Second Hack A Success

Yesterday was another warm muggy day. The high got too 24C. This morning it was 19C at 6 a.m. It is suppose to be warmer today. 

Lifestyle

I spent a good morning cleaning the kitchen. I wiped cupboard doors, cleaned every surface I could and polished the stainless steel appliances. I had to quit just before 11:30 as I had to go to the pharmacy about one prescription. It was filled and waiting for me. It was a good feeling to have done housework all morning and see a room so clean. 
Yesterday was day 20 with no new cases of the virus. People here are being vigilant to keep the virus at bay this long. 

Sewing

I headed down to the sewing room after lunch and got the American Girl doll surplice bodice sewn. 

These are the two pattern pieces I used for Take 1. I cut the back on the straight of the grain. I fiddled a bit on the front as the center front notches slipped apart. When aligned correctly, the top fit to perfection. 

The dolls body at the arms shows a bit. I have two ways to correct it -- add 1/8" to the arm holes or use flutter sleeves. 

This pattern is ready to be sewn in good fabric and I have ideas floating in my head. 
The Gotz doll pattern has been adjusted and I'm ready to make Take 2. This has gone from a pattern hack to a pattern design. 
I posted July's sewing and I said I was staying out of the fabric stores except for notions. That may not happen as the quilt shop posted ticking in quilting cotton and I may need some (as daughter may also). If I keep drafting, I may have to get some cheap cotton for muslins. I use 1/4 meter each time I make a bodice. The 1 meter of broadcloth I bought in June is disappearing quickly. 

Knitting

I finished the test sweater last night and will be trying it on a couple of dolls. It may fit tight as I used (and finished up) a yarn that is a bit finer than the regular sock yarn I like to use. 
There is another test pattern to knit though it will be published before I get it done. It is cute and worthy of knitting.

Today

Grandson is here for the day. I want to scrub the bathroom and wash some floors. Take 2 of the muslin will be sewn and I'll set up another sweater for knitting. 
Until the next time...............................

Muslin #1 Done

Yesterday was cooler but with some rain and high humidity. The high got to 21C. This morning it is 18C. 

Lifestyle

Yesterday I puttered around making a potato salad and ignoring the housework. I was too tired to think about cleaning the house other than clean up the kitchen. I need to focus on doing some every morning and get the house cleaned once again. 
Yesterday marked 19 days with no virus. I keep wondering if a case or two will emerge every day prior to checking. July 1 (Canada Day) will be quiet in the province with no celebrations. I am not sure what we will be doing but it certainly will be things at home. 

Sewing

I was in the sewing room yesterday. I ignored cleaning up as I wanted to test the pattern I had hacked. I found out that the design is easy to sew. It went together like a dream. I put it on Anna and started to make the adjustments. 

I pulled it up at the shoulder seam as the bottom of the arm hole hung down too low. Pulling it up made it fit Anna better. 

I've measured and adjusted that part of the pattern. 

Next, I looked at the back. The fit was excellent. I then looked at the front and the bodice is too short. 

Her tummy shows so I have worked on the pattern by adding to it. I haven't taken a picture of this adjustment. I added about 1/8" to the side seams and about 1/2" to the center front and curved it down. I had to add 1/8" to the back side seam and curve it up towards the center back. I am ready to trace the pattern pieces again to make the next muslin. I am certain there will be a third muslin to make. 
One one of the forums, someone shared how to make a collage using Funky Collage Maker. I did a collage of Kit's wardrobe. 

I am happy with the results. 

Knitting

No knitting last night. 

Today

I want to do some housework, out to get a prescription filled, and work on Anna's pattern. I may have to be outside for a bit to move wood to the pile at curbside. I do hope to knit tonight. 
Until the next time..............................

And It Rained

The weather has been warm. On Friday, there was a thunderstorm warning, we got 6 rumbles and it was over. Yesterday was warm (28C high) and last evening the clouds rolled in and it rained hard for a bit. This morning, it is cooler with some showers. We are suppose to see rain today. We do need it. But the temperature is to get to 23 with a humidex of 30C. Not very nice. 

Lifestyle

With high humidity and temperatures, I have hit the brick wall. I am exhausted, not sleeping well, and feel like a zombie. Much like Elliott does.

