A Little Bit of This and That and A Barbie Doll Hobby

 Sewing, Flowers and New Hobby

Hi friends! In true "this and that" fashion, today's post has a little bit of everything in it. I hope you enjoy and find something of interest to read about. Did you love on yourself for Valentine's Day? I hope you had a wonderful day and treated yourself well. Above you see the flowers that The Mr. and I picked out together at Sam's Club. If you haven't checked out flowers there give them a try. They had HUGE amounts of flowers the day before Valentine's Day that were reasonably priced. It was fun to look at all of the choices and pick out what we wanted. I arranged the flowers in a large Longaberger pitcher and they are on display on our kitchen counter where we can both enjoy them! BTW, I'm not paid to promote Sam's Club. I thought you might just enjoy finding flowers at a good price. To me, flowers bring joy and beauty to whatever room they are in and I love having them on display. Although I use faux silk flowers around the house, there is nothing quite like real, live flowers!

I've been doing several different types of sewing projects lately (more to come on that later) and one I completed recently is this cute cat pillowcase. I found this fabric at Michael's and bought enough to sew two pillowcases. I love the black and white and how some of the cats are wearing bow ties! This fabric definitely fits into our house and Cassie and Garden have both told me that they approve! No word yet from River, however! (I may need to look for fabric with dogs on it!)

And guess what? I have a new "hobby" that involves Barbie dolls. This topic requires some explanation-a "back story" if you will. When I was a little girl, I absolutely LOVED Barbie dolls. I had a collection of dolls with clothes, some purchased and some handmade, that I played with all the time. I had a little suitcase that I kept my dolls and their clothes in and I carried that suitcase with me whenever my Mom would go someplace and I went along or when we visited friends and family and I always had something to play with and occupy my time. As I got older, I also had a Crissy doll (remember her?) that I also played with. My Mom sewed several outfits for my Crissy doll which I still have and one of my sisters sewed some Barbie outfits for me. These dolls were special to me. But, of course, eventually I outgrew them and they ended up in the attic. I believe my nieces played with the Barbies over the years and I don't really know what happened to them. My oldest sister returned my Crissy doll and the outfits my mom made to me several years ago and I have them stored safely. 

So, here we are.....ohhhh 50+ years later or so......and I began thinking about Barbie and all the fun I had styling her in different outfits. I had bought a Dollar Tree doll a few years back (some of you may recall those posts) but somehow it just wasn't the same and so I passed her on for someone else to enjoy. And I even had a fourth grade student and her mother buy me a Barbie doll years ago as a Christmas present after I shared with the class how much I had fun playing with Barbies as a little girl. That was such a sweet gift from them! But, again, after a few years of Barbie being up in the closet, I gave her away to a thrift store. 

Fast forward to this past Christmas season.....I was feeling very nostalgic about Christmases past, missing family members and the "way things used to be." Probably all of us have been there with experiencing these kinds of feelings. Anyway, I once again began thinking of Barbie dolls and I decided to give myself a nostalgic Christmas present. So.....I ordered myself a Holiday 2025 Barbie Doll!

Here I am Christmas morning unwrapping my doll. Yep, I wrapped the box and put it under the tree and the gift tag said, "To Debbie from Debbie." And yes, The Mr. might have thought I was a little silly but he's used to me! (wink)

So, here I am embarking on a new hobby of collecting and styling Barbie clothing and accessories. The doll arrived wearing this gorgeous ball gown with heels, earrings and a stand so she can be displayed. I decided to turn this gown into a bridal look and so I created a wedding veil for her using gold ribbon that I wound around a small pipe cleaner that I cut to size and then tied the tulle veiling strips to the headpiece. 

I enjoyed creating the veil so much that I began to think about whether or not I would like to try creating outfits for her using fabric I had on hand. So....I went online and started researching sewing Barbie doll clothing. I found a simple pattern (I knew I would need something simple) and I gave it a try.

Here is the first dress I sewed for her. I added the yellow ric-rac to the hem to add a little something extra to the fabric and I also gave her a yellow headband to pull the look together. 

Isn't she a beautiful doll? I must tell you that I had no idea how Barbies have changed over the last half century! When I ordered this doll I was able to choose hair color and skin tone. There are Barbies in all sizes, skin tones, ethnicities and hair colors available for purchase. There are also special Barbies that celebrate famous women and special needs dolls, as well. There is a whole world out there that revolves around Barbie doll collectors and merchandise that celebrates Barbie! How wonderful, also, for little girls (and big girls) to be able to have so many choices in choosing a Barbie that looks similar to them! But I digress....back to sewing doll clothes. 

