A Sweet Little Top for a Sweet Little Girl

One of the goals I was most excited about reaching for my 40 Before 40 quest (http://mamabirdy-happinessishomemade.blogspot.com/2014/07/40-before-40.html), was sewing a dress for my adorable neice, Scarlett.  Mind you, I haven't sewn a piece of clothing in several years!  I was a little intimidated by it all, but I was ready to accept my own challenge.

B caught me sewing away

What I Learned:

• I went for a top instead of a dress.  I didn't originally plan this, but I liked this pattern so I decided to go with it.
• How to use bias tape on the arm holes
• How to add a pocket and top stitching
• How much sewing challenges me and I like it!
• How to ask for help!  I was completely stuck on the yoke of the top.  I needed an extra set of eyes to look at the directions for me.  I am not one to ask for help, but I gave in to my need.  My wonderful Aunt M was just the person to help.  She was able to help me translate the directions and get me past my roadblock.

I am so happy with how it turned out and I have definitely been re-bitten by the sewing bug!

The Perfect Model

Those curls!

Time to play

Taking a Break From Facebook

Last night I signed off from Facebook for the last time for the next month.  I had only told two people I was doing this for the month of September as part of my personal 40 Before 40 Challenge.  I thought a lot about when the best time would be to try this challenge. I came to the conclusion that September would be perfect- the boys and myself will be jumping back into our routine, it's a new season of life with B starting preschool and I have a lot I want to accomplish!

Already, this morning, the routine feels different.  I even had a mom friend text me and say she's in- she wants to do the same thing.  I am so happy to encourage someone to try this out.  

I am looking forward to what happens this month and how much more time I think I will gain without the habit of checking in with Facebook.

Date Night at Seabirds

My husband and I have been on a dating streak lately.  3 months in a row! We have left our boys in the care of a close friend/auntie to go out for a few hours or so.  My husband has been very creative in planning our dates.  I am not really a dinner and  movies type of gal anymore, so this has been right up my alley.  For instance, last month we went on a bike ride and then for pizza and a walk at Balboa Beach.

This month he took notice of my 40 Before 40 list and planned a date night at Seabirds Kitchen in Costa Mesa, CA (http://seabirdskitchen.com/).  It's located at The Lab or "anti-mall" and is a pretty cool place to visit.

I first found out about Seabirds from my brother when it was a food truck. They serve vegan/vegetarian food. I fell in love with the Beer Battered Avo Tacos and Beet Salad.  When they closed the truck service down to open the restaurant, I sure missed the food!  Well, last night I was reunited with my beloved tacos :).  They were just as good as I remembered!  Just wish this place was closer to home.

Afterwards we stopped off at a little coffee and tea house called "Milk and Honey."  It's across the street from The Lab at another shopping/dining area called The Camp.  Two words:  Lavender Latte. Wow.  I will be waiting for the day I can experience this dreamy drink again.

It was a great night with great company and great food. :)  And one item checked off my list.

Avo Tacos with a side of guac and chips. Avo overload! Mango Lemonade sweetened with Agave to drink.