Those Who Make Smooth Sailing

As Thanksgiving approaches I realized how timely this post turned out to be. This is a tribute to two different ladies who impacted my life in very different ways. So just read the middle if you don't want to delve into all my heartfelt personal stuff.

So Zoe was the first blog that I followed. The first time I realized that sewing with stuff other than fabric from the fabric store was "Cool" and "Green" The first time I realized others thought shopping at Thrift stores was a good thing to do. That chopping up existing clothes and making something new is responsible consumerism and can have super cute results.
Apparently, I've been cool and trendy for YEARS and never knew it!
She opened up the whole sewing blogosphere to me and made me realize my need for nautical wear even though the only sea near me is of grass and cows. So, when I received a navy blue and white striped knit I knew Exactly what I was going to do with it! Make something that would make So Zoe proud! Not only was it nautical feeling but it counted as a refashion since it had already been cut into a large long sleeve tee shirt.

I cut some of the length from the back and front and added a band of ribbing at my natural waistline. I turned the sleeves on their side and added a bit from what I had cut off from the body. I also added a bit of elastic to ruche the longer side because it curved into my leg because of the sleeve cap.
I love it! It is big and bold. It says "Here I am!" I feel like a piratess in it.

Arrrrgggg Mateys! We'll get you with our needle and thread.

I got this knit from a friend who was very big and bold. You knew when she walked into the room; always sharp, elegant and tasteful; always "Here I am". Apparently she was old enough to be my grandmother but she told me to call her Beth. When I was in that awkward, "I'm an adult now?!" stage she treated me like one and challenged me to think. One of her favorite things to say to me was, "Well, Why not?" when I was making excuses about something. We had such great conversations. She loved Jesus, people, and quality work. She was passionate about everything she loved. She is part of the reason I learned to knit and she did her best to help me excel! When she suddenly passed away her family gave me all her fabric and all the yarn my brother and I could stuff into our van. She gave in life and in her death because she realized life is not about the things we own but those we love.

Because of her I have the confidence to wear crazy things like my Piratess Tunic and because of Zoe, I'm blogging about them.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

As Thanksgiving nears I am so thankful for the people who have impacted my life and given me confidence to pursue my dreams. I'm also thankful for my beautiful not-niece and her wonderful Mom who took these pictures for me. Even though Thanksgiving is not an international holiday I hope everyone takes some time this week to count the blessings that surround you and let others know you love them.