Londa's Creative Sewing Chatter

Pattern Publication Process... Proceeding

noreply@blogger.com (Londa) — Thu, 02 Sep 2010 14:14:00 +0000

Finally - have the cover for the new, revised Refined Too™ pattern! Hard at work today on all the images for the albums that go with it. Durn it if they hadn't all but disappeared in my Picasa Albums I thought I had all DONE! Do you notice- my body is in the jackets - that took a 3 hour session at the photographer's last week. Of course, I think I look heavy - even my son commented as such. But it was easier than pinning, stuffing, etc. the arms on a mannequin. Let me know if you like this change!

Pretty much, this pattern thing is like birthing a baby - but more about that in my Video E-mail I want to get to today!

ON target with this one now - need about 2 more proofs of the contents with my printer then they can go to press.

Talented webmaster son has to do his magic on the Talking Oral directions....

Sew.... hopefully by the middle of next week for the 'Birthday'!

Wisdom for life from another Christian novel

noreply@blogger.com (Londa) — Wed, 01 Sep 2010 13:02:00 +0000

I love to read - almost as much as I love to sew. Christian fiction, Christian historical fiction - both favorites of mine. Last night (1 am) I finished Though None Go With Me by Jerry B. Jenkins.
Even on my Kindle - it is possible to highlight spots to 'save' them for reference in the future - so that is what I did, and then journaled about them this morning - marking and adding notes in my Bible as well. Two places stood out to me in the novel about a very Christian woman whose life went from bad to worse and then worser yet. I won't tell the events and ruin it for you...but one thing is that her husband comes down with what is apparently Alzheimers - and this is a long time ago, before it was understood - and barely identified. The beautiful way she stands by him through many years was inspiring - and helped me understand my Dad's devotion to my mother as they go through the same experience.

The novel is full of scripture for life that the main character, Elisabeth, had committed to memory - and though most of them were familiar, I certainly can't quote chapter and verse. Computer to the rescue - all you need to do is google for the phrase in the scripture and the location in the Bible comes up!

Ephesians 2:8 - "For by grace are ye saved through faith and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God, not of works, lest any man should boast." Of this, the father of Elisabeth, as written by Jerry Jenkins writes - explains: "We're saved by grace of God. Living godly is noble. But don't do it for any reason other than to thank God for the gift of grace, otherwise you're still trying to earn his favor." That's worth 'chewing on' for a spell...

Psalms 37: 3-5 "Delight yourself in the Lord and he will give you the desires of your heart. Commit your way to the Lord, trust also in him, and he shall bring it to pass."
True for you? Elisabeth responds, "I don't want to understand the mysteries of heaven! I just want God to make sense one time!" Ben answers, "It's clear he does not give us whatever we desire, so either we are not truly delighting ourselves in Him or we misinterpret the phrase 'give you the desires of your heart."
Consider this possibility Ben goes on, "That the phrase, 'he will give you the desires of your heart' means that he will TELL you what the desires of your heart should BE.
In other words, delight yourself in him and he will tell you WHAT to desire. "

All that is enough for me to try to get into the marrow of my bones as I work today...I hope it is helpful for you as well.

Oh - and in googling, I find that "Though None Go With Me" is a Hallmark Channel movie with Cheryl Ladd. I've pushed that to #1 in my Netflix list...I'll let you know how 'true' to the book the movie is.

Also - regarding Jerry J. Jenkins (one of the authors of Left Behind series), some things of interest....

a new movie, just released... here is what Jerry states at his Blog:

Jenkins Entertainment’s latest feature film, directed by my son Dallas, is opening around the country in the next several days.

To find out if it will be showing near you, click here: http://thewhatifmovie.com/theaters-3

It’s funny, heartwarming, moving, and we feel our best effort to date. When we want to be heard politically we vote at the polls, but if we want our voices heard in Hollywood, we have to vote at the box office. That’s why I will be buying tickets to my own movie when it opens in Colorado Springs.

What If… stars Kevin Sorbo (Hercules), John Ratzenberger (Cheers, Toy Story), Debby Ryan (Suite Life on Deck), and Kristy Swanson (Buffy the Vampire Slayer).

Trust me, this is a picture you can bring your friends to without reservation or embarrassment. I guarantee it’s not cheesy or typical Christian movie fare.

To see a quick sample, click on the above site and then click on “Downloads” and look for the video trailers.

And here’s the best part: if What If… is not yet scheduled for your area, you can help bring it there. Again, click on the above site, then Click on “Join Our Team” and see the many ways you can help.

