New Sewing Machine Arrived

Yesterday was a nice day with a high of 8.5C. It cooled off to 0C early this morning but was 1C at 6 a.m. It is suppose to be a sunny warm day with a high of 15C. 

Lifestyle

I got 2 lovely bouquets of flowers for my birthday. I was so happy to get them. 

Both had roses and gerber daisies in them, my two favorite flowers. 

We went out and got supper and ate at home. It was lovely not to cook a meal today and I did enjoy the salad I got. 

The Spousal Unit had a sore arm and was tired yesterday. Otherwise he is doing well and is happy to have Needle 1 done. 

There were 3 cases of the virus reported yesterday. One in each of 3 different health zones. I noticed they did about 5000 needles on Monday which is wonderful. 

Sewing

I spent the day in the sewing room working on the test pattern. The skirt pleats took about 2.5 hours to mark, pin in place and press. I let the pleats go at the bottom and hemmed it and repressed the pleats once again. 

Putting the skirt onto the dress was an issue as it was too wide for the bodice. I had to print off the new pattern (which I missed seeing) and cut off an inch at each center back. Once fixed, it fit perfectly. 

The little cuffs got a button loop and button and boy those loops are finicky to make. 

I sewed three pearls onto the tie to make a brooch and used a rhinestone clasp to finish the belt as I had no buckle. In all, I am happy with this dress. 

My new sewing machine arrived around 3 p.m. We unpacked it to make sure it was not damaged and I put the machine on the chair to admire while I finished the dress. 

I am excited to start sewing on it. My Diamond has 577 hours of sewing time on it. I have averaged 57.7 hours a year on this machine. The past 15 months, I have done about 77 hours of sewing on it. Time to retire to the once a months embroidery project and piping. 

Knitting

I did knit on the daisy stitch sweater. I've got 20 rows knit on the first sleeve and will keep working on it until the next test pattern arrives. 

Today

It is back to cleaning the kitchen today. I will set up the sewing machine and have a short play with it. I'm thinking of making a reusable grocery bag to learn how to play. Knitting tonight. 

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

The Test Pattern Bodice is Done

 Yesterday was wet, windy, and it cooled off all day. The wind was howling last night but it was done and over with at midnight. This morning it is clear and -2C. We are to have sunshine and a high of 8C. 

Lifestyle

Housework was put on hold as we had to leave mid morning for the Spousal Unit to get his first shot of the Pfizer vaccine. We went early to get some lunch to eat when we got out of the clinic. All went well and we were home by 12:30. By mid afternoon we were both tired from the weather and worry of the day. 

I am thinking about how I am going to purge the rest of the house and my plan is coming together quite well. What is done looks great and I want the rest to look just as good. I am wanting minimal amount of stuff around so the house will be easy to clean and keep organized. 

There were no new cases of the virus reported yesterday. That was good news. 

Sewing

I worked on the test pattern in the afternoon. I got the bodice done to the button loops and buttons on the cuffs. The finicky sewing is done. 

Kit is happy to model it for me. It fits a bit loose in the waist but that may disappear when the skirt is added.

My new sewing machine is in New Brunswick this morning and I may see it on Thursday. I've been watching videos on setting up/decluttering/purging your sewing room and on beginning quilting. I will add links to a Quilting tab. I'm looking forward to doing a bit of quilting each month. I have to remember to balance my sewing between quilting, crafting, and garments. 

Knitting

I didn't knit last night. I had no energy or brain power to deal with yarn, needles, and pattern. 

Today

As it is my birthday, I get to do what ever I want to do. I am going to sew for sure. Maybe most of the day. We are bringing in supper so I don't have to worry about that. 

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

More Done On The Test Pattern

 Yesterday was a grey day with a high of 6.5C. We saw a snow flurry that lasted about 5 minutes and by 9 p.m. we had a bit of rain. The wind blew last night and it rained a lot. The system brought warm weather and it was 11C at 6 a.m. We are to have rain and a high of 12C today. 

Lifestyle

No housework was done yesterday as I started doing our taxes. Mine is done and the Spousal Unit's is partially done. I seem to take forever to do them hence why I start a month early. 

There were 2 cases of the virus reported yesterday. The numbers remain low which is nice. 

Sewing

I spent some time in the sewing room doing the sleeves on the test pattern. 

The sleeves are cute and very labor intensive. I wish they had a bit more gathering in them. 

I'd put the gathers closer to the top of the sleeve cap if I make it again.

