Delightful Doll Clothes

Spending the day in my loft sewing doll clothes is both fun and rewarding. It doesn't take much time or fabric to whip up delightful outfits and accessories. Here are the two latest creations, a Christmas dress and a sleeping bag. I know my granddaughter will love them. Today I'll be making a headband to match the dress and I'll start on some play and school clothes.

National Philanthropy Day Celebration in Estes Park

Estes Park celebrated National Philanthropy Day last night with a party at YMCA of the Rockies, the theme of which was "Enriching Estes with a Giving Heart." I was pleased to represent Estes Park Duck Race sponsored each year by our local Rotary Club. Last night's event was well attended and everyone had a wonderful time. Many of our local non-profit groups had tabletop displays - I helped at the Duck Race table where our 2014 logo was presented for the first time. Our mascot posed for a photo.

The celebration included a presentation by Kurtis Kelly as "F.O. Stanley" (one of Estes Park's first philanthropists), recognition of individual and business philanthropists, delicious food and drink, and the opportunity to celebrate with friends and neighbors. This was especially meaningful in the aftermath of the September flood. I left feeling proud of our community and grateful for it's giving spirit.

Doll Clothes for Christmas

My seven year old granddaughter recently got an American Girl Doll for her birthday so I've been busy sewing clothes for "Emily". They will be a Christmas gift. I've finished bright pink and plaid flannel pajamas and a mint green robe with pink rick rack trim. This project is so much fun! My husband wonders if I'll ever come down from the sewing loft. Today I'll make a sleeping bag using fleece and flannel. My list also includes a party dress, pants, t-shirt and whatever else I have time to make. I've collected lots of patterns. My favorites are three books by Joan Hinds. With a wee bit of searching, I've also found a wealth of patterns and directions for making accessories on the Internet. The doll in these photos is my own doll, Molly, who loves to model.

Nearly Normal

One of Estes Park's main routes into and out of town, Highway 36, re-opened on Monday. This route will cut three hours off our trips to the valley and the flatland. I'm proud of our state and community for their quick response to the needs of the residents.

Our local sanitation district is still working long days reconnecting the sewers. The NFZ Map shows more green (repaired lines) than red (not yet repaired lines).Our house is still in the red and the prediction is that we'll be flush worthy by the end of November. In the meantime, life for us is back to (nearly) normal.