Being a mother is the most important job in the world. Being a grandmother is the best job in the world. Until you have had grandchildren you can not know, really. It brings a joy that can't be described but that every other grandmother knows as well. It is so totally different from being a Mom, apples and oranges. Being a grandmother is simple. It is easy. It can make you  more physically exhausted  than an iron man competition, but leave you exhilarated and joyful at the same time. It teaches you to not sweat the small stuff. You really learn what is important in life. It is truly God's reward. I am very very blessed with our 5 healthy grandchildren and thank God every night for that. The holidays are made so much more special with their presence. 

In the past two weeks I have indulged. I have spent the time making American Girl doll clothes for my Sophie. I have forgotten the joy that simple act of sewing can bring. As a child I made doll clothes with a vengeance. For my own children, I was just too busy, sad to say. There were a lots of struggles in a lot of ways in those early years. But now I can make doll clothes to my hearts content. If something isn't perfect, no matter. Sophie will still love it and never know the difference.  Making dolly clothes is certainly like eating potato chips, you just can't eat one and you have to see the bottom of the bag. Every time I foresee just a few minutes, I start another little outfit. Here are just a few of the things I have made, just a few.
I love this little plaid coat with the cut on sleeves and beret. I put some soutache on the hem and collar. All of the garments got real buttons and buttonholes, not snaps and a fake out button as the pattern usually recommends.

This reminds me of the little coat Natalie Wood wore in the Miracle on 34th Street. I made a fringed scarf and the beret to go with it.

This dress was a lot of work. I used bias ruffles for the petticoat. It reminds me of a mini version of the popular "Feliz" pattern. The sleeves and hem have gathered tulle on the edges.

This little top has matching pants and also coordinating jeans made from Grandpa's old jeans. I did a tiny fly on them and an appliqued heart. This looks like something Sophie herself would wear.

I made several other pieces too, nightgown, dresses, and today's effort an outfit very similar to one I myself wore as a child. It has a silk velvet skirt (!), silk dupioni cumberbund, and a topstitched linen blouse, all made this afternoon! I am just reveling in this fun and plan to continue after the holidays with some more jammies and a chenille robe.

Thanks for indulging this grandma.
**********************************************************************************
I've also managed to finish two more Noriko bags. I really like these. They are more substantial  than previous efforts. Hope you like......we have first an animal print tapestry with the silk houndstooth and a big wooden button. 

Next bag is made of a variety of Pendleton plaids with another big wood button.

I am keeping these two for myself! I haven't made one yet for myself and I could use a new bag.

 Our weather warmed up to near 30 º the past couple of days and DH took advantage to make paths all over our property with the snowblower. He even plows a path through the woods to our dear friends on the other side. We both make lots of use of this path and have walked home on it many a night in below zero weather, a flashlight leading the way and usually after a great night of friendship.

Now it is time to close up shop for a couple of weeks. We will be traveling to NH, MA and particularly Cape Cod. I can't wait to see the grandchildren's faces on Christmas morning. I wish you the same joy , no matter what your holiday celebration may be. God bless you all and your families, safe driving,  and see you in the New Year.......Bunny