I fiddled with the collar and got it to my liking. It looks closer to the picture on the pattern. 

I will still tack the collar down with pearls so it stays in place. 

With hopes of finishing this pattern in the next 2 days, I looked at what I had done this month. A lot more than I had anticipated when I wrote the list. Not only did I sew but I worked on the doll's couture course and finished an embroidered wall hanging for the downstairs bathroom. I have started the list for April and, with a new machine arriving, I hope to use it for a lot of the projects I have planned. 

Knitting

I knit on the sleeves and unknit some rows as I hated the look of one row. I fixed it up and moved on. I have to read the pattern as there are increases which I could miss. So far I am pleased with this pattern as it is well written and fairly easy to follow. The down side is it is a yarn hog. I've knit 50 grams of yarn and am on the 2nd ball now. 

Today

We are off to New Minas today so the Spousal Unit can get his vaccine. When home, I will sew on the test pattern and tonight I will knit. 

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

A New Test Pattern

 After having record breaking high temperatures for 4 days in a row, yesterday upset the cart with wind, snow flurries, and cooler temperatures. There was one spectacular thunderstorm on Friday night, the best we've seen since moving here.  The high yesterday was 2.3C and this morning it is -2C.

Lifestyle

With the winds gusting up to 80 km yesterday, we had a very short power outage around 10 a.m. We were luckier than 9000 households who had power outages a lot longer than that. Most were due to the wind and the lightening. 

I'm now cleaning the kitchen. Every cupboard is being emptied, scrubbed, and only what is wanted put back in. The easiest part is done and from now on more will be purged as I clean. I am enjoying the process as it making me feel so much better mentally. 

On Friday afternoon, I spent a good amount of time on the phone to get the Spousal Unit an appointment for his first vaccine shot. No success but I got him one for Monday morning via the online booking site. His 2nd shot is already booked for July 12. I now wait to book my appointment. Probably in the next week to 10 days.

I lost 2.2 lbs this week for a total of 25.4 lbs. That is 10% of my body weight gone. I have more energy and a better mental outlook. I realized this week that I'm doing this for myself and no one else. I'm not feeling I have to keep up with anyone. I'm focused on me and the results are showing. 

We continue to have a few cases (up to 5) reported daily. Most are close contact with another case or travel outside the region. 

Sewing

One of the patterns I wanted to test came up and I started it. It hasn't been without its problems. One has to guess at times as dots are missing. I had an issue with the collar as I got the front centered too perfectly. I will have to play around and tack the collar in place along with the tie. I'm going to put purl beads as a pin on the tie. 

I noticed that the designers collar isn't perfect wither and somewhat smaller than mine. 

I am enjoying watching quilting videos but have realized that I need to slow down my thought process and focus on learning about my new sewing machine first. I will have a book out to write things down as I sew different projects on it.  I am going to start out with something simple like a pot holder. 

Knitting

I am still working on the daisy stitch sweater. I now have the collar completed and am ready to start on the sleeves. Once they are done, I will block the sweater, and prepare it for the bands. 

If there are no test patterns when I finish the daisy stitch sweater, I'm going back to knit the sweater set with the curly scarf. I love the pattern and it is an easy knit. 

Today

I am thinking I will do our taxes and some sewing on the dress. I'll knit this evening.

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

Knitting Bag is Finished

 The weather has been beautiful. We have broken the high temperature record for 3 days in a row. It was sunny and lovely outside. Today is cloudy and we will be having rain. The high this morning is 8C and we could see rain, thunder, ice pellets and snow by tomorrow morning. 

Lifestyle

Since last writing, I have cleaned our bedroom. The closets were purged and organized. Everything is off the floors and onto shelves. Items went out to the trash bin or the thrift shop floor. Once that was done, I cleaned the room from top to bottom and washed the bedroom and bathroom windows. They are mold free now. Three huge loads of laundry was done and the room is now smelling fresh and dust free. 

Our cases of the virus have been up and down. Most are related to a previously known case or from travel outside the region. We have 25 active cases which is a bit discerning. 

Sewing

The knitting bag is done. I did over interface it as I wanted it to stand up. It made it harder to top stitch the top of the bag. I'm pleased with it but doubt if I will make it again. 

It holds a lot of knitting supplies which is nice. 

After wrestling with the bag, I decided to make piping. It was relaxing to make over 3 meters in one sitting. 

The fabric is left over from a project I made in 2019. It will be fun on a shirt. 

