GRIEF, COVID19 & SEWING
Happy Resurrection Day! As I sit here on my sofa, writing this post, the day before Easter, I can’t help but think about the state of the world at this time. It has been over a month since I last wrote a blog post and things have changed drastically since then.
We’re all isolating in our homes to stay safe from COVID19, a virus that has claimed the lives of thousands of people all over the world. I didn’t really know how to start this blog post or what I should talk about, so I’ll just share my heart.
For the last three weeks or so, I’ve been feeling kind of off but wasn’t able to put a finger on why. I read a statement from a devotional and then it came to me: April was coming, the month that my husband died two years ago.
Once I had that awakening, a sense of relief washed over me because then I understood why I was feeling so melancholy. As I allowed reality to sink in, I gave myself permission to just BE and stopped trying to force myself to do ANYTHING.
With the realization that my grief is heavier at this time of year, comes peace. All I need to do right now is take care of Anita and allow this wave to run its course. The HEALING is taking place as I endure the process.
As we remember and celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ in the midst of a pandemic, I’m reminded of His words to us. He says, “In this world you will have trouble. But take heart, I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33) Jesus overcame so that we can overcome. We will get through this together. We shall overcome.
WHAT ARE YOU DOING?
I haven’t felt like SEWING for myself much lately but I did make masks to donate to those in need and my family. I used Mimi G Style’s pattern and video tutorial. It’s a very quick and easy sew. I love the coverage they provide. After running out of elastic, I started using a 45″ length of purchased single fold bias binding. A nurse told me the proper way to wear the mask is with the tie on top of the head, but I prefer my tie at the bottom. You can also make your own bias binding or use knit fabric strips. There are tutorials on YouTube. These masks help prevent touching the face. They DO NOT protect against the COVID19 virus.
MCCALL’S 6884 WRAP DRESS
I made this McCall’s 6884 Wrap Dress, View B (Out-of-Print) the first week of March and wore it to a bridal shower for one of the young ladies I’ve mentored over the years. It looks amazing paired with this lovely coral cable knit that I purchased from Joann Fabrics about a year ago (no longer available).
I cut a size 12 on top, graded to size 14 at the hips, and added 6″ to the hem to lengthen for my comfort. The entire dress, with the exception of the hems, was sewn on my Baby Lock Vibrant Serger. I used a twin needle and my Baby Lock Soprano for the hems.
I purchased the hat from Nordstrom Rack about a year ago and it turned out to be a great match. The shoes are for show only. I can’t wear pointed toe shoes anymore, unless I’m sitting. LOL! It’s too bad because I have a closet full of these pumps in different colors. Looks like I’ll be doing a whole bunch of sitting, until I decide to get rid of the shoes.
We’ve had a lot of rain here lately, so I took advantage of the beautiful sunshine today and had a photo shoot. It really felt good to be out taking photos again.
Maybe I’ll wear the dress while I sit on the sofa at home listening to the Resurrection message. We shall see.
Are you working from home? How are you coping with isolation?
Have a beautiful day with your family and please stay safe. Happy Easter! He is Risen! Jesus is Alive!
Thanks for stopping by,
Remember: When you live in your DESIGN, it is from there that God SHINES!
This Post Has 77 Comments
I’m from Virginia and found your blog and YouTube today. I was looking to buy a server and wanted to see what people were making with a server. Can you do a blog post of how to decide on the size of pattern to buy for your body? Also when you go buy fabric and do not have a pattern; how do you go about knowing how much material to buy.
I found the pattern from a UK website, but it was taking forever to arrive, so I thought it got lost in the mail, and then I found it on Amazon, so now I have 2. If anyone wants the pattern email me at jb*****@gm***.com it’s the larger size pattern.
