Burlap + Kindness

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This morning I took on a challenge.  Well, I attempted to anyway.  It's been on my heart and mind to tackle a project in my kitchen and that being to make curtains out of burlap (I'm using burlap coffee bags).  A friend let me know recently a source where I could get me some... and whalaa!!!  IT TOOK FOREVER - to find the right "coloring" that I wanted.  So... here we are.

It was a beautiful morning, sunny and cool - sitting outdoors - ripping seams.  A simply wonderful time to just sit and pray and reflect.   Why these flowers?   I added them to my table just to tie everything in - for the photo's sake.  Let me tell you a story.

Every morning, before school, I try to read a story of value (tying in Scripture, too) to my kiddos.  This morning it was about kindness and that when you give it away - more will come back to you!  Did you know... that these flowers... zinnias.. are like this.  The more you cut the more they come back.  So, de-head often - and their beauty will keep on coming.  Same is true.. if you give away an act of kindness; a word spoken in love or care; a thoughtful deed... it will come back to you.

I remember saying this often to my kids - 

You can't have it till you give it away.  Love doesn't live in a selfish place.

***

Well, I started this post awhile ago, like as in last year, sometime.  It's been in draft mode ever since.  :( 

 I'm about to wrap up the last of the curtains - it'll be a valance for over my double window at the kitchen sink. I'm hand sewing the seams, for the casings, using the jute I'm pulling out.  It certainly has been a project, one I'm proud of, for sure.  Not hard - just time consuming.  One of the reasons it took me "so long" was I really cared about what kind of day I could be outdoors to do the task.  AND... burlap is a messy thing to work with - especially when it is cut and it frays.  I love the look, though.    And... I'm grateful for the beautiful chance I took on waiting for just the right color/texture of burlap.  

The only thing missing this year are the zinnias.   I didn't get any planted.

But.  Let kindness, love and patience continue.

On the homefront: Recipe and The Quilt, The Hemlock House Healing Salve and Journaling

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Ahh.  Comfort food - there is nothing like it, especially for this time of year!  And casseroles are certainly a way to obtain that for a measure of comfort.

I mentioned the other day that I would share another recipe.  One, using cooked rice, broccoli and kale. This was a recipe that I quickly threw together - for our little family - and I think it just might have become a family favorite.  Later - looking online - I did find this similar recipe...that perhaps you would enjoy as well.  But... truthfully.  Mine might be a tad easier to put together.  I don't know.

A couple of things.

Whenever I made rice, I bake it in the oven.  Apparently - I'll need to share this method sometime - as  another recipe. It's something I've talked about quite often - but have never shared how.  Stay posted.

Oven baked rice is the best idea (ever!) and so efficient plus it keeps your stovetop clean.  However, we always have leftovers - whenever it is I make rice.  No problem - I'll just bag it up in a ziploc and throw in the freezer.

Having a cup or two of cooked/baked rice in the freezer - has been another time saver for me.

And - so easy for casseroles - such as the one I'm about to share.

Here are the ingredients ...

2 cups of cooked rice (if frozen, thaw it out)
1 cup of frozen broccoli flowerets
1/2 - 1 cup kale, chopped
1 can of cream of mushroom soup
1 1/2 - 2 cups of shredded Monterey Jack Cheese
seasoned salt
paprika

Lightly steam broccoli and kale together - for a couple of minutes.  In another bowl, add the veggies, while hot, with some of the vegetable water to the rice.  Add the cream of mushroom and cheese and stir well.  Put into a nicely buttered casserole.  Sprinkle seasoned salt and paprika - to taste.

Bake at 350* for 20 - 30 minutes or until heated through (bubbly and golden).

Simple, creamy and delicious!!
You're welcome!

