Why isn't there a larger religious left? For the life of me, I can't figure out why liberalism and Christianity are mutually exclusive? Things are not so black and white. Why is it that a majority of Christians believe that torture and the death penalty are the way to go? I highly doubt that Jesus would be lining up to vote yes on those. Yet the religious right has the audacity to condemn women who receive abortions. Don't get me wrong, I completely believe that abortions as birth control are a sin, but there are so many instances in which they can be justified. There are complex physical and mental circumstances that surround pregnancy. The only way to fairly decide who should be allowed to receive an abortion and who should not, is to bring each case to trial. Which is not only completely impractical since abortion needs to occur as soon as possible, but also impractical in terms of economic resources involved. Therefore we cannot have a blanket law to ban abortions.
Lets talk marriage. I think most would agree that marriage was created for procreation and the raising of children. I think most would also agree that marriage was intended for men and women since procreation naturally happens biologically between a man and woman. This has been a social standard, religious or not, for thousands of years. I believe that marriage should continue to be between a man and a woman. Now lets talk civil unions. I think it is important to point out that marriage and civil unions are NOT the same thing. A civil union allows 2 people to be legally tied to one another and grants benefits like those of marriage. Now let me explain why I'm not entirely against civil unions. First, a civil union does not necessarily imply sexual orientation. Second, in a country where single motherhood is through the roof, divorce is the norm, and children are being raised in a haphazard way, I don't see anything but good would come from allowing more civil unions if they help bring stability to these homes. I'm suggesting that civil unions not be exclusively the product of homosexuality. I don't see how it can hurt to take the "marriage" out of civil unions. I'm not sure if I'm making sense, so let me give some examples.
In the old days marriage was about a contract in order to maintain a family unit. It was not about love and romance. People did not get divorced for over infidelity or financial strain. Not to mention all the other insignificant things people divorce over. What if, for the sake of maintaining a family for their children, these couples separated the idea of love from the legal terms that unite their unit? I think that there are plenty of couples with children that would be happy to have a legal civil union without being "married". Does that makes sense?
Here is another situation in which I think civil unions would be awesome. As a mother of 2, I can imagine how difficult it would be for a single mother to raise her kids alone. We have all these single moms, who often in an attempt to help their situations, get involved with even more sorry men. Then they end up with more children and no husband. If I were a single mom, I could TOTALLY see myself partnering with a heterosexual female friend for the sake of securing our children's future. How blessed would those children be if one of the "moms" could stay home with them while the family receives healthcare and other benefits through the other mom's job? I think ideally every child should have a male role model too, but if one is not available, what is the harm in having 2 loving parents legally joined to provide for their families? I'm sure many single moms have not even considered how civil unions could benefit them. I believe God has a master vision of how families should be, but the reality is that families are becoming a thing of the past in America. Perhaps we need to rethink what is in the best interest of the next generation.
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
Sunday, April 26, 2009
Home management 101...and other stuff
So I have been on a home management rampage lately. I'm undergoing my annual attempt to get the household and our finances in order. I now have charts for everything, LOL. For a couple years I've had a "Control Journal", but rarely take the time to use it because it's huge and heavy. If I open it, it covers my entire workspace on the kitchen counter. So, I made all new charts for my daily routines, my zones, weekly calender items, and weekly menus with coordinating grocery lists. Then I laminated them and taped them inside the cabinets where I have easy access to them and will see them a thousand times a day as I make snacks and meals.
I also made new laminated money envelopes using a word template. In order to try and better handle the money throughout the month, I broke down the envelopes into weekly amounts rather than monthly. Much easier to not overspend that way...hopefully.
I'm trying to get back on the ball with morning bible study too. I guess I'm in that phase again. So I cut and pasted 2 bible studies onto business size cards and made them a coordinating pocket. Love it. The whole bible study fits into my pocket so I can pull them out throughout the day whenever I have time. Perfect for waiting rooms.
This past week I was working on diaper stuff, all that home stuff, and of course my term papers. So I've had vary little time to write and digest. I imagine the next few weeks will be the same.
I had to take a break from running as it was causing me major abdominal pain. I'm guessing relating to my PCOS. My whole stomach was swollen...it was terrible. So I know I won't be able to run in the 5k I had planned, but I'm hoping to get back on the wagon. It's very discouraging to have so many problems every time I try to do something healthy.