Hey Anita, I just found you on you tube and am so greatful to learn from your beginners sewing class. Please I am so interested in learning how to sew though have never tried it before. This has always been my dream and I would be very greatful if you came in to help. Thank you
Hi Anita so glad to hear that you are well. I was wondering if you have sewed any surgical caps to go along with the masks. Some sewers have made chemo caps as well. If so, would you be kind enough to share the pattern and maybe a tutorial?? Always enjoy them since you are so detailed and make following easy for an inexperienced sewer like myself. Thanking you in advance for a reply.
Hi Caroline. I have not sewn surgical caps. I hope you found a resource.
Hi Anita, I found you a few years ago when I purchased my Soprano. I LOVE your tutorials and as I get ready to purchase a new serger, probably a Vibrant, thanks to your advise, I look forward to watching more sewing tutorials. Thank you for sharing your heart on grief.. don’t we all just tend to push through feelings without “feeling” them and allowing the Lord to heal us.
He is Risen indeed! Praise the Lord! Blessings to you dear one, may you find all your comfort in the great Comforter. Your dress is gorgeous!
You are such a strong lady. I admire you so much. You give me the strength to go on during these most difficult times. Yes, God will take care of us. We will get through this. Thank you for reminding me of that. I can only speak for myself. I have been sewing to keep me busy, since my city and state is on Lockdown. Your dress is beautiful. I have that pattern. I also made some mask for myself and family. I also used the Mimi G mask pattern and watch her tutorial. Thanks again Anita for inspiring us. We love you!!
I love this post. Thank you for being so open, and sharing your journey with us. I love all that you sew. God bless you. ❤️
Hi Anita!
I absolutely love everything you sew. Praying for you as you get through this time remembering your husband. So far we are well. Worked from home for two weeks- today was my first day out of my house since. It was a little a little unnerving. But I made it. Anxious to pull my machine out. Thanks for sharing all the beautiful things!❣️
Ida, I’m glad you were able to work from home for a while. Please be careful out there.
Sewing has been a real lifesaver for me during this isolation.
I can do home office, thank God, but living alone in a tiny apartment brings its own challenges. To distract myself my sewing output has really gone up.
It started by making masks for family and friends and then all the kids in the apartment building I live in, because kid masks are even more difficult to come by than regular ones. After that I just kept the sewing machine out and started going through my stash.
I sewed chiffon for the first time ever yesterday and while I was gnashing my teeth for all of it, it came out amazingly!
I really missed attending mass yesterday, just the communal experience of it, of going there with friends and meeting people.
I hope you are doing well and I’ll keep you and your family in my prayers in this trying time.
Hi Evie! I LOVE that you’re sewing masks for kids too. Yes, I can totally understand the comfort of sewing during these times. Too funny about the chiffon and I’m glad it turned out great.
I enjoyed church service on the sofa but I miss my church family terribly. It’s just not the same.
Thank you for the prayers and stay safe out there.
Hello Anita, I am new to your private sewing community. I have missed seeing your blog posts. I have kept you in prayer because I remember that April is the month you lost your husband. Two years ago in April I had a stroke. While at home healing I discovered your blog. I found you to be a true woman of God, full of strength, beautiful inside and out. Take as much time as you need to heal. It’s important to take care of yourself. Your previous and current posts have kept me so inspired. This pandemic gave me courage to began sewing again. I have also been sewing masks. Your sewing projects are always beautiful. I sew with a Bernina Artista 180. I have had it for 20 years. I am having tension issues. I may need to upgrade my machine. Which Babylock do you or anyone in the sewing community suggest?
Hi Donna. Thank you for joining my community and for the prayers. I’m so happy to hear that you’re sewing again. Bless your heart for making masks.
All the Baby Lock machines are amazing. I would suggest choosing one that meets your needs in regards to features. It’s an investment you want to be happy with. I have the Baby Lock Soprano and it accommodates my needs as an intermediate level sewist. I hope this helps.
Hi Anita, thanks for your suggestion of the Babylock Soprano! Have a blessed day!
