I Have Mad Skills

A few years ago after my Grandpa passed away, my mom cleaned out his house and snagged my Grandma's old sewing machine. My mom offered the sewing machine to me and I excitedly took it. Well, it's been sitting and sitting for all this time. It's been one of those things that intimidates me a little bit. I wasn't sure I would remember how to sew, or if I could get the needle threaded right, and so on. I kept meaning to get it out and use it, but never did.

When my sister-in-law called me a few months ago to tell me they were expecting a new little one, I made the commitment to make the baby a blanket. I did it on purpose knowing it would FORCE me to use the sewing machine!

After I found the cutest fabric at the store and brought it home, I thought I should do something a little simpler to get the knack of it before I started the baby blanket.

I found this cute pillow idea in a magazine that I thought would be perfect for Carter for Christmas. He doesn't like to read on his own, so I thought this might help get him motivated. It's big and fluffy and perfect for snuggling up in the corner with a good book. Every time he finishes a book, he can write the name of the book on the pillow with a fabric pen. I did an envelope pillowcase so that I can pull it off easily to wash. I also did a pocket to stash the current book he is reading or bookmarks.

So, project one was a success and I must say I am pretty proud of myself! It was really easy. I don't know what I have been afraid of all this time! Let's hope the baby blanket is as successful!