OMGosh...I had the worst anxiety attack this morning, and THIS is why I never go to church. I spent a good hour mentally preparing myself to go, praying, etc. so that I wouldn't be apprehensive about going. I felt great when I showed up. I was even attempting to go to the 9:30 service for the first time in 10years...that is huge for me. 9:30 is always the most crowded service. So I get there, and realize that it's Confirmation Sunday. No big deal right? I've been a gazillion times. Then I realize there is no children's Sunday school or nursery. What the heck? So I take my kids to go sit down with me in the pews. It's only 9am, and I can't believe how many people are there already, but hey, it's Confirmation Sunday during the 9:30 service. There were about 8 pews marked "Reserved", so we had sit in the only place we could find a spot. Then I a lady comes and tells me that she is saving the rest of the row for her family. Then I hear her behind me whispering to her friend how she had tried really hard to save the spots and we slipped in on her. Then a minute later a young lady, I think her daughter, approaches looking completely annoyed that we are in "their" spot and she asks us to move. By now the girls have completely emptied their goody bags all over the pews. I struggle to gather all this junk, plus my mom gear, and try and find another spot. A gentlemen a few pews back offers us a tiny space to squeeze into, I thank him, and the kids and I get settled back in. Then he asks, "You know that service doesn't start until 10:30, right?" He goes on, "That's a long time to be waiting with two little kids, especially since it's a 2hr service." !!!!!! As I get up to leave, I see all the eyes following us. Of course all the ushers and organizers know me since I used to work for the church. Not a single one of them said boo to me, but instead looked at me like I was a freaking idiot as left. Gosh...good thing I wasn't a visitor...what an impression I'd have! By the time I reached the care, I was having a full-fledged anxiety attack. I cried all the way to my folks house. I can officially say after 10yrs....I am NOT going back. Church is a place to worship Christ, to feel welcomed, loved, and like you belong. I don't feel any of those things there, and I certainly never have enough peace while there to worship. Bummer.
I also made new laminated money envelopes using a word template. In order to try and better handle the money throughout the month, I broke down the envelopes into weekly amounts rather than monthly. Much easier to not overspend that way...hopefully.
I'm trying to get back on the ball with morning bible study too. I guess I'm in that phase again. So I cut and pasted 2 bible studies onto business size cards and made them a coordinating pocket. Love it. The whole bible study fits into my pocket so I can pull them out throughout the day whenever I have time. Perfect for waiting rooms.
This past week I was working on diaper stuff, all that home stuff, and of course my term papers. So I've had vary little time to write and digest. I imagine the next few weeks will be the same.
I had to take a break from running as it was causing me major abdominal pain. I'm guessing relating to my PCOS. My whole stomach was swollen...it was terrible. So I know I won't be able to run in the 5k I had planned, but I'm hoping to get back on the wagon. It's very discouraging to have so many problems every time I try to do something healthy.
OMGosh...I had the worst anxiety attack this morning, and THIS is why I never go to church. I spent a good hour mentally preparing myself to go, praying, etc. so that I wouldn't be apprehensive about going. I felt great when I showed up. I was even attempting to go to the 9:30 service for the first time in 10years...that is huge for me. 9:30 is always the most crowded service. So I get there, and realize that it's Confirmation Sunday. No big deal right? I've been a gazillion times. Then I realize there is no children's Sunday school or nursery. What the heck? So I take my kids to go sit down with me in the pews. It's only 9am, and I can't believe how many people are there already, but hey, it's Confirmation Sunday during the 9:30 service. There were about 8 pews marked "Reserved", so we had sit in the only place we could find a spot. Then I a lady comes and tells me that she is saving the rest of the row for her family. Then I hear her behind me whispering to her friend how she had tried really hard to save the spots and we slipped in on her. Then a minute later a young lady, I think her daughter, approaches looking completely annoyed that we are in "their" spot and she asks us to move. By now the girls have completely emptied their goody bags all over the pews. I struggle to gather all this junk, plus my mom gear, and try and find another spot. A gentlemen a few pews back offers us a tiny space to squeeze into, I thank him, and the kids and I get settled back in. Then he asks, "You know that service doesn't start until 10:30, right?" He goes on, "That's a long time to be waiting with two little kids, especially since it's a 2hr service." !!!!!! As I get up to leave, I see all the eyes following us. Of course all the ushers and organizers know me since I used to work for the church. Not a single one of them said boo to me, but instead looked at me like I was a freaking idiot as left. Gosh...good thing I wasn't a visitor...what an impression I'd have! By the time I reached the care, I was having a full-fledged anxiety attack. I cried all the way to my folks house. I can officially say after 10yrs....I am NOT going back. Church is a place to worship Christ, to feel welcomed, loved, and like you belong. I don't feel any of those things there, and I certainly never have enough peace while there to worship. Bummer.
Thursday, April 16, 2009
April 15th
So I actually wrote this yesterday while I was out and about, but thought it was worth adding here. I need to get some type of small notebook. Anyway...
I had somewhat of an epiphany today. It's such a perfect day: warmth, sunshine, the aroma of springtime in the breeze...you get the idea. For a moment I thought to myself, "I wonder how I would perceive this day from the eyes of an athiest?" A dangerous question for a Christian, I know. Honestly expecting to feel a void, I cleared my mind of conscience instruction and imagined the mindset of pure nature. To my surprise, I felt completely liberated. It was like having a dark and heavy shroud lifted from my soul. I felt free to experience my day without regretting my sinful thoughts, without feeling bound by the Christian experience. I felt as if a thousand doors had been opened, unimaginable possiblities for my future. The freedom to follow my heart and impulses without a constant feeling of rejection. For the first time I felt the lure to truly reject God after being saved. At least I could understand it. Now I'm not saying this has altered my belief at all. It just makes me wonder what that says about my faith. Is my Christianity nothing more than self-judgement and condemnation? If I truly accept and experience the love of Christ, then why do I constantly feel overwhelmed with dread while walking in faith? Why does the idea of rejecting my faith make me feel more alive and hopeful than ever? Sure, I can chalk it up to nothing more than the lure of the world, but I think it's more than that.
