blast from the past

I was googling Mark to find some info about an upcoming presentation and came across this photo!  It's from the red carpet at the 2002 Tony Awards ceremony, when he was nominated!  What a peak life moment.  His parents and best friend were there, and he was so humble and grateful and delighted throughout the experience.  I was so excited for him, and had so much fun getting dolled up.  I boldly requested loans from several designers and one agreed!  I even had my hair "done."  My friend/Mark's lawyer came over before to consult on my makeup and help me fasten up my complicated Jean Paul Gaultier ball skirt.  Oh, and he won.  After which we walked on clouds the whole night.

So fun to be reminded of life's blessings!

So glad he cut off his ponytail a few years later.

I'm lucky enough to have had a few "peak life moments" of my own recently!  Firstly, my Sewing with Jilly class for kids is going wonderfully and the kids are loving what they are learning to make!  It is just beyond gratifying to help kids learn to do something that allows to them to express their creativity and feel proud of themselves.  See Misty below with her adorable baby penguin stuffed animal. 

Her work inspired me and I went home after class and made a few kooky stuffed animals of my own!  Gave the frog to one of my tutoring students (she named it "Toady").  Still not sure who'll get the pig.

Then there's Sophie, who had a vision of a sleeveless asymmetrical top and no experience with a sewing machine.  With astounding creativity and determination (and several private lessons), she made the beautiful shirt she is modeling below after only a handful of private lessons!  I'm talking made an original pattern sized to her body, traced and cut the pieces and trimming, and sewed it all up!  What an accomplishment.  She says she wants to be a designer when she grows up and it is such a privilege to concretely support and nurture her dream!

I guess it's my dream too, as there's almost nothing I enjoy more than designing something and having someone want one and making it for them... as I did this week for my gorgeous knockout friend/realtor Lily, below (in my "Saltaire Tunic")! 

Hopefully my new page (if I ever figure out how to publicize it) will lead to opportunities to do more of this!

Last but not least... today a new tutorial I wrote is the featured post on the great website Sew Mama Sew!  Check it out, there's a giveaway (a great father's day gift) involved!

Have you had any peak life experiences recently?  I sure hope so!  Don't hesitate to tell me all about them!!!