Squeezing One In

There are so many things I wish I could be blogging about these days and pictures I'd like to post.  SIGH.  Alas, they have not yet invented (and, when they do, I won't be able to afford) the computer that types while you THINK up a clever post.  So, in the brief few minutes before taking Tate to preschool and attempting to get groceries so that we ACTUALLY have some food worth eating in the house, here are the recent birthday projects:

This little backpack was made for the girl across the street.  She and Calvin have become pals while waiting for the bus in the mornings and he wanted to do something for her birthday.  The design was his choice and my drawing.  The instructions for the bag are here.  I got the shirt at SA for maybe a dollar fifty and used scraps for the rest, save the grommets and cord which I did have to purchase, but which were NOT expensive.  We put a notebook and some sparkly pens in the pouch and had a lovely little gift to give.  Easy-peasy.  

This bag was for my mother's birthday.  The front design I cannot take credit for.  It was in the box of scraps that came from HER mother and I thought it fitting to turn it into something for my mom.  I love these vintage patterns (along with a lot of other vintage goodness that came from that box).  And now when Mom uses it (even if it is just for toting treasures from the auction), she can carry a bit of Grandma and me with her.   And if anyone would know how much I would LOVE to be toted around with treasures from the auction, it's my mom!