Focal Zipper

My Mimi and Harry came to visit us on their way to Florida for the winter and she brought me a bag of treats.  The bag consisted of lace, zippers, rick rack, and ribbon that she had left over from past sewing projects.  It is quite the modge podge of goodies, but the thing that caught my eye first was this amazing Aztec inspired zipper.  I thought about making a bag with it, but really wanted it to be the focal point.

I saw this refashion from Cotton & Curls and decided to do something similar with this zipper and a thrifted sweatshirt I got for $2.50.  (I would highly recommend doing this with a dress form.  I'm not sure I could have done it without one.)

It was actually pretty simple to do.  I put the sweatshirt on the adjusted dress form (excuse the mess - in order for me to have a sewing space I must share it with my dogs and our office) and started pinning from there.  I made sure not to let the front pull or bunch in dis-forming ways.  After pinning the zipper, I tried the sweatshirt on before sewing it down.

The zipper was quite a bit longer than I needed so, after sewing it in and cutting off the excess, I took the teeth apart leaving me with two strips of fabric.  I decided to further embellish the sweatshirt by adding either side of the zipper to the shoulder seams of the shirt.

I love it.  It's different.  It's unique.  It's quirky.  And it's from my Mimi.  I had to answer a few questions the first time I wore it school.  Some kids thought I had my shirt on backwards.  I don't care, I'll answer them all day long!  Love my new $2.50 comfy shirt!

One More Time...maybe

Welcome to all of my new readers/followers! 

I'm so glad you're here.  I thought I would share a little about myself since I,

quite possibly, was nominated for my last Liebster Award by Alyssa.

Thank you, Alyssa!

Funny story.

Alyssa and I went to college and played soccer together!

Recently, we reconnected through blog land on my Fitness Friday link-up.

Alyssa is a registered dietician and has tons of great tips on healthy recipes, breaking up your workout routine, and she is planning a wedding!

Here are the questions Alyssa asked me:

1)   Why did you start blogging?

I started blogging because I fell in love with several blogs that I found and had started reading consistently.  They were so inspirational that I decided I wanted to do the same thing.  I also have always loved writing and it gives me something productive to do in my summers off.

2)   What is your favorite food?

I would say my favorite food is Mexican.  Or sushi!

3)   What is your greatest achievement in life thus far?

My greatest achievement in life is probably touching the lives of my students.  Particularly the ones who struggle with the English language.

4)   Describe your perfect date.

My husband and I would sit outdoors over the ocean for dinner and then get a couple's massage.

5)   If you could go anyplace in the world on vacation where would it be and why?

I really want to visit Ireland because its where my heritage is.

6)   What is the last book you read?

The book I'm currently reading is Style by Lauren Conrad.  Love it!

7)   Favorite TV shows that you watch every week?

Rules of Engagement, Biggest Loser, RHOeverwhere

8)   Name a blog or two that has inspired you.

Still Being Molly & Frills for Thrills are two of my absolute favorites.

9)   If you had a $1000 shopping spree, what store would you go to?

Probably all the little boutiques that I love - or I would get several Stitchfixes

10) What is your hidden talent?

I don't know that I hidden talents...I can sew!

11) Favorite quote or life motto?

Source: Uploaded by user via Natalie on Pinterest

11 Facts About Me

1. I am currently enrolled in grad school and getting my National Boards for teaching.
2. I am addicted to Nutella.
3. I am allergic to the cold.
4. I don't eat bbq sauce.
5. I have never died my hair and I'm afraid to.
6. I wear skirts/dresses 90% of the time.
7. My outfit of choice is a pair of workout capris, an Under Armour tee and a pull over with cross trainers.
8. I have a strong desire to become a personal trainer...maybe someday!
9. I want my children to have red hair.
10. A perfect day would be waking up early (which I always do - I'm a morning person), taking the dogs for a walk, coming home to a cup of coffee, going for a run, and spending the rest of the day around the house in my workout clothes (shower optional).
11. I met my husband on a total whim....blessed.

Hope you stick around for a while!

Rough Days

Tales from the Teacher's Lounge

I had a really rough day with one of my classes last week.

I mean, quite possibly the roughest day I've ever had with students.

So, I went back and read my post on sweet reminders.

And decided that this week, I needed to start the week with some inspiration.

Source: 25.media.tumblr.com via Susan on Pinterest

Source: flickr.com via Allison on Pinterest

Source: philnel.com via Chyanne on Pinterest

Source: richinnerlife.typepad.com via Caitlan on Pinterest

Source: familyshare.com via Студия on Pinterest

Source: Uploaded by user via Sarah on Pinterest

I'm choosing to make today better.  I'm choosing to start fresh with my students this week.  I'm choosing to forgive each of them and be patient with them.  This particular group needs my patience, love, and understanding. 

After all, we all have weeks when we wish someone would do the same for us.