What If… is already getting rave reviews, and I’d love to hear from you after you’ve seen it. Most important, let’s let Hollywood know the audience for faith-based films like this is vast and eager for more.

and his new novel - re-written from years ago, called The Last Operative, he states...

"In the original version—and this one—I took what I considered a thoroughly innovative approach by attempting to make each speaker obvious without attributing any dialogue to anyone. Let me know whether you think it works."

Sounds neat to me. I always hate reading the 'He said", etc. when I read - especially as I read out loud to my grandson. If he's paying attention, he knows who says what - so I just leave it out. That's what I think Jerry is saying he has done in this book. It's next on my list to have mysteriously float through the air into my Kindle!

For Pain - I LUV

noreply@blogger.com (Londa) — Wed, 25 Aug 2010 21:17:00 +0000

OK - I hardly ever do this, but I really CAN personally recommend this product.
I'm in pretty durned good shape for my age, but my hips ache - especially at night. Doesn't seem to matter what mattress I'm on - but when traveling it is even worse.
This Gel-Out does the trick - I massage it into my skin where it hurts - and in minutes, it is GONE!
I bought it at the Denver Rocky Mountain Show from a Tim Hayes.
If you have pain - I really recommend it!
www.gelout.com

Let me know how it works for you!

Materialism and Feminism hurt our kids, Alzheimers observations

noreply@blogger.com (Londa) — Fri, 20 Aug 2010 13:25:00 +0000

Let me vent - as I observe my grandchild's experience, and what is expected from our very young in these days - my observation is that 2 things: feminism (taking women outside the home when children are young) and materialism (the basic reason for the first I think) are really hurting our kids. However, I completely realize that for many there is no choice, as we've had that situation in our family as well - but I'm talking about for those for whom there really IS a choice - if materialism wasn't so rampant.

Gheesh - my hubby didn't even have the chance to go to Kindergarten - it didn't exist! And, I'm sure I didn't hardly know my alphabet, much less know how to write it all when I started kindergarten! I went to a neighborhood school - walking home for lunch with my Mommy. And I certainly didn't ride a bus with a bunch of rowdy older kids to start my day. All made possible because my dear Mom WAS at home!

I praise my daughters' ability to deal with all this, her insight and maturity - and pray that her experiences will make her all that much more wonderful of a teacher herself someday soon. I pray for every young family these days - the daily challenges are more than they should be. Oh, that they all just put the LORD at the head of their homes!

Alzheimers Observations... yesterday I made the time to stay with my mom at the unit longer than usual. She is adjusting very nicely - the people there are so wonderful to her. Once adjusted to seeing through their eyes, the residents there are wonderful packages to unwrap! The lady who claps constantly claps in time to the music! Commenting on her long fingers and asking if she played the piano in the past - I find she certainly did! THEY had to teach ME how to play UNO! Lord, these people are most precious in Your site! Help me see them as You do, and not through my eyes, through my life's expectations. This is what I fear with Obamacare - that life will not be valued in Godly view, but a monetary view only. Save us from that!

All this reminds me that much more to value each and every days' blessings - not as though I deserve a good day, but that I should be ever grateful as a sinner for every good day sent my way rather than one of calamity. As I offer 'things' for sale at my website, my booth as I travel, it all makes me that much more intent to humbly offer creative experience over stuff. I truly believe, as we create - we can, in some small way, get closer to the God that created us!

NEW Refined Jacket #3

noreply@blogger.com (Londa) — Fri, 20 Aug 2010 13:23:00 +0000

This 'Tailored Collar Jacket" will replace the Denim Dash Jacket in my new REFINED™ Talking Pattern™. As I complete the written and verbal directions for this jacket - hopefully this morning - I near the end of this LONG process. It's taken longer than I had planned or hoped - but will be worth the wait.
I hope you like it as much as I do! Combines an oriental print, a dark little print cotton, red raw silk, and grey silk dupioni.

Creative Jacket Journey DVD - the Jackets

noreply@blogger.com (Londa) — Sat, 14 Aug 2010 01:34:00 +0000

The newest DVD - Creative Jacket Journe y is almost here! Gloria and I had a blast designing, fitting, constructing and embellishing these two jackets...

The blue jacket - Gloria named 'Triumph' because she 'triumphed' over her fear of cutting into
the sweatshirt and her fabric...

Created from my Genesis Too™ Talking Pattern™...it features a cardigan standing neckline created partly from the lower ribbing of the sweatshirt. Two batiks, two shades of silk dupioni and a cream yarn to couch supplied the 'Resources'.