***
I also promised you would get to see the baby quilt (in full) once I've finished working on it.  I realize since taking the photos that I really didn't get a full photo of it.  Just partial bits and pieces.  Oh well... you do get the idea.  Truth is. I'm sad to have this sewing project be done and gone.  :) I so thoroughly enjoyed working on this.  Hand quilting is very therapeutic for me...I guess.  My friend said, she might have another for me to do in the near future, Lord Willing.  I said... "sure!"

***

I've been meaning to give a shout-out; a plug-in for my friend Amanda and her Etsy Shop!

See the two little jars, here on the shelf?

The smaller jar, with the black lid, is Plantain Salve and the other (the one with the tag) is her Healing Salve.  I ordered this healing salve the other week - and I don't know how many times we've dove into this jar - even in one day alone.  Several times.  My family and I are sincerely convinced this is the best stuff since sliced bread.
It works.  From bug bites, and cuts and scrapes. to just a bump or bruise.  It always produces a smile!
Even my hubby is a believer!!

Thank you - Amanda!!
***

Ending on this note.  I was recently a recipient of a wonderful giveaway and awarded this beautiful journal.

It's become a wonderful addition to my kitchen counter. :) A great place to capture and collect thoughts and ideas as I go about my day.

It is often life's smallest pleasures and gentlest joys
that make the biggest and most lasting difference. ~ Unknown
***
Enjoy the remainder of your day!!

Quietly quilting... amongst other things!!

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From a 1930 diary from Upper Frederick Township, Montgomery Co.:

September 2, Tuesday:  Put quilt in a frame.

September 5, Friday: Finished quilt.

We will assume that the writer of this diary knotted rather than quilted the quilt, since the diary states that during this time she also canned three baskets of peaches.

~ selected from The Quiltie Ladies Scrapbook, Variable Star Quilters

** Aubrey, my six year old, took these quilting photos.

Here I am, working on another project - a baby quilt - due for someone by mid-September. One of my favorite past times, is hand quilting... which I haven't done in a long time.  I'll admit, I felt a bit rusty at it, for a few moments.  Now...all is well.  :) 

And, I'm having such a relaxing time...doing this!!  I'll often sit down - at the end of the day - while the kiddos' are already tucked into bed for the night and sew while Scott is studying or catching up on Scout stuff. :)

I'm not making any promises, because I do have a lot of things to share... but... If you don't hear from me in awhile... it's because, I'm quilting...among...a few other things, this week!  

Such as, enjoying some fresh peaches - that need to be eaten as fast possible.  The tomatoes here are only a smidge of a fraction of the tomatoes I have sitting here around the house... but, I'll be canning Salsa, canning some Red Beets (see our friend, hiding in the leaves? Caleb named him "Manny".) and doing up some more Crabapple Jam.  I put up one batch of crab apple jam...last week!  I probably could do two more... we'll see if I have enough jars on hand... for all of this.

Oh and we can't forget - hanging the laundry and a couple of playdates, all before the start of school on the 31st!!

Have a lovely week!!

** This post was featured with The Art of Homemaking Monday.

Random Bits and Pieces, with an updated progress report with Bags by Bevy!

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Like Mother.  Like Daughters!

In many ways I hope this is true.  That the positive will far outweigh the negative.

***
My Zinnia's are in full bloom.  We picked our first bouquet, of our very best zinnias to send next-door to our neighbor, friend and the kids' Aunt Kels.  My sister-in-law. :)
I love tucking fresh dill into the vase to give it some feathery flair. :)

I say of our very best flowers because we ALL OF A SUDDEN we've had a serious infestation of Japanese Beetles.

They are really chewing up the zinnia, green beans and the marigold I have planted.  What is nice... is that the beans are blooming and these are just for "fun".  The kiddo's love to go running by and pick a handful of green beans to munch on while playing.
As far as ridding of the beetles... well...

I have the bucket of soapy water standing by.  And - we just handpick them off as we can.  Unless you know of another way - I'm all ears.

I'll have more green beans to pick. later this week - up at my Aunt Mary's place!  Same as last year.  It sounds like there will be an abundance.