Part of me feels the impending doom of end times. As Christians, we get bombarded with end time messages all the time. What if I'm not looking forward to the end? Is that wrong? What if I want to live my life to the fullest, whatever that entails? I want to see my kids grow up and have babies of their own. I want to live through the suffering and the joy of humanity.
I had somewhat of an epiphany today. It's such a perfect day: warmth, sunshine, the aroma of springtime in the breeze...you get the idea. For a moment I thought to myself, "I wonder how I would perceive this day from the eyes of an athiest?" A dangerous question for a Christian, I know. Honestly expecting to feel a void, I cleared my mind of conscience instruction and imagined the mindset of pure nature. To my surprise, I felt completely liberated. It was like having a dark and heavy shroud lifted from my soul. I felt free to experience my day without regretting my sinful thoughts, without feeling bound by the Christian experience. I felt as if a thousand doors had been opened, unimaginable possiblities for my future. The freedom to follow my heart and impulses without a constant feeling of rejection. For the first time I felt the lure to truly reject God after being saved. At least I could understand it. Now I'm not saying this has altered my belief at all. It just makes me wonder what that says about my faith. Is my Christianity nothing more than self-judgement and condemnation? If I truly accept and experience the love of Christ, then why do I constantly feel overwhelmed with dread while walking in faith? Why does the idea of rejecting my faith make me feel more alive and hopeful than ever? Sure, I can chalk it up to nothing more than the lure of the world, but I think it's more than that.
Part of me feels the impending doom of end times. As Christians, we get bombarded with end time messages all the time. What if I'm not looking forward to the end? Is that wrong? What if I want to live my life to the fullest, whatever that entails? I want to see my kids grow up and have babies of their own. I want to live through the suffering and the joy of humanity.
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
The joy of self-loathing
So I'm in that phase again. I could feel it coming on. That's what my little poem is about. I know my thoughts about myself are untrue, yet there they are repeating themselves in my mind. Like always, I kind of fell off the wagon with school. When the classes start I'm totally obsessed and do great. Then as the novelty wears off, I find other things to do. In Lit class, I rushed through the essay before last because I hadn't spent enough time with the material. I new my grade was going to suck since I put in zero effort, and at the time I turned it in, I was totally okay with that. Seeing that "C" was hard and started those little voices in my head.
I've been perceiving a lot of pressure from the spouse to get a job because we really would like to be able to purchase some things for the house, and he is in desperate need of a newer car. So in my attempt to appease, I have been applying for some jobs, working on my resume, etc. Trying to find a job is so discouraging and makes me realize just how hard it will be in this economy without a degree. So in that train of thought, I was looking into my options for my bachelors. I have 4 classes left for my associates, and think I'm going to try and crank those all out over the summer semester. So anyway, the hubby is less than thrilled with my lack of consistancy.
My problem is, I follow my train to thought whereever it goes. If I start thinking about school, then that's where my plans, time, resources go. If I start thinking about a project, then that's where my plans, time, resources go. You get the idea. So knowing this, knowing I can't seem to control it, and knowing that I'll change my mind again and never finish anything makes me feel like a complete and utter failure. I guess the good news is that I'm no longer in denial. I used to believe I was so responsible, organized, and good with money(I'm only good with these things in the workplace because of the forced structure). So that's where I'm at today.
My goals today:
Analyze "the flea" by John Donne and write up a poetry worksheet.
Pick out a topic for my final paper.
Do one substantial learning activity with the kids.
Mop the floors & finish the laundry.
I've been perceiving a lot of pressure from the spouse to get a job because we really would like to be able to purchase some things for the house, and he is in desperate need of a newer car. So in my attempt to appease, I have been applying for some jobs, working on my resume, etc. Trying to find a job is so discouraging and makes me realize just how hard it will be in this economy without a degree. So in that train of thought, I was looking into my options for my bachelors. I have 4 classes left for my associates, and think I'm going to try and crank those all out over the summer semester. So anyway, the hubby is less than thrilled with my lack of consistancy.
My problem is, I follow my train to thought whereever it goes. If I start thinking about school, then that's where my plans, time, resources go. If I start thinking about a project, then that's where my plans, time, resources go. You get the idea. So knowing this, knowing I can't seem to control it, and knowing that I'll change my mind again and never finish anything makes me feel like a complete and utter failure. I guess the good news is that I'm no longer in denial. I used to believe I was so responsible, organized, and good with money(I'm only good with these things in the workplace because of the forced structure). So that's where I'm at today.
My goals today:
Analyze "the flea" by John Donne and write up a poetry worksheet.
Pick out a topic for my final paper.
Do one substantial learning activity with the kids.
Mop the floors & finish the laundry.
Saturday, April 11, 2009
The idol scavenger of the idol mind
Like a flower chases the sun, he creeps upon me;
breathing a fleshly incantation, so earthly.
How tempting his sweet suggestion lingers;
What boredom must persist?
That the fallen angel of God’s fingers
Upon my idol mind insist?
Just one call upon His name liberates my sublime illumination
and you hide like a child, certain of eternal damnation
So what is your purpose here?
Endless badgering will only return the same answer;
In a moment of sorrow I may follow there,
yet faith will devour the deadliest cancer.
Can you flourish without His seed?