The aqua jacket - which I named 'Harmony' because I learned alot about harmonious color value in jackets... is from my Worthy™ Talking Pattern™.
A scrap of brown wool gab, a lovely oriental print rayon, silk dupioni, a silk tweed, and silk ribbon plus black couching yarn provided my 'resources'.

Pre-Order this TWO disc DVD now - by clicking on its name: Creative Jacket Journey.

Newest Refined Jacket

noreply@blogger.com (Londa) — Sun, 01 Aug 2010 23:09:00 +0000

As I improve my Refined™ pattern. making it a Talking Pattern™, this is the new Mandarin Collar Jacket - like the Moss jacket in the original pattern. 91 photos are included to show the design, constuction, and embellishment of this jacket. I went for a
'clean' look this time - no bias, shaggy edges. I VERY carefully used the accent blue silk dupioni and yarn. I like it - photos all done, and in order - now time to write and 'speak' the directions...but that will have to be after the ASG Conference in Atlanta that I leave for on Tuesday.

Button-Bustin' Proud of my Girl

noreply@blogger.com (Londa) — Thu, 29 Jul 2010 13:02:00 +0000

Had the joy of paging through my dear daughters' (27) 'House Idea'' Folder with her last night...what fun! She and hubby are about to close on their first house - and she's obviously been dreaming and collecting and vicariously 'feathering' her nest for quite awhile now...
Conclusions:
1. She has the creative bug - THAT's for sure! She must have caught it - that is exciting!
2. That sewing machine I gave her (and everything notions-wise to use it) will soon be broken out of it's case - especially since she's 2 hours away from ole' Mom here.
3. There is nothing she doesn't think she can do! How awesome is that?!? Even hard wood floors - Wow!

Anyway - I borrowed a couple of her tear-out sheets cause I thought you sewing gals might find these ideas interesting...
How cute and clever is that! Lace tacked into side of makeup drawer to hold things in place!
In all the pillow-making I've done over the years - I don't think I ever did what you see above - simple Knife edged pillows with different sides. How simple is that???

Avoiding 'Dog-Earred' Pillows...
Reminds me of something I learned from a Singer Sewing Reference Library book on Home Dec - which I can NOT find anywhere now - when she could use them - though I DO think I loaned all of those to her back when she was decorating an apartment..... is what you see below... folding fabric (or pattern you cut SAME size as pillow form - NOT larger for seam allowances!) in quarters, then trimming 1/2" off at corners to nothing half way along each of the 2 sides or loose ends and you get this: Believe me - it WORKS! Then - take 1/2" seam allowances and you'll end up with a VERY nice, SQUARE rather than POINTY cornered pillow, fully and tightly stuffed pillow!

She also had lots of pictures of pleated treatments - and most seemed to be Box Pleats. That made me think of the handy dandy Simflex Gauge that I finally have back in stock... for marking things like pleats. Wonderful - marvelous -super dooper - can't live without it notion. If you don't have one - order quickly! I'm definitely packing them this weekend to go along to the American Sewing Guild Conference in Atlanta.

Working hard on new jackets - and making Refined™ into a Talking Pattern™...

Refined Talking Pattern™ delayed...

noreply@blogger.com (Londa) — Fri, 16 Jul 2010 14:13:00 +0000

OK - I can't resist. In transforming the Refined™ pattern into the Talking Pattern™ version - I created a NEW jacket from the V-neckline version (Fuchsia Fun) yesterday. Since I ALSO have collections of wonderful fabrics pulled together for the remaining 2 jackets in this pattern, I have decided to make those as well. Therefore - the availability date for this pattern re-make has been delayed to late August - early September.

THEN - what I 'refine' and add in the creation of these jackets will become wonderful ADDITIONS to the current pattern as it gets redone to the Talking Pattern™ format.

AND - if you've already purchased Refined™ in its present state, you WILL HAVE ACCESS to the Talking Pattern Version AND the additional photo galleries with abbreviated directions for all 3 of the new jackets!

This is pretty brain-twisting for me, but Mom taught me..."If you're going to do it, do it right and better", and my Dad taught me..."Always give your customers MORE than they expect...never less!"

All goes along with my motto of the Golden Rule as Jesus taught Treat others as you'd want to be treated (or better!) than yourself.

Off to work.

