Leah Dress Testing and County Fair 2012

I was able to test the Leah Dress from Pixie Dust Patterns awhile back.  This is a gorgeous maxi-dress for girls size 12mo-7.  This was my first time sewing a Pixie Dust patterns and the directions were pretty good.  The bodice was the only pattern piece to print and the rest is just cutting rectangles.  I found the sizing to be very good and comparable to ready-to-wear sizing.  My girl likes that the sash is long enough to wrap around the front, as she doesn't like big bows behind her back when sitting.  Overall, she likes the dress and it was a good pattern.

I was not able to see a final copy of the pattern to see if my recommendations were used regarding terminology.  Nothing is cut on the bias, yet the binding was referred to as "bias tape."  Picky of me, but there is a difference.  Find more Pixie Dust Patterns on their website here.  You have to register on the website to see all the patterns - picky of me to think this odd. 

We were big winners at the County Fair this year.  Mama won 11 blue ribbons, one People's Choice award and other second & third place ribbons.  I entered mostly canned goods and garden produce but had 5 garments entered as well.  The kids each won a ribon for their entries in art, woodworking and Legos.  In all, we won enough to cover our entry fees and fried food! 

We were able to spend one week at the Oregon Coast at the end of summer break.  It was so relaxing to have an oceanside room and hear the waves crashing.  There were large rocks with tide pools, starfish and other fun sea critters nearby.  It was a good week!  Hard to believe we've been in school for over a month now and it's October already.  Time to work on Halloween costumes then on to Christmas gifts!