Creativity Amidst Chaos

You need to be a mom of young children to really understand just how great it feels to get something accomplished.  Oh yes, reading your children stories, keeping them clothed and fed and somewhat clean is a feat in itself, but for me, every day just runs into the other if I don't have something tangible to show for it.  So, in between changing diapers, kissing boo boos, and looking for misplaced toys, I have been sewing.

Recently, I discovered the pattern designer, Kay Whitt.  I am crazy about The Monique Dress No. 109.  Now, I'm the queen of goofing up the most basic directions, but hers are practically goof-proof.  I decided to make this dress for my friend, Sarah C.  (I have two friends named "Sarah": Sarah Jo and Sarah C.).  Sarah C. is my fashionista friend.  She is always doing thoughtful things for others.  She prepared an amazing brunch for me the morning of my wedding, massaged my back and painted my toes when I was pregnant, and is always there to provide a listening ear and give me her candid opinion.  Did I mention that she also can swear like a sailor when properly annoyed, which contrasts comically with her tiny frame and big blue eyes?  She's awesome.  Sarah looked through my stash of fabric and picked out this great print from Laura Gunn's Poppy Collection.  

I loved sewing with this fabric!  It made me happy just looking at it.  I'm glad I still have enough left to make myself one.  Now, this was truly a labor of love.  I sewed diligently through half a dozen toddler tantrums, four nursing sessions, cooking dinner for my hubby, and even while slightly buzzed, as I sipped liquor to cope with the toddler temper tantrums.  (No lecture, please.  I hardly ever do that, my husband was home to mind the kids, and you know what?  It was delicious.  An occasional flirtation with alcoholism keeps Mommy sane).   Zoë kept needing attention, Silas was frightened by the sound of the sewing machine, the whole house was in a shambles, but still, I kept sewing.  And I finished the dress.  And I feel awesome.  

I'm going to give the dress to Sarah C. tomorrow!  More pictures to follow.

  Stitching the contrasting hem onto Sarah's dress.

                                       

                                           This is my work area, and yes, I know it's filthy.

                                       The finished product!  I can't wait to give it to Sarah C.