Here's the latest jacket:

Napkin of Ideas from Snoop Shopping on Vacation

noreply@blogger.com (Londa) — Wed, 14 Jul 2010 01:11:00 +0000

Hmmmm - yep, this is how I do it - along with my trusty camera, and now my phone camera as well. However, sometimes it just isn't possible to take a picture - so one just must sketch. Sew...here are my sketched design ideas from our recent working Colorado vacation...

Not jacket design - but, OH, was that cream cheese blended with salmon ever good!
Top right: a little T-shirt on a gal at a table next to us in a restaurant. The stretched elastic around the neck, down the center front, and around the armscye (but not under the armscye) was really a nice, simple, feminine touch. Can't wait to try it - utilizing Clear Elastic and my trusty Twin Stretch Needle.

Center Scooped Neckline: This was in a shop - many different ribbings - different colors - attached together for the front neckline. Fodder for the new sweatshirt jacket pattern my brain has started on featuring sweaters and sweatshirts....

Sleeve below above sketch: Yet another idea for insertion of sweater fabric for a sweatshirt jacket sleeve...

carlopick? well - I thought that was the label in some neat knit dresses - but, alas, Google's page 1 doesn't take me anywhere - shucks!

Pink Linen Note: Reminds me of this great pink linen jacket in a HIGH Class shop in Vail, CO - with ruffles all around - lapel, front, hem, etc. The princess seams were stitched regularly, then pinched together as a French Seam - on the outside, and stitched close to the edge - really highlighted those flattering seams.

Other half of my napkin idea to come - but must go iron! Hubby seems to think end of 2nd day home all wash and ironing must be done. O well..... catch me later!

New pattern: Genesis Too™ now available...

noreply@blogger.com (Londa) — Wed, 14 Jul 2010 01:02:00 +0000

Alas - home from CO working vacation, and shipping my newest pattern, Genesis Too™.
The pattern pieces (Front, Back, Sleeve) arrived from McCall's 1 hour - yes, 1 HOUR before we left on vacation on July 1. I was able to stuff and get shipped all the pre-orders from customers and shops who had ordered this pattern at the Spring Quilt Market - as I had envelopes pre-addressed, thinking my Dear Son would get the fun of doing this...alas, I was able.

Genesis Too™ was top seller for me at the Rocky Mountain Sew Expo in Denver. Next Thurs. and Fri., I will be using it at a workshop for the DeKalb Quilt Guild. I'm SEW excited! This was a real labor of lover, and it turned out SO good - if I might brag.... If you want a beginner project - THIS is IT! PLUS, the entire Section II is like my 'Frumpy to Wow' and 'Embellishment' classes added as the frosting on the cake! Of course, this is a Talking Pattern™ - meaning I've taken a photo of EVERY step of the process, the recorded my personal tutorial for each and every photo. All that and more is posted on the dedicated webpage for this pattern - which, of course, you only get with purchase of the pattern. Still work best by reading and seeing? Well - it's all printed for you as well - now with the most vital photos printed in the pattern booklet.

Sew...for yourself, for your sewing group, guild, or shop - I recommend this pattern, Genesis Too™ !!! ANY questions - just holler - I'm home and working hard on transforming another favorite pattern, Refined™ into talking format!

Trash at Sporting Events Rant

noreply@blogger.com (Londa) — Fri, 09 Jul 2010 04:14:00 +0000

WHY can't people pick up the trash they make at games?
Hubby and I went to Cardinals vs Denver Rockies last night - and I couldn't believe the amount of trash left in the stands!

If everyone would have just picked up after themselves - Tickets could be cheaper allowing more people to attend the games. VERY sad - especially for the 'green conscious' Coloradians...

Take just 3 minutes to help sewers in Guatemala

noreply@blogger.com (Londa) — Thu, 08 Jul 2010 05:20:00 +0000

PLEASE take just 3 minutes or less to go do this - PLEASE! It will really, really help the great charity that I support through my website - where they teach women to sew and SELL them sewing machines to improve their lives - in Guatemala. Londa

Dear Friends of Miracles in Action and Guatemala,

Most of you know, we are seeking votes from Facebook Friends to win $20,000 to build a school Guatemala that was destroyed by mudslides.
This morning, a generous donor offered to match the $20,000 winnings, but only if we win the Chase Community Giving contest.

Now your vote counts for $40,000!!!

We are at 217th position today, and need many more votes to move to the top 200, and stay there until voting ends on July 12th.

We can't do this without you and your friends. Please forward this email, and FB message all your contacts.

