~ Aug 2013~ Sew what... We've gotta find a way back! Part I!!

[KatMark]

I'll say it again...you are one talented lady.

 

[cogero]

I love your doll clothes. Ou can post anytime you want.

 

[solana131]

I still love all you AG stuff. If I had a girl, I would love them more, but you sure are talented. And you were back then too...way back then....still can't believe how "new" you are and how amazing your creations are!

 

[Deesknee]

Thank you very much for sharing. I had seen them, but had no idea they were your first! And I would be ecstatic if I could do anything like those villians. I certainly would not be embarrassed! All of them were wonderful!!!!!

 

[Tinkercc]

I am completely in awe of you incredible talent.

 

[Iamthequeen]

I'm just jealous.

 

[DMGeurts]

Thank you Liz I was I am I'm not (okay feeling like 3 people right now) MEANING day of PT feel great but tired day after PT felt like I got hit by a van two days in a row of PT (Thurs/Fri) now feel like the van has grown into a DME bus keep on going keep on going there's a prize at the end of it again thanks

I know you said that the PT would be hard, but I sure hope it starts to get easier for you soon.

Wow for all the hours of labor for Josh (and the savings when someone in the family has this ability)

I know - it was insane... He is not very mechanically inclined, but I will say that he has come a long way since being in Iraq. They had to maintain their own vehicles out there on the road.. And since coming home, he has done more and more. Mostly out of necessity, but I am very proud of him.

Yep Fred was coming home 5/17-19 we added another day will be home 5/16

Yay!! I am so happy that the two of you will be having some time together.

How nice to have a mechanic as a husband. It saves LOTS of money!! DH's dad is a "hobby" mechanic as well and we "use" him a lot for our vehicles. He is so knowledgeable.

I am not sure I would go that far... LOL He has learned a lot and he has come a long way - but we would still prefer to take mechanical issues with our vehicles to the mechanic. Josh is more of a builder/plumber/electrical type guy.

WHAT A DEAL on those Target items!! I used to coupon and somedays I still try to but down here I have so much trouble making it worth my time and effort.

Yes - it is a bit time consuming... I spent 4 hours clipping and sorting coupons yesterday, but that includes going through my entire binder and throwing out all the expired ones - which gets a little confusing some times, because we do have one store that takes coupons that are 30 days expired, so I have to keep them 30 days past their date. Yesterday, I just went through and chucked them all though, especially on things that didn't think I would use.

Can't wait to see these auction bags!!!

Me too! LOL

Hang in there Ruthie, in the end it will be for the best.

Thank you I know that just feel like a 500 year old woman some days you know I need to get over to YOUR ptr I have neglected so much for so long
hope the planning is coming along

I really hope you start feeling better soon.

nice couponing!
stinks Josh had so much of a problem with the bolts. We can identify with rusty bolts, living in the north. WD40 is your friend. It is nice he can fix vehicles. My brothers are good at that. DH used to be, until everything became computerized. Even my brothers are using professional mechanics more & more.

I should add that Josh really isn't a vehicle fixer-upper... He is more of a builder/plumber/electrical type guy. He only fixes our vehicles if it's something he can do, and we can't afford to pay a mechanic to do it. He had been lubing those bolts for days - they just wouldn't budge. Deperate times call for desperate measures.

Good luck on the sewing. You must be so anxious for the fabric to show up.

Hope everyone enjoys there Sunday!

Believe me, it's driving me crazy! I had so much I could have done yesterday, and I couldn't do it... So, I was srounging around my stash trying to find *something* that spoke to me, that I could use.

I haven't seen it and its AWESOME good going

Thanks Ruthie! Those were the fun days... Ahhh - all days are fun, I guess. LOL

I'll say it again...you are one talented lady.

Thanks Kathy! You are too!

I love your doll clothes. Ou can post anytime you want.

Thanks Chiara... Don't you own a few of those? LOL

I still love all you AG stuff. If I had a girl, I would love them more, but you sure are talented. And you were back then too...way back then....still can't believe how "new" you are and how amazing your creations are!