Knitting

I've been working on the daisy stitch sweater and the body is done. I did the one front yesterday as this picture was taken the day before.

I have the collar and sleeves to knit. With no test patterns on the horizon, I will continue to knit on this one. It may get done by Easter. 

Today

I am going to start cleaning the kitchen. It is time to do a good cleaning of it. I have to also do another test pattern starting today and more knitting tonight. We are staying home for the next few days as the weather is going to make it inside days. 

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

Knitting Basket Progress

Yesterday was a gloriously sunny day from start to finish. The high got to around 16C. There was some wind but it was bearable. This morning the temperature was 0C at 6 a.m. and it is to be sunny and warm again today. 

Lifestyle 

Though it was to be a day to rest yesterday, I ended up doing a lot more than I thought I would. I got 3 loads of laundry washed, dried, and folded, and the bathroom and kitchen cleaned up. 

The Spousal Unit was outside enjoying the nice weather. He pruned the trees and our neighbor helped him fix the shed door. It was poorly hung when made and the wind would blow it open. Now, it fits snugly and closes tightly. The extension on the down pipe of the eaves was also fixed. He did sit outside on the deck yesterday enjoying the sun.

There were 6 cases of the virus reported yesterday. All were from travel outside the region or close contacts of other known cases. 

 Sewing

I worked on the knitting bag yesterday. I measured 1/2" seam allowances so I knew where to sew and, in some cases where to stop. This allows me to be accurate when putting in the bottom section. It took quite a bit of sewing time to get the outside part done but I'm pleased with the results. 

Those big pockets will be perfect for larger items in the sewing basket. 

The other pockets are small for knitting needles. The end pieces each have pockets also. The lining is a repeat of the outside so there will be plenty of pockets for everything. The lining is marked so I can sew it together without getting up except to press.

At lunch I read Why I Got Rid Of My Stash and sat and thought for a few minutes. I am a project person who loves to start and finish the item I am making. The great joy comes from marrying pattern to fabric and notions. I really don't need a stash but I have one. I won't get rid of it as I can still marry patterns to the stash in the fabric. But, I'm trying not to buy more for the stash. If I buy fabric, it has to be used quickly so I can return my attention back to sewing the stash. 

I also haven't gotten rid of the stash as it has been useful during the pandemic when shops were shut down or we couldn't go into areas that were restricted to us. It has kept me sewing when we can't do much of anything in the community and while we wait for spring to arrive. This is the only time I've been grateful for having a stash. And because of that, I will sew it up rather than get rid of it. 

Knitting

The daisy stitch sweater has been divided into fronts and backs and I'm ready to knit the first front. The picture is horrid but the best of the batch I took. 

Though yarn intensive, the pattern is cute. I am planning on keeping this one as it can have a historical vibe for Addy or one of the other dolls. 

Today

We are heading out to get apples and go to the book store. Once home, I want to work on the knitting bag and knit on the sweater. I'm sure the Spousal Unit will be outside in the sunshine enjoying it.

Test Sweater Completed

 Yesterday saw sunshine and 7C. There was some wind but it was warmer than it has been for a while. This morning it was 0C and is suppose to get to 13-15C. Lots of sunshine for the next few days. 

Lifestyle

I made buns for the neighbor's yesterday as a thank you for snow blowing our driveway. While they were proofing I cleaned the laundry closet. The empty boxes on the shelf were put into recycling and it was wiped clean. The washer and dryer were cleaned and shined. And the floor space was swept and mopped. By the time the buns were cooked, the closet was cleaned. 

I lost 1.4 lbs this week for a total of 23.2 lbs. I'm close to my next 2 small goals. Maybe next week for 1 of them. 

There were 2 cases of the virus reported yesterday. Both in the central health zone. 

Sewing

I didn't sew yesterday as I was too tired. I would have made a mistake as my thinking was way off. 

Knitting

I finished the sweater and did photos of it. It is a cute sweater and I'm sure the girl who is getting the extra doll clothes will like it. 

It is a lovely fitting sweater with some cool features - longer ribbing and an open cable. The collar is almost like a funnel collar which is unique. I'm quite happy I tested this pattern. 

I continued working on the daisy stitch sweater and it is coming along. I'm less than 20 rows from dividing the body into fronts and back. 

Today

I have to do some cleaning in the kitchen and bathroom and do several loads of laundry. I would like to sew on the knitting bag and continue knitting on the daisy stitch sweater. 