Hello Anita, you have been missed. I thought you might have been grieving. It’s something how our bodies have these internal clocks that recall past events in our lives. The one thing I would like to say to you is that the clock eventually stops ticking and becomes silent. Like you I look forward to the benefits of the ransom sacrifice of Jesus. The resurrection of our love ones. All those in the Memorial tombs will hear his voice and respond to his call. Amen!
Amen, Linda, Amen! Thank you for your words of encouragement.
I wish I had time, but sewing for our community means a lot to me. I have sewn close to 1500 masks for our community, nursing homes, companies, family, friends, out of state, and a police department out of state. Glad my sewing machine is holding up to all the sewing. I have been sewing from 8am sometimes 6am – 9pm. It’s what the dearest Lord would want me to do at this time with this evil virus. Happy Easter and God Bless
WHOA!!!! 1500 masks??? That’s a LOT! Wow! God bless you for you hard work.
Hi Anita you have been on my mind and I asked the Lord how you were doing ?. It’s ok to miss someone you love he was you husband. When your heart wants to hurt all it to thank the Lord for the time you had with him. I lost a son so I Know what it’s like to have someone on your heart whom you love. It will get easier. Your in my prayers ??? I made some mask for my family, and I made a dress from simplicity 9010 the back on this dress is so sweet even though it was to tight in the hips. Take care of yourself and your family. God bless you and I can’t wait to see you sewing again.?✝️??♥️
Gladys
Hi Gladys! Thank you so much for your words of encouragement. Yes, I always thank God for the time He gave me with my husband and all that I learned from him. I’m extremely blessed.
Bless your heart for making masks for your family. You take care of yourself too.
Good to see and hear from you again. I too am sewing masks but have discovered that my dining table is not the right height to be a good sewing table. I’m up to almost 40 masks and have used all my elastic and most of my bias tape. What a great way to use the odds and ends of old projects.
It snowed today in Minneapolis – a lot. Made the Mass even more moving when the Archbishop went out to bless the city in the snow. Be well.
That’s just awesome, Sue, that you’re making so many masks. Yes, using up that scrap fabric is a great feeling.
What a beautiful sight it must have been to watch him bless the city in the snow. You be well and safe too.
Hey, Anita! I just wanted to stop by and send you a hug. Love you! jb
Thank you so much, Judi! I’m receiving that hug, and sending one your way too.
I have seen masks, too just for family. I am stretching my sewing abilities by making a long kimono from rayon, which is hard for me. So far, sew good! I have the sleeves, facings and hem to go. Thank you for sharing your heart, whether happy or heavy and for inspiring my sewing. He is Risen!
Awesome, Patti! Sounds like you’re having some fun. Wishing you the best as you finish that Kimono.
Hi Anita!
Thank you for this post. We’ve missed you, but glad your taking the time to “be.” That dress is gorgeous! You are my sewing teacher and I watch all of your videos at least five times (not in on setting!!). I just appreciate the detailed information. I always wanted to learn to sew. My mother was a fabulous seamstress, but she died before she got to teach me. I promised myself that I would find a teacher and I have — Anita, that’s you!!! Happy Easter. We love you!!
Oooohhh Fran! Just bless my hear, why don’t you!!! I’m so glad to hear that my videos are helpful. I’m happy to be your sewing teacher. I love you too!
Such a lovely, poignant post, full of wisdom and hope. Thank you. As always, you look classy and stylish in your beautiful dress. Sweet Easter wishes coming your way…
Thank you so much beautiful Karen! Receiving all the sweetness you’re sending my way.
HAPPY EASTER Anita,
Yes I have missed you from the Blog. We all have our time of sorry but thanks be to God that helps us get through it. Glad you are back. You look great in this wrap dress. You always look so graceful. Hope to see more creations soon. Please be safe and be well during this pandemic. Blessings, Jean
Yes, Jean, He helps us through it and I’m so grateful for His presence. Blessings to you too, Jean.
Praying for you in particular during this difficult time. And I love the dress!