Thanks... Yes, I only learned how to sew - not quite - 3 years ago... Crazy isn't it? I don't think I would have been able to learn if I had tried sooner, things just fell into place for me back then.

Thank you very much for sharing. I had seen them, but had no idea they were your first! And I would be ecstatic if I could do anything like those villians. I certainly would not be embarrassed! All of them were wonderful!!!!!

Yes - they were my first... I was as shocked as anyone, when they actually turned out. LOL

I am completely in awe of you incredible talent.

Thank you.

I'm just jealous.

Ahhh... Don't be jealous... I am sure there are many things you can do that I can't.

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So, yesterday morning, I couponed. I also sorted through my binder and threw away all of the expired or nearly expired coupons that I knew I wouldn't use. I started my grocery list for this week, which is very sparse... I will have to ask for imput from the family, because there isn't anything on it hardly at all. But it was nice to get my binder cleaned out.

Then I went up to my sewing room... Since I am still waiting on that fabric order, and I probably will be for many days - I started on some other accessory projects for the auction. I made a few lanyards, and I also made a BOY themed GAC set... I hope to work on a girls version as well. I really dislike coming up with ideas for the GACs, because the surface is so small, that I can't justify putting a detailed applique on them, so I have to come up with something simple and easy - otherwise it just prices them right out of the market... Wallets are much the same way. As much as I would LOVE to do detailed appliques, that would put the wallets themselves at a starting bid of $50 minimum, and I just don't think they are worth that. So, I try very hard to stick to the simple appliques.

While I was in the sewing room - Josh walked to where I could see out my window, and gave me the "thumbs up" sign. WHOOT!!! He fixed the truck! I am so proud of him, this was not an easy fix and he really had to think outside the box to even get access to the area he need to. We are so thankful this fix was something he could do.

We enjoyed a nice relaxing evening on the deck... All the snow we had received last week is totally gone - minus just a few tiny piles that don't get much sun. We are all praying that summer is finally here. Josh and I even splurged and ordered dinner from the local bar... We were both very tired, and the leftovers felt very underwhelming... So, we ate dinner outside on the deck for the first time this year. I was wonderful!

Today, I have to run to town to get some quilt batting, I didn't realize I was almost out. I wish I could afford to buy it by the bolt... It's kind of expensive for the stuff I like to get. I am hoping I have enough to get started on my next custom order bag though. Depending on that will depend on when I am going to town. LOL

While I am there - I am planning to stop at my target store... I have a couple of great stacker coupons for shampoo and conditioner... I have 4 manufacturer coupons for BOGO, then I have 4 Target coupons for -$1... So that makes them .99 cents each (and less after my discounts)... And that would give us enough Shampoo/Conditioner to get us through summer for sure, maybe into fall? I also have some razor coupons... Yes, I know - I have serious razor issues, I must stop buying them!!! I have these few I want to get - then I am DONE! LOL You'll be happy to know that I threw out all of my razor coupons yesterday, so I am not tempted any longer. LOL It's hard not to buy them though, because they are soooo expensive, and they don't go bad until they are used, so it's something I can stock up on and not have to worry about.

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Trip stuff:

I am anxiously awaiting the possibility of Free Dining to be released to Visa Card holders today. While I am not a card holder, I am praying it encompasses our dates. All speculation says that it won't start until the beginning of September, but I am hoping it starts a mere 13 days sooner than that. And hopefully there will be some FQ spots open when I can finally book. Even though I am happy having the R/O discount - FD is much better for us. xxx FX xxx

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I thought I would leave you all with another view from our deck last night... Such a difference from a few days ago. I kept saying that I was shocked at how quick it melted.

To refresh your memory... This was on Thursday:

And this was last night... a mere 3 days later:

Our yard is a mud hole... Everyone else's lawn around us is all nice, and our lawn died over the winter... and our trees barely have buds on them yet - usually we have full tress by now... but, I am just happy that the snow is gone.