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

A Spring Snow Storm

 Yesterday morning we woke to blizzard like conditions. About 3" of snow fell and it was all over with by noon. The wind did blow until later in the afternoon. The high got to 0.4C. This morning it is -9C and we are to see 7C by this afternoon. 

Lifestyle

The storm was something to behold. Something to usher in spring we laughed about. 

Or was it to keep us waiting for spring. 

In a couple of days it will be gone as we are to have warm and sunny weather. 

Our neighbor was over and cleaned out the driveway with his snowblower. The Spousal Unit did a bit of scraping and by late afternoon the driveway as almost cleared of ice. 

The two closets and the dresser got cleaned yesterday. I purged items into both the thrift shop boxes and the trash bin. Everything got a good cleaning and organizing. The heavy feather duvets we have are on the top shelves along with the pillows the Hutterites made for me. The winter clothes are in one closet and the rest in the other closet. Both are very empty. At least I know what we have in them. The dresser was tidied up. It took me most of the morning to get it done. 

There were 3 cases of the virus reported yesterday. The restrictions in place in the Halifax region were lifted this morning and the restrictions are the same throughout the province. 

Sewing

I worked on the knitting bag yesterday. All the pockets have been sewn on. One side had a lot of lines to be drawn and sewn down. Times two as the inside is the same. But, all looks good and I'm ready to start sewing the bag together. 

With the closet cleaned up, I have a good idea of what I need to sew for myself come fall. I have all the fabric and most of the notions and patterns. I'm going fairly casual. 

Knitting

I have one sleeve sewn in to the sweater and the other one started. It got to dark to see what to do so I stopped. Navy and black are the two hardest colors for me to knit and sew, espcially sew when it is dark. 

Today

I have to make a batch of buns as a thank you for our neighbor for cleaning our driveway. While waiting for them to proof and cook, I will clean the laundry closet. If not too tired I will sew this afternoon and if not, I will finish the sweater and rest and start knitting on the daisy stitch sweater tonight. 

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

Progress On The Knitting Bag

 Yesterday was cloudy, damp, but warm. The high got to 7.4C. It started to rain harder in the evening and rained during the first part of the night. This morning it is -4C, the north wind is blowing giving us a windchill of -10C and it is snowing. Reminds one of a spring blizzard but not quite as much snow (4-6"). It is to be cold (-9C) today and start warming up tomorrow. 

Lifestyle

The bathroom is bleached and scrubbed. The linen closet got a good cleaning with a box emptied and tossed and a pair of pillow cases going to the thrift shop. It is good to have that room cleaned. All that is left is to wash the window as I bleached it to get rid of the mold. 

The Spousal Unit had a spell of depression yesterday. He was tired and feeling negative. I got him to go outside and then have a drink of water. He had a short nap, went outside again for a bit longer and put a coat of mud on the bathroom wall. By the time that was done, he was in a better mood. 

There were 3 cases of the virus reported yesterday. All are in the central health zone. There was also one death reported, the first since Aug. 23, 2020. That was very sad to read. 

Sewing

I was across the street to visit our neighbor before lunch. She is a quilter and that was the topic of discussion. She is excited I'm getting into it again though I will never be on the same level as her. We talked about ruler quilting, practicing, and machines. 

In the afternoon, I worked on the knitting bag. All the interfacing is on the pieces that required it. I then turned my attention to the pockets and chose to do the bag end pieces (4 of them). 

I got out the grey glide thread and when I started stitching, the match was perfect. You can barely see the stitches. 

When the 4 end pockets were attached, I called it a day. I am taking my time on this project as I'm using the walking foot and am doing a lot of marking. 

Knitting

The second sleeve is done and I'm ready to sew them into the sweater. It got dark and I don't do well sewing navy yarn with just a light. I'll try this afternoon if the sun is shining. 

Today

The goal this morning is to purge the two closets in our bedroom and wash them down. There are items to move, 3 heavy feather duvets to put up on top shelves, and some items to put into the trash or thrift shop boxes. This afternoon, I want to do the pockets on the side pieces and then work on sewing the sleeves into the sweater. A day at home not by choice but by the weather.

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

A Trip To The Fabric Store

Yesterday was a cold one. The temperature in the morning was -12C and the wind blew making it feel like -21C. The high got to -5C and the wind was still blowing. The wind calmed down later in the evening. This morning it is -12C and the wind is calm. We could see 7C today.

