Lights Out!!!

The power went off briefly last night around 9:30!  No storm or wind or anything, the apartment complex just lost power suddenly.  Luckily, after the tornado I stocked up on candles and flashlights, so I grabbed a flashlight and went around the apartment setting out votive candles.  I actually kind of liked the effect, very heartwarming and homey.  Normally I hate losing power, because there's nothing to do!  But last night my laptop had a decent charge, so I watched a netflix while I waited for the power to come back on.  Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham was the night's selection.  I'm into foreign titles lately, so if you need a Bollywood fix, give this one a try.  

Also, I finally blocked my latest knitting project!  A few finishing details, and I'll be all done!

I love it!

Back in the habit?

I haven't been cooking at all lately, so I decided to get back into the swing of things tonight and try a new recipe.  I love squash and zucchini, so when I came across this recipe on Pinterest (new favorite site) I knew I had to try it.  

Verdict: yumm!!!  

And I actually ate some vegetables.  Which is good.  Cause it's been, like, a year.  :)

Sewing in a Straight Line

I set aside my latest knitting project for a while and decided to try something that I've wanted to do for a VERY long time.  

Like my skirt...?

Beeeecause...  I made it!!!

All on my own, in a single evening, with the help of Brett Bara's fabulous Sewing in a Straight Line.  

Her book is beyond easy to understand, and the projects are clothes that I can actually see myself making and wearing.  Some that I'm definitely planning on making include two great skirts (one of which I made tonight!), a cardigan, a dress, and some cute home decor and gift projects.  

I can't tell you how accomplished I feel!  I'm totally wearing my new skirt tomorrow.  :)

:)

Increasing Stitches (kf+b)

I love learning new things!  I was so intimidated when I started this project, but I just took a breath and worked through it step by step!  

It actually looks like something now!  

Another work in progress...

This is the first time I've tried knitting in the round with circular needles.  Plus, I learned how to pick up stitches, place markers, and hold stitches on scrap yarn.

Look, it's a heart. :)

First attempt at blocking...

Yay!

Finished Embroidery Projects!

I haven't had as much time for stitching this summer as I'd like, but I did manage to finish some embroidery projects!

This is a thread portrait of my sweet friend K's daughter.  K taught next door to me while I was substituting at P.W.B.H.S.  I definitely couldn't have made it without her, she is so much fun and such a great person!

I framed it in a black frame and gave it to K as a thank you gift for all of her help during the semester!  She was amazing!!!

Then, I saw this project featured on the feeling stitchy blog and knew I had to make it for my sister and her family. :)  

I don't know why, but I especially like this picture. :)

I'll try not to stay away so long next time!