Year 2009 in Review

It's hard to believe that this year is coming to a close but what a year it has been. My year was full of highs and lows. Early in the year I was diagnosed with breast cancer and believe me that was a low. I was mainly able to endure it through prayer and sewing. Prior to the cancer my main goal was to work on better fitting patterns to my body and I must say I largely successful on that front. I bought way too much fabric but I think that was partly due to needing something to do to keep my mind off of cancer. That's my story and I'm sticking to it.
I entered my first ever sewing contest at Pattern Review and won. That was so not expected. During the year I made at least 13 pairs of slacks with only two being wadders. Added to that were 20 tops, seven jackets, two skirts and seven dresses which included my wedding dress! I was married for the first time August 30 at age 52. It's never too late. I married the most wonderful man in the world who totally supports my sewing addiction.

My three favorite tops

Favorite Dress

Best Fitting Slacks

I also moved from a home I've lived in for the past 20 years reducing my sewing space to about 1/3 of what I'm used to! I had to scale way back. On the up side I no longer sew in the basement and have two windows. Sewing by natural light is wonderful. I also have a sewing closet complete with overhead light. I increased my sewing library by quite a bit with books and DVDs. For 2010 I plan to continue working on fit and want to continue removing RTW items from my closet. I need to pay more attention to SWAP and make fewer orphans. I hate standing in front of the closet thinking "I have nothing to wear."

Once again the husband and I have another challenge. He has bet me $100 that I can't go for three months without buying garment fabric. I can only purchase lining, interfacing or notions. I'm always up for a challenge. After all, if I can go a year without purchasing shoes I can certainly go for three months without purchasing fabric. Last but not least I made many internet sewing friends. Thank you all for letting my join your internet sewing family.