Lifestyle

We headed out to the respiratory therapist yesterday morning and I got a good report. We talked briefly about a new machine but I will wait until September before deciding. 

We stopped on the way home to get lunch and I enjoyed a wonderful fresh salad. After lunch, I had a short nap before doing a two loads of laundry. I was tired from listening to the wind blowing during the night.

There were 2 cases of the virus reported yesterday. Both are in the central health zone. 

Sewing

There was a stop at the fabric store on the way home. I got fabric and heavy sew-in interfacing for the knitting bag. I also got buttons for the knitting project, and interfacing for the Spousal Unit's next shirt. The fabric I bought is a cross hatch in white and grey. The fabric line is called Dublin. It is one of my favorite fabrics as it adds texture without being loud.

As the store wasn't too busy (8 of us in it) I wandered around the quilting notions on my way to the fabrics. I found the rulers for quilting and bought the Shorty ruler. It is a start for me as I am looking forward to doing some quilting again when I get my new machine.

The fabric I bought has been laundered and I'm ready to work on the knitting bag this afternoon. 

Knitting

I finished the neckline of the sweater and have started on the first sleeve. I had to unknit to the ribbing as I didn't see the increase rows. The sleeves are an easy knit so I'm assuming I will be sewing them into the sweater this weekend, if not earlier. 

When done, I'm not sure what I will be knitting next. There are no test patterns in the wings so I may pick up the daisy stitch sweater and continue working on it. 

Today

The goal is to finish cleaning the bathroom this morning. This afternoon, I want to cut out the rest of the knitting bag and start sewing on it. Tonight is knitting. With the weather so cold, it is a perfect day to stay home. 

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

The Knitting Bag Is Started

 Yesterday's weather was cold. The high got to -8C and the wind blew hard. You didn't want to be out in it. This morning, it is -12C and the wind is still blowing. It is suppose to get to -6C today and tomorrow is suppose to get to +6C. It is crazy weather here. 

Lifestyle

I started to clean the bathroom yesterday. It is time to give it a spring cleaning. I will be going through the linen closet and cleaning it too. 

We kept hearing a thud noise in the basement and one of the pictures in the bathroom keeps falling off the wall. I'm not sure what I am going to do with it. I put double sided tape on the frame but that didn't work. The fabric is an issue on that picture. The other picture hasn't moved. 

I helped with the puzzle again yesterday. Shorter periods of time as I was tired. We got about 30-40 pieces in. We both felt like Elliott with the time change. 

There were no new cases of the virus reported yesterday. The people are doing well at controlling the spread of it in the province. 

Sewing

The knitting bag is this pattern. 

I made it January 2018 for daughter-in-law in the cutest fabric. I knew I would make it for myself one day. The fabric I am using for the bag is this print. It was part of a line that featured cats and the balls of yarn. I just bought this piece. There was not cat print to match it.

I have to get fabric for the pockets. I have an idea of what I want. I need to get heavy craft interfacing for it also. 

I am looking at getting a new sewing machine. The Diamond I sew on is almost 12 years old. I would like to keep it for embroidery and making piping (have the piping foot for that). I am looking at a Juki that has a lot of stitches, a wide throat so I can comfortably quilt on it. I am also wanting a machine that stitches nicely and this one seems to fill the bill. With this machine, I can sew clothing, crafts items, and quilt. Though I tried to quilt on the Diamond, I was never really successful at getting even stitches. Cross hatching reusable grocery bags was hard to get an even stitch length which was frustrating. Some were long and some were tiny. The Diamond is more known for doing lovely embroidery than quilting. 

Knitting

I knit on the doll's sweater last night and am 6 rows from finishing the collar. Sleeves and done. I quite like this pattern as it has been an easy knit. 

Today

We are off to New Minas where I have an appointment with the respiratory therapist. I need my data read (it's good) and get supplies. We may do some grocery shopping, have lunch out and stop at the fabric store on the way home. I am not sure what I am going to do when we get home though I will probably launder the fabric I hope to buy. Knitting tonight. 

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

A Day to Rest

 Yesterday was the start of our cold weather. There were snow showers in the morning, sun in the afternoon. The high got to -1.5C. This morning it is -10C, a snow shower went through, and the wind is blowing. The high is to be -9C. 

Lifestyle

It was rest day yesterday. I did not clean much of anything and did what I wanted to do. I worked on the puzzle in the morning and later in the afternoon. About 40 pieces were put in filling in more at the top. 

