Goodbye, Bessie

When I first expressed an interest in sewing, Chris took it upon himself to buy me a sewing machine for Christmas. Now, almost three years later, I am still loving it - and still trying to hone in on my skills... which, I'm convinced, will always need help.

However, earlier this year, I had to say goodbye to my good ol' Bessie.
Named after my first mission president's wife, Bessie was my first attempt at helping others - something I watched Sister Barney do often. She lovingly and selflessly devoted her time and talents to everything she did; she was an excellent seamstress, and made sure each missionary knew she could fix any article of clothing that needed her touch of TLC. She encouraged us to bring our clothing to meetings, where she quickly and graciously worked on each item with a smile on her face, interacting with everyone individually as she did so. As I reflect on her using the skills she possessed to help others, I feel the urge to follow in her footsteps.

Sadly, this sweet little machine started giving me trouble about a year after I got it, and was exchanged for a new one. However, about a year and a half after that, the second machine was doing the same thing... and Costco, having the wonderful return policy they do, took it back (again), no questions asked. I thought about exchanging it again... I loved my little compact machine with 66 stitches and a stop/go button. It was a sad day when I said goodbye.

Say hello to my new friend, "Miss Bessie." (Yep, just added the "Miss." Do you think I could name her anything else? I think not.)

I love her.

No only does this machine have a stop/go button, not requiring a foot pedal (but optional, if I want it), it back-stitches for me, I don't have to draw up the bobbin thread, and it has automatic tension. It is a dream machine.

I've been having fun making such things as this fun little number. It's not the best ruffle skirt (and is cuter on than off), but I had fun making it and I've received many compliments while wearing it. (Which is always appreciated, especially on something I made.)

I keep my machine in my awesome Mother's Day present I got this year from my hubby. It's wonderful.

Even more wonderful is the fact that it closes up and doesn't look at all like a craft table normally. See? Love. I also got the chair for cheap. I think it goes well...

It adds a little more character to our humble abode. Not to mention, it makes it easier to keep most things in one place, away from Jack's room, which is where I attempted to sew while he was asleep. Note to self: never again.