This is the second dress I sewed for her using white polka dot fabric on a black background. I added an elastic belt for good measure. I love this fabric and wouldn't mind having a dress for myself made from this fabric. As I contemplated the dresses I had sewn, I decided to order some outfits online to see if I could learn a little more about how they did finishing on doll clothes. So, I ordered a set of outfits and accessories on Amazon.

The set came with about six mix and match outfits, several pairs of shoes and boots and a little purse. Also, this ball gown was in the set. It's a pretty pink gown with sparkles at the shoulders and on the bodice. 

And this is more of a business suit look. 

I prefer a longer skirt but this is how the outfits came. They all use Velcro as fasteners on the back and the shoes have slits on the back so they can slide on the doll's feet. 

The fabric quality of the purchased clothing is just so-so. I used higher quality fabric on the dresses I sewed in my opinion. But, I do like having more variety for styling and having the extra accessories in shoes and boots. I was concerned about the finishing on the dresses I sewed, especially around the neckline area. But I noticed that some of these purchased outfits don't have finishing either. For instance, the white top above doesn't have finishing around the sleeves. The jacket covers that up. 

So, this is a long post, I know, but I wanted to share my newest hobby with you....collecting Barbie dolls and sewing doll clothes and styling the dolls. I definitely plan on adding another doll in the future. Perhaps, as another Christmas or birthday present to myself? I was a little hesitant about sharing this on the blog as I fear some may think this is "silly" at my age. But, I can tell you that this new hobby gives me joy and is an outlet for creativity. And isn't that what hobbies are all about? I don't have room for lots and lots of dolls so probably two or three will be enough. And I want the fun of choosing the dolls myself. I hope to become more adept at sewing the doll clothes and, who knows, perhaps I will learn enough to sew a simple top or dress for myself?! Time will tell. 

What hobbies or interests have you been enjoying lately? I hope you will take a moment to share in the comments. I look forward to hearing from you!

Until Next Time,

Debbie This and That

 

The Joys of a Corduroy Dress

 Looking For A New Dress Idea?

Hello friends! I don't do many fashion posts anymore, but this dress is something that I decided to share with all of you. Let me assure you that this is not a paid post and I receive nothing for sharing this dress and where I purchased it from. 

This winter season, I have rediscovered a love for corduroy pants, skirts and dresses but have discovered that finding styles I like in these items can be challenging. Lo and behold, I saw an ad for The Vermont Country Store online and, after checking it out to make sure it was legit, I went to their site and discovered this pretty corduroy dress! This store carries so many interesting and hard to find items! And they carry many different styles of clothing. 

This particular dress is long sleeved with a tie in the back to adjust the waist area to your particular shape. It has buttons all down the front and pintucks on the bodice. ( I think that's the correct description for the front of the dress.) There are different color choices and you can choose a solid color or a pattern. The dress also comes in a jumper style if that is what you prefer. I found the size chart they offer to be accurate. I am wearing a Medium and it fits perfectly. This dress is not a "stiff" corduroy but soft and warm, but not overly hot. I just love this dress and have worn it a few times already! I know I will get good wear from this dress. 

So, if you're looking for something different or hard to find in a dress or jumper, or household goods or whatever, give this store a try to see if they have what you are looking for. Again, this is not a sponsored post, but I do like what The Vermont Country Store has to offer. Just my opinion. 

I hope that you are having a good day/week and that temps are getting warmer wherever you may be. We are supposed to be in the high 60's today which will be a welcome change from the recent single digits we have experienced!

Until Next Time,

Debbie (This and That)

Winter Decor Meets Valentine's Decor

☃☃ Snow and Hearts❤❤

Hello everyone!  With February 1st coming this Sunday, I have begun to slowly add in some Valentine's Day decor with my winter season decor. Snow is definitely meeting up with hearts both literally and figuratively! 

After experiencing extreme cold and icy conditions last weekend, we are told that we may have several inches of snow this coming weekend. Winter is definitely making itself known! I know that many of you readers are experiencing similar situations. How comforting it is to have these lovely winter lights to enjoy on these freezing and snowy days! I really enjoy these battery operated snow globes so much. They not only light up but they keep the glitter "snow" inside circulating constantly so it really looks like snow is blowing in the wind. 

I found these cute little stuffed Valentine's hearts at Aldi yesterday. They fit beautifully into this lovely rope bowl that was handcrafted and sewn by my dear friend, Sharon. She is a talented artist who creates lovely quilts, table runners, pillow cases and more. And now, she is creating these beautiful bowls! 

I'm really glad that I found these little stuffed hearts. "Bowl fillers" are popular now and while I don't jump on every trend, I have routinely looked for items that look pretty in bowls or baskets and these hearts certainly do!