Upon the flesh of his children you feed?
You are lame, weak and wholly dependent;
All your grand schemes revolve around the maker
For what purpose would you have if truly independent?
you depraved scavenger and weak flesh partaker.
breathing a fleshly incantation, so earthly.
How tempting his sweet suggestion lingers;
What boredom must persist?
That the fallen angel of God’s fingers
Upon my idol mind insist?
Just one call upon His name liberates my sublime illumination
and you hide like a child, certain of eternal damnation
So what is your purpose here?
Endless badgering will only return the same answer;
In a moment of sorrow I may follow there,
yet faith will devour the deadliest cancer.
Can you flourish without His seed?
Upon the flesh of his children you feed?
You are lame, weak and wholly dependent;
All your grand schemes revolve around the maker
For what purpose would you have if truly independent?
you depraved scavenger and weak flesh partaker.
Monday, April 6, 2009
Missing Easter
I love Easter. It is hands-down my favorite holiday. I love all the specials on tv; Discovery Channel has a great series this year on what life was really like for Jesus. Jesus of Nazareth is still my favorite. I get overwhelmed with emotion when I think about what Jesus really went through so that I could be a moron most of the time. Sure everybody knows Jesus "died for our sins", but who really thinks about what He must have gone through when he descended into hell? He had to endure the consequences for every sin of every believing man for all time. That's an awful lot of suffering, even if you are God.
I guess I'm feeling regretful today that I haven't been able to bring myself to church. I'm missing the sense of community, especially during this time of year. I usually go to church for at least Lent/Easter every year. Basically what it comes down to is I can't handle my anxiety associated with going. Crowds make me feel ill no matter where I'm at, but for some reason it seems worse when everyone in the crowd knows who I am. The worst part is everyone saying, "Oh, I haven't seen you in forever." Then of course I have to explain what a loser I am, and that no, I haven't left the church. I'm not concerned that anyone is judging me or anything. I'm sure no one is thinking about me that deeply. Who has time to? I just don't like being social on that superficial, small talking level. I despise it above all things in fact. I'm a one-on-one kind of gal, and an in-person in a small setting kind of girl. I still miss seeing everyone though. I loved working at the church because it allowed me to be involved with everyone without being overwhelmed, and it gave me a sense of purpose there. I also feel this dread because I fear that I might find out bad news when I go, like that someone has died or something. I experience the same dread when it comes to calling people, so I just don't. Joyce Meyer would tell me to go read Battlefield of the Mind.
So this week I'm praying for myself to get over whatever this is. I wish church would just come to my house. If friends would just show up at my door, I would be a very happy lady. I'm fully aware that church life is a central part of being a Christian.
I guess I'm feeling regretful today that I haven't been able to bring myself to church. I'm missing the sense of community, especially during this time of year. I usually go to church for at least Lent/Easter every year. Basically what it comes down to is I can't handle my anxiety associated with going. Crowds make me feel ill no matter where I'm at, but for some reason it seems worse when everyone in the crowd knows who I am. The worst part is everyone saying, "Oh, I haven't seen you in forever." Then of course I have to explain what a loser I am, and that no, I haven't left the church. I'm not concerned that anyone is judging me or anything. I'm sure no one is thinking about me that deeply. Who has time to? I just don't like being social on that superficial, small talking level. I despise it above all things in fact. I'm a one-on-one kind of gal, and an in-person in a small setting kind of girl. I still miss seeing everyone though. I loved working at the church because it allowed me to be involved with everyone without being overwhelmed, and it gave me a sense of purpose there. I also feel this dread because I fear that I might find out bad news when I go, like that someone has died or something. I experience the same dread when it comes to calling people, so I just don't. Joyce Meyer would tell me to go read Battlefield of the Mind.
So this week I'm praying for myself to get over whatever this is. I wish church would just come to my house. If friends would just show up at my door, I would be a very happy lady. I'm fully aware that church life is a central part of being a Christian.
Sunday, April 5, 2009
Cloth Diaper Patterns
I no longer make diapers for sale, but I do still have all my patterns available via PDF. They include detailed instructions with pictures. The pattern is intended for personal use only. Licenses are available for commercial use.
Ok, so here is the sizes and pics of the different styles included in the PDF:
Patterns Included:
Small Snap …………………………………. pages 13 & 14
Small Hook & Loop……………………….pages 23 & 24
Medium Snap……………………………… pages 15 & 16
Medium Hook & Loop………………….. pages 25 & 26
Medium Long Snap……………………… pages 17, 18 & 19
Medium Long Hook & Loop………….. pages 27, 28 & 29
Large Snap………………………………….. pages 20, 21 & 22
Large Hook & Loop………………………. pages 30, 31 & 32
AIO Pieces:
Insert – All sizes…………………………. pages 33 & 34
Small body layer…………………………. pages 35 & 36
Medium body layer…………………….. pages 37 & 38
Medium Long body layer……………… pages 39 & 40
Large body layer………………………….. pages 41 & 42
Get all these patterns for just $6.00!
Saturday, April 4, 2009
How to: Sew Training Pants
What you’ll need:
· Waterproof fabric – I prefer polyester PUL (polyurethane laminate). It has fabric on one side and plastic on the other.