I may even offer some up to several who need. :)

***

At the end of this post,  the other day, I talked about needing to finish up some sewing.  If you're curious - I thought you might be wondering how that all fared...?

If you recall... I had two Clothespin Bags to finish hand embroidery on.  The results of that; one was chosen and the other is now in my etsy shop! :)  This is the one that was chosen.  You'll have vist my etsy shop to see the other one that is now listed.

:: For the Love of Laundry ::

Clothespin Bag

Sold to Gail R.

I also had an order for 12 Tea Wallets to made.  Those are also finished and in the mail to lady who ordered those.  Here is a sampling photo of what they all were.  She requested them to be in earthy tones... but left it up to me to "do my thing".

:: Tea Wallet ::

holds two tea bags 

total of 12 sold to Rebekah S.

I also mentioned that I had another bag request, to come - and that that was to be decided upon that same evening.  Well... rather than me making another... the friend decided to go ahead and buy a bag off of my site, instead.

Nice!!

:: Travelling On ::

Overnight Bag 

Sold to Robin M.

I am so glad this bag has travelled on. It was one of my favorites.  I love the way it turned out.  But - it had been in my shop for awhile and I'm glad to see it go to someone who now loves it as much as I.

All of these sewing projects were to be done on or before the 18th!  I really feel grateful to have all of these orders behind me.  One of the things that helped was that my husband and son were on a Cub Adventure Camp Trip for most of the week, last week.  And, another thing or two that really helped was that my middle daughter was at GOOD NEWS CAMP (day camp) all week.  As well, one of the days, in the afternoon, my youngest went to visit Grandma Rhoda - and so that freed me up to really concentrate on these orders and get them knocked out so easily!

****

Guess what I'll be wrapping up this week?  The finishing touches to the "rearrange" upstairs.  There are a few drawers and bins that need to be gone through and switched out.  And - then it's DONE!!!!!!!

And... green beans!  Did I mention them already.. Yes, I did.  I'll have them coming out of my ears before I know it. That'll probably be Thursday and Friday.

My two older kids will be at Good News Camp this week and next.  This week were bringing along my niece and nephew... its fun to have them join us.

Oh --- and one more thing to be thinking about.  A Family Reunion (this will its 71st year of gathering)...and I need to think about food prep for that, as well as games for the littles!! :)

I told you this post would a bunch of bits and pieces.  I hope you enjoyed!

{Bags by Bevy} Daisy Love - repurposed

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I realize that I haven't shared anything in awhile from my Bags by Bevy side of things.  Completely unintentional.  It's just that not much has been happening there - that is, until recently.

Well.. I like to share stories, every now and then, regarding the happenings of my bag making... and so here is a small story of what this one is about.

My two young daughters have this one really, really tall friend.  I mean - she's like three of my youngest daughter, Jayne, standing from head to toe. And, so to hear my youngest talk about her and try to show other people just how tall she is - in her eyes... is kinda funny.  Katie is a tall girl... but a quite normal height, if I should say so myself.  However,  you should hear Jayne talk of her sweet friend Katie - who is also about three and a half times her age, as well.  Nonetheless... Katie is one of my girls' best friends.  All of ours - as a family - actually!  And so the request that came our way - my way, actually, was not a problem.  Not one single bit.

So - for a gift... one year.  Aubrey, the older of my two daughters, wanted me to make a skirt for Katie.  Using this red, white and blue daisy fabric.
Because, Katie loves red, she said.
 However, due to the amount of fabric that was available... I could only make it so long.  Remember - Katie is a tall girl. :) So,  I figured it would look fine with leggings or something... but... each to their own.  Katie had a different idea.

The request was...

Would I be able to repurpose this skirt and use it for a lining instead... for a messenger type bag??

I said sure.

So, began the task of measuring and figuring out just how much I would need to get the biggest bag as a possible using up all of the fabric of this skirt.