We went for a drive on Friday afternoon to the bookstore. The Spousal Unit and I were the only ones in the store while we picked up books. We wore masks and shopped happily. 
I picked up three books on diabetes. Ones I had wanted but didn't want to pay full price. I started doing my blood glucose and it is good. I'm where I was when I stopped doing it. 
Yesterday we were 17 days without a new case of the virus. We have been warned the virus will/could resurface as the province opens up. We are continuing to be diligent and hope we don't get it. 

Sewing

I got the sewing room floor swept ready to wash. I still have some wiping and tidying up to do. It will get done. 
I binge watched the Great British Sewing Bee.(I hope the link works). The three who made it to the finals were all worthy of winning but I was happy for the person who did. 

Knitting

I got a picture of the sweater I tested for one lady. It is actually quite cute on the doll. 

I need to take it with me to buy fabric for a dress. 
I am on the last sleeve for the other test pattern. It is cute and if too small for the AG dolls, the Gotz dolls will get it. 

Today

I don't have a lot planned for today. I need to plan July's sewing list which includes Anna's wardrobe and a bag. I may finish the test sweater tonight also. Not a lot as I want to be busy tomorrow. 

Until the next time.................................

Too Hot Too Long

It has been very warm here the past few days. Broke the record a couple of times during the heat wave. Yesterday it got to 28-29C. This morning it was 15C at 6 a.m. and is suppose to get to 27C. It has been too hot too long. 

Lifestyle

With all the heat and working out in it, we woke up exhausted yesterday morning. Nothing was right for us as we hadn't slept well due to the night temperature sitting at 20C. 
We put together a plan for the day and stuck to it. We did more clean up in the morning and a bit in the afternoon. We stopped before I over heated (I don't sweat very easily). We went inside to cool off and both of us slept until 3:50 pm. We sat outside in the cool last night which helped us a lot. I actually was cold when we went inside and was happy. 
We hit day 16 with no new cases of the virus. The Atlantic provinces are opening up to travel between them. It is called the Atlantic Travel Bubble. People are advised to continue to be diligent as the virus can rear its ugly head if we don't. 

Sewing

I haven't stepped foot into the sewing room the past few days. I keep thinking about Anna's wardrobe and the pattern I drafted. I'm too tired when I get into the house and just rest. 
I read about how to store doll clothes and use the container as a bed. I will start to buy the containers and make the quilt, pillows, and bed ruffles. Kit's will be the first when I find the fabrics I want to use. 
I had hoped to be done cleaning the sewing room but it is still half done with more needing to be completed. I had an idea this would happen back in March as we usually do outside work in June-Sept. 

Knitting

I did knit on the doll's sweater and the first sleeve is coming along nicely. I hope I have enough yarn for both sleeves. If not, I will rip it back and so the short sleeved version. 

Today

I have to run into the doctor's office and get the paperwork for blood tests and try to get appointments for our blood tests. I am assuming we will be outside for a period of time and inside to rest. If not, I will do housework instead. 
Until the next time......................................

Heat Exhaustion

Yesterday was warm and humid. The mist rolled in and with the high humidity water droplets fell making everything wet. It wasn't rain. The high got to 28C. This morning, it is cloudy and 16C at 6 am. At 8 am it was 20C. It is suppose to get to 29C. We could have drizzle tonight and showers on Sunday. This is not common in Nova Scotia.  

Lifestyle

Yesterday morning was spent outside cleaning up. We hauled landscape brick and rock to the side of the house for easier accessibility when we start there. After that, we cleaned up the demolition of the railing from our deck. We hauled everything out to the front of the house but what the neighbor wants. Many trips later, we started to remove more of the lattice from underneath. About 11:30 am, I was done. I had heat exhaustion and literally staggered into the house. I was done for the day. 
I rested a lot and was still not 100% at bedtime. I slept all night and am feeling better today. 
We have had 2 weeks with no new cases of the virus. The province is opening up and we will continue to be super careful to do our part. We wear masks inside stores and have extended our bubble to one more family. We are not ready to burst the bubble yet. 

Sewing

Nothing done.

Knitting

I am ready to cast off the left front of the test garment. There were a couple of mistakes in the pattern which someone else caught. 

Today

We have to have our hair cut, home for a bit of work, and then rest. I need one more day to recuperate from heat exhaustion. Rest should include folding laundry. I am behind on that (and the rest of the house also). 
Until the next time..................................