Have a wonderful day everyone, and I hope you are all feeling better.

D~

 

[BabyRapunzel]

Just wanted to say I can't believe those were your first oufits! You are just naturally talented!!!!!! Amazing!

So far, according to mousesavers looks like free dining is 9/2-9/25. Room only Aug 15-sep 28.

http://www.mousesavers.com/

I forgot when you said you were going, but I'm thinking this doesn't help. Pofq only 5% so I think you already have a better discount.

 

[Iamthequeen]

There were some rumors floating around that fd would be offered in August, but so far for the Visa holders the dates start 9/2. EDIT: Looks like the only discount for late August is going to be a room discount, but POFQ is not included in that. POR will have a 25% discount. Not sure how that will fit into your plans if you got a military discount already???

I did manage to get through this morning and add the free dining to our reservation, upgraded to a preferred room and bought tickets for the MNSSHP for our last night there. WOOHOO! I saved about $700!

DH told me yesterday that he wouldn't mind going back to WDW every year, so I told him about the bounceback offers and he said if we get one, we will book again for next year....

I'm hoping you will have some dslr lanyards in your auction coming up! I need something more comfortable than the one I have, though I could always make one for myself, except yours are so nice!

I finished another Minnie Mouse applique last night. One was done on the machine and one was completely hand sewn. I'm thinking I'll probably go with the hand sewn one this time, simply because my machine applique is not so neat. I'll post a picture once I get home.

 

[sewmess]

I haven't seen it and its AWESOME good going

Ditto. Although, I feel you when it comes to looking at some of the early stuff one does. I look at some of my first dolls and just shake my head. All I see are the first time mistakes, shaky sewing, etc.

I got the notice about the VISA cardholder free dining and now DH is making whiney noises about going. Free dining still doesn't cover room and tickets, silly boy. However, we were talking about next year's big trip and I suggested a split stay and he didn't poo-poo the idea. In fact he thought it might save some sanity on our end. He's read some reports from frequent Disney goers that, while it's wonderful that the families finally get to Disney, some of the Once and Onlies that go to the MK resorts don't have the beautiful Disney spirit, such as resides on these pages. It'd annoy him more than me, but hey, if it saves us money.

All y'all in the northern regions, hang onto the end of the tunnel light that is spring. Although I could say the same thing about us here in the south. High today is supposed to be 60 and it's rainy. T Dog loves it and we took him to a local park this morning, so he's still slightly damp. And fighting sleep, the doofus.

 

[nannye]

I'm following along on my ipad, but I don't often get the chance to post.
I loved seeing the AG dresses! They are just so fabulous!

The Donald bag was so cute!

 

[ladylyons]

Oops... I did go back and reread my post from yesterday, it does sound like I gifted the bag to Katie... I did not... The only thing I did was make room for her bag in my schedule and remake my own bag for her... I was actually paid for this bag. So sorry about the confusion.

No worries!! Either way it's still a great bag and that's awesome you were able to work her in!!

I am not sure where you live off the top of my head Sandra... I am in the Central Time Zone.

California, Pacific Time Zone. I think it's 2 hours difference. I'll have to make sure I look that up and know if for sure by then.

You did get very lucky! I am glad you have it back and it's fixed!

So am I!!!

 

[kittylady1972]

Just popping in to say hello. I try to check in and read your updates at least once a week. Can't wait to see all the fun outfits you have planned!

Trying to convince myself to pull the trigger on a very short solo trip right now. I've never done a solo but I really would like to just do my own weekend trip. Crazy I know. Guilt sets in and I feel a bit bad about it but on the flip side....I really just don't do that much for ME in terms of alone time.

Sent from my Nexus 7 using DISBoards

 

[Luvchefmic]

Just popping in to say hello. I try to check in and read your updates at least once a week. Can't wait to see all the fun outfits you have planned!