Well..

Here we are!!  The finished product and Katie has a new bag.  I think she really likes it especially with that adjustable strap.
Oh, and I did keep the name the same as the original skirt.

:: Daisy Love ::
Messenger bag  - w/ adjustable strap
Sold to Katie H.

****

Now...

I'm off to finish up two more Clothespin Bags - with their hand embroidery work.
And... today, I was also working on an etsy order for 12 tea wallets (which hold 2 tea bags each) - six are finished (just a little embroidery, left to do on those) and then... thirdly... another large tote bag order to make.
That bag order will be decided on and finalized - later this week.  It's another "custom" order - per say.

All due by July 18th, or sooner.  When it rains, it pours.

I feel blessed!

Sew :)  ... that's why I've been a little quiet in these parts this week!

Thanks for checking in anyway... I appreciate it!  And.. if you have a free moment and you feel like browsing my etsy shop ... that would be wonderful, too!

Until next time...

Sewing Questions/Interview

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Not long ago, I was asked if I'd be willing to be interviewed - in regards to myself as a seamstress or of one who enjoys sewing.  Questions like: how I started, when I started, would I be able to provide sewing advice and recommendations, etc.

I said, Sure!!  This could be fun!!

These questions came from a young gal-friend of our family.  A young lady, named Jessica, by now about 14 years of age or so.  She is one who I used to "watch"; the past couple of Summers.  At the time, she would be too young to stay home, alone (as all her family members were at their jobs), and I wanted/needed someone to hang out with my kiddos... it was 'near' perfect!!!  A win-win, everywhere.  Pretty much, she became (almost!) part of the family.  Jess knows I'm a sewer... although, there is a LOT that even I do not know.

Jess was asked to interview someone who is a Seamstress  - for a project/report for her school, and this is the result of the interview.

1. What kind of sewing machine do you use?  I use a Sears Kenmore.  True Story, about my machine.  It really belongs to my Mother.  She received this sewing machine as an Engagement gift – from my father (many, many years ago!) and has used it for all my growing up years – sewing miles and miles of stitches in handmade clothes.  I’m now 41.   I used it for a long time, myself, for the very same reasons and this machine is still going strong.  Though, perhaps it does need a good service and cleaning.

2. What sewing tool do you use the most and why?  I would say either a good sharp scissors or my seam ripper.  Without either, I would not get very far.

3. When choosing a pattern, what do you look for? Mostly, I would say I look for a pattern that best suits the idea I have in my head.

4. What most interests you about sewing? It is part of my heritage (I guess!) and so it is one of those innate things in me.  I like how relaxing it can be.  And truthfully, there is a WHOLE LOT that I do not know in regards to sewing.

5. As a beginner sewer, what advice do you have for me?  The old adage is true!  “A stitch in time saves nine.”  Slow down and take your time…

6. What kind of material do you use and what do you think is the easiest to work with?  Well, I will work with most any kind(s) of material (I call it fabric).  If you want easy, I would recommend a nice sturdy cotton blend – either a solid or a floral patterned fabric.  Stay away from plaids or stripes

7. How old were you when you started sewing and what is the first machine you ever had?  I can’t remember exactly.  Probably 6th or 7th grade… and we used regular sewing machines. With brand names such as White, Kenmore, Singer, etc.

8. Who was the first person to teach you to sew?  I am sure my Mother would have taught me a few things, here and there – when she had time.  Most of what I learned was from my Home-ec teachers (in school) and/or I taught myself!

9. What is one of the most difficult things about sewing?  For me, it would have to be little Interruptions.  Or, having to put it all away after just getting started on a project.

10. Do you need to use different needles for different kinds of material?  Yes!!  There are recommended different size needles for different fabrics… I try to use an all-purpose as much as possible.