Outside Work

Yesterday was warm at 25-26C but it was muggy. That made it feel warmer. Cloud coverage until the afternoon when the sun came out. 
Today is warmer and to be just as muggy. We are under another heat warning. 

Lifestyle

I was going to clean house but ended up outside. The Spousal Unit and I started to remove the lattice around the deck. We got 1/3 of it off before calling it a day. The lattice is falling apart and is looking tacky so won't be replaced. 
Inside, we looked at the dust, drank ice water, and cooled off. With the high humidity, we tire quite quickly. But, we do what we can and then stop for the day. 
I did work on the family tree for a while and got a few more people's information found and recorded. I've shut it down for a few days as I'm happy with what I got done. 
Yesterday was day 13 with no new cases. 

Sewing

I looked at the fabric on the couch and that was it. Maybe in a few days I can get back to cleaning the sewing room. It will be waiting for me. I have a project I want to sew prior to sewing Anna's wardrobe in July. 

Knitting

I knit on the test pattern and had to unknit 5 rows. I had made a mistake by not reading the pattern correctly. I'm not caught up but am doing much better with it. The pattern is easy when you read the pattern. 

Today

It is another outside day and we will be moving stuff around. The lawn people are arriving to do weed control and our grandson is arriving for his day with us. I do hope to knit tonight even if nothing else happens inside the house. 

Reworking the Pattern Hack

Yesterday wasn't as hot with a high of 26C. It felt hot as the humidity was high. This morning it is 13C with fog and is to get to 29C. Showers are in the forecast but who knows. The heat wave has passed they say. 

Lifestyle

Yesterday was cranky day for both of us. We got the items ready for dinner, put them in the fridge and went for an hours drive after lunch. The route chosen wasn't really exciting but we did see hay being made, Canada geese goslings at dugouts, and some cattle. 
We had a wonderful Father's Day dinner with family. The burgers were delicious and we brought potato salad and deviled eggs. Dessert was ice cream cake. We had a wonderful visit. A good ending for our day. 
Yesterday was day 12 with no new cases. 

Sewing

I headed into the sewing room to find a pattern and actually found 4 stashed in a basket. I need to put the patterns away properly. I got the piece I needed and headed back upstairs to do a bit of pattern hacking. 
I got two hacks done though both are the same surplice top. One for American Girl dolls and one for Gotz. I enjoyed the process as I have been thinking a lot about how I could fix any mistakes. It was extra measuring when doing the hack. 
I started out with a basic bodice pattern (this is for American Girl dolls)

And ended up with this

The next step is to trace onto tracing pellon and make a muslin. If it fits, I can make the actual dresses and write up the patterns. I want to try and use software to get professional looking pattern pieces. 

Knitting

I finished the one test pattern last night and have to make a dress to go with it. I have the fabric for it. The other test pattern will be picked up and hopefully finished this week. 

Today

I would like to do some housework, clean the sewing room and knit. We have the doctor calling today for our 3 month visit. I need prescriptions filled. We both need blood work done but the lab is still closed it seems. A question to ask about when it could open. 
Until the next time................................

A Break In The Weather

Yesterday started out warm but the high got to 27C. The wind came up and cooled things off during the day. This morning, it is cloudy and 12C. There is a cool breeze also. The high today is suppose to get to about 24C. 

Lifestyle

Yesterday I went shopping at 7 a.m. and was home before 8 a.m. It wasn't busy which let me zip through the store. 
The main job was to clean the kitchen and I got it done except for the floor. I stopped to make a huge potato salad for dinner tonight. I love it to sit in the fridge over night so the flavors can "co-mingle". 
The garden has been growing rapidly. It has been 12 days since we had our last frost. 

The garden is late this year because spring was very late in arriving. These past days of heat has really helped everything grow quickly. 
We are at day 11 with no new cases of the virus. We are now expanding our group to include our neighbors across the street but are still being cautious. 

Sewing

I did look in the sewing room and got what I needed and left. The potato salad was waiting for me. 

Knitting

I got yarn and needles out and started to knit a test pattern. It is an easy knit and I'm on the last row before binding off. Then it will be sleeves. I have to make a dress for the doll to model this cute little bolero. 
The other test knit will be picked up and worked on for another evening as I am alternating patterns. 

