Playing Catch Up

It is days like today when I really appreciate the benefit of working for a technical/functional support unit. Occasionally, I have the opportunity to work from home. All I need is a computer, a phone, and access to all systems that help support our users. I don't have to "dress" for work, no rush hour traffic, and lunch from my very own kitchen. sweet.

Work/Travel

My team has started traveling again. Travel days can be at most a 16 hour work day depending on the circumstance and the distance. For me it takes awhile to recover, but it's all part of getting the job done. Most of my travel is to the Urbana campus with an occasional trip to Springfield. No travel to Rockford and Peoria for at least 2 1/2 years. We also usually meet at two of three extensions sites to discuss best practices for the use of our application. Recently, I have had the benefit of traveling to more than our typical milk run. Last month I traveled to New York City. Upcoming trips to Philadelphia, PA and Naples, FL. I won't get my hopes up for a chance to shop in Philly. It's a one night, one day, trip. I will have a chance to shop and visit some local attractions while in Naples. It's the annual user group meeting (4 days) hosted by our product vendor.

Bringing my New Year's Resolution to Life

Sewing

No sewing, but plenty of reading and gathering of materials/information. I subscribe to a few sewing and fashion mags. So I been playing catch on the latest trends and styles. I've also purchased several books, one is the most recent publication of Vogue Sewing. I already own the 1982 version and thought the new book would offer new information. Not really.., The most noticeable changes/updates were the layout of the book and the order of the chapters. My copy is a hard cover the new one is paperback. My preference is the older version which comes with several photos to illustrate a style or technique discussed in the book. I decided to give the latest publication to my niece who is learning to sew. I think it is a must have for anyone who sews.





Several people have ask if I would sew for them this spring/summer season; to most I said not at this time. Three I answered yes to. With their permission, I will post my activities.


This month I've been actively pursuing the goals that I set at the beginning of the year. My book list is at least 20 publications long. Not all are sewing related, but include crocheting, knitting, and cooking. So far I've snagged:






My Crocheted Projects:












I haven't started to practice what I'll learned about sewing leather. Most of the recommended equipment and supplies (Sewing with Leather and Suede) I already have, but there still a few items I want to purchase before testing my ability. Karen suggested that I practice using leather goods purchased from a resale shop before buying a new piece of leather. I have two old leather jackets that I can use. BTW- Karen just finished a beautiful black leather jacket.

Workshops, Expos, Groups

Marji recommended the Stitches Midwest Convention (Rosemont, IL) held in the summer. I did not find any 2008 event postings on the net. It may be too early. Previous conventions were held at the Donald Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont. Attending an Expo was also highly recommended by Carolyn.

So Sew Lost recommended Meetup. There are a variety of groups that use this site to solicit new members and organize club activities. I found one knitting/crochet group of interest: South Suburban Knitting and Crochet Group , Matteson, IL. The meeting place is about 10 miles from where I live.

Finally, I'm still considering the ASG . I haven't made up my mind, but I plan to participate in at least one of them.



Blog Reading

There are so many interesting blogs. I simply can't keep up with all the latest news. Of course, the sewing blogs are my favorites, but I also read, crocheting/knitting, cooking, thinking, political, and beauty blogs.


Shopping

Fishman's Fabrics has a lot of their fine wools, cotton, and silks on sale. I pick up two nice pieces on Monday afternoon. I had been skying them for about three weeks hoping they would reduce them some more. Each pieces is about 2 yds long and sold for $10.00/yd regularly $29.95/yd. Fishman's has some of the most beautiful fabrics; they also have some "beautiful" prices.




I picked a few notions at the President's sale (JoAnn's and Hancock's). Brought yearns at Walmart. That's it on shopping.