11. Are there different thicknesses in material?  Oh yes!!

12. So you use your machine to sew on buttons or so you sew them by hand, which way is easier?  I have never used my machine to sew on buttons.  I only know about sewing them by hand.  And, there are tips for doing this that will keep buttons on longer, etc.

13.  What kind of fabric do you use most and why?  Currently, and because I have my own bag making business, I mostly will use a lot of upholstery fabric.   I also will use cotton blends, tapestry, faux leather, and homespun fabric.

14. What do you think is the easiest to sew and why?   I am not sure, if you are asking about certain fabric types, but if so, I would say anything that is not lace or silk… is easy to sew.  **A side note about easy sewing is using a good quality thread.  As well, as fully understanding your machine (reading the manual) – and being sure it is threaded properly – as well as having your tension (both top and bottom) adjusted properly.  These sorts of things will matter a lot – to ensure an easy and fun sewing time!

15. Do you sew with only straight lines or zigzag? I sew mostly in straight stitch.  Every now and then, for certain reinforcement, I will use a zigzag stitch.

16. Do you sew smaller pieces of clothing, if so; is it harder or easier than bigger things?  Not necessarily.  I would recommend saving smaller articles (doll clothes, etc.) of clothing for when you’re feeling more experienced or more comfortable.

17. Out of everything you have made so far, what is one thing you are most proud of and why?  I wouldn’t say I’m proud, rather, I would say I am still (simply) amazed that I sewed 8-10 two-piece outfits in a deep purple brocade cloth for a friend’s wedding.  I remember the nerves!  In addition, I remember these being quite challenging because of the rounded tail type jacket and that they featured 6-8 fabric-covered buttons up the front, for closure.  The skirts were long, A-line skirts with a slit up the back.  To this day – I would say “never again!”… I might have been a tad out of my league with that one.  But… that was oh so long ago!  And, my friend is still happily married. :)
One other thing that I am glad I tackled (and, you could say, I am somewhat proud of) was to make several quilts.  Most were gifts… and I have several more quilt ideas I would LOVE to sew together, for my own self and family.

18. Do you sew as a hobby, or do you sell your things?  I do both.  Mostly though, I now sew to fill orders for my (Bags by Bevy) etsy shop.  I never thought, my hobby would turn into a small business… but, it has!  And, that keeps sewing extra fun!!

19. Is it easier to pick out patterns and be able to make them or are some harder than others?  Some patterns can be quite complicated.  Most will indicate a level of easy, moderate or difficult and there are “brands” that are specific for “easy” and a beginner sewer.  So, it will matter as to how comfortable you feel as to what pattern you will choose.

20. Do you have any more advice for me, as a beginner sewer?
Sure!!  I would say – HAVE FUN!!  One of the ways that always inspires me, with sewing projects, is to go into fabric stores and walk around; touching and feeling fabrics, looking for favorite colors and textures.  I guess you could say, I have an artist’s eye!  Maybe, that helps…I don’t know.
Say to yourself – “I bet I could make this” and imagine what it would look like on you as an outfit, as a quilt or pillow or whatever else you are thinking of making!  A good imagination is important and keeps it fun!
Probably one of the key things is to say, to myself is – If I can envision it or see it in my head, first – then I can make it myself or find a pattern that will tell me how to do it.

***
So, if you're a sewer... How would you have answered some of these questions?  Let's give Jess some more ideas so she can share our enthusiasm.  Shall we?

I do think of this quite often.
My home-ec teachers.  In school.  If it wasn't for those ladies and their patience, wow!! Not just in sewing but in other areas of expertise.

I learned so much from them and I carry it with me today!!  I'm so grateful... for their realm of influence, in my life.  And, if I can do that for someone else - wow!!

To bless and be a blessing!!

{Bags by Bevy} Grace Amazing!

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I have one very amazing and patient Aunt - named Grace!  People tell me that I look a lot like my Aunt and, in my humble opinion, that is such a compliment to me.  I only wish I had more of her sweet disposition and her patience.  (sigh!)