Today

More housework needs to be done, laundry folded, and we are out for Father's Day dinner tonight. 
Until the next time.................................

Heat Records Broken

Yesterday was the warmest day to date. It was 34-35C here. This morning it was 21C and the humidity was 74%. Yucky, sticky weather. The high temperatures for the past two days are record setting. 

Lifestyle

The heat has been draining and we have been tired. We both napped/rested yesterday. We are also sleeping poorly as the bedroom is warm. We are both irritable and can't wait for this heat wave to break as do a lot of other people. 
We have had 10 days without a new case of the virus. We are still being super careful and diligent. We wear a mask when shopping even if it is uncomfortable in the hot weather. We have not extended out circle yet but it will be happening shortly. We hope to keep it consistent so everyone will be safe. 

Sewing

I was back to the quilt shop to pick up fabric for daughter. I also bought some for the dolls. Anna's wardrobe is coming to fruition. It will be pink and navy blue. I want to do her overalls and a skirt in navy and two tops in pinks and blues. There will be a dress and I hope to knit a sweater and something else for her. July's projects. 

Knitting

I worked on a test pattern yesterday and finished the back. It is really cute and I'm enjoying the knit. Hopefully the white yarn will be almost gone when I'm done this. 

I will start the other test pattern today so I can work on it on alternate days. It is a shrug and quite cute also. 

Today

I have to make a potato salad, do some laundry and housework, get into the sewing room and knit. With the heat like it is, I do not want to be outside very much at all. 
Until the next time....................................

Front Landscaping Done

Yesterday was a hot day. The high got close to 32C and it cooled down to 16C last night. Today is suppose to get to 35C. Another hot one for us.

Lifestyle

We headed out yesterday morning in good time to work on the landscaping. We were going to work until the sun hit us (11:30 a.m.). We hustled around until we got to the corner and digging out the grass slowed us down. Too dry to do it quickly. Just as the sun was starting to come around the corner, we were finished. 

We cleaned up and rested. The best thing though, we bagged up all the empty bags from the rock and got them gone as the garbage truck was over 4 hours late. All that is left is to wash the rock. 

We spent the rest of the day trying to keep cool as we both over heated getting this job done. To finish along the side of the house, we have to either wait for the rain or soak the grass with the hose to remove it. 
Our bubble was burst yesterday. We can now gather into groups of 10 with no social distancing. There has been advice we keep the group of 10 consistent. Groups of 11-50 need to have social distancing. Playground are open and children can use the equipment. This comes 9 days after having no new cases of the virus. 

Sewing

All I did was fold the laundered fabric. When I over heat, I have no energy and need to rest. 

Knitting

No knitting last night but I have two test patterns to make. I  need to find the yarn and start on them. 

Today

I am going to head back to the quilt shop and buy for daughter. I have three pieces I want (all denim looking fabric). Then I hope to have some time cleaning the sewing room and start knitting tonight. It is an inside day today due to the heat. 
Until the next time.......................................

Landscaping Begun

Yesterday was the start of the heat wave. The high got to 28C and the sun shone all day. Today it is suppose to be 32C. 

Lifestyle

Yesterday we worked on the landscaping at the front of the house. The worst or hardest part is done. Crawling around the bush to finish trimming it, getting into the hard corners is done. 

The bricks that run to the perpendicular to the house hold down the landscaping cloth and contain the rocks. The lawn is drying out rapidly due to no rain for some time. 

When done, we were both physically tired and sore. 

Sewing

I cleaned up around the cutting table and under the shelving unit. The closet got tidied up. The floors are ready to be washed in that area. 

Knitting

No knitting last night as I was too tired to think about the pattern. 

Today

I will be out to do the front the house. I'd like to finish it up this morning so I can take tomorrow off. More cleaning in the sewing room and I may or may not knit tonight. 

Until the next time................................

A Good Check Up

Yesterday the high got to 26C with lots of sunshine. This morning it is 12C and it is suppose to be sunny and 28C. Then we start seeing 30C+ starting tomorrow for a couple of days. The humidex for those days will be close to 40C (ugh)

Lifestyle

I did a bit extra on the family tree yesterday morning. Not a lot but some. I've shut it down for a few days as I've hit a brick wall and need to rethink what I will do next. 
We headed to Dartmouth for the Spousal Unit's appointment. The dermatologist was pleased with him and he will get another appointment after bloodwork is done. He still awaits seeing the plastic surgeon which could be some time yet. We had lunch on the way home and were home before 2 pm.
I had a rest on the couch in the afternoon. I didn't sleep but relaxed and zoned out. It really revived me. 
We have had 7 days with no new cases of the virus and have 2 active cases. 

