I started the year with 3 big plans:
- Get back to doing bridal alterations in my community.
- Grow my skills in sewing machine maintenance and troubleshooting.
- Catch up on reading so I will have plenty to write about in the coming year.
Alterations
I got a dress form and I just finished a complicated wedding gown alteration (taking it down 2 sizes, horsehair hem, and bustle.) If past experience holds up here in Illinois, I should soon be buried in prom, bridesmaid, and wedding gowns.
Sewing Machine Maintenance
I gave up on finding a silly little screw to fix a toy machine, but I spent a little time, money, and sweat on restoring a vintage Kenmore machine to full function. I have another machine that needs some TLC, but I expect to get it restored as well. When I do, I will likely sell it as I have tapped into an active community of people who want these heavy metal machines. Sears doesn't make them any more, so I plan to specialize in Kenmores as my niche.
Reading
I can't say I am crushing this goal, since reading is like laundry--you never get "caught up" because the reading list, like the laundry hamper, never reaches zero. I have, however, started listening to audio books in the car and at work when it is safe to do so. The piles of real books are still growing, but I am managing to carve out a little time for tackling them as well. After basketball season is over, books will replace basketball on my schedule until next season.
I hope all of you are having a blessed year so far and are reaching toward your goals.