PLEASE VOTE!!!
Simple steps to vote:1. Go to our website www.MiraclesInAction.org 2. Click on the "Support Us" Vote box. 3. Click on: "Get Started to Vote" in Green4. Request for Permission to Access Basic information – click on "Allow" 5. Pop up window asks you to "Like" Chase Community Giving – click on "Like" 6. Verify you are still on the Chase Community Giving Miracles in Action page 7. Click on VOTE. If you are not on Miracles in Action's vote page, go up to "Search and Vote"
and enter our name in the search.

Thank you for your vote, and spreading the word, Penny

P.S. Please view our video with the "Story of Miracles in Action". Here is a YouTube link:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WvJNQho78H4&feature=email
Penny Rambacher, R.D.
Founder/PresidentMiracles In Action, a 501(c)(3) non-profitwww.MiraclesInAction.org239-348-0815Helping poor families to help themselves…Building our 28th school in rural Guatemala. Established 19 vocational workshops and libraries. Installed 20 water systems for remote villages. Join us, and support a sustainable development project, where 100% of donation dollars go directly to the project.
Dear Friends of Miracles in Action and Guatemala,

Most of you know, we are seeking votes from Facebook Friends to win $20,000 to build a school Guatemala that was destroyed by mudslides.
This morning, a generous donor offered to match the $20,000 winnings, but only if we win the Chase Community Giving contest.

Now your vote counts for $40,000!!!

We are at 217th position today, and need many more votes to move to the top 200, and stay there until voting ends on July 12th.

We can't do this without you and your friends. Please forward this email, and FB message all your contacts.

PLEASE VOTE!!!
Simple steps to vote:1. Go to our website www.MiraclesInAction.org 2. Click on the "Support Us" Vote box. 3. Click on: "Get Started to Vote" in Green4. Request for Permission to Access Basic information – click on "Allow" 5. Pop up window asks you to "Like" Chase Community Giving – click on "Like" 6. Verify you are still on the Chase Community Giving Miracles in Action page 7. Click on VOTE. If you are not on Miracles in Action's vote page, go up to "Search and Vote"
and enter our name in the search.

Thank you for your vote, and spreading the word, Penny

P.S. Please view our video with the "Story of Miracles in Action". Here is a YouTube link:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WvJNQho78H4&feature=email
Penny Rambacher, R.D.
Founder/PresidentMiracles In Action, a 501(c)(3) non-profitwww.MiraclesInAction.org239-348-0815Helping poor families to help themselves…Building our 28th school in rural Guatemala. Established 19 vocational workshops and libraries. Installed 20 water systems for remote villages. Join us, and support a sustainable development project, where 100% of donation dollars go directly to the project.

Colorado Observations

noreply@blogger.com (Londa) — Mon, 05 Jul 2010 14:08:00 +0000

On vacation in Colorado - Vail area before the Rocky Mountain Sew Expo later this week...
Some observations to share:
1. The flowers! Oh my gosh!!!!
You'd NEVER see pansies potted with geraniums in Illinois - pansies are only for spring and fall. The Lobelia are prolific...amazing!!! And, combining of colors - all and every colors in one pot. Really quite beautiful. The Lupines and Delphiniums and Poppies - just amazing! Especially fun was the Betty Ford Gardens in Vail. I even LOVE the dead trees amongst it all - what a wonderful contrast. It looked like the dead wood was specifically placed throughout as well...

2. Love to 'snoop shop' - though it seems it's either T-shirts and polar fleece smattered with 'Vail' on them - or VERY $$$$ clothing and art galleries. Guess where I linger??????? Yep - the $$$ shops and art galleries. Vail Village was exceptionally fun. Here is what I see:
Monochromatic embellishment - yes - embellishment done in the same color - oftentimes even the same fabric. I watch FOX News and I see this all the time on the simple dresses on the women reporters and commentators as well...and of course, sleeveless. I see this embellishment - usually of a knit fabric cut on the cross grain so it will curl, or on the bias for woven fabrics. Definitely adding to the cost - regardless of the price range....as well, it should!
WHITE Blouses and shirts with ruffles or pleats - everywhere! I actually really think this is a clean, fresh look - for most everyone - especially those of us who have seen cosmetic dental work ie: whitening. I learned in my color training that you shouldn't wear white whiter than your teeth or the whites of your eyes. Well - there are many more of us around with much whiter toothies than God ever planned on! Anyway - they look good. I love wearing my Coldwater Creek white blouse as a jacket.
More Embellishment than ever...EVERYWHERE. I have a napkin full of drawings and quite a few pictures on my cellphone from my snoop shopping. Many of the ideas I've seen will be adapted and utilized on upcoming Creative Sweatshirt Jackets. However, I often think that the designer has gotten carried away. Usually the more $$$ garments do this - in my humble opinion. Even Tim Gunn (Project Runway) would agree with me I'm sure. It all comes down to 'Less is More'. So - if you need some em bellishment ideas and techniques, be sure to invest an EZ $19.95 in my Refined Embellishments for Creative Clothing.