Sewing

I spent a good hour in the sewing room cleaning up one corner where I want a desk. I swept the floor, scrubbed it on my hands and knees, and tidied up the mess. All the doll's patterns are put away. Small items are put away properly and items organized. 

As much as I don't want the corner desk in the sewing room, it has become the computer area and is quite handy. 
I did think about the other side of that area for the desk and I will get a table and some sort of drawer system. There will be a peg board above the table for items I use all the time. 
I spent a bit of time figuring out some items for Anna's wardrobe. We have a long dress, overalls, surplice top dress and a pink print blouse. She wants a variety of items and couldn't care less if they match or not. We are talking about  that. 

Knitting

I knit  on the second sleeve of the slow sweater and am just over half done it. I am enjoying it even if the pattern has lots of mistakes. I am waiting for a pattern to arrive to test and will set the slow sweater aside while I knit on it. 

Today

Landscaping this morning, more cleaning the sewing room this afternoon, and knitting tonight. We have to be careful that we don't overdo it in the sun today. We also have our grandson here for the day which we thoroughly enjoy. 
Until the next time..............................

Kit's Summer Wardrobe Is Done

Sunday was cooler and cloudy. The high got to 17C. Monday was cool with the sun trying to break through the clouds. It as warmer at 21C. We are now starting the warmer weather (okay hot) with 25C and up to 30C on Thursday. 

Lifestyle

On Sunday I went down the genealogy hole and learned a few things while researching. It was my dad's family I was looking at and I found a few interesting facts. What was said and what actually happened can't be confirmed. I asked a lot of questions but didn't get a lot of answers. I did get a few more people into the family tree. 
We went for our mental health drive yesterday. I did stop at the quilt shop for 30 mins. More on that under sewing. We went for a short drive after that and came home. It was nice to get off the property with no actual place to be. I had done the grocery shopping at 7 am and was home just after 7:30 am. 
Yesterday was day 6 of no new cases of the virus. All but 3 people have recovered. We are still doing a lot of social distancing, wearing masks, and washing our hands. We are both tired of this but know it is for our own safety. 

Sewing

I hit the quilting store as it opened and was the first person in. I had 10 minutes as the only shopper, another 10 minutes with another shopper and then a couple more came in. I left shortly after that. I had 40 minutes of shopping. 

I had a wonderful time picking and choosing. The prints will be blouses and the hatched solids are for overalls for the dolls. All the fabrics are washed and ready to start sewing after the sewing room is scrubbed clean. 
All the snaps and buttons are on Kit's clothes and I'm very happy with the wardrobe I created for her. 

I met the goal I set using only fabrics and yarn from the stash. 

 All the pieces mix and match so she has a lot of outfits to wear. 

 It is a wardrobe that would be great for a vacation or a staycation. 

 And the hat is reversible though I didn't show it that way. 

Next up is the deep cleaning of the sewing room. Perfect job for the hot afternoons we are going to be getting. 

Knitting

I am about 1/3rd done the second sleeve. I am starting to bind off for under the arms. There is still a lot of work to go on this sweater -- the shawl collar plus back bands for snaps to be sewn onto. 

Today

We are off to the city this morning as the Spousal Unit has to see the dermatologist. It's his check up. I can't go in with him. We will be home with a stop at a green house for aphid powder. The roses are covered with them. I will knit and relax when we get home. 
Until the next time.................................

Almost Done Kit's Wardrobe

Yesterday was cloudy with some sunshine. The high got too 22C. There was a very tiny shower at dinner time. This morning, it is cloudy and 12C. We could see sunshine today.

Lifestyle

I went back to bed for an hour yesterday morning. I didn't sleep but rested so I could get through the day. Once up, I took some items down to the sewing room, left and worked on the puzzle with the Spousal Unit. We got the border done except for one piece. We missed it when going through the pieces. 
In the afternoon, we spent a bit of time outside with daughter-in-law. She showed us baby spiders of which were all displaced to another world. 
At noon they reported one case of the virus which they updated to a false positive by late afternoon. We have had 4 days without a new case. We are still being careful each and every day. 

