I have so much to tell you...

It's been far too long since my last post, but as everyone knows, there are things you don't want to share, and things that you only want to share when the time is right.

First, I want to apologize for my friends who have been traveling vicariously through this blog--I did not go to Europe this year and robbed you all of my adventures. Last Spring, we moved to a rental house in South Austin and put the Hill Country property up for sale. Since it still wasn't sold by the time I would start planning a trip, I decided not to go. Another factor is that this year's ASDP conference is in Vancouver, BC, and though the exchange rate is great for the US dollar, it will still be a bit more expensive than past conferences (if only the airfare).

I did manage a trip to Boston a couple of weeks ago, but tried something new and only took my phone with me. This makes for easier traveling, but tricky for blogging. (I was born too late to completely master texting on a tiny device.)

appetizers at Giacomo's in Boston's North End

Pasta with seafood at Giacomo's

Last fall I started working with a charity here in Austin: Multi-cultural Refugee Coalition. ASDP had posted an article about a program, Open Arms, which produces small runs of sewn items such as wall hangings, tote bags and pillows. The ladies working there are from the refugee community. I've been helping develop a curriculum for advance sewing skills and helping with a monthly drop in program for basic sewing skills.
Limited as it is, my ability to speak some French has proved helpful (though Arabic and Swahili would be even more helpful).

At some point in the middle of all this, my husband and I decided to split up. We are still friends and care about each other, but realized that we could both be much happier if we went our own way. For the first time in 22 years, I'll be moving to my own apartment (well, mine and Gabby's), to a part of Austin I'm not familiar with, but looking forward to exploring. I've been seduced by fancy amenities, tree covered walking trails, dog parks and a very, very short commute. My new neighborhood.
I've also been dating, and both in many ways make me feel like I'm in my 20's again (some bad, but mostly good). If you'd like to hear some of my tales of online dating in mid-life, invite me for a cup of coffee or a drink and I'll be happy to regale you.

I'll be moving to the new place in August. One downside is that my sewing room will be much smaller, but on the flip side I'll probably have more time to spend in it. I plan to teach private lessons and gear up my custom and alterations work as well.
This afternoon I am off to San Antonio for a week for a Classic Tailoring workshop with Claire Shaeffer.

I hope to be better about posting here (yeah, I know, I've said that before).

Happy sewing,
Juliette