Keeping out of trouble...

What do two "old ladies" do to keep the days busy but stay out of trouble? That's a challenge, because we both like to do things that aren't always good for us. At some point, the bodies holler "stop it!" and we have to settle down to some indoor deeds.

This particular picture rather says it all...mom was working on some church letters, and I had a sewing project going. The kitchen table is the best light, with two big windows. Our favorite place for projects large and small. And we can keep an eye on the bird feeders there, too. We are definately multi-taskers, I think it is genetic...

A piece of double-sided quilted fabric from my sister's stash hollered "tote bag!" at me when I saw it, and it's a dandy. With extra long straps, it easily slings over my shoulder. It's deep, so I can throw in multiple projects to have handy during the day's journey. Sketch book, sewing projects in baggies, a book, water bottle or thermos of hot tea, camera ... and off we go!

This was a fun project. Mom wanted a tote that had a stable bottom, for all her church books. We dug out an older sturdy canvas tote that she had decided she didn't like - handles too long so it banged her on the knees when she walked, an UGLY logo on the side, soft bottom. I cut two pieces of heavy cardboard for the bottom, which took care of stability and gave the books a safe place to park. The handles were easily removed, shortened, and firmly sewn back in place. We visited the local quilt shop; they had 6" per-cut squares for 25 cents each and some lovely fat quarter fabrics for sashing. Mom picked out some patterns she liked, and with about 30 minutes of measuring and sewing, here's the result. Covered up that logo, and now she has a fun, customized bag that works just grand! For a total cost of about $1.50. I LOVE recycling and repurposing!!!!

Another day, another project. We have become addicted to making these small wall hangings -the embroidery is simple and colorful, the message is fun, the finish work is fast. Perfect rainy day projects! And tote-alongs, too - along with an on-going slipper kitting project, I always have something to do, that is creative, colorful, and pleasing to me.

This one was finished with leftover fabric from the curtain's in mom's bedroom, so now she has "matching" decor for her newly painted lavender bedroom.

Carrie's new bedroom paintjob is a lovely blue, so for her anniversary this seemed appropriate. Got it done in jig time, mailed it off and it actually arrived on her special day! It's fun to pass on surprises in the mail - we all enjoy "happy mail", don't we?!

So that's how to keep two busy bodies on the straight and narrow. Safely indoors. Mostly.

But there sure are some good clam tides coming up...