Off in a jeep today - into God's 'closet' of creation. Stay posted for what inspirations I get today....

Appropriate Dress

noreply@blogger.com (Londa) — Thu, 01 Jul 2010 12:49:00 +0000

ok - I have to rant. I am constantly APPALLED at the cleavage I see - everywhere. AND, just because a woman is 'large' - overall - does NOT give her the privilege to flaunt her cleavage in front of me at a checkout lane.
WHERE are the managers??? WHERE is common decency and good sense????

Observations on Jeans

noreply@blogger.com (Londa) — Wed, 30 Jun 2010 17:26:00 +0000

Was just ironing my Coldwater Creek Jeans and made some interesting observations...
On this pair - waistband cut on straight of grain at center back - where there is a seam in the waistband underneath the belt loop....and then the waistband is bias at the center front...
Whereas...on this lighter pair - it is opposite - straight grain at front, and bias at back...????
And - the back of the legs are MUCH larger - all the way down - than the fronts...back of the jeans is at the top of the photo...and note that the INSEAM is topstitched - NOT the side seam. Furthermore, the topstitching - on this seam only, has only one row of gold stitching, the other is navy and you can't see it... ???

ANd - the side seams are NOT topstitched - which drives me CRAZY by the way - cause that seam allowance always flips the other way - and ironing my jeans is one thing - but inside out first to press the seam allowances properly - that's another issue - I will NOT do!
If anyone has explanations for all these observations - reasons why - etc. please enlighten me and the rest of us.

I wonder............does anyone else notice things like this while ironing?

By the way - if you make your own jeans, or need to do hemming or altering - I carry that gold (Topaz) Jeans Stitch thread - it is heavier than normal...
And I'd recommend a Jeans/Denim Needle size 90 or 100 - test to see which works for you...
Or even perhaps the Topstitching Needle...size 90 or 100...
Wish I could say exactly which one would work, but all depends on your machine, and the denim weight.
Needles are 25% off regular prices EVERY DAY at www.londas-sewing.com

Was fun to teach my Care & Feeding of your Sewing Machine class at the Cincinnati Creative Festival - and it was VERY well received. Look for it at more sewing shows around the country. Think I'll even revive my old class taught at my fabric store years ago: Londa's Secrets....

For a written version of most of the Care & Feeding class - find it at my Free Info, along with lots of other great FREE information!
ish I could

5 clicks to Help our charity: Miracles in Action

noreply@blogger.com (Londa) — Tue, 29 Jun 2010 20:31:00 +0000

Dear Friend of Miracles in Action,

Chase is giving away millions of dollars and Miracles in Action is competing for a piece of the action. The top 200 organizations (who get the most votes) will all receive $20,000 or more. This would allow us to rebuild the destroyed school in San Antonio Polopo at Lake Atitlan in Guatemala. The school was destroyed just recently by tropical storm Agatha. The voting takes place on Facebook. Here is how you can vote...

This takes about 1 minute -- just 5 clicks:

1. Click here and log-in to Facebook if you aren't already signed in:

http://apps.facebook.com/chasecommunitygiving/charities/731728299-miracles-in-action-inc

2. Click on: Get Started to Vote

3. Request for Permission to Access Basic information – click on Allow (this isn't a real big deal. It allows them access to your public info on your profile page)

4. Pop up window asks you to Like Chase Community Giving – click on Like (they send out occasional reminders about their program -- you can "unlike" them after July 15 when the contest is over if you want -- but don't do it until then or they will take your vote away!)

5. Verify you are still on the Chase Community Giving Miracles in Action page and click on VOTE (if you lost the Miracles in Action page, come back to this link and click it again to shoot straight there).

PLEASE be sure to also post this on your Facebook wall to help us get enough votes! Without the referral effect we may not win! Click for a cause!! It is free and fun sharing Miracles in Action with your friends!

Miracles In Action Inc. is an all-volunteer charity. 100% of the prize money will go to fund the school building project. To learn more about us, visit www.MiraclesInAction.org

Even if you are not a Facebook user, you can view the Miracles in Action new video on YouTube. It is just a few minutes....http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WvJNQho78H4

Thank you for your vote, and spreading the word.