Sewing

I garnered enough energy to sew the last item of Kit's wardrobe. The checked shorts were done in good time and went well as they had been made before. 

I turned the hat inside out for a different look. Now to put on the rest of the snaps and buttons. I folded up the left over check fabric to use at a later date. 
I looked at my sewing room and it needs a 6 month clean up. I'm going to spend some time doing a proper job when I finish Kit's wardrobe and plan Anna's. It is going to be major undertaking. 

Knitting

I took the sweater down and steamed it and put it on Kit. 

I will be happy when the yarn is gone. Though soft to work with, it isn't my favorite yarn. I like wool over acrylic. 
I also worked on the slow sweater. There was a major mistake (1 row) that caused me some grief but I got through it twice. I'm decreasing now and keeping up with the pattern. 

Today

I will be folding a load of laundry, working on drafting the surplice top, sewing on buttons and snaps, and knitting. I may do a couple of other things but only if I want to. 
Until the next time.....................................

Petal Hat Completed

Yesterday was warm and cloudy with a high of 23C. Yesterday the humidex was 28C. This morning it is cloudy and 15C. The high is to get to 25C with chances of a shower. 

Lifestyle

The Spousal Unit got the road side of the ditch weed eated yesterday. It looks so much better trimmed down. While he was doing that, I scrubbed the bathroom. It was due for its big clean job. I also did a load of laundry and swept all the floors. 
There were no new cases of the virus reported yesterday. The same drill is in place every day and we do our part by following them. 

Sewing

I sewed Kit the Petal Hat. It is an easy sew that took me less than 2 hours to cut out and finish. The only thing I did differently was to leave one seam open to turn the hat. I didn't do it on the brim as instructed. 
The hat fits Kit perfectly and I'm thrilled with the results. 

 I added a ladybug button for fun. 

I still have the checked shorts to make and snaps and buttons to sew on. I'm hoping to have this wardrobe done in three or 4 days. 

Knitting

I took a picture of the white sweater which still hasn't been steamed. 

I finished the body of the slow sweater. It doesn't have the front cross over piece and collar done yet. 

I have cast on the first sleeve and am working on it. The pattern I chose is the center one on the sweater. I am happy with the progress on this sweater and have no deadline to finish it in. 

Today

I'm not sure what I will get done today. I may nap this morning, sew this afternoon, and knit tonight. I'm tired as I slept poorly last night (part of my sleep disorder). 
Until the next time...............................

June's Test Pattern Complete

Yesterday was sunny with clouds. The high got to 21C. It clouded up over night and is warm this morning. Showers are in the forecast today.

Lifestyle

I found out that the vision center was open and called for an appointment to get my new glasses. Was there for 11 a.m. and was fitted in the parking lot with a mask on. Love my new glasses as the world is now sharper and more in focus. 

We did a few more chores in town and were home in good time. We are being ultra careful not to be in town when it is busy. 

There were no new cases reported and still 4 active cases. There was an article about the Maritime Bubble but Nova Scotia will join in if they feel it is safe enough to do so. There was a mention of expanding the two household bubble though and that is a good next step in my opinion. 

Sewing

I decided to sew a test pattern yesterday afternoon. It is a puzzle when marks are missing. The designer said it could be made in an hour and 2.5 hours later I was done. I pondered over Step 3 for 45 minutes before I got it. The designer has since fixed the pattern adding in missing information. I still couldn't make it in an hour as I am a slow sewer. 

And with the hood up. 

This will not be a part of Kit's wardrobe as they did not wear these styles in 1940. 

Knitting

I knit on the slow sweater and am almost finished the last back. So far, it has been a satisfying knit even if the pattern has mistakes in it. 

Today

Housework is in order and I will continue sewing on Kit's summer wardrobe. Tonight will be more knitting. 

Until the next time.............................................

Another Doll's Item Made - A Jacket

Yesterday was sunny and quite a nice day. The high got to 20C.  This morning the temperature was 10C and cloudy. Not sure what today will bring weather wise. 

Lifestyle

I spent the morning outside working on the hedge. Both ends are now weeded with the edging done on our side. The other side has an edging on it which is nice. I have decided that I will do three shrubs at a time and try to do both sides at one go as I now have to both weed and prune the shrubs. 