· Flannel or other absorbent material
· Stretchable fabric – I use power-stretch microfleece from maldenmills. You could use a stretch fleece, poly/lycra blend, or even stretchy minky.
· 3/8” polybraid or lastin elastic
· 3/8” or ½” underwear elastic
· Polyester thread
· Normal sewing notions/machine, etc
· 2 sheets paper
· Pair of children’s underwear in the size you want for your pull-ups
~Getting started~
This project is probably considered intermediate, but I think if I can explain it well enough that you know what the heck I’m talking about, it shouldn’t be too hard.
First, let’s talk about fabrics. The outer fabric I use, PUL, is not available in retail stores. You will need to find it online at a diaper supply store. I recommend buying PUL that is made from 100% polyester fabric to help keep moisture in. The inner fabric should be an absorbent material like cotton, thin hemp, or bamboo. I don’t recommend heavy absorbency fabrics like microfiber because they are too bulky. Remember these are training pants, not diapers. The goal is to have enough absorbency to keep the floor and the bed from getting messy without getting so thick that he/she feeling like they are in a diaper. You could also make an underwear variant without the waterproof layer. Just use a natural fabric for the outer as well.
*PREWASH AND DRY ALL NATURAL FIBERS ON HOT BEFORE YOU BEGIN*
3. Cut 2 rectangular pieces out of your stretchy fabric. These will go on the sides of the training pants. The length should be equal to the sum of your side measurements minus ¾”. For my daughter’s pants, the length was ~7.5”. The width should be 2.5”. If your fabric only stretches in one direction, be careful to make sure that the fabric stretches short-ways, not long-ways.
Line up one of the stretchy pieces along the edge, right sides together and pin it in place. Now use a straight stitch to sew a 3/8” seam. Use a zig-zag stitch to go back over the edges if you are using fabrics that might fray over time. If you have a serger, you could use that instead to replace both stitches.
3. Now you will want to manipulate the layers so that the right side of the pants is facing out so you can visualize what the final product should look like. In this way, you will be able to identify where the matching edge is for the other side of the stretchy piece you just sewed on. Once you identify the correct side, match up the edges right sides together and sew a 3/8” seam just like the last one.
4. Repeat on the other side. Your pants should now look like this:
2. There is not an exact length for the waist elastic. There are 2 good ways to determine its length. You can stretch the elastic around your child’s waist and cut it where you feel it would be comfortable for him or her. Or, you can lay the elastic across the waist of the pants without stretching it and cut a little bit longer than the width of the waist (one half the circumference).
3. Sew the ends of the elastic together, right sides together.
4. Tack the elastic down evenly in four corners, right side facing out. With the elastic overlapping the pant’s top edge, use a straight stitch to sew the elastic on. Carefully stretch the elastic as you go so it is evenly distributed between the 2 areas where it was tacked down.
That’s it, You’re Done! Rock on Sew Master!!
· Waterproof fabric – I prefer polyester PUL (polyurethane laminate). It has fabric on one side and plastic on the other.
· Flannel or other absorbent material
· Stretchable fabric – I use power-stretch microfleece from maldenmills. You could use a stretch fleece, poly/lycra blend, or even stretchy minky.
· 3/8” polybraid or lastin elastic
· 3/8” or ½” underwear elastic
· Polyester thread
· Normal sewing notions/machine, etc
· 2 sheets paper
· Pair of children’s underwear in the size you want for your pull-ups
~Getting started~
This project is probably considered intermediate, but I think if I can explain it well enough that you know what the heck I’m talking about, it shouldn’t be too hard.
First, let’s talk about fabrics. The outer fabric I use, PUL, is not available in retail stores. You will need to find it online at a diaper supply store. I recommend buying PUL that is made from 100% polyester fabric to help keep moisture in. The inner fabric should be an absorbent material like cotton, thin hemp, or bamboo. I don’t recommend heavy absorbency fabrics like microfiber because they are too bulky. Remember these are training pants, not diapers. The goal is to have enough absorbency to keep the floor and the bed from getting messy without getting so thick that he/she feeling like they are in a diaper. You could also make an underwear variant without the waterproof layer. Just use a natural fabric for the outer as well.
*PREWASH AND DRY ALL NATURAL FIBERS ON HOT BEFORE YOU BEGIN*
~Making Your Pattern~
1. Lay the children’s underwear onto one of your sheets of paper. First trace the back of the underwear adding ~ 1.5” to the top, ~1” to the leg holes and crotch, and ~.5” to the sides (you will see why you don’t need extra later on). Cut out one side of the pattern and then fold it onto itself, trying to match the outline you already made. You want the piece to be exactly the same on both sides.
2. Turn the underwear over so the front is showing, tuck in the back so you only see the front, and make an outline in the same way you did for the back piece. The picture I have doesn’t show quite enough on top, you will want a little more paper showing than what I have there. Before you cut, measure the sides of the outline and the crotch area and make sure they are the same length as they were on the sides and crotch of the back piece.
You want them to match up like this: 
3. Once you have that piece cut, match the crotches of the two pattern pieces and tape them together.
1. Lay the children’s underwear onto one of your sheets of paper. First trace the back of the underwear adding ~ 1.5” to the top, ~1” to the leg holes and crotch, and ~.5” to the sides (you will see why you don’t need extra later on). Cut out one side of the pattern and then fold it onto itself, trying to match the outline you already made. You want the piece to be exactly the same on both sides.