I tried what they call stripping your laundry. It is soaking your laundry in the bathtub with powdered detergent, borax, and washing soda (I used Oxiclean). I let the mixture sit until the hot water had cooled swishing the towels around every 40 minutes. The water was brown but not as dirty as I thought it would be. That means our towels are not as dirty as we only use them once and then they are laundered. It also showed me I can do this in our front end washer using hot water, the powdered cleaners, and a long washing cycle. 

After lunch I hung the pictures I made a year or so ago in the downstairs bathroom. It adds another cheery element to the bathroom.

The goal is to do a bit each day in this bathroom until it is done. 

I also spent some time in the sewing room and tried to lay out a pattern. I have to redo it today. 

We were out for ice cream with family last night and when we got home, I sewed one seam of the test sweater together. 

I really enjoyed a day to relax and not worry about cleaning or sewing. I needed it both mentally and physically.

Today, the upstairs bathroom will be cleaned and I will put another patch coat on the downstairs bathroom wall. I need to pin the pattern onto the fabric for my knitting basket and knit tonight. It is back to getting the spring cleaning done. I'm ready to do it.

Sewing Room Is Clean

 Yesterday was the day of weather. There were snow showers with sunshine and blue skies between the showers in the morning. The wind blew all day and the high got to 4C and this morning it is -6C. We have had snow showers already this morning. 

Lifestyle

I cleaned the head on the heat pump yesterday. I washed the filters which were quite dusty. I also wiped the metal core, vanes, and inside the machine with disinfectant wipes to make sure all the dust was removed and any mold that could have been in it was killed. I put it back together and was done in 30 minutes. 

I lost 1.3 lbs this week. Most of it was fluid and a bit was weight loss. I am down 21.8 lbs. I am feeling much better and am able to do more each day. Just the ability to do more each day is keeping me motivated.

There were 5 cases of the virus reported yesterday. Only 1 is under investigation. We talked yesterday about how we have accepted the new normal of masks, hand sanitizer, and social distancing and if we can ever go back to the old normal. 

Sewing

I cleaned off the cutting table yesterday morning and took pictures of the room. I have to put the embroidery arm back into its case and stand it up against the wall.

The Spousal Unit sits in the easy chair each day and we visit while I sew. I do like this set up as it includes him in the room.

The cutting table is cleaned off with only one project on it. The containers under it hold projects that I have made and there is a tub behind the box that has daughter's next shipment in it. Behind the table and in a nook is my work area. I need a filing cabinet and another peg board in there.

The stash shelving unit is always covered as it is next to a window. This is the unit that will go when the stash has been sewn down enough to go into a dresser. The closet has the doll's stash, trims, notions, and embroidery thread. Every time I open the doors, I am reminded that I do not need to buy any more for the dolls.

The ironing area. I move the ironing board from being perpendicular from the wall to against the wall. So far it is working for me.

After sewing yesterday, I spent some time cleaning up the room which took about 10 minutes. It was nice to leave the sewing room neat and tidy.

The test pattern is done but I don't have ribbon for the sleeves or the front. I dug through the ribbon stash and nothing.

I am not happy with the ribbon on the bustle. I will redo it later on. I think the ribbon is too wide. I will get narrower ribbon and try it to see if I like it better.

I have decided not to make the pleated skirt at this time. I may come back and make the skirt when I have more time but I need to be ready to make the next bustle. 

Knitting

I did a lot of knitting on the sweater last night. The shoulder seams are ready to sew together so the collar can by knit. I am happy with this sweater and will make a simple skirt or pants to go with it. 

While finishing up the last bit of cleaning in the sewing room, I wound the last 3 skeins of yarn in the house. I happily put the swift and winder away knowing the job was done. 

Today

I am not doing any cleaning today. I plan on working on the puzzle, hang a few pictures, rest, and knit. If I go into the sewing room, I will pin the pattern pieces onto the fabric for my knitting bag. This is a day off from the rigors of house cleaning.

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

Sewing Room Is Clean

 Yesterday was very windy but the sun did shine and it got to 14.2C. Two days in a row we broke the previous high temperature. Today we will be no where near that as it is suppose to get to 1C with flurries. It is 1C right now and there is a wind. 

Lifestyle

I am slowly getting over the arthritis pain I had for 5 days. The fluid around the joints is almost gone (1.3 lbs lost in 24 hours) and the only area that is sore is my back. Even that pain is 60% less. I'm hoping my energy will come back so I can keep on cleaning the house. 

