This 'N That

Some Monday randomness...

Have you seen that Secret Millionaire show? I'm completely out of touch with television programming, so I have no idea whether it's a new show or an oldie, but either way I'm hooked. I love seeing people helping people.

Snowing outside my window. No surprise, that. I hope it quits before I'm forced to haul out the snowblower.

Spent a good part of the weekend sewing. My mom mentioned a zipped bag inside her handbag would be handy, so...

It stands because I tucked a book inside and have it propped in the coaster caddy. I had so much fun making this butterfly bag that...well, you know what happened, don't you?



That's right. One zippered bag seemed so lonely, so I made friends for it.

Last night brought a new bout of insomnia so I got out of bed, threw another log on the fire, turned the Weather Channel on and began to sew. Keeping my hands busy, hoping this storm will ease. Anyhow, here's the result:

I thought this was my favorite bag.

Then I made this one.

Today I plan to run the vacuum, do some dusting and mop the floors. Maybe this afternoon I'll give in to my sleepy body and take a nap. Or maybe not. I don't excel at daytime sleeping, at all, so that might just be frustrating. My birthday brought a couple of new books... Yes, that seems the ticket. Lounging by the fire, watching the snow drift down, a warm chai and a good book. What better way to spend a Monday afternoon? But first, the chores.

What have you got planned for the day? And, any bits of randomness from your weekend that you'd care to share?

Insomnia

I've been having a tough time sleeping. I'm told it's a common issue among those in my situation. Nights are long and I hate tossing and turning so I get out of bed and look around the house for something useful to occupy my time. Then, I get moving.

Last night? The hum of my sewing machine kept me company. My hands were busy, the hours flew by and I've got something to show for my efforts. Want to see?

I know that sooner or later I'll learn how to sleep alone. Until then, I'm determined to stay busy and productive. Maybe tonight I'll sleep. If not, the kitchen cupboards need reorganizing. Then, I've got baby quilts to tackle. And if that doesn't do it...well, I'm out of ideas. Any suggestions? What do you do when insomnia comes calling?

Snowday Sewing

Yesterday Dru asked what I'm creating with my sewing machine. I will share with you what I'm doing, but only if you'll indulge me first by listening to how this sewing adventure came about.

One afternoon last summer my husband was flicking through the channels on the television in his hospital room. He was such a great guy; when he found a sewing program he stopped channel surfing. He knew I'd enjoy the show, so we watched it. That particular day the hostess was showing how to make handbags. When the show was over, my guy turned to me, grinned and said, "You'd like to do that. When we get home, I think you should make some handbags. It looks like fun." I agreed, and the idea was born.

So...I'm home. And, I'll admit, kind of lonely. But we had a good idea last summer, and good ideas don't go bad. So, on these snowy afternoons I'm keeping busy. Yes, I'm making handbags. Want to see?

This little black bag is the first one I made. I've been using it for the past three weeks or so. It's the perfect size for my wallet, keys and phone. It even has pockets for lipstick and a tissue.

I love this hand-dyed fabric. So tropical, don't you think?

A handbag gathering on the kitchen table. Too funny!

I've made a couple of these, just because the colors make me smile.

So there you have it. I'm keeping busy here on the farm. What have you been up to?