Penny Rambacher
Founder/President

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Eman - World Vision girl writes

noreply@blogger.com (Londa) — Fri, 18 Jun 2010 14:36:00 +0000

Received this letter from our sponsored girl, Eman, and wanted to share it with you all...
"I am very happy because you chose me. I want to tell you a little about me.
My name is Eman Muhammad Betelo and I live with my family in a small house in a village situated about 40 km from Jerusalem. In my village there are schools, mosques, and clinics, but there is no hospital. My hobby is basketbool. What about you? I hope to receive soon a letter from you. God bless you and your family. Your sponsored child, Eman Muhammed."

I've written to her and will keep you posted.
I believe it puts a 'real' face on the children in lands of unrest to sponsor and communicate. Thanks for your support of my website which helps me in turn support Eman.

Kona Bay Cotton Sateens arrived

noreply@blogger.com (Londa) — Thu, 10 Jun 2010 16:13:00 +0000

Yummy - yummy! Scrumptious, soft, luxurious cotton sateens have arrived from Kona Bay.
Yes - I weakened at Quilt Market despite my best intentions...
BUT - BUT - But I told myself - these would be GREAT in my Creative Sweatshirt Jacket Kits! AND, my old buddy Pres. Doug from Kona Bay made it just TOO attractive to pass up.

FYI - SATEEN means that the floats of the fabric go horizontally - rather than vertically as in SATINS. Floats of threads over more than one in the opposite direction reflect light - thus it is in the weave, not the finish, that the beauty of satin and sateens resides!

Sew.... dresses, purses, bags, pillows, cushions, robes, jackets...and, of course quilts - but HURRY - yardage is LIMITED!

Bury me with this Gold Titanium Rotary Blade

noreply@blogger.com (Londa) — Thu, 10 Jun 2010 16:07:00 +0000

OH MY GOSH!!!!!!!!!!!
I cut out 3 garments (class reunion coming up next weekend!) last night and this morning - and this Titanium 'Roll the Gold' 45mm Rotary Blade is STILL cutting fabric - even knit with Lycra in it - like it was butter! I've already cut quite a few fabrics for my Creative Sweatshirt Jacket Kits with it - and I was expecting it to start leaving 'hinges' if you know what I mean... when I cut these garments out, but it was GREAT!
Treat yourself, Ladies! This blade is AWESOME, SUPERCALIFRAGILISTICEXPIALIDOCIOUS!

Oh my Gosh Bridal Gown

noreply@blogger.com (Londa) — Thu, 10 Jun 2010 03:05:00 +0000

On a recent expo trip to WI, my helper Glenda and I couldn't believe what we saw in a bridal shop window...this gown! Up close it didn't look quite so bad, but from across the street - well it just looked like 2 red boobs!

This one is going in my "Frumpy to Wow" class photos to teach how important it is to 'stand back' and get a total overall view of what you're creating!

I put this in the league of Michelle Obama's 'Black Widow' dress from the night he clinched the nomination.........

Just my personal opinion...which is what Blogs are all about.....

Guatemala Disaster Relief Needed

noreply@blogger.com (Londa) — Tue, 08 Jun 2010 02:27:00 +0000

Regarding the recent volcano eruption and flooding in Guatemala - where the school is located that I support through my website, I've received this update and appeal for assistance. I will be sending some funds, and I pray you will join me as well..:

Hi Londa,
We are raising funds for disaster relief, if people want to contribute to this need. We have gotten so many requests for help, and the stories are heartbreaking.
When I found out that a family of six people can buy the seeds to grow food for their family for one year for just $25, I was so surprised. Of course there is labor involved, but all the families pitch in and cultivate their own corn and beans. Many have to rent the land to plant, and fertilize, but for the most part, it is impressive that they can eat for a year on $25 worth of seeds. And, I can barely get 2 days worth of food at Publix for me and Dad for the same $25. Quite amazing.

The vocational school was our largest and most expensive project. They have had mud slides around the lake, but our school sits solid on the cliff overlooking the lake - glad we bought lots of rebar to hold it in place. It pays to not skimp on iron in an unstable zone. We had American engineers review the plans before we got started. I have not heard a report of the number of homes lost in Santa Cruz, but in nearby towns, there are many homeless people. They are living in the churches.