Thank you so much, Jennifer
Hi Anita! Have really missed you and am praying for your healing through your loss❤️ Thankful we have our Lord to lean on but know it’s not easy. You look beautiful as usual in your dress. ?
Thank you so much, Linda! The grief journey is truly a roller coaster and I’m so grateful to have Jesus to carry me through.
Like you, the feeling of melancholy took over. Like you, I got out to do a blog post on Saturday. It felt good. As always, you look amazing in your creation.
Thank you so much, Glenda! It was so refreshing to be out in the sunshine.
Happy Easter Anita, It’s good to hear from you. It’s tough dealing with the pandemic, but we all have to remember we are not alone and that God is here with us. I understand your grief for your loved one.I sympathy for you.
My mother and husbands one year anniversary is next month.
I will keep you in my prayers! and stay strong Anita!
Gwendolyn, thank you so much for checking on me while I was absent. I appreciate your concern. Yes, you certainly understand, my sister. My prayers are with you as you approach those 1 year dates. Take care of yourself.
Happy Easter Anita! So good to hear from you again. You look stunning in whatever you wear but I really love this color on you. I also remember wearing those killer shoes. I now stick with dressy ankle boots or wedgie style shoes. I noticed how killer your calves are too. You must work out somewhere in your schedule. God’s blessings on you and your family!
Thank you so much Maureen! Isn’t that coral beautiful? I love it! Yeah, I’ve been on the look out for cute wedge heels.
Yes, I work out at the gym 4 days a week. That’s the one place I miss the most during isolation. I can’t wait to get back into the gym. Blessings to you and yours also.
This face mask is the best I’ve seen, it solves the elastic problems – I’ve heard elastic has disappeared from everyone’s stash as well as from suppliers. My problem with the behind the ears elastic, is it snarls with my hearing aids, and also glasses. Too much already going on around my ears! And the over the head and behind the neck elastic is just uncomfortable and hard to get on and off.
Oh, Betsy, I totally understand your situation. Yes, the fabric ties are much better.
He is Risen! Thank you for your heartfelt post, and kind words in the midst of uncertain times. Your dress is stunning, by the way, and so perfectly styled. Blessings and peace.
Thank you so much, Amy! Blessings and peace to you also.
Hi again, Anita! Wow, you look stunning! Obviously you aren’t holed up eating junk food! Stay with the apples, spinach and sit-ups! And keep using moisturizer! I’ve lost weight slowly, and it feels great except my arms are wrinkly! My friend in her 80’s said her arms got “better,” so there is always hope. . . . How you grieve is just right for you. Anniversaries are tough. Some people believe loved ones come back around for celebrations. The babies and little kids can see them! . . . I’ve come thru two bad earthquakes. For months after the Loma Prieta quake in San Francisco, my counselor met with her clients, and we found we experienced waves of anger, apathy, no interest in much. I am feeling more tired, even needing a nap! And yet, there is much to do. I went thru boxes and found 1) an old mobile phone ($40 deposit!), 2) the missing antique Mexican earring, 3) gorgeous Liberty cotton print for three skirts AND the notes I made 30 years ago. The idea was to use every inch with gathered tiers and a casing and tie belt at the top, so they will fit no matter my waist size. I plan to dry them with vertical wrinkles and wear with wedge espadrilles and a pretty T-shirt. . . . I made myself a mask with flannel and blue stripe cut 6 x 9 inches, loops of 7″ quarter-inch elastic. The three pleats at each side were hard to stitch over. I wore it out for grocery shopping. Interesting! [You think the stores will have a run on eye-liner?] . . . On the sewing table is a yellow flowered dress, bonnet and panties for 16″ baby doll Molly. Molly is the color of a Hershey bar with golden eyes and a very direct look on her face. It took some fiddling to enclose eyelet ruffles in the bonnet and collar edges. . . . The video was not working last night for an Easter Vigil service, not for me. So I went to bed knowing it happened, just not on my screen. Our clergy miss us terribly — our faces as we listen, and the Communion lines! I love reading all the comments here. God bless!