Back over Thanksgiving - it was my Aunt Grace and her family who hosted the extended family's Thanksgiving Dinner.  It was then that my Aunt had asked me to bring along all that I had in stock in and from my etsy shop so she could shop...  (smile!)

Well... nothing seemed just right for her taste (which was fine, with me!!) - however, she was able to articulate an idea for what she was looking for.  So, she placed an order with me - for a classic small bag - for whenever I could get around to it.  Nice!!

I knew I would have to wait to get to it until after the holidays and she totally understood... and then we received word that my Aunt Grace was VERY, VERY sick and hospitalized.  That her condition was "life-threatening" and well.... this was such a shock to us as we had just seen her a couple of weeks ago and she was in good spirits, doing really well - we never suspected a thing! Apparently, it was a surprise for everyone...

Needless to say, It was a very scary time for her family and for all of us...for that matter.

In the meantime, she had sent me a couple of bags of buttons and some fabric that she thought might suit in my bag making and it was a win-win for both of us.  Grace was cleaning out; going through her sewing stuff... and I was able to incorporate the use some of the fabric and buttons into the making of her bag.

Good News!!

My Aunt Grace is okay.  She's home and healthy - once again, as far as I know!  I guess, she has been for most of the month of January, which is comforting.

Her bag is finished now, too!! and I'm so grateful for her patience in waiting for this bag.  Hopefully, it will be sent out to her either later today or first thing, tomorrow!!

I named her bag - Grace Amazing!!  Maybe, I should have named it  ~ Patient Grace.

:: Grace Amazing ::

classic, small bag

(made to order)

SOLD!!

***
Thank you, for sneaking a peak into my etsy shop, at your leisure, and for thinking of me - should you need a gift for yourself or loved one!  Let me know - how I can help!

I appreciate it - greatly!

{day 14} Home Quotes and Sentiments :: Something you made... and GIVEAWAY!!

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While writing for 31 days on one overall theme (HOME!) and doing my best to stay within the 5 Minutes of Free Writing... each day (for the month of October), I sure do appreciate doing the photo challenge and the fact that each day's photo prompt pretty much flows with my HOME theme.
Isn't that nice?

Well, today's photo prompt is: Something you made...
Obviously, I've chosen something I've recently sewn..
Actually, I finished it up yesterday afternoon. :)

You all might know that I have my own Etsy Shop and I would say it's been feeling a bit neglected here of late.  Totally, my fault... mostly, because there hasn't been a whole lot of *new* items placed in there!

Well, in order to revive the momentum a bit.  I've decided to throw all, well... almost all of the challenge rules  and whatever to the side (meaning, this is no 5 minute post and it isn't really about HOME!) and I've decided to throw you a curveball instead.  How about a...SURPRISE!!!!

:: GIVEAWAY ::

Here is the latest bag...

from

BAGS by BEVY

This Medium Classic Tote is named Roots Run Deep!

I name all of my bags (most of the items, in my shop, with a few exceptions) in order to give them distinction and personality. :)  Some have stories behind their name and reasons.. :)

Don't ask me why this is one named what it is... it was just something that came to me; something I liked.   "Roots Run Deep" is a fact; a true statement of my life.

I come with roots that run deep!

Maybe this is where the HOME Quotes and Sentiments part comes in...

Family roots...

Sewing roots...

Roots in house rules...

traditions, too!

I could share many, many more...

I'm so grateful to God for the roots that run deep in my heart and soul... 

There have been lots of storms along the way and that is when and why the roots only delve in deeper.

Don't forget who you are and where've you come from. 

 ~ F Scott Fitzgerad

~~

It is a token of healthy and gentle characteristics, when a woman of high thoughts and accomplishments love to sew; especially as they are never more at home with their own heart than while so occupied.   

~ Nathaniel Hawthorne

***

Here are the GIVEAWAY details...

Pay close attention!  Read through carefully...

