new found hobbies

It didn't take long after Grant was born for me to realize that life was never going to be the same again. I know what you're thinking, "Did she really not get that until AFTER Grant was born?!" The answer is no- I knew this going into pregnancy and it became apparent while I was pregnant. BUT, it didn't really make complete sense until later. I think I just assumed that once he was here I'd more than likely be able to get back to elements of life from before he was conceived. To some extent this was true, but not in all aspects.

The greatest way I am learning of how life is different is in the area of hobbies. For me, my list of hobbies was always several sports long. My thing has always been activity and competition. However, it's a bit tough to just pick up and head out to noon basketball at the rec center these days!! Maybe once Grant is older, but for now I've had to discover other interests- some I didn't even know I had.

While I was home for 2 weeks in February my mom taught me how to use her sewing machine. I had a few projects I wanted to make for a friend who is pregnant and who else would I choose to teach me other than the master! My mom is quite gifted, though I'm sure she'd say otherwise:) She made my breastfeeding shawl, or hooter-hider, for public baby feedings. An item and pattern I have received many a praise for I might add! She also made pillow covers for the cushions on the rocker for our nursery and the infant sling in which Grant was carried on many occasions when he was small. She can also sew clothing (my older sister's bridesmaid dresses), etc,... all of which I am not quite ready for- but maybe someday mom!!

The other hobby I have honed in on revolves around a favorite past-time: eating cookie dough!! I know, not sanitary, but let's focus on the new skill here:) I've been working to learn how to decorate sugar cookies like those found in stores. It takes time and patience, but has been a lot of fun to dapple with.

Another realization has been in the area of finances. Especially with our home projects still underway, I'm feeling a real desire to contribute more. I have been dreaming and praying about how I might be able to do so over the past few months. I think that pursuing these hobbies could perhaps be a way to not just keep me busy with projects I enjoy, but also to do a part for my family. So, I plan to run with the sewing items right now, while still practicing my hand with the cookies:)

For now my sewing focus is on what I know; 2 baby essentials. Things that I could never have made it without and no other mother should either:) Below you'll find burp clothes as well as breastfeeding shawls which I have made, along with patterns which the items are available in. If you are anyone you know might be interested, please pass my info along and I'll be happy to chat with them!


Burp Cloths: some patterns also available for breastfeeding shawls


Breastfeeding Shawls: all patterns also available for burp cloths


Me showing the shawl without Grant- as he is a squiggle worm these days:)

Here are a few pics of the cookies I've worked on lately. I definitely plan to keep working and I hope to try several things. A friend of mine has a dream to open a bakery with cakes, cupcakes, etc. items that she enjoys baking. We've dreamed together a bit about perhaps starting small in the future. Here's to dreaming, to finding and perfecting new hobbies, and to the future- whatever it may hold!