God bless you, Mimi and may He continue to protect you. Yes, the waves of emotions are real. Sounds like to have a lot going on so please stay safe.
Anita, happy Easter to you too. We shall all get through these times together. Reading your posts always puts me in a good place. Take care Anita and God bless you.
Yes, Trish! We will get through this. God bless and you take care too.
Happy Easter Resurrection Day sis. He has risen, alleluia, alleluia! Continue to be a light of the world and vessel of God. God bless you always sister Anita!
In Christ,
~ N
Thank you so much, my beautiful sister, Nola! He is RISEN! God continue to bless you and your family too.
I understand how your feeling. Today is my brother’s birthday. He passed away four weeks ago. We have a large family, many can’t come for a service due to travel bands. We will have a memorial when this is over. You have an awesome spirit. May God give you peace and comfort. When I think about this day Resurrection Sunday it reminds me how much Jesus loves us. We can do this. You pray for me and I’ll pray for you.
Oh Sharon, my heart! I’m so incredibly sorry to hear about your brother. This is a very difficult time and I pray God’s peace and comfort for you and your family right now. Yes, His love for us extends beyond our deepest grief.
Yes, sister, we can do this! I’m praying for you!
Thank you! I am new to your blog. I can’t tell you how refreshing, needed and hopeful it is to read real.
Oh Susan, thank you so much for being here and for your beautiful, encouraging words. I’m so glad that you’ve joined me.
Thank you for your honesty and your words of hope.
You’re welcome, Cat!
Thank you Ms. Anita for always being transparent. I know it isn’t easy sharing yourself with the world, especially when you are going through a difficult time. Take heart in knowing that you are a blessing to me, and I am sure, to many others as well. I heard a lady say today, that it’s okay to not be okay, during these times. I can’t even recall the last time I touched my sewing machine to make something for myself. I have been making masks and finishing projects I started for others, though. I’m spending even more time in the Word of God and keeping myself encouraged. May God continue to bless you and be with you and please know that you and your boys are in my prayers.
Phil 4:6-7; Phil 46:10
Yeeesss, Florence, two of my favorite verses. His word is truly living and active. Thank you so much for your prayers. May God bless you and your family too.
Happy Easter Anita. Thank you for taking the time to write your post. These are difficult times for all of us at the moment but when you are either on your own or have lost someone recently, it hurts so bad.
As always, you find the right words to say and give comfort to people.
Your dress is gorgeous on you and those shoes are fab. I haven’t worn a high heel since I had an operation on my big toe. Had to have a fusion due to arthritis. Now my big toe is fused with two screws at the joint so I can’t bend it to get into a high shoe so all of mine will either go to charity shops or I may sell the better ones.
I saw the Mimi G tutorial for making masks but I don’t have the right fabric to make them. I’m going to order some fat quarters and make some with them.
I have only made one dress in 4 months and that’s purely down to the cost of the fabric in the UK. Not as cheap as the USA.
I’m self isolating with my husband and as he’s got diabetes, I go out and do a shop when I have to. Let’s hope we beat this awful COVID19 so we can get on with our lives.
Stay safe and stay well. xx
Hi Shirley! Thank you for your kinds words. My high heels issue is due to a bunion (so sad). Yeah, like you, I’ll eventually donate and maybe sell some. We’ll see.
Oh gosh, it’s so sad your fabric prices are so high. Have you tried minervacrafts.com?
Yes, I’m only going out as necessary too. We WILL get through this. You stay safe too.
Dear Anita,
I have been thinking about you so much the past couple of weeks, knowing that April was around the corner. I’m sorry for not writing sooner, I just never found much time for myself – I really cannot complain about too much free time. The past weeks I’ve been trying to supply my students with just the right amount of work (against all technical trouble…), helping my child with his work, worrying about my family and in-laws – realising that I feel much calmer now that I have all my things in order. … I’m happy to say that does not include my desk. ??
