Sewing Project: Laptop Cozy

Last night I went, with my sewing machine and lots of stuff in tow, to visit my friend Crystal from Crafty Ave. I wasn't sure what I wanted to accomplish, but I thought I should at least take my sewing machine and try to figure it out. See my sewing machine once belonged to my grandmother, and although my mother has assured me (many times) it is a very good one, and works perfectly well, I was a little nervous to get stitching. However, last night (after figuring out how to re-thread/bobbin the machine) I discovered just how wonderfully it sews! I will have to take a photo and share the machine, it is quite lovely, and it must be 30? years old (mom, help me out with a comment below?). Anyhow, I have wanted a case for my laptop for quite some time, so I decided to freehand it, and see what I came up with.

I used a fleece blanket I found at the dollar store for the lining, and a piece of fabric I got from a local thrift store (don't worry Crystal, I washed it first). Also, I only had burgundy thread, as all the thread Crystal had didn't fit my machine. So it isn't the prettiest, but my laptop fits, and I am quite pleased! And it was aptly named a laptop cozy by Mr. Crafty Ave (hehe, thanks Mr.).

I do need something from you however, please post below with comments as to which buttons you think I should use. Of, if you have a completely different idea I am open to suggestions. Also, if you are interested in more details as to how I did this, let me know, and I can write a quick tutorial for it. 

Thanks! Write you soon :)

Through my/a Lens (Long Range Mountains)

This is a hike I have not yet completed; although I aspire to see it one day. These photos were graciously donated by my friend Tommy (except the first one, it's mine :), who had the wonderful opportunity to hike the Long Range Traverse in Gros Morne National Park.

the journey begins on a boat

and then a long hike uphill

followed by a very familiar scene (Hi Tommy!)

It is a 3-5 day hike, depending on physical ability, weather and orienteering skills. And it can be longer if fog decides to roll in and out-stay its welcome. I hope one day Reggie and I will be able to do it, but I have a feeling it is a while down the road. Thanks for the photos Tommy!

Obsession: Pottery

As I was washing some dishes the other day I realized I have a lot of pottery. I remember when my Grandfather passed away and we were moving my Grandmother into a smaller place, she had lots of pottery pieces that no one else wanted. I gratefully accepted all of them! Here is some of my collection:

Some of them I have collected over time, some I received as gifts, and some I got has hand-me-downs. But I love every single piece. And here are a few of my favourites:

Milk and Sugar set

Spice, Jam and Honey pots

Raku Bowl, and mug made by the Kerslakes

I have a hard time at craft shows, or studio tours. I am always drawn to the pottery booths and I know I can't afford $16 for one mug, but they are so beautiful! Every time I go into a thrift store I find myself standing just a little too long in the kitchen wares section, drooling over old pottery bowls. Although I suppose a thrift store is a more affordable place to feed my addiction.

What is your obsession?