Wednesday, May 21, 2014

I Made A Shoulder Bag Out Of Trousers


These lovely trousers had an unfortunate experience in the washing machine. They were not washed on the correct heat setting, causing the fabric to shrink. To make matters more awkward for the pants, the lining of the pants are made of a different material, which is resistant to shrinking. So, the lining was longer than the pants. I decided to keep the pants to use for a craft project. I wasn't certain what I would do with them, but I don't like to throw away good material. I never know when I'll be inspired.

Lately, I've been wanting a new bag that I could throw over my shoulder that could not only hold essentials, but also a lunch. I needed a bag with ample space. I measured the pants, starting at the crotch, to decide a suitable length for shorts. Perhaps sometime, late summer, I'll fashion some "Zoe Hart" inspired shorts. I set aside the top of the pants and used the legs to make a bag. I saved the lining to use to line the bag. Cutting along the inseam, I had a large amount of fabric for the front and back of the bag. I used another pair of brown trousers to use for the handles and for a outside pocket for my cell phone.

I used an assembly method based on that used for a basic tote bag. The end result being a very roomy bag that is 17 in. x 21 in. This will give me plenty of space to carry my wallet, my cell phone, an emergency make-up kit, a folder and a lunch. It would also be great for those long days where I'm running errands.

 It will be fun to make some late Summer/ early Fall shorts, in a few months. For now, I'm just going to enjoy the warm weather, while we have it. I look forward to more baking, gardening and crafting over this summer. All of which I will share, until then..~ Toodahloo!


Friday, May 9, 2014

Time Killer Addictions

There will be no photos in this blog, that would take too much time! I really need to admit to some ridiculous time killers that I have been indulging in a bit too much, as of late. I think that the harsh winter was a big contributor to this problem. The snow would not stop coming, which meant that I was stuck inside a lot. Ordinarily, I would curl up with a good book and read whilst sipping hot cocoa. However, this winter, I was far too agitated to read. So, I killed time with the screen. Armed with Netflix, Hulu, Youtube and Video On Demand I'm never without something to watch.
Some of the shows that I watch are a favorite among many, while others are simply questionable. SO, here's my list of time killers in no particular order:
1) Orphan Black on BBCAmerica- This show is ridiculously amazing; it's a bit of sci-fi, mixed with action and mystery. The plot is enough to keep any nerds sucked in, but I'm particularly interested in watching the show, not just because of the plot, but because I love spotting the actors from other Canadian shows. It's amazing how many actors who've appeared on the show "Heartland" have also been on this show, as well as other shows like "Haven," "Emily Of New Moon" and "Being Human" (U.S. version).
2) Moone Boy featured on Hulu, this show is so flipping funny! I can relate to the main character, as I would have been the same age as him during the time period that the show is set. The main character has an imaginary friend played be Chris O'Dowd. If you've ever watched "The IT Crowd" you'll know how hilarious he is. The nostalgia and innocence of the show is endearing and the comedy is so delightful. I could watch this show all day.
3) My Drunk Kitchen seen on Youtube, the web series features Hannah Harto as she endeavors to create culinary masterpieces while consuming copious amounts of wine. Sometimes, she has guests who help her make edible disasters, all while she throws puns at the viewer. I can sit to watch one video and an hour will pass before I realize what I've done!
4) Endeavour seen on Netflix, it's a sort of prequel to the series Inspector Morse. Set in 1960's Oxford, the men wear suits (with skinny ties), the featured detectives drive a Jaguar, there's some opera music, mystery, side burns, mid century modern sets, mod clothing, and delicious British accents. This show is very irresistible. Really, I don't feel the least bit guilty about watching this show.
5) Pixiwoo make up tutorials. This is also seen on Youtube and features the delightful Chapman sisters, Nic and Sam. These makeup artists are from Norwich, so again I'm pulled in by the accent. Also, they are very personable, they're my age, so it feels like one of my gal pals teaching me how to execute the perfect cat eye. Although, try as I might, I'll never duplicate their looks exactly, the tutorials are so engaging.  A bit of warning: Once you've watched a few of their videos, you'll start watching their brothers videos and their friends videos, and their future sisters in- laws makeup tutorials and her friends videos. Seriously, it's a big community, but they are all delightful and they'll make you laugh and introduce you to beauty products you never knew were possible.
There are a few other time killers that I won't even get into, because it's far too embarrassing (ahem, TOWIE). I am now starting to experience sunshine, singing birds, dandelions and blossoms. I think these time killers will now be experienced at night when I"m too tired to function. It would be a shame to be pasty looking, when I could get some fresh air outside. Then again, there's always time on rainy days. Until next time~ Toodahloo!

I Hosted a Tryazon Party Featuring Wiley Wallaby Licorice

  Before I begin writing about my party experience I want to first disclose a few things. First, I was not paid by Wiley Wallaby or Tryazon ...