I swear it was only yesterday that she looked like this….

I know that many of you out there know how I feel.  How does time slip away so fast?

At each of our children’s birthdays, I think that I can’t possibly enjoy their new age any more than their last, yet I always do.

Here are some of the things I appreciate most about Caitrin at age 12:
She is tremendously empathetic.
She is determined… about everything… always.  (Frustrating in a toddler, but a much appreciated trait in a young lady.)
She is wickedly funny – with an acute, dry wit that can catch you by surprise.
She is much more organized than I am.
She lets me think that I am much more organized than I am.
I am making a new customized ballet bag for one of her presents.  The fabric is from the Garden Glam line by Josephine Kimberling for Robert Kaufman.  The pattern is from Amy Butler’s new book, “Style Stitches”. 

Note the customized pockets that I’ve added.  I’m showing you all the pockets, rather than the completed bag, because, although it is now one day after Caitrin’s birthday, I haven’t completed the bag.  My excuse is that we are in Nutcracker season; consequently, I am adding 24-hour chaffeur to my job description.

Caitrin says she is thrilled with the customized pockets.  Have I mentioned that she lets me think I am much more organized than I am?

Happy birthday, Cait.  One day (and one bag) late. 

Love you so much that it makes me feel as if my heart will burst (and, OF COURSE, you too, Bob!),
Mom

My first downloadable pattern is also available.  It is called “Ambrosia 10-Squared”, but my favorite thing about this design is that you can use any 10 fat quarters if fabric to create the quilt. (You wouldn’t just happen to have 10 fat quarters of absolutely luscious quilt fabrics just laying around, would you?)  You just make a few simple cuts and shuffle the fabrics around to create 12 quilt squares. It is versatile and really, really easy!

To get a copy of the pattern, head on over to my shop.

(I’d just like to add that this pattern is for personal use only. Digital and/or printed distribution is not permitted. You may teach a class using this pattern, but please specify that each of your students must purchase their own copy from my website. Please do not sell items made from this pattern. Thanks!)

Have a great week!

Amanda