Are you adding any Valentine's Decor to your home? Is snow meeting hearts in your home, too? Please be safe and warm as the frigid winter weather continues. 

Until Next Time,

Debbie (This and That)

The Ice Storm Cometh

 Getting Ready For The Storm

Hello friends!  Depending on your location as you read this, you may or may not be getting ready for the impending snow/ice storm that is set to hit close to half of the United States this weekend. For several days now, we have been listening to weather reports, looking at various "models" that show what could happen and generally been getting more and more nervous about the impending weather situation. I try not to get too worked up about the weather, since there isn't much I can do about it anyway. But, I have to admit that since Hurricane Helene took us all by surprise in 2024, I do tend to pay more attention these days. 

I have never been much of a fan of snow and ice and absolutely hate driving in it. When I was still teaching, I would nervously watch the closings and delays list to see if my school system would close down or have an optional teacher work day. These days were more of a misery for me than a joy because I would be so filled with angst about whether I would need to go out or not. Some people just love the snow and wish for inches and inches of the white stuff. But.not.me.

I know that many folks in our area feel more anxiety now about the possibility of bad weather since going through the hurricane. Here in Asheville, we spent weeks without electricity and/or water due to the storm damage. And, sadly, there are still folks in this area who are still living in substandard shelters with this big cold snap coming. Once people have lived through a weather related disaster it's hard to get it out of your head! 

The Mr. and I have prepared as best we can. We have plenty of food, water and an alternate heat source if the power goes out. And with almost half the country facing similar circumstances, we are certainly not alone! I actually may have over-prepared this time for the storm. But, better safe than sorry, right?! I'm really hoping, though, that we don't lose power. Sigh....time will tell.

How are you feeling about the weather these days? Are you a snow lover or hater or indifferent? I hope that wherever you are, you are warm and have a cozy spot to curl up and enjoy life! Please take good care of yourself and be safe!

Until Next Time,

Debbie (this and that)

What's In My Book Basket

 Some Really Great Books To Read!

Hello Everyone! As promised, I am blogging today about some of the books that I have been reading of late. I found each of these books to be really enjoyable and so you might give them a try, as well!

Before Christmas, I ordered two Miss Read books that I had never read before. You will remember that I am a long-time fan of Miss Read and her Fairacre and Thrush Green series of books that are lovely stories of the daily life of characters set in two fictitious English villages. The two books I am sharing today, "A Fortunate Grandchild," and "Time Remembered," are autobiographical books written by Miss Read (Dora Jesse Saint) about her childhood years growing up in both London and the English countryside. Oh friends, these books are simply treasures!! Not only am I learning about Dora's early life living among her many and varied relatives, but I also am learning where she got many of the ideas for her Fairacre and Thrush Green books. Her stories of how the schools/teachers in London compared to the schools/teachers in country villages really caught my interest as a fellow teacher. I was also so impressed by the descriptions of her parents, grandmothers, aunts and uncles all of whom she dearly loved. These books are such an awesome addition to my Miss Read collection of books. If you are interested in reading these autobiographies, I suggest you check with your library to see if, by chance, they have them available. If not, head to Amazon and see what they offer. I purchased mine as used books from book sellers offered on Amazon's site. 

"A Timeless Christmas," by Alexis Stanton, was a book that I found available and purchased at Dollar Tree. It caught my eye because it was marked as a Hallmark time-travel romance. I believe it has been made into a movie shown on Hallmark but I haven't seen the movie yet. This book is a sweet romance between Megan Turner, a tour guide at the historical Whitley mansion, and inventor and businessman Charles Whitley, who finds himself mysteriously transported from the early 1900's to present day times. The book is really good at allowing one to believe such an event could actually happen and weaves historical facts into present day living with believable characters that I found myself caring about. It's a fun read which I highly recommend. 

The final book I'm sharing today is one that I am still currently reading. "My Beloved," is the latest offering in The Mitford Series of books by celebrated and much-loved author, Jan Karon. Friends, this book is sooooo good! It's warm and comforting like a soothing cup of tea and I am savoring each page as I read it. To my mind, this book is similar to the very first book in The Mitford Series. Favorite characters are present in this book and we learn things about characters that we previously didn't know. If you are a Mitford fan, like I am, then I am sure you will enjoy reading "My Beloved."

What is in your book basket right now? Be sure to leave a comment and share. It's always fun to hear about new recommendations for books!

Until Next Time,

Debbie (This and That)

Seasonal Recap and New Word of the Year for 2026

 Let's Catch Up, Shall We?

Hi friends! I'm going to go ahead and say, Happy New Year too, since by the time you read this it will be New Year's Eve! I hope that 2026 brings wonderful things to you!