The Spousal Unit cleaned up the front flower bed in preparation for us doing the edging. I think I will be alternating between the flower bed and the hedge for the next month. Both need doing. 

There were no new cases reported reported yesterday and only 4 cases left to reconcile (new term for recovered). We will only have written briefs as the Chief Medical Officer has to go out of province for a cancer check up and will be self isolating upon his return. We still need to have due diligence in keeping the numbers low. 

Sewing

I worked on the jacket for Kit. It was a fairly easy sew. What I didn't like was how the side seams are not hidden in a lined jacket. I guess I am fussy. 

I just have the shorts left to make in the check fabric and the summer wardrobe is complete. I am thrilled with it.
I am doing a test pattern of a coat called a Bog Jacket. I will look for fabric for it in the stash. I am going to incorporate it into one of the doll's wardrobes but not sure which one. Depends on the fabric I find to use.  

Knitting

I worked on the slow sweater and have one part done and am ready to start the other side, The shoulder seams get done in this step. 

Today

I have an appointment to get my glasses (curbside) this morning. I will sew this afternoon and knit tonight. It is an off day due to things we need to do around town. 

Until the next time.................................

And We Had Frost

Yesterday was a lovely sunny day. The high got to 21C. This morning it was 3C and there was a touch of frost. Today is suppose to be another lovely warm day. 

Lifestyle

Our grandson spent the day with us. He had his bike and I'm sure he rode 20 km on it. He loves going out on it, coming back and visiting with us and taking off again. 
While he was bike riding, the Spousal Unit and I did some gardening. We got the onions planted and I hung up some solar lights around the garage door. 

I hauled out a few more items to put on the front porch. 

I have since added a cowboy boot by the window. The flowers are artificial this year but we will be back to real ones next year. 
The Spousal Unit read that New Brunswick was to get frost last night and he check our weather report. There was a chance of it here so we were out to cover the tomato plants. 

We are happy we did the job as there was frost here this morning. 

Sewing

I got Kit's shorts made yesterday afternoon. They are an easy make and fit quite well. And they look like the shorts of that era. 

The jacket pattern is laid out and ready to cut. I'll cut out the lining when I'm ready to sew it. It is the tiny check fabric of the tops and skirt. 

I have squared off the front as this is an every day jacket, not one that goes with a pleated skirt and blouse. I still have a hat to make plus will make the shorts again in the check fabric. 
I'm almost ready to start testing again. I didn't realize how burnt out I was testing an outfit under tight timelines. I really needed the break from it to revive and do a few things I needed to do. The same was with knitting test patterns. 

Knitting

I finished the sweater for Kit's wardrobe and it's ready for a shot of steam. I'm ready to finish the slow sweater. 

Today

I should head out and weed more of the hedge while it is cool. Then sewing for Kit and knitting on the slow sweater. I'm not rushing to get everything done and am enjoying the process. 

Kit's Pedal Pusher (Capris)

The weather continues to be variable. Highs in or near 20C. Some wind, some rain, some sunshine. The nights are perfect for sleeping. We are in for some warmer days and nights plus some more rain. 

Lifestyle

The Spousal Unit has been planting the garden. He was almost finished when I brought home some onion plants. I also hope we can get leeks by next week. 
The front landing has been redone. It looks great. 

The dark composite adds just the right amount of contrast to the house. 
I headed out to shop yesterday and was home by noon. The first store I was in was great. Not a lot of people shopping and I was in and out fast. The second store had a line up of 10 people waiting for the store to open. Didn't stop there. The third store was for fabric and notions and I got everything fast and left. It was so cramped that you couldn't follow the arrows if someone stopped to browse or look for the correct item. 
We had no new cases of the virus reported yesterday. There are still people recovering but it remains hard to figure out. They are trying to get that sorted out. 

Sewing

On Sunday I made Kit a pair of capris. They were known as pedal pusher back in the day. The pattern was easy to sew and turned out quite cute. 

The pattern fits Kit well though I did snug up the elastic by 1/4". 

I did get elastic, buttons, zippers, snaps, and a meter of broadcloth from the fabric store yesterday. I need to go back in July for more notions to be prepared for fall and winter. The big find was the white buttons for Kit's tops and skirt. 
I also played around with pattern drafting for a surplice top for the Gotz dolls. I had a great time doing it. It is actually a hack using a pattern I already own. 

