Happy New Year!

Happy New Year to you all. I have had quite the year in 2012. While I did quit blogging for awhile, I didn't stop thinking about blogging. However, there were lots of changes in my life. My son turned 18 and graduated from high school. Most of you know that he is a person with special needs, but has outgrown or developed ways to cope with most of his issues. I'm so proud of him! While he started college, I decided that it was time I went back to college as well.

I have been working as a substitute middle school teacher for the last 16 years, and now it's my time to get my credential. To that end, I started the Educational Specialist Mild Moderate Credential Program at University of LaVerne. I took three classes and tried to work one or two days a week. In a Master's program, three classes is beyond full-time. However, I really enjoyed being back at school and got two As and one A-. I'm not sure why I got the A- so I'm going to be asking about that when school opens back up next week. I know, I really should just let it go, but I worked my butt off and didn't think I lost any points. Anyway, I'm taking three classes again in the Spring semester and will try to work one or two days a week again. I'm so grateful that my husband feels that education is important enough to reduce my income for me to go to school full-time.

While all my sewing friends seem to be losing weight, I gained everything I lost early last year all back again. I wish I knew how to handle stress better. I wish my body handled carbs better too. However, I'm going to be working on finding a balance in my life where I can work, go to school, sew, exercise, and cook. Now if only my son would learn how to drive, that would take one thing off my plate. He has gotten very familiar with the bus schedule, so at least I can decline driving him if I need to.

In the next couple of weeks I am going to have to take a skills proficiency exam which is HUGE and I'm afraid of it. I am going to be cramming for this test a few hours each day, but I think I can squeeze in a couple of hours each day to sew as well. I got one garment cut out and I have some things already cut out. With that ugly task done, I should be able to have some sewing to share with you all this month. I'm hoping to blog 6-8 times a month. So I hope you come and visit me often.

This tunic is first on my list to sew. I cut it out in a brown and cream giant paisley print. I'm hoping it will camouflage my belly until I can get it back under control. I'm making the knot front with 3/4 sleeve length and mid thigh length. I plan to wear it with boots and leggings. My legs are my best feature on my body so I don't mind showing them off. I'm over the, "am I too young for this style?" way of thinking.

I'll be back just as soon as I get this tunic sewn and photographed. Meanwhile, I'm hoping that all of you visit me this year and come back often, and that your 2013 is your best year yet. Happy New Year to You!