We both had a fairly good day yesterday. We laughed and joked throughout the day and it keep us feeling happier. We also sat and talked more to each other. I also popped over to the puzzle table several times and helped out with the puzzle. 

Elliott was entertaining last night. He slept in the most unusual position for him not once but twice yesterday. 

There was one new case of the virus reported yesterday which is close to the first anniversary of the first virus being report in Nova Scotia. There are 17 active cases in the province with one person in the hospital but not in ICU. 

Sewing

The sewing room is cleaned and I am happy. I did the last part yesterday. The sewing cabinet got a good cleaning as did the ironing board. The floors got washed and it was a hard job due to me being so sore. Getting up and down was the hardest part. 

When done, the Spousal Unit came in to visit. He said it looked brand new as it was so clean. That made me feel so good and it made it worth all the hard work and the many buckets of dirty water. The cutting table is messy but it will get cleaned off. I have projects on it that I want to sew but I'm going to figure out a way to deal with them so they are easily available but not on the table 

I spent 90 minutes sewing on 6 snaps and 6 buttons. I waxed all the thread so it wouldn't break and learned a new trick when I found this video clip. The snaps sit firmly on the fabric which I love. 

I started on the bustle. It shouldn't take that long to sew as it isn't lined. Another bustle pattern is almost ready for us to test and then I'm taking time off from sewing doll clothes. 

Laura's hair dried beautifully and is very silky. I'm happy with the products I used. 

Knitting

I knit on the sweater last night and the right back is done. I'm part way up the front so am expecting to get it done tonight and then start on the left back. 

I still have 3 hanks of yarn to wind into cakes before I can put the swift and cake winder away. 

Today

I'm moving upstairs to start cleaning. The heat pump head will be the first project so the dust can be reduced. I want to wind the last three skeins of yarn so I can clean up that, sew on the bustle, and knit tonight. If I get more cleaning done, it will be a bonus. 

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

 

Outside Job On A Nice Day

 Though the sun didn't shine a lot, it was a very warm day. The high got to 15.3C, a record temperature for here. This morning, it is cloudy windy and 9C. We are to have another warm day before it cools off again. 

Lifestyle

With the warm weather and the front of the house out of the wind, we took down the Christmas lights. I climbed up and down the ladder and the Spousal Unit put the strings of lights into the bin. On the last trip down the ladder I missed the last rung or two and came to a jarring halt on the front porch. My back and sorer knee hurt horridly. I hobbled around to finish up the job and then rested. It is nice to have them put away until November. 

There were no cases of the virus reported yesterday. I'm trying to keep up with the vaccine schedule. I hope I'm succeeding as I do want both of us to get it on schedule. 

Sewing

I continued to clean the sewing room in the morning. I pulled out the yarn cube and the bookcase and washed the floor in that area. I then cleaned the cube the dolls are on and washed the window ledge and floor there. When I was washing the floor I hit the doll's cube and one of the dolls took a dive into the scrub water. I grabbed her very quickly so her face didn't get wet. I ran to the bathroom, rinsed her hair off, then washed and conditioned it. The hair brushed out beautifully and it is air drying. The poor soul. 

I did finish up the area I was working on and have only the area the sewing machine cabinet and iron are in to do. I'm nearing the end of cleaning the room. 

The top of the test outfit got the hem rolled and hand sewn. I used a fine variegated silk thead and a tiny needle to do the job. It took a bit of time but looks perfect. I also marked the button/snap placement and called it a day. 

Knitting

I cast on the next test sweater with new yarn that I bought. It is a wool nylon blend and very easy to knit. I got 18-20 rows knit and the pattern is fairly easy to follow. You have to watch for buttonholes and cable rows. 

I will sew something to go with it and bag it up as an outfit. Though a cute pattern it isn't one I'd keep. 

Today

The hope is to finish cleaning the sewing room. I did start cleaning up the sewing machine cabinet yesterday but didn't get a huge amount done. I am hoping to work on the outfit and see how far I can get in the afternoon. Knitting tonight on the sweater. Another stay at home day. 

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

Book and Yarn Purge

 Yesterday was a beautiful day. The sun shone and we had a high of 7C. This morning it is cloudy and 0C. It is suppose to get to 12C today. 

Lifestyle

I am having a flare up of arthritis and have been in pain for 5 days now. It really is hindering me in getting things done. It seems to be better this morning which is nice to have less pain. 