It's been an action packed December with lots of events and busyness. I'll share some highlights with you. Above, you will see the flute quartet that played "Carol of the Bells" at our church's Christmas Eve service. These dear ladies and I have been practicing together and I am thrilled to have had such a wonderful experience playing with them. The lady standing next to me was actually visiting from Utah and turned our trio into a quartet. She's an amazing flutist and is the daughter of the lady on the end. 

Our church's handbell choir also played for the service. They played so beautifully! We also had a mother/daughter pairing in this group, as well. My dear friend Sharon's daughter rang with us. She is wearing a striped sweater. It was wonderful to have her join in with us!

This was the altar on Christmas Eve. So pretty with the white nativity.

I've continued to do some supply pulpit preaching during December as well as teaching an Advent class at our home church. I've really enjoyed doing all of this. I did start to get tired and a little overwhelmed as Christmas came closer, however. I guess I'm not as young as I used to be! (wink)

I have actually begun playing flute more frequently at church. When I got my first flute years ago I said if all I ever did was hold it I would be happy. Then, six years ago, I started taking lessons from a wonderful flute teacher here in town. And now, I can actually stand up in church and play pieces! What a gift to me to be able to not just hold the flute but to play music! Playing the flute was something I always wanted to do from the time I was about nine years old. Better late than never, right?!

The Mr. has kept busy this season, as well, playing many concerts with big bands as well as solos and his brass quintet. 

And, guess who turned three years old? Our dog, River, celebrated his third birthday in style with a small taste of cake icing and a new toy!

I got such a kick out of the look on River's face in this picture taken Christmas morning. I gave The Mr. this funny wall plaque and River looks very shocked to learn he didn't pass obedience school!

I have transitioned over to Winter Decor in our living room and foyer, keeping my one little tree out with multi-color lights. It's so cheerful on the cold, winter days to still have some multi-color lights out to enjoy. Following are other pics of our "Winter Decor."

So, here we are, with 2025 ending. As you know, if you have been reading my blog for a while, I typically choose a word (or two) for each new year to focus on and see what the word has to teach me. My words for 2025 were "gratitude" and "grace." I have tried very hard this past year to think about the many blessings that God has given me in my life and to remember to be filled with gratitude. At the same time, I have felt the impact of giving myself and others grace while realizing how often others extend grace to me. And, of course, God gives grace, love and forgiveness in extravagant measure in my life. I am truly, truly blessed. 

I have been thinking and praying about a word for 2026 and I am actually a bit surprised by the word that keeps cropping up in my mind. As I think more on this word, however, I can see why it is a good choice. So, without further Ado, my word for 2026 is.......

"Imperfection"

Does this word seem surprising? After all, nobody should be striving for imperfection, right? My words for other years have been positive words like "trust"  "prayer" "gifts" "light" and "hope" to name a few. "Imperfection" may not seem to fit. 

However, as I have pondered about this word, I have come to understand that it's not that I should try to be imperfect, but rather that I should relax. I feel that God is reminding me that only HE is perfect. The world around me is certainly not perfect, other people aren't perfect and I certainly am not perfect. As a recovering perfectionist, these truths about life are sometimes difficult for me. I seem to get frustrated at times because I feel like everything I do should work out perfectly, my performance in life should always be perfect....I should always be perfect! As I have focused more on gratitude and grace this past year, I feel that God is reminding me to offer myself grace with the whole idea of being a perfectionist. It's a lesson I have been trying to learn for many, many years. So, as I move forward into 2026, I will strive to realize that imperfection is part of living in this imperfect world. I don't have to like it....but I have to be willing to give grace to both myself and to others.....realizing that God's grace and love is with me in all things. 

As I close out this post, I would love to know about your holidays, about what is happening in your life, and about your "word of the year" if you decide to choose one. Also, allow me to thank each of you for reading my blog and commenting. Although I write my posts for myself...I also write them for you! Thank you for making blogging so enjoyable! And be sure to join me next time, as I share what's been in my book basket. I've been enjoying some great reads!

Until Next Time,

Debbie (This and That

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Merry Christmas To One and All

 Christmas Wishes 

Hello dear readers! I imagine that, by now, most of you are knee deep into all sorts of Christmas activities and gatherings. How a whole month could have passed by without my posting is hard to imagine but it has been an unusually busy Advent season for me this year and I honestly haven't had time to just sit down and think about what to share with all of you. I didn't want any more time to pass, however, without popping on to wish each of you a happy and most blessed Christmas! 

I'll be back next week with a recap of the season and will be sharing my new word of the year for 2026. Until then, God bless each and every one of you in this most holy of seasons!

Until Next Time,

Debbie (This and That)