Do you have friends with small children who find innovative ways to not swear in front of them? One non-swearing swear word I particularly like is “Pants!” - makes me giggle every time I hear it uttered.
When I was still in school, I had a weekend job working at Arthur Toyes fabrics. At the change of seasons a number of the older patterns would be deleted from the catalogues. It was one of my favourite tasks to remove these patterns from the racks and take them out of their envelopes (envelopes only were sent back for a refund) because—although the patterns were suppose to be destroyed (a huge waste!)—the staff were allowed to take any patterns they liked (sans envelopes).
Anyway, fast forward a couple of decades (gulp!), I re-discovered some of these old patterns, including the one used to make the black wool-blend trousers. Circa 1982, wide leg and high waisted, with pleat fronts and side slant pockets. I also lined them to the knee. Super comfortable and surprisingly flattering to wear. Also wearing paper bead necklace from Uganda, merino top from Glassons, and double belt from Luminary.
The navy linen-cotton trousers I made during the christmas break, and virtually lived in them through that miserable summer we’ve just had (luckily, autumn has been mild and warm). I made the pattern several years ago but need to size up (ahem!). No zip, the pocket unbuttons and expands enough to pull the pants on. Stripe cotton top is several season old, from Max.
Now the exterior is weather tight(!) I can start planning the interiors, gardens, etc, the list is endless.
Where have I been? What have I been doing? Preparing for this!
Migrating to a new computer soon - amazing what you find when you have a bit of a tidy up.
Top photos are of the South Island, viewed from home (sand blasted windows make a great filter!) The last is the full moon rising above the Orongorongos, photo taken from Ataturk Memorial.
earthquakes, economy, tenants, family, travel, worst ever ‘flu, delusional from worst ever ‘flu, can’t believe I drove (to pharmacy) delusional with worst ever ‘flu, cat bitten by dog, vets bills, lost buttons (and marbles, some would argue), restructuring, retrenchment, (co-workers) redundancies, new shoes :-), neighbours, boundary issues, broken stove, new stove, high NZ dollar, sales! specials! sun, snow, cold cold cold.
Made these two jackets months ago, but—even though its winter—haven’t worn either of them yet.
Actually, made the red wool jacket about 15 years ago, but I’ve re-cut the collar, replace the huge shoulder pads and shortened it about 10cm. Made the brooch too, because the original buttons left a mark while in storage—oops!
"I See Red" by Split Enz (1978)
The mornings are starting to cool in Wellington, yet lunchtimes are still warm enough for bare limbs. Time for layers.
Yes, I’ve dusted off the sewing machine again. Grey skirt – made by me – I’m desperate for new work clothes at the moment, the wardrobe is starting to look a little worn (and I’m bored of wearing the same things).
The fawn silk and white linen self-embroidered blouses belonged to my grandmother.
Double belt from Luminary.
Chuck a cardigan on top and you’re away.
The Cure – In Between Days
Yesterday, SunnyJim and I took a road trip to Palmerston North for an extra special surprise birthday party.
I’ve been dying to posting pictures of the dress I made to wear, but felt I couldn’t until now just in case extra special birthday girl found out somehow. Made from an original 1958 pattern (modernized slightly with a zipper in the back), fabric bought for $1 a metre in a Spotlight sale some years ago, and finished with a fabric belt purchased for $7 at the recent Stax summer sale.
A fun day was had by all - the largest family get-together in a long time - picture sipping champagne in a glorious garden in full bloom, shading under sun umbrellas from the 29ºC heat.
Driving back to Wellington we stopped at the beautiful Himatangi beach for a swim, before continuing - refreshed - on our journey home. The perfect end to a perfect day.
Perfect day by Lou Reed
Wishing you and your family and friends a safe and happy holiday season.
Going, going, going ... gone! Luna Rosa, January 2008
After a wet and muggy start to the day, I'm looking out the window at clearing skies and the sun poking through. Hopefully it will clear enough to see the Luna Rosa again tonight.
Update: I took the photos above during the last eclipse visible to NZ - 2008 - with my then new camera propped on a box - no tripod at that stage. Like you, MOM, it clouded up again and wasn't visible this side of the Rimutakas, either.
Looking south this morning - dawn and the Kaikoura ranges (South Island) rising above the rooftops of Strathmore Park.
Later, a brisk walk before work and a shot from the Petone wharf, looking south across the harbour at Wellington city.