Trying to convince myself to pull the trigger on a very short solo trip right now. I've never done a solo but I really would like to just do my own weekend trip. Crazy I know. Guilt sets in and I feel a bit bad about it but on the flip side....I really just don't do that much for ME in terms of alone time.

Sent from my Nexus 7 using DISBoards

Oh my goodness let me encourage you to GO FOR IT ! I did a first solo trip decades ago, yes it feels weird at first BUT eat when you want what you want no consulting anyone if you want a Mickey Bar at 9 am have it, no waiting for anyone restrooms breaks, come & go as you please Single rider line, I could go on & on, LOL The characters, servers at TS everyone will treat you wonderfully and you will not be made to feel awkward I PROMISE you if you do it you will LOVE it nothing like ME time

 

[DMGeurts]

Just wanted to say I can't believe those were your first oufits! You are just naturally talented!!!!!! Amazing!

So far, according to mousesavers looks like free dining is 9/2-9/25. Room only Aug 15-sep 28.

http://www.mousesavers.com/

I forgot when you said you were going, but I'm thinking this doesn't help. Pofq only 5% so I think you already have a better discount.

Yah - I have a better discount, such a bummer - I was really hoping for Free Dining. Oh well. Maybe everyone will cancel their August trips and go in Sept?

It does mean that I am, for sure, going with my military discount... And I am certain that is something I am going to forget to bring with me... Not to mention - my ID is expired - it has been for years, but no one ever looks at the date... So, I need to get in and get it renewed... Priority #1 this summer.

There were some rumors floating around that fd would be offered in August, but so far for the Visa holders the dates start 9/2. EDIT: Looks like the only discount for late August is going to be a room discount, but POFQ is not included in that. POR will have a 25% discount. Not sure how that will fit into your plans if you got a military discount already???

It doesn't fit into my plans at all. LOL I'll be sticking with my military discount. Just happy that everything with my trip fell into place a few weeks ago... I had been fretting over it for months, and I am just happy that my TA was able to get this trip down to a more manageable # for us.

I did manage to get through this morning and add the free dining to our reservation, upgraded to a preferred room and bought tickets for the MNSSHP for our last night there. WOOHOO! I saved about $700!

I am so happy for you!!! Awesome savings, and awesome that you get to take advantage of FD. I did go and give the girls' school schedule one more look-see, and there is just no way we could go in September at all... With Alli starting so many honors courses in the fall, and V starting High School - I just need to not worry about the cost and have a good time.

DH told me yesterday that he wouldn't mind going back to WDW every year, so I told him about the bounceback offers and he said if we get one, we will book again for next year....

Yay!!! I am also planning to scout the BB offers... We have the girls' big Sweet 16 trip next year with BFF and her DD, which we have been planning for, at least, 6 years... It will only be a 7 day trip, but with our trip to Aruba the following January - I need to keep WDW at a minimum for 2014 & 2015.

I'm hoping you will have some dslr lanyards in your auction coming up! I need something more comfortable than the one I have, though I could always make one for myself, except yours are so nice!

I am planning to have a couple in there. I have not decided on themes, but I did just restock my leather the other day, so I am ready to go just as soon as I decide. I know my seperate accessory sets will not follow the theme as my main items will, but I think that's OK?

I finished another Minnie Mouse applique last night. One was done on the machine and one was completely hand sewn. I'm thinking I'll probably go with the hand sewn one this time, simply because my machine applique is not so neat. I'll post a picture once I get home.

I would LOVE to see pictures!

Ditto. Although, I feel you when it comes to looking at some of the early stuff one does. I look at some of my first dolls and just shake my head. All I see are the first time mistakes, shaky sewing, etc.

I agree, but I see the learning value in it also. Everyone has to start somewhere.

I got the notice about the VISA cardholder free dining and now DH is making whiney noises about going. Free dining still doesn't cover room and tickets, silly boy. However, we were talking about next year's big trip and I suggested a split stay and he didn't poo-poo the idea. In fact he thought it might save some sanity on our end. He's read some reports from frequent Disney goers that, while it's wonderful that the families finally get to Disney, some of the Once and Onlies that go to the MK resorts don't have the beautiful Disney spirit, such as resides on these pages. It'd annoy him more than me, but hey, if it saves us money.