Every comment left since the beginning of the 31 days series (Home Quotes and Sentiments) and on to the end (10/31/14, 10 pm EST) ... will be included in this Giveaway!  Whoa!!

If you're a lurker... no more of that!  

Come on in and say "hello"!  I would love to meet you and would be more than happy to include you in this giveaway...at least have one chance to win, right?

Again, each comment counts as an entry!  

This is for residents of the USA and Canada only - thank you!!

BLOG comments ONLY - Facebook comments will not be included this round.  Clarification... if you're reading via facebook that is great! it's just that I hope you'll leave a comment on the blog (can be done anonymously, but please leave your name so I can know who you are..) - don't leave your comment on the facebook feed - or it won't be counted.  Any questions, feel free to ask.

I'm not going to say anymore about it.

The rest of the 31 days/5 Minute Free Write/Photo challenge will resume.. to the end of the month.

 But, on Monday, NOVEMBER 3rd! - the winner will be announced!  You do have an option to refuse the giveaway if you're not interested.   Or, you can take the bag  and pass it on to someone else - as a gift!

There will be a photo of this bag, including a link to this page, which will serve as your reminder!  That said link and photo will be located on my sidebar.

Thank you!! and, Best of Everything!

Bag details:
Made from sturdy and durable upholstery with a faux leather (solid brown) on the bottom.  The bag has handles that wear nicely over the shoulder...
The front pocket is attached with hand embroidered french knots.
The three-button combination on the front pocket is my trademark signature.

The lining is made with a vintage cotton fabric, and has one roomy pocket inside.

Care:  Spot or Dry Clean only.
Approximate size: 12"x 12"
And, with the handles, the bag would stand at about 21" tall.

***

Participating in:  31 days/Five Minute Free Writes/ Photography Challenge.

I'll be daily updating this link, HERE, so that you can keep up with any entries you may have missed!

{Bags by Bevy} Past, yet Present

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Yet again, another Bags by Bevy, story for you to enjoy!  Thanks for reading..

Some time ago, this dear friend; a gal who attends the same church as I and who lives along our same road, asked me to do a special favor for her!
 Make something out of something else..

I have helped Karen with several items, over the years, from my Etsy shop; Homespun Baby! shoes and Pocket Pouches and of course a few bags...mostly which she gave out as gifts.  I guess you could call her a "frequent flyer", part of the fan club, if you will, and I really do appreciate her business.  She's great!!!

So, when Karen came to me with this request - although, I really do shy away from doing any custom -custom orders, I was willing to take a listen and work with her desire to change out this coat out into a personal, over-the-shoulder, hippie style bag.

Karen found the style-idea she had, online, and gave me a printout...with which to follow.  Of course, I knew I wanted and needed to add my own twist to it, which she was completely excited about... my twist came through with the hand-embroidery and the three-button signature, located on the front side pocket.

It was one evening while my husband, Scott, and son, Caleb, were away on a Scout Overnight Camping trip that I began the process of cutting apart this coat.  I felt strange doing this, maybe timid is more the word!... because though there is nothing really that elaborate, necessarily, about the coat jacket...it held a dear spot in Karen's heart and I really wanted to be careful.

This coat jacket was given to her by her now late husband, a story I don't know much about...and that's okay.  Karen told me that although she never really wore the coat much, anymore, nor probably would again, she felt that perhaps having it changed out into a bag would make it feel more precious to her.  Another way to hold her memories dear!

Because of her story and the memories she holds close, I named the bag:

:: Past, yet Present ::
SOLD to Karen K.
(Custom, medium sized bag, with one large-over-the-shoulder handle)
The bag features a large, roomy pocket, with a pen holder...on the inside.
***

We won't talk about the fact that I've had to shorten up the handle and rework the sewing... but it's all good now!  I'm telling you, She's great!!

Thank you, Karen for your patience and for your purchases both in the past and in the present.  I appreciate you!!  I really, really do.