I need to trace it and the back and make a pdf out of it. Then I can play with a program I have a 90 day trial with. I will buy the program at 50% off as I want to do more pattern hacks/drafting. This program allows you to have professional looking patterns. 

Knitting

While at the fabric store, I picked up 2 cable knitting needles that I needed. 
I am knitting on the body of the white sweater and it could be done in the next couple of days. Once done, I will be back to the other sweater. I'm looking forward to knitting on it again. 

Today

Our grandson is spending the day with us. We love his visits. I'll do some housework, outside jobs, hopefully trace Kit's shorts, and knit. 
Until the next time....................................

All Is Well Once Again

Yesterday the high got to 19C. The mist rolled in and we have some very heavy rains during the day. Those rains didn't last long but they came all day long. Over an inch of rain fell. This morning it is 10C and foggy/misty. We are to have more showers today.

Lifestyle

Yesterday, I worked at cleaning the house, doing laundry, and helping with gardening. The Spousal Unit planted the geraniums and most of the tomatoes. He did get drenched in one down pour. 
The Spousal Unit got out the last puzzle we have in the house. This one is 2000 pieces and is our summer puzzle (rainy or very hot days). He's breaking up the large chunks to single pieces, a rule in our house. 

The escaped prisoner is back in custody and all is good again. We breathed easier when we got the emergency alert that he was in custody. 
Once again, we had no new cases of the virus or deaths reported yesterday. It is good to read that news and we continue to be diligent "just in case". 

Sewing

I finished the little shirt to the buttons. The collar is not perfect but it will do. I see I need to fix the shirt so the lines run across straight. Just a tiny fix. 

It goes nicely with the skirt. 

I'm ready to trace the shorts and capris and cut them out. I have found a pattern to adapt to make a jacket for this wardrobe. So far, all the items used are from one designer and all but one of the items is from one pattern. I'm adapting the jacket from another pattern by the same designer. 

Knitting

I cast on and started to knit a white sweater for the wardrobe. I'm using a pattern that I've knit before and love. No button holes as I may use a clasp to hold it closed. I'm ready to knit the sleeves flat. It is a fast knit as I've knit it before and the pattern is well written. 

Today

Some housework, some sewing, and some knitting. A lazy Sunday at our house. 
Until the next time......................................

A Busy Day

Yesterday was warm. At noon, we had a small shower and it cooled off some. The high got to 25C. This morning it is 15C and cloudy. Rain is in the forecast. 

Lifestyle

We headed out yesterday morning for our mental health drive. We went to get some gardening supplies. We wore our masks and used hand sanitizer. We got home for a late lunch. 
Part of the afternoon was spent figuring out where most of the plants will go and deciding when to plant them. 
We were awakened at midnight with the Emergency Alert blaring on my phone. A prisoner escaped from a correctional institute a 2 hour drive from us. We have everything locked up just to be sure. Just a bit more excitement here in Nova Scotia. 
There were no new cases of the virus reported yesterday. The number of people recovering is hard to figure out but it is 5 or less. We are still being super careful to do our part. 

Sewing

I got the elastic put into the skirt's waistband and it fits Kit a lot better. I know I will have to do it for the shorts and capris. I cut out the other blouse for her wardrobe using the same check fabric. It is partly sewn but needs to have a few more clips at the neckline to lie nicer. 
I've decided to make Kit's wardrobe with a 1930-1940's flair and using only Keepers Dolly Duds patterns. I only have to buy 2 patterns as I have the rest already. I'm trying to get the wardrobe done by the end of August when I'll focus on another doll's wardrobe. It will be for Anna (Gotz) and I'm letting my mind wander around thinking about what I can make for her. 

Knitting

I went looking for more Jean's yarn and the store has discontinued it. I have to order it online. I'm placing a good sized order so I have extra yarn to knit this winter. I did buy a skein of pink yarn for Anna (who gets the next wardrobe). 
I have done a fair amount on the "slow knit" sweater. I am loving it and will have to sew a wardrobe to go with it. 

I will have to set this aside to knit Kit a sweater to wear over her tops. I'm thinking white so it goes with everything.

Today

It is damp outside so I will be doing inside things with some sewing this afternoon. Knitting tonight. 
Until the next time.......................................