I am very anxious to hear about your trip! I hope you get some great discounts. I really NEED to get the Disney Visa...

All y'all in the northern regions, hang onto the end of the tunnel light that is spring. Although I could say the same thing about us here in the south. High today is supposed to be 60 and it's rainy. T Dog loves it and we took him to a local park this morning, so he's still slightly damp. And fighting sleep, the doofus.

LOL... I know MM loves the spring too, but he is a snow boy at heart - you give him a pile of snow, and he is a happy boy for hours. LOL

I'm following along on my ipad, but I don't often get the chance to post.
I loved seeing the AG dresses! They are just so fabulous!

The Donald bag was so cute!

Glad to see you Erin!! I haven't seen you around here or FB much lately.

No worries!! Either way it's still a great bag and that's awesome you were able to work her in!!

Thanks!

California, Pacific Time Zone. I think it's 2 hours difference. I'll have to make sure I look that up and know if for sure by then.
So am I!!!

Yikes!!! OK - I will try to be mindful of you West Coasters.

Just popping in to say hello. I try to check in and read your updates at least once a week. Can't wait to see all the fun outfits you have planned!

Hey!!!! It's great to see you!

Trying to convince myself to pull the trigger on a very short solo trip right now. I've never done a solo but I really would like to just do my own weekend trip. Crazy I know. Guilt sets in and I feel a bit bad about it but on the flip side....I really just don't do that much for ME in terms of alone time.

Ooooh - I think you should go for it... I would love to do a solo trip, but I think there will be pleanty of time for that after the girls go to college.

Oh my goodness let me encourage you to GO FOR IT ! I did a first solo trip decades ago, yes it feels weird at first BUT eat when you want what you want no consulting anyone if you want a Mickey Bar at 9 am have it, no waiting for anyone restrooms breaks, come & go as you please Single rider line, I could go on & on, LOL The characters, servers at TS everyone will treat you wonderfully and you will not be made to feel awkward I PROMISE you if you do it you will LOVE it nothing like ME time

Hi Ruthie! Yes, this for sure!

**********************************************************

Yesterday was a very productive day for me.

My current bag is another big one... I was able to get it cut out and quilted yesterday. I had JUST ENOUGH quilt batting to eek the bag out, but I am now out, out, out... So, I must run to the fabric store this week - I cannot put it off any longer.

I also cut out another accessory set... I knew just what I was going to do with it, and now I am having issues deciding on the applique. So, now I may just scrap the whole idea. I am back to the whole detailed applique issue and not being able to justify charging the price for them on a small set. Yet - I can't come up with anything simple that I like. Sigh.

Today, I will be appliqueing all day. I was able to get my applique cut out yesterday too, so today should move along quite smoothly.

***********************************************************

Trip Stuff:

I am a bit bummed about no Free Dining for our trip, but I did have an inkling long ago that this would be the case. So, I am just happy that we get to stay at our beloved FQ, and the price is in a manageable range for us.

I went through our trip budget yesterday morning, and I totaled up exactly what we have left to save for.... It is going to be close for us, but I do think it is doable... As long as nothing else breaks down between now and then.

As of now, I plan for my BIG auction to pay off the remainder of the trip. If I make budget on that, I will have a small remaining amount to go towards other things that still need to be paid for... According to my figures - this is what we need above and beyond paying off our trip...

Park Tickets
Baggage Fees
Photo Pass +
Water Park Tickets
Dessert Party Tickets
Tips
OOP food

Which is a grand total of approx $1700... Thankfully - my Target discounts can be applied to a lot of the items above, which brings my OOP total for the remainder to about $1450... Most of which doesn't have to be purchased until the 2 weeks prior to when we leave, and some of it does not have to be paid for (like OOP food) until we get there.