2. Turn the underwear over so the front is showing, tuck in the back so you only see the front, and make an outline in the same way you did for the back piece. The picture I have doesn’t show quite enough on top, you will want a little more paper showing than what I have there. Before you cut, measure the sides of the outline and the crotch area and make sure they are the same length as they were on the sides and crotch of the back piece.
You want them to match up like this: 3. Once you have that piece cut, match the crotches of the two pattern pieces and tape them together.
~ Cut out your fabric~
1. Use this pattern to cut out 1 piece of outer fabric and 1 piece of inner fabric.
1. Use this pattern to cut out 1 piece of outer fabric and 1 piece of inner fabric.
2. Next, use the pattern as a guide for cutting out some slightly smaller pieces of the absorbent fabric that you will be using as hidden layers. You may also want to cut smaller pieces to place in your child’s target zones.
3. Cut 2 rectangular pieces out of your stretchy fabric. These will go on the sides of the training pants. The length should be equal to the sum of your side measurements minus ¾”. For my daughter’s pants, the length was ~7.5”. The width should be 2.5”. If your fabric only stretches in one direction, be careful to make sure that the fabric stretches short-ways, not long-ways.
~Let’s Start Sewing! ~
Inner layers:
Machine Settings
Inner layers:
Machine Settings
The first stitch is a zig-zag stitch. I set both the length and the width to 2.5.
1. Pin your absorbent layers to the wrong side of the large absorbent body layer.
2. Use a zig-zag stitch to sew down the middle of the layers and then sew all the way around your hidden layers so that they will not bunch inside the pants later.
2. Use a zig-zag stitch to sew down the middle of the layers and then sew all the way around your hidden layers so that they will not bunch inside the pants later.
Leg Elastic:
Machine Settings
Straight stitch – length 2.5 to 3 is fine
3 step zig-zag – length 2, width 3.5
1. Match the outer and inner layers with the right sides together and pin them along the leg holes. Use a straight stitch to make a 3/8” seam
. 
2. You can either use 3/8” polybraid or lastin elastic. Start your elastic about ¾” in and end ¾” from the edge. If you use polybraid, you will need to tack it down at one end and then sew with a straight stitch. Pull the elastic firmly as you go. If you choose to use lastin, you must use a 3 step zig-zag. Lastin naturally has a lot of pull, so you do not need to stretch it as firmly as the polybraid as you sew. Just pull gently and evenly as you go. If you haven’t used it before, you may want to practice a little on some scrap material.
2. You can either use 3/8” polybraid or lastin elastic. Start your elastic about ¾” in and end ¾” from the edge. If you use polybraid, you will need to tack it down at one end and then sew with a straight stitch. Pull the elastic firmly as you go. If you choose to use lastin, you must use a 3 step zig-zag. Lastin naturally has a lot of pull, so you do not need to stretch it as firmly as the polybraid as you sew. Just pull gently and evenly as you go. If you haven’t used it before, you may want to practice a little on some scrap material.
Attaching the stretch sides:
Machine Settings
Straight stitch – length 2.5 to 3 is fine
Zig-zag stitch – length and width 2.5
1. This is where it gets tricky! It isn’t hard to do, just difficult to explain. Your pant now has 4 long exposed side edges. We are going to use the stretch material to attach 2 respective edges on each side of the pants. It doesn’t matter where you start because all the edges are ~ the same length (even if they aren’t it won’t matter because the fabric stretches).
2. Pick a side to begin and open the fabric like so:
2. Pick a side to begin and open the fabric like so:
Line up one of the stretchy pieces along the edge, right sides together and pin it in place. Now use a straight stitch to sew a 3/8” seam. Use a zig-zag stitch to go back over the edges if you are using fabrics that might fray over time. If you have a serger, you could use that instead to replace both stitches.
3. Now you will want to manipulate the layers so that the right side of the pants is facing out so you can visualize what the final product should look like. In this way, you will be able to identify where the matching edge is for the other side of the stretchy piece you just sewed on. Once you identify the correct side, match up the edges right sides together and sew a 3/8” seam just like the last one.
4. Repeat on the other side. Your pants should now look like this:
Finishing the Top:
Machine Settings
Straight stitch – length 2.5 to 3 is fine, you will be switching to 4 when you sew across the stretchy sides.
1. Match up the seams, turn the materials in 3/8”, and pin the 2 layers together all the way around. Top stitch with a straight stitch 1/8” in all the way around. As you go across the stretchy part, switch the stitch length to 4 and stretch the material as you sew across it.
2. There is not an exact length for the waist elastic. There are 2 good ways to determine its length. You can stretch the elastic around your child’s waist and cut it where you feel it would be comfortable for him or her. Or, you can lay the elastic across the waist of the pants without stretching it and cut a little bit longer than the width of the waist (one half the circumference).
3. Sew the ends of the elastic together, right sides together.
4. Tack the elastic down evenly in four corners, right side facing out. With the elastic overlapping the pant’s top edge, use a straight stitch to sew the elastic on. Carefully stretch the elastic as you go so it is evenly distributed between the 2 areas where it was tacked down.