I’ve been sewing facies for family and friends and am really am looking forward to sewing other things again soon.
Lots of love from overseas,
Rebekka
Hi there Rebekka! Bless your beautiful heart for all that you’re doing for your students. I’m sure they and their families are very appreciative. I look forward to having all my things in order too. I like order. LOL!!!
Receiving your love and sending some your way too.
Happy Easter! Just wanted to say thanks for mentioning those shoes! I was thinking “how in the world does she wear those things?” and then you get real. Whew! I haven’t worn heels in years and never could do the pointy toes 🙂
Your dress is fabulous and I’m pleased to say I snagged that pattern (maybe you mentioned it in a previous blog?). I have some great sweater knit I snagged on clearance at Joann’s that I didn’t know what to do with…maybe this is it!
Also…I made a couple masks for myself and family but didn’t love either style used. I’ll check out MimiG’s video. Thanks for the suggestion.
Thanks for being you!
Hi Jean! ??? The pointy toe shoes used to be my jam.
So glad you were able to get the pattern. Have fun trying out the pattern for the masks.
Happy Easter Anita! Praying for you as you go through this challenging season. I offered to sew masks to donate locally – thinking I would do a few- and it has morphed into 2 weeks of almost nonstop sewing, almost 200 masks going to 5 states. I’m going to wind it down next week so I can get back to real life a little more. I am in the high risk category as are my parents so i have been trying to balance my own health needs and help oversee their care as well. It’s hard to remember sometimes but I realize if I don’t take care of myself first I won’t be any good to the ones that rely on me for help. Hope you & your family stay healthy and safe and I look forward to seeing your beautiful sewing projects very soon!
Oooohhh, Tersa, bless your beautiful heart! Wow!
I’m glad to hear you’re taking care of yourself. You’re so right about taking care of self first. Blessings to you and your family.
Hi Anita,
We are well, here in Greystoke life has a slow step governed by the seasons, quieter than usual because of the lack of torisum we usually see at this time of year, but the lambs are still in the fields and our wonderful community has become even closer, with neighbours shopping for others and pubs that are closed continuing to cook and deliver food for those who would miss out on a hot meal if not for them.
Many people have teddy bears and rainbows at their windows to show our health workers that we stand with them at this difficult time.
I lost my dad a very long time ago but find that this year, the grief is sharp, I would give a lot to hear his voice, to feel his arms around me, just one more time.
God be with you Anita, you are so right, take time, just to be.
With my kindest regards for you and yoyr family.
Susie x
Hi, Susie! My friend in Yreka, California (I’m in South Lake Tahoe) says “bears in the windows” are for the little children to count, as they are not going to school or Head Start or daycare. BBC showed rainbows around the world. We need color. Yesterday to go out I reached past a lot of black to grab an eye-stinging fuchsia fleece pullover to wear out grocery shopping. . . . Hugs across the ocean, Susie!
Oh my goodness, Susie! Greystoke sounds like a beautiful community. It warms my heart to hear how the citizens are taking care of each other. I love reading this so much.
As I read about you missing your dad, chills ran through my body. Like you, I would give a lot just to hear his laugh and have him hug me just one more time. Oh God, now you’ve got me crying.
Sending you so much love and peace, Susie. Thank you for being here.
Happy Resurrection Sunday Ms. Anita. Thank you for that heartfelt message during your time of HEALING. My prayers are with you and your friends and family during these trying days. We shall all OVERCOME, in the name of the FATHER, SON and the power of the HOLY SPIRIT. Amen.
Amen, Audrey, AMEN! Bless you, my sister. We shall OVERCOME!
Thank for reaching out to those who follow you in the sewing world. I found comfort and love in the message. Thank you and I will try making the mask for my family member and those in need of one.
Alesa
You’re very welcome Alexa! I’m glad to hear that the message comforted you. Have fun making your masks.
Comments are closed.