Summer tops, paddling pools and gifts

We have had a wonderful weekend of sunshine, a rare treat this summer, most weekends, especially if I plan a BBQ it seems to rain.

One of the towns close to my home was host to one of the olympic events, and two former work colleagues had purchased tickets for the event, so they came to stay with us for the weekend, which meant  they could get to and from the event more easily.

Although I have technically been on vacation this week, between Wednesday and today, I have still been nursing my cold, and cleaning the house, mowing the lawn in preparation for our visitors and even been called upon to deal with some work related issues and not done anywhere as much sewing as I wanted to.

As for sewing accomplishments, Friday morning I did manage to run up another cowl neck top from some fabric in my stash and this was just an hour and a half project from start to finish.  The top was made entirely on my Babylock and I managed, once again, to successfully change its function from serger to cover stitch with no problems.  Despite the fact that converting it from one function to the other was purely down to "operator error" it was like my sewing nemesis, and it was really bugging me.  I hope my new-found technical breakthrough will allow me to continue to use the cover stitch function, trouble free henceforth because now I have worked out the threading, I love it.

I really like these tops, and if you can get your hands on a pattern I would urge you to make one.  They are slightly smarter than a tee, but still look great for a casual look.  I will also look to wear these under my suits for work.

Today we were blessed with a visit from my son, daughter-in-law and my DGD Alana.  They gave us some great news that we will be welcoming another grandchild around February next year, so many congratulations to them both.  My D Mike's son Harry also informed us that he and his partner just found out that the baby they are expecting in December will be a boy.  Two new babys due to be born between December and February - how exciting.

Because the weather was glorious today we managed to get the paddling pool out and boy did Alana have lots of fun.  So much fun that when it was time for mum and dad to go home, she didn't want to go, so stayed on for another couple of hours.  By the time we took her home it took her all of 5 minutes to fall asleep in the car.

Last but not least I am in the middle of a sewing project which is a birthday gift.  Now because the recipient of the gift does from time to time read my blog I can't put too many details on here, but I need to get it finished before Wednesday, at which time I will be able to put up some photos on my blog.

I have quite a few things I need to finish myself.  Clear up my sewing room which looks like a bomb has hit it.  I would like to make myself a few new items, including some summer outfits to take out to Kuala Lumpur in September ( a work trip) I may also be going to China and Indonesia at the same time, so I need to make myself a nice new working wardrobe that is easy to pack, and will cope with the heat.

Well that is all my news to round off the week - I hope you have had fun.  Catch you later........