That’s it, You’re Done! Rock on Sew Master!!
If this "How To" has really helped you, and you'd like to pay me for my time in making it, you are more than welcome to send me paypal.
Happy sewing and good luck!
Happy sewing and good luck!
What's the Dilly Yo?
So my latest big deal is trying to figure out why I'm never content to just be whatever it is that I am. Every few weeks I go through a major psychological crisis where I feel like a monumental failure. It’s not that I just don’t follow through on things, but that I pour absurd resources into each undertaking before realizing that I’m just not content with whatever it is I’m doing. I was trying to explain this to my sister the other day when she asked why I was no longer working on my diaper or preschool businesses. Of course I always have an excuse as to why. “Oh, it was too big a liability for my family,” or “There was a change in the laws regarding children’s wear.” You get the idea. Then she asked me the most profound question I have never inquired of myself, “What’s wrong with just being a mom?”
Women all across the world do it without remorse. To be honest, I don’t have any great ambitions to be a successful working woman. I just have a constant compulsion to work towards something. If I don’t have a goal in mind, then I feel as if I’m wasting my life away. Yet, I am unable to tackle the day to day tasks that would likely give me fulfillment in the long run. Does that make any sense? I think I might feel successful if I were to raise healthy, happy, moderately well adjusted kids, but if I were to make that my goal, I would throw all of my energy and resources into that until I reach burn out. As it is now, I’m a pretty half-ass mom. I go through phases where I’m super-wife and super-mom, cleaning the house, making homemade meals, and providing stimulating learning activities. Then when I become absorbed in another project or schoolwork because I’m no longer feeling validated by my role as mother, I throw the kids in front of the TV and the household goes to shit.
According to my husband I alternate through several character roles or “phases” as he calls them:
1. Good Christian
2. Sexually driven and apathetic
3. Project/goal oriented
4. Self loathing
I’d have to agree with that. I listed them in the order he prefers; I find it interesting that he prefers me to be a super Christian wife over a sex fiend. I’m not unbalanced to the point anyone from the outside world would notice or be concerned, other than possibly observing that my life is a tad chaotic. They are just subtly rolling cycles over which I apparently have no control. I supposedly have ADHD and I suspect that contributes substantially to hyper focusing. I still wonder if there isn’t something else going on, or if that is just who I am? I have a full evaluation with my new shrink at the end of May. I’m hoping to gain some control over myself in order to provide my children with more consistency.
Women all across the world do it without remorse. To be honest, I don’t have any great ambitions to be a successful working woman. I just have a constant compulsion to work towards something. If I don’t have a goal in mind, then I feel as if I’m wasting my life away. Yet, I am unable to tackle the day to day tasks that would likely give me fulfillment in the long run. Does that make any sense? I think I might feel successful if I were to raise healthy, happy, moderately well adjusted kids, but if I were to make that my goal, I would throw all of my energy and resources into that until I reach burn out. As it is now, I’m a pretty half-ass mom. I go through phases where I’m super-wife and super-mom, cleaning the house, making homemade meals, and providing stimulating learning activities. Then when I become absorbed in another project or schoolwork because I’m no longer feeling validated by my role as mother, I throw the kids in front of the TV and the household goes to shit.
According to my husband I alternate through several character roles or “phases” as he calls them:
1. Good Christian
2. Sexually driven and apathetic
3. Project/goal oriented
4. Self loathing
I’d have to agree with that. I listed them in the order he prefers; I find it interesting that he prefers me to be a super Christian wife over a sex fiend. I’m not unbalanced to the point anyone from the outside world would notice or be concerned, other than possibly observing that my life is a tad chaotic. They are just subtly rolling cycles over which I apparently have no control. I supposedly have ADHD and I suspect that contributes substantially to hyper focusing. I still wonder if there isn’t something else going on, or if that is just who I am? I have a full evaluation with my new shrink at the end of May. I’m hoping to gain some control over myself in order to provide my children with more consistency.
Friday, April 3, 2009
Yve Klein rocks my world
So have to eat my words a little. While researching for my paper today I absolutely fell in love with abstract artist Yves Klein. If I could I would make love to his anthropometries, especially Ant 176...absolutely beautiful. Apparently there aren't any prints of it available.
I'm feeling a little anti-climatic today. When I don't do what I need to do, I always wake with an impending sense of doom. Dread is like a wet cloak this morning.
So my goals today are to write that crappy paper and hit the gym for my 30min run. Oh and make-up my work for my computer class tomorrow morning. Whatever.
I thought for sure eating ice cream for every meal yesterday would have a profound effect on my BG this morning, but it was a beautiful 83 this morning. It seems the older my babies get, the better my diabetes is. I'm quite certain that the toll of child bearing is the main cause of my early onset diabetes. My cycle was also 28 days to the hour this past month, which tells me my PCOS is under control as well.
Of course my eating crap does effect how I feel. I need to get back on a wheat, dairy, meat and soda free diet. The last few weeks I was forced to eat canned goods due to my husband and my poor budgeting skills. We installed laminate flooring and totally went over budget. We are a cash family, so when its gone, its gone. I'm feeling the pain of my poor decision-making in my joints.