So, it will be closee - that $1450 number really scares me. But I think I will do fine. I do better under pressure anyways.

There is one number that isn't listed above... Souveniers... I am still not sure how we are going to work that. I've been sticking a little bit of cash away here and there, but - for the most part - the girls will be paying for their own souveniers this time, if they want any. I will provide them with the obligatory pins that are important from our trip, but anything else is their responsibility.

I did decide to swtich a few of our beginning park days around. I've been able to get all of our ADRs moved around - however - I was only able to get close to our wanted times, so I am still trying to zoom in on some better ADR times. I've been checking at least twice a day for a couple of weeks now... and I haven't had any luck at all.

I don't want to post my new calendar - but I may - I feel like every time I post it, something needs changing, so then I have to post it again. Besides, I am getting the feeling that I may have to start a "Part II" to this PTR in the not too distant future... And if so, I need some new material for that.

**********************************************************

I hope everyone is starting to do better... There are a few that haven't checked in recently - and I hope they are doing OK... I don't want to mention any names, because I don't want to single anyone out...

Have a wonderful day everyone!

D~

 

[Chicago Mo]

HAPPY NICE WEATHER finally!!! YAY!
Your creations for the freaky dolls are cool!!! I am seriously nervous about September coming a crowded place to be... Right now T.P. is still showing like a 3 as the highest.. THANK GOD. Next year i pray it stays that way.

Where did you get all the cute calendar stuff? I know you had posted it somewhere in this 1475 posts but.. Umm i am not going to go threw them all!!! LOL!!!

 

[Pluto0809]

I'm here! I came on yesterday to post about the free dining after I got an e-mail only to discover several people beat me to it. Guess I'm not fast enough.

I think I'm catching the "change everything around" Disney disease. I'm sitting here today wondering how I can move stuff around on my October trip. There's one ADR I'm just not pleased with and I'm trying to decide what to do.

 

[KatMark]

I'm sorry to hear that free dining didn't come out for you. From what I have read/heard, they may do away with it completely by next year.

You did have a productive day.

I'm sure you will meet your budget for the trip.

You and I have to figure out which day we are meeting. I know your plans changed a bit and so have ours. I may or may not do an August PTR. If I do, it won't be started until at least July. I have to get done with my current PTR, my TR that is still running to cover our April trip and the trip in 30 days AND the wedding.

 

[Iamthequeen]

So, I didn't get the pictures posted yesterday. My youngest dd came home for a visit and we sat around and talked all evening. Tonight we are going to the baseball game to hear my oldest dd sing the "Star Spangled Banner" at the start of the game. Hopefully the rains hold off long enough for that to happen, but its not looking too good right now.

Hopefully, by tomorrow I will have my act together and get the pictures taken and posted.

I'm thinking you have a good plan for paying off your trip. Also, having the girls buy their own souvenirs is a good idea. I believe they spend less when its their own money.

 

[BabyRapunzel]

I forgot to comment on your Donald bag...he is so cute. I had thought on your original bag that this was such a cute idea. Nice that you were able to squeeze her in!

My DD is now 3. Growing too fast. I tried a new pattern, of course, with shirring and couldn't get my machine to cooperate. I finally just stopped the shirring, matched the front and hoped for the best. Well it barely got over her head, but it did just fit. So next time she stepped into it with "feet together like a mermaid". That worked much better, but I will have to redo this top for our trip. This is why procrastination does not pay. But at least she had her mermaid outfit for her bday. Photos are on the disbou page.

Hope everyone is well. I just had an allergy issue, trouble breathing. Went to the Dr (which I rarely go to, 3 years in fact), so I lost my lifelong primary care doctor and had to find a new one. Medicine did not hit me well, and really made things worse. So now that the meds are out of my system, things are getting better. Hopefully everyone else is healthy.

Iamthequeen...can't wait to see the Minnie appliques.

Glad your budget and trip are falling into place. Can't wait to see your newest bag. Sorry to ramble :/