Year: 2020

dusting off the sewing machine to make masks

With the new order to wear face covers due to the coronavirus, I was motivated to try making my own. I found a pretty photo that led me to a very easy DIY pattern and I gave it a go — by hand, that is. I don’t know what it is about the sewing machine. Just the thought of threading it exhausts me. So, I figured sewing with thread and needle would be easier – and it was. It took me about two days to finish my first mask, with a little work here and there and it turned out all right. But then, I wanted to make a few more for everyone in the house, and I knew that if I kept sewing them by hand I would soon be sick of the project and my hands would be very achy. I couldn’t remember how long it had been since I had plugged in my sewing machine. I’ve had this machine since before Sarah was born, so I guess it’s at least 16 years …

ingredients to make iced tea

iced tea on the deck and shortie’s birthday

It’s been much warmer in Fairfax, the last two days. It’s nice to be able to sit on the deck in the afternoon and work outside. I decided to make some of my favorite iced tea to have something refreshing by my side, and I’m indulging in a few cookies. Yesterday was Sarah’s birthday. She turned 16, which is hard to believe. To me, she’s still my little baby girl, even if now she’s driving me back and forth from the store all the time. Her friends stopped by to wish her a happy birthday with handmade posters and small gifts. It got me all teary-eyed. This COVID-19-life is so strange… I am so glad they came. It was supposed to be a big birthday! A little after her friends drove away, we had a second group of cars parked in front of the house for a while. This time grandparents, cousins, aunts, and uncles. I was so touched by all of this. I think Sarah had a good birthday, even if it wasn’t what …