Sewing and Stuff in 2012

As the year winds down, I've been thinking about this past year's projects (and challenges) and pondering some of the things I plan to do in 2012.

MOST POPULAR PROJECT:  Hand's down, the Baby Gift Tutorial continues to be the most viewed post.  It's also on Pinterest and I still am getting 'repinned.'   This gift has special meaning to me beyond its popularity.  It was created for a friend's daughter who (after several heart-breaking miscarriages) was having a baby.  A run-of-the-mill gift seemed inadequate, so, I set out to create a one-of-a-kind gift as a way to share in this family's joy.  It reminds me that babies really are a miracle.  My connection with the couple goes back even further.   When the mom-to-be was getting married, she had me make all of her bridemaids one-of-a-kind aprons.  It is an honor to have been a part of this family's special moments and it thrills me that others delight in this little tutorial. 

NEW PATTERNS:  No wonder I'm so tired and cranky.  I actually designed, wrote, photographed, edited, and published six new patterns this year.  What.was.I.thinking.  Serious loss of brain matter.

Not my most popular pattern, but I did it for one of my daughter's who loves to give this as a gift.  A perfect 'keep the kids occupied during church' sort of thing...

Inspired by halters I wore in the 70's...reminds me of summers at Astroworld with my cousin...I'll love it for those memories alone.

A second version of the original Tutu Tote.  Ever popular...what can I say.  The first one was created when my sister called and described the bag to me over the phone.  Who knows what it really should've looked like.  Look for an update (and an addition) to these patterns...soon. 

One of my faves cuz it teaches you how to sew and applique.  Two things that are sew much fun!  I really need to redo this picture...in my spare time...

The Flirty Chic...I luv ya'...you're so...flirty and chic!

If I had a $$ for every email that I got asking about this style becoming a pattern.  I start twitching when I think of what it took to create this pattern...can anyone say challenge.  FYI...

CRAFTSY:  My Designer Workshop on Craftsy has been awesome.  I'm working on another one.   Check out some of their other videos and workshops. Totally worth the scratch.

BLOG REDESIGN:  This is still being worked on...my blog designer is a busy wife, mom, and daughter.  Look for easier access to tutorials (with lots more to come, I promise) as well as a way to link up to places to purchase instant downloads of my patterns.

HARDEST WEEK EVER:  The week my dad had surgery for lung cancer and my mom's mind slipped.  Update:  Sugar Pie is doing remarkably...with a very good pronosis.  On Dec. 21st he had his first chemo treatment and hardly missed a step.  They don't make 'em like this anymore.  My mom...not so great...I see more challenges ahead.  I need to remember my camera and get new pics...

PLANS FOR 2012:  Hmm. Let's see...lose 30 pounds (ha!), weep uncontrollably when my eldest and her hubby move from Houston to Calgary, start a sewing club for a few friends, visit Calgary (and Banff), teach sewing classes, write FREE TUTORIALS, make cottage licenses available (this will take a boatload of brain work so don't look for it right away), work in (and on) my garden, finish the living room makeover, share a few gluten-free recipes, possibly redo the kitchen, and sew, sew much more.


I'll be seeing you in the new year...Happy New Year!