I look forward to getting back my normal routine. 

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Looking Forward

Girl Dinner, warmer weather, adventures

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Posts

Did you miss any of my posts from this month? Find them below:

Random # 26 | February Work #OOTD | Pause

Friday's Joy 1 | 2 

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[[]] 

Written in realtime; posted at a later date 

Diary #51

 Another month of showing what I saw through my camera. Photography has been a constant in my life for as long as I can remember. These diary entries are good for my soul and I love showing you what I see. 

all the blues

mid-flight

First sign of spring

masterpiece

Embroidery Class at the Library

Buzz Buzz

I think this is my sign to stop buying fabric....

Golden Hour

Clearly, I do not listen to myself....ever
See 2 photos above for reference

I get wayy too excited when I find a license plate with my name on it :)

First Cherry Blossom found

2019 to 2024 

Proof that I went to Target and got Starbucks

Love a good fitting room selfie

Lunch for one

Spent a lot of time with Mr. Sewing Machine

dreaming of new projects

In bloom

[[Beauty begins the moment you decide to be yourself]]

Written in realtime; posted at a later date 

WGJ vol. 51

 

Another month, another playlist. I hope you enjoy.

ALSO there is no reason for this photo, its just beautiful 😂 and I really wanted to share again. 

WGJ vol. 51
Moving Target- Adam Doleac
A Few Hearts Ago- Kyle Morgan
Til It Wasn't- Chris Ruediger
MIdwest Rock & Roll- Ryan Hurd
Wendy Peffercorn-Canaan Cox
Just In Case- Rodell Duff
On A Different Night- Josh Ross
Whatcha See Is Whatcha Get- Chris Janson
Kiss My Boots- Brian Kelley
Walls Fall Down- Zach Williams, Lee Brice
Don't Listen To My Voicemail- Youre Broken Hero, Simple Plan
Heartbreak & Alcohol- BRELAND
Bettin' On A Stetson- Bella Hudson
Last Hometown- Logan Mize
Fake As Hell- All Time Low, Avirl Lavigne
Way Out Here- Riley Green
Vegas- Tyler Hubbard
Life Looks Good- Florida Georgia Line
Good To Me- Florida Georgia Line
It's A Guy Thing- Dylan Schneider
funny girl- RaeLynn
Stuck In My Ways- Lauren Watkins
Quick Intimacy- Dan Whitlam
Break Mine- Brothers Osborne
Found A Girl- David J
How Smart I Am- Troy Cartwright
Never Thought Twice- PJ North

Listen here.

[[Decide every morning you are in a good mood]]

Written in realtime; posted at a later date 

Friday's Joy

   

Hi friends!
I'm linking up with Erica and Andrea this week for Friday Favorites! I can't wait to read your posts:
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(Photo from week) 
Week in Review

Weekend was calm. I did my normal weekend things on Saturday including sleeping in! On Sunday, I wanted to venture out to Target and TJMaxx. I didn't have anything particular I wanted to get but I wanted to wander through thr stores like pre-2020. 

I was truly disappointed with the clothes in Target. I miss the old Merona line.  TJMaxx was another story. I found some great pieces and I saw one dress and I knew it instantly it was calling my name. The TJMaxx I went to had a HomeGoods connected to it. I wandered through there too and picked up two frames. I've been wanting to print some new photos out, so this both jogged my memory and gave me a new pretty place to display them. 

With Sunday being St. Patrick's Day, all of the local bars were already packed at 11 AM 

Traffic on Monday started week of weird and as I was sitting in the traffic I received a text message from the local police department saying " there is heavy traffic" thank you for that. 😆 I knew I couldn't do anything besides creep along because according to waze, it was congested ALL around me. I still made it to work on time. 

Remember about 3 weeks ago, i bought those pretty  mermaid flowers from Stop and Shop? That $10 bouquet last me almost 3 full weeks. I was so impressed by them! I finally ditched them on Friday 

IT chaos 

Full moon?

Back to the gym

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This and That 
(New section this week!) 


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Looking Ahead 


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Links

https://www.cnn.com/2024/03/19/europe/kate-royals-altered-photo-queen-gbr-intl/index.html?Date=20240319&Profile=CNN&utm_content=1710862207&utm_medium=social&utm_source=facebook&fbclid=IwAR0oI7YemY2SaptGoajdNaYNl_ySRufmUUHVxKL0CqBR3DnSoC24aLDXkYg

https://www.yahoo.com/news/delta-pilot-charters-plane-hawaii-122649643.html?guccounter=1&guce_referrer=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZ29vZ2xlLmNvbS8&guce_referrer_sig=AQAAAKgsT4yWWwTCf5acOMA2pVAO_-1vpU6DMBuqGq-oHSk_khvLPA9Gyl5nhdiQxDG2YSplNtEUbsPvu2nhiwEudtgT525Mw3tsjHlriiRe9V56o-fp-ajo_Ch_l9Q82skCfZYwR_I8ILzk1yjHRmPIQiFF3uB-nxM7iB_Tay_LYveS

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Posts 


Did you miss any of my posts from this week?
Find them below:


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Written in realtime; posted at a later date 

Money: Sinking Funds

 Disclaimer: I am not an authority on money. All of my knowledge about money was either taught to me by my mom, any financial article I read or by trial and error. I want to share my money jouney/experience with you in hopes to inspire you to start/continue to save money and grow your wealth. 

