Stroller Bag

I've been a very bad blogger lately and taking lots of photos with my iphone. It is so easy to snap a photo and e-mail to myself and easily upload to my post. So much easier than using my regular camera. Of course the picture quality isn't nearly the same but I'm not anywhere near a decent amateur photographer anyway!

I've been getting a bit more friendly with my sewing machine. Most of the time she is pretty good to me except when she decides to spit out chunks of thread or tangle the bobbin. Of course, this is probably more user error on my part but I'd like to blame the machine. I saw this pattern on Made by Rae quite some time ago and instantly fell in love with it. I knew I wanted one for Chelsea's stroller. Recently I decided to go ahead and give it a try. It was as easy as Rae said it would be and I actually finished it in under 2 hours! I think I will make at least one more for myself as a catch all kind of bag (not that I don't already own a million tote cute tote bags - of course a girl could always use one more). It would also make a great quick diaper bag when we don't need to bring the whole sha-bang. When the handles are tied together it is long enough to fit across my body which is great for lugging things to more active settings like parks, grocery shopping, parades (hometown Memorial Day parade coming up!). This bag comes in handy when just a bit more room is needed and is great for walks. I can throw some toys in there, a lightweight sweater, camera, etc. I got the fabric at Joann's. Didn't want to go too crazy until I knew I could actually make the bag. I didn't take a photo of the interior but it is a coordinating green print. You can see it at the top of the photo on the handles. The bag is reversible which is another fun feature. The pattern has instructions for two side pockets as well but I decided to keep it real simple. Next up is a simple jumper dress for Chelsea...

Punchin' Up the Wardrobe

I have a NYC work event coming up next month. It is a luncheon that we (the university I work for) hosts every year and every year I'm at a loss as to what to wear. There are lots of movers and shakers and people dressed to the nines. I don't think I could afford one sleeve of some of the outfits I see! I was browsing around for some inspiration and I came up with the above outfit. What do you think? I can't afford this outfit either but it was still fun to put together! Now I have to see if I can knock it off via Target or some other such bargain store. The shoes especially make me smile!

Dress Source
Cardigan Source
Shoe Source

Lovely Lulu

I'm very proud to announce that my sister, Shelley (aka Lulu) has started her own blog Lulu's Sweet Feet! Way to go Sis! Her blog covers her passion for running as well as her passion for healthy living and cooking.

Her latest post highlights a recipe for vegan peanut butter cups. I must admit, when she first told me about them I turned up my nose. Bring on the real sugar and the real milk! But I was quite surprised to find they are actually quite yummy and they look so darn pretty too. Some of the ingredients seem a bit hard to find but most if not all are available at your local health food market.

I invite you to take a moment to stop by and say hi to Shelley. Tell her Big Sis Sugar Bear sent ya!