Marking Time

Yes, it’s started- I’m already nearly halfway through the first 2 of four modules, and have learned lots about the new exams.  Tiring, but most productive.

I’m still waiting for written confirmation of the job offer so I can hand in my notice, but am feeling SO much better already- sleeping more soundly, no nervous tum from all the adrenaline, no headaches etc.

The term is winding down- GCSE kids are in their 2nd exam as I type, first year A levels are over, 2nd year A levels about to kick off.  In 3 weeks it will all be over, and with any luck, be starting my summer break a little early.  I’ve begun clearing out my cupboard at work already.

And so, what else is there to do but ponder and plan?  I’m unlikely to get much done over the next few weeks, but may manage one or 2 simple items amongst the trials of marking.

I’ve jumped on the bandwagon of a few challenges over at The Sewing Place:

Summer florals-I’d hoped to make more than one thing, but did manage to dash out my floral maxi, which is getting plenty of wear and compliments

Scraps- I still have plans, but haven’t actually found time to implement them.  They will happen though!

SWAKOP-[sewing with a kind of plan] Not as tight on rules as the Stitchers’ Guild SWAP, but an easy going wardrobe planning challenge, to spread until October.  I’m going with a blue/green theme, and items already made will be the ‘Sasha’ tartan skirt from Oki-style, the blue chambray Brenne trousers, and the ivory linen ‘Afternoon’ blouse.  The plan consists of 3 ‘packs’ each of 2 tops and 1 bottom, plus a wildcard, with rules about co-ordination.

Rough plan so far:

#1 ‘Interview outfit’:  Tartan skirt [done], jade Oki Style jacket [to be toiled first], linen ‘afternoon’  blouse [done]

#2 ‘casual’: chambray trousers [done], ‘Ursula’ print top, another top [no idea yet]

#3 ‘work’:  jade ‘Afternoon’ blouse, black trousers [either of the ones that weren’t finished for SWAP], ‘Marie’ jacket from Style Arc [I have one and wore it a lot on colder weather, a light weight one would be good]

#4 wildcard- several ideas including a denim duster coat, a dress that could go with any of the jackets, a practice version of next year’s MOB dress [because the pattern just arrived!]

As soon as the wedding dress is out of the way and the marking done, I will have to crack on with my ‘Cathedral’ inspired outfit for August bank holiday steampunk event.

What else do I have simmering?

I need more simple plain tops and a couple of cardigan jackets.  I need to re-assess my working wardrobe, as my college style is significantly more casual than schoolteacher garb.  Dresses or separates?  I’ll have to assess my shoe situation too- I’m less likely to roll up in canvas pumps or converse for school!

I have a LOT of nice fabric.  I want to try out the other 2 Oki patterns which I just assembled, and also the Greenstyle trousers and shorts need to be tackled before the brief summer is gone.  Stash seems to be a lot lower on knits  than I would have thought- I’m OK for Tshirt weight stuff, not anything more sturdy.  Market time?  Maybe.

The missus is nagging hard for the trousers and kilt I promised her last year…which have not materialised.  Poop.  I have several smallish pieces of fab Alexander Henry prints which must be used- they’re too good to languish!  There’s some stunning ivory silk satin for a shirt for the wife too.  I let myself indulge in quite a lot of goodies this month, to celebrate the job offer, and I fear that the stash has grown again- I must reduce it!

I was going to add pictures to this…but I will do that separately as I’m too darn tired right now!