What 

Why

How

Examples

Mid-Week Thoughts

 

Kate Middleton mystery //// it's not secret that I love Princess Kate. I love her fashion and LOVE that she's a brunette too! This mystery and the wild theories of why she hasn't been has kept me on the end of my seat each day. I'm not sure if we will ever know the truth but these theories definitely make things more fun 

Nerds Gummy Clusters //// I might be late to the game for this one BUT these are soo good! They are weirdly addicting too. Go and find them and believe me, you will love them. It's like nerds rope but in bite size pieces. 

Clothes at Target /// I was so disappointed with Tsrget this past weekeend. Cutout, high waist, crop top, skimpy.  Used to be my go to for classic pieces. 

St. Patrick's Eve/// great marketing on Jameson 's part with St. Patrick's Day being on a Sunday. 

Hello Spring!

Hi Spring! 

That little rodent said you were coming early!

I am so happy to see you this year and all the goodness you bring- bright days, warmer weather, flowers and more sunshine. 

Stick around for a while!

[[Spring is proof there is beauty in new beginnings]]

Written in realtime; posted at a later date 

Money: Saving Goals & What I am doing to Save Money

Disclaimer: I am not an authority on money. All of my knowledge about money was either taught to me by my mom, any financial article I read or by trial and error. I want to share my money jouney/experience with you in hopes to inspire you to start/continue to save money and grow your wealth. 

Priority 

Paying myself

Separate Savings Accounts

Goals

BONUS: St. Patrick's Day & Happy Birthday Eleanor

 Happy St. Patrick's Day! I hope the luck of the Irish is with you today and always!

ALSO 

Today is Eleanor's birthday! She is 6 and sassy! With just over 63,000 miles, Eleanor and I have had a lot of adventures together! If you are curious, yes, I am still collecting all the lucky pennies I find when I am with Eleanor. 

Baby Eleanor

Hope you have a magical day! 

[[WARNING:  May be prone to Shenanigans, Hooliganisms & Malarky!]]

Written in realtime; posted at a later date 

Friday's Joy

   

Hi friends!
I'm linking up with Erica and Andrea this week for Friday Favorites! I can't wait to read your posts:
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(Photo from week) 
Week in Review

What a week! I'm still not feeling my best and I knew most days I would start to feel better by lunch but woof! Some of those morning were rough 

I ventured to joanns on Monday to look at some fabric. I should not be allowed in there by myself. Hahah I need a higher level adult to be with me and talk some sense into me. I did however edit what I had in my hands prior to going to the checkout which was a good thing. 

Since buying new fabric, I realized I need to organize my fabric better especially when everyime I open the door of the cabinet, it all just about pops out. 

Busy busy at work. Work has finally picked up and my daily to do lists are never ending which it seems BUT it feels good to have the day basically fly by. 

I had to prep for a procedure on Wednesday and looking back on it, it seems like it was the day of if everything could go wrong, it would. Ha ha ha. 

But the Procedure went well, I got to see my favorite doctor, Penelope was fawned over and I got the best sleep I had in a long time! Ha it was so good, I didn't want to wake up. Mama said at one point I opened my one eye up, looked around then closed it. Ha ha ha 

Overall it was another wacky and wonderful week. 

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Looking Ahead 

St. Patrick's Day| Spring! | Girl dinner 

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Links


https://www.macys.com/shop/product/le-suit-womens-jacquard-long-jacket-sheath-dress-regular-petite-sizes?ID=14625615&m_sc=ps_ret&m_sb=facebook&m_id=U2400472_1872&m_si=1340898&m_p=P&m_pi=386055761&m_cid=31384065&m_cr=209091471&m_nw=MPM&m_cn=ps_rmk_S24_STWD_BROAD_AND_1P_Budget_Allocation_Test_60_40_CONTROL_STITCHER_120207387446120087&m_au=PRO-S&utm_medium=paid&utm_source=ig&utm_id=120207387446000087&utm_content=120207387446080087&utm_term=120207387446120087&utm_campaign=120207387446000087&fbclid=PAAaa0-usVlJq2ZKKpKiejh_fQYfMk5_kKHVwj5ut7sqTmXWJWrTvW3viJINo_aem_AYPJ45Ea2nu_h1HjmUwi-nw1tM_1fowjaoctHHnWfv_T7A7m3dYPRyy3iCt6YQ2kDkQwMUyVY9YBKB-TvJqZUYU9&m_si=8926497&m_cid=31384065&m_pi=386055761&m_cr=209091471&dclid=CjgKEAjw-r-vBhDmleyYqqvj5yoSJACaKXqOuUXibHGO-wfCrN1UOj6SXkgFVuGqE0-lf_I8jNEAB_D_BwE

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Posts 


Did you miss any of my posts from this week?
Find them below:


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Written in realtime; posted at a later date 

Why Girl Dinner Dates are So Important

 

Ability to connect

Bounce Ideas

Vent

Build Friendships/ Support

Something to look forward to

Why Rising Early For The Gym Has Been Life Changing

 

Consistent

Focused

Happier

Accomplished

Strong