So no offense to modern artists out there, but I have to say that IMO most of what I am studying this week is crap. I have a much better appreciation for the Renaissance. When I compare Michellangelo's David with Pollock's Lavender Mist....come on. The former is a masterpiece and the latter is nothing more than splattered paint. I do enjoy some of the more complex modern sculpture, but I have no respect for the minimalist, monochromatic crap. Anyone can paint a canvas entirely blue. These commentators act like Jesus himself painted the canvas all blue, therefore it must be profound.
Alrighty, I'm throwing on some Lady Gaga and I'm off to write some b.s.
So my goals today are to write that crappy paper and hit the gym for my 30min run. Oh and make-up my work for my computer class tomorrow morning. Whatever.
I thought for sure eating ice cream for every meal yesterday would have a profound effect on my BG this morning, but it was a beautiful 83 this morning. It seems the older my babies get, the better my diabetes is. I'm quite certain that the toll of child bearing is the main cause of my early onset diabetes. My cycle was also 28 days to the hour this past month, which tells me my PCOS is under control as well.
Of course my eating crap does effect how I feel. I need to get back on a wheat, dairy, meat and soda free diet. The last few weeks I was forced to eat canned goods due to my husband and my poor budgeting skills. We installed laminate flooring and totally went over budget. We are a cash family, so when its gone, its gone. I'm feeling the pain of my poor decision-making in my joints.
So no offense to modern artists out there, but I have to say that IMO most of what I am studying this week is crap. I have a much better appreciation for the Renaissance. When I compare Michellangelo's David with Pollock's Lavender Mist....come on. The former is a masterpiece and the latter is nothing more than splattered paint. I do enjoy some of the more complex modern sculpture, but I have no respect for the minimalist, monochromatic crap. Anyone can paint a canvas entirely blue. These commentators act like Jesus himself painted the canvas all blue, therefore it must be profound.
Alrighty, I'm throwing on some Lady Gaga and I'm off to write some b.s.
Thursday, April 2, 2009
April 2nd
So today I am letting my ADHD get the best of me. I have a paper due tomorrow for Art History. I have not covered any of the material yet. I spent the entire day on the internet in joyful bliss...reading. I love to know what others are thinking. To be honest, I haven't really been doing my work since before spring break. I love the subject matter of both art history and British literature so I'm not sure why I've gotten so far off track. I usually only do this with things I hate.
So in the meantime I've had other undertakings to occupy my time. Obviously I cannot remain idol....ever. So in addition to starting this blog, I decided I am going to run a 5k in May. Yes, I am 50lbs overweight. No, I won't let that stop me. I am on week 2 of my training and am already running 4 min/walking 1 min in cycles for a total of 30 minutes. I haven't run this much ever, it's been brutal! Of course, I come home and eat huge bowls of chocolate chip cookie dough ice cream drowned in magic chocolate shell. I wouldn't want my A1C to actually go down or anything. Did I mention I have diabetes? Blah, what a drag. Oh yes, and I have been busy making my toddler these super awesome training pants. I am going to find some time to work out the pattern sizing and test them so I can copyright it and add it to my business collection. Yay me!
Thinking on my art paper today has me thinking about an idea I had many years ago for a 3D abstract art piece I wanted to do. It involves plexiglas, baby dolls and red dye vegetable oil. I doubt I will get to it. DH is not a big fan of the "liberal, hippy crap". If he came home to me working on something like that he'd likely be calling the mental hospital on me. He has no appreciation for the arts. I had a gorgeous ink drawing of Jim Morrison I did many years ago and he crumpled it up and stuffed between some things in the closet because it was in his way. It was completely destroyed....ugh. He has no clue why that might upset someone. I don't recall being too angry with him...I know how he thinks...or doesn't for that matter.
So in the meantime I've had other undertakings to occupy my time. Obviously I cannot remain idol....ever. So in addition to starting this blog, I decided I am going to run a 5k in May. Yes, I am 50lbs overweight. No, I won't let that stop me. I am on week 2 of my training and am already running 4 min/walking 1 min in cycles for a total of 30 minutes. I haven't run this much ever, it's been brutal! Of course, I come home and eat huge bowls of chocolate chip cookie dough ice cream drowned in magic chocolate shell. I wouldn't want my A1C to actually go down or anything. Did I mention I have diabetes? Blah, what a drag. Oh yes, and I have been busy making my toddler these super awesome training pants. I am going to find some time to work out the pattern sizing and test them so I can copyright it and add it to my business collection. Yay me!
Thinking on my art paper today has me thinking about an idea I had many years ago for a 3D abstract art piece I wanted to do. It involves plexiglas, baby dolls and red dye vegetable oil. I doubt I will get to it. DH is not a big fan of the "liberal, hippy crap". If he came home to me working on something like that he'd likely be calling the mental hospital on me. He has no appreciation for the arts. I had a gorgeous ink drawing of Jim Morrison I did many years ago and he crumpled it up and stuffed between some things in the closet because it was in his way. It was completely destroyed....ugh. He has no clue why that might upset someone. I don't recall being too angry with him...I know how he thinks...or doesn't for that matter.
Intro
So I decided to start blogging about nothing specific....just about me. My life, my insane tendencies, over-scheduling, procrastination, diabetes, PCOS, high needs kids, ADHD, my hobbies, school, etc., etc.
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