Must run,
Penny

Penny Rambacher, R.D.
Founder/PresidentMiracles In Action, a 501(c)(3) non-profitwww.MiraclesInAction.org

Feel like a 'Dressed Up' gal in these casual days...

noreply@blogger.com (Londa) — Thu, 27 May 2010 18:49:00 +0000

OK - amongst a very frustrating day - note my VERIZON post a bit ago - I needed to feel GOOD. So I 'dressed up' for an appointment with my patent attorney this afternoon ....
I have on:

Deep Teal camisole for COLOR
Topped with WHITE - yes - WHITE shirt from Coldwater Creek as a 'jacket'. It has 3/4 length sleeves, a stand up wing type collar. I haven't had a WHITE shirt for AGES. Was taught - and still believe that 'you shouldn't wear a white whiter than your eyes (mine are pretty bloodshot these days), or your teeth (well, I did have some cosmetic work done, but didn't go for 'Chicklet' white)... but it feels smart, snappy - and I LIKE IT! That's the bottom line - if you feel GOOD in what you're wearing!
My Coldwater Creek dark JEANS (that amazingly FIT my curvy ample 'behind' and smaller waist) in which I pressed front and back creases.
Added silver earrings with bit of Teal in them and a groovy (is that a current word?) chain type belt.
AND - I think this is real important- I put on HEELS! I can't tell you how much better, more confident, more dressed up I feel in HEELS~! These are sandals - and a chunky 2" heel (new), but they make the difference between feeling frumpy and feeling dressed up - at least to my soul!

So - that's my 'fashion advice' for the day. Oh - and I have to tell Dear Daughter that the current IN STYLE magazine says it is A-OK to wear denim with denim - as long as it is different, and doesn't look like you tried to match it. Lots of 'stars' are doing that - and photos there to prove it.

I HATE Verizon Home Telephone Service

noreply@blogger.com (Londa) — Thu, 27 May 2010 15:30:00 +0000

I'm SO frustrated! I'm now on the phone - hold - 5th call or so to try to END my elderly father's phone service! What biggies all service is amazing! Absolutely sick, sad, pathetic, etc. etc. etc.
On top of this - it took me 3 WEEKS - yes - 3 WEEKS and crying like a crazy lady on the phone last October to get it installed!
Sew - do NOT get home Verizon service if you are smart!

Miracles In Action Update

noreply@blogger.com (Londa) — Thu, 27 May 2010 14:27:00 +0000

This will make you just weep, gals! Our efforts to support the vocational school in Guatemala where people learn to help themselves is awesome! Every time you place an order with me at www.londas-sewing.com you support this charity!
Here is what my contact - Penny just wrote:

"I have attached a poster that you can put on your website - the funds you sent us helped to buy those sewing machines. Miracles in Action gave Amigos de Santa Cruz $6,000 to buy them, the loom, and other supplies (thread, etc.) Pat asked me what type sewing machines to buy. I suggested treadle type, and to ask the sewing instructor at the other smaller project we support. She "went to town", and got the machines, and getting them to this village is no small task - it is located on the side walls of a crater lake, and only reachable by boat. You will see this from the photo. You can probably learn more from their website, and they have a newsletter online.

Thank you for your help in this. You have made a difference. Maybe someday, you would like to go see it for yourself.

Penny"
And this - from a person more personally involved with this project...

"Good Morning, Londa, Im Pat, Director of Amigos de Santa Cruz, Penny's partner organization in Santa Cruz. I wanted to thank you personally for your donation for our new sewing and weaving center. The CECAP center was inaugurated on April 26th and classes have already begun. Students in 5th through 9th grade are learning basic sewing skills. This is the first time ever that young people have had the opportunity to learn hands-0n skills as part of their school program. Adults will begin classes in June. We plan to teach basic sewing to begin with and develop a few different products that the women can sell locally including aprons and bags. As adults complete a full course, they will have the option to apply for a micro loan to purchase their own sewing machine and start their own mini-business. We are also having two looms built for weaving, another skill the people have expressed a strong interest in learning. Your donation is helping to make this all possible. The impact will be long term. Our goal is to give people the opportunity to learn hands on skills that will lead to jobs and a stronger economy for the villagers and the community. Please visit our website at amigosdesantacruz.org to read more about our visions for CECAP and learn more about what we do in Santa Cruz. Be sure to download our most currently newsletter. Feel free to ask any questions. Patricia Torpie Director, Amigos de Santa Cruz Foundation Santa Cruz la Laguna, Solola, Guatemala P.O. Box 148, Lopez Island, WA 98261 www.amigosdesantacruz.org "