A Stitch in Time Saves...Oh, I Dunno...Something

I can't be clever. I just need to finish posting this batch.

Millie wanted to make Annika a gift for her birthday. Actually, Millie wants to make everyone something for every occasion, but I usually don't rise to the occasion (read: I fail. Almost every time.). A couple of days before Annie's birthday, she'd decided upon a matching scarf and mitten set, which I thought was feasible, considering she'd be able to do most of it herself. When we asked my mom if she had any spare fleece kicking around, she brought us a remnant of psychedelic skull & crossbones fleece that she'd bought on clearance. The skulls weren't visible when she bought it, and when she discovered them, she didn't know what to do with it.

Serendipity!


Enter Mildred Elise. With only a bit of guidance, she made matching pirate capes and belts for Annie and Mr. Elephant, and then topped it all off with a brilliant plan for Beards.

'Cause capitol-B-Beards make everything better.

She was insufferably cute when she stayed up late to make them. (On the sewing machine, like an adult!) She put on airs and unconsciously talked differently, with what I assume is a Grown-up accent. It was great.

She scolded Smoky.



Smoky played the Sphinx and ignored her.




I was so empowered by actually doing something I should do all the time that when Susie wanted to make Annika some handkerchiefs the night before the birthday, I let her. (You know, handkerchiefs. To blow one's nose on. To stick in one's purse and take to church on Sunday. Something all pirates secretly desire but are too ashamed to request.)

She used the sewing machine for the first time, which alternately delighted and terrified her. Whenever her fingers moved uncomfortably near the needle, she'd drop her hands to her sides and let the stitching veer all over. Needless to say, she needed me nearby, even with my waning resolve and increasing inner crabbiness.



Millie had to oversee everything, as well, even the hand-stitching. Having a Grown-up for a daughter sure is handy.



Bless this Bird.

Handkerchiefs?

I love her!

And Annika seized the opportunity in the midst of all the making mess to finish the cat she started for Susannah's birthday. So fancy! It doesn't look much like a Watchcat, but Susie sleeps with it each night, regardless.