I worked in the sewing room yesterday. It was book and yarn day. I sorted through all my books and have a pile to go to the book store. I kept the ones I wanted and gave the ones that I've worked through. I kept all my sewing books as they still have a purpose for when I start sewing for myself. Once I'm finished sewing, they will be taken to the book store. 

The yarn bins were a real wake up call. I'm a #hoarder of small balls of yarn. Most I can't get any more and some I don't want to knit with. It is amazing how much I put in those bins that are useless. I have a great idea of what I have to knit with and won't need to buy yarn for quite a while. 

There was one case of the virus reported yesterday. It is related to travel outside of Atlantic Canada. 

Sewing

I worked on the test pattern for 3.5 hours yesterday afternoon. I was exhausted when I finally stopped. 

I am ready to start turning the hem and hand sewing it in place with fine silk thread. Though complicated, the pattern did go together easily. Lots of pressing and clipping is needed but it's all part of the pattern. 

The back looks great also. I quite like this pattern and can't wait to see the bustle attached. 

I know I have quite a bit of hand sewing to do on the top and bustle but I'm excited I am at this stage of the outfit. 

I looked at the doll clothes books I have in the bookcase and I'm excited to work through some of the patterns when I have time. All are historical which I'm excited about. 

Knitting

I got out the Daisy Stitch sweater and knit on it last night. It is an easy pattern to follow and I'm enjoying it a lot. I can watch Downton Abbey while knitting and admire the outfits. 

I am happy that I got rid of the bits of yarn that can't be made into anything. What is left can be knit up and enjoyed by myself, family, and the dolls. 

Today

The goal is to continue cleaning the sewing room. I'm looking at pulling out the bookcase and cube, sweeping the floor and washing that small area. Then it's on to the doll's cube. I don't need to go through their clothes but I do need to tidy up their shelves, give it all a good cleaning and do the floor in that area. I want to sew on the doll's dress after I take down the Christmas lights. That is a priority job today. Tonight I plan on knitting. A busy day.

Tiny Pleated Trim

Yesterday started out sunny which became cloudy by noon. We had snow flurries most of the afternoon. It must have rained during the night. The high got to 3.5C. This morning it is -4C and we are to see sunshine and a high of 7C. 

Lifestyle

I made a big pot of pea and ham soup yesterday. It had big pieces of smoked ham in it and tasted yummy. I have one more ham bone to cook but will have to buy ham for the soup. 

I had got 2 more of the fabric tubs for the cube in the family room and I got them made and items in them. Now to decide if I want to do get one more or try for a container for the office supplies. I'd like a container so we can see items and get them out easily. 

There were 5 cases of the virus reported yesterday. All are related to previous cases and are self isolating. 

Sewing

I have one half of the sewing room cleaned right down to washing the floor on my hands and knees. It looks nice though the cutting table has projects piled on it. I also took out one bin of yarn and tidied it up. I threw some tiny balls of yarn into the trash. I don't have a lot of this weight (sock yarn) but plan on knitting it down to nothing. 

As I sat for a few minutes and rested, I looked at what I've done and have decided I need to buy a filing cabinet (Ikea) and, eventually, a dresser. I am hoping that the stash shelving unit will be gone in 2022 as the stash has decreased that much. The focus will be on getting the craft/quilting cottons sewn down to almost nothing this year.

In the afternoon, I sewed on the test pattern. I decided to make the tiny pleats on the sleeves. I turned my brain around 6 times and finally got them done correctly. I had to cut a longer piece of fabric - 18" long but can cut off the excess. 

I did some seam sewing and serging and finally pinned it on the model. 

This pattern fits perfectly due to the darts in the front and back. There is a dart in the center back that allows the bottom part of the bodice to pouf out some for the bustle. 

The pleated piece is on the sleeve and is ready for me to cut out the white trim. 

And lastly, the curved seams (along with the back darts and side pleats) has the bottom of the bodice poufing out some. 

So far I am very pleased with this outfit. I'm not sure if I will make it again but if I do, I know this pattern is a winner. 

Knitting

I ripped out the sweater and called it a day on the pattern. As I missed the test deadline I don't have to knit it. It really isn't one of my favorite patterns. I didn't start a new project as I am waiting for a test pattern. I will get out the Daisy stitch sweater and knit on it while I wait. 

Today

More cleaning in the sewing room. I am thinking of doing the book case and the wool bins. I will be thinking about what I can get rid of and what I will keep in those two areas. I will continue sewing on the doll's outfit and knit tonight. Another day at home to stay safe. 

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