Roses are red, Swing dresses are blue

It's no secret that I love to sew. It first began when I was young, watching my mom sew for hours making things for my two sisters and me. She can make practically anything. From matching Easter dresses and stuffed animals for Christmas, to incredible Halloween costumes and baby blankets. She's pretty incredible. I got my sewing machine for my eighteenth birthday and, though it went unused for a bit (I was just starting out on my own and planning a wedding at the time!) it is now one of my most favorite things. When I pass some fabric with a great print, I get a rush just thinking about what it could become with a little time and effort. I rarely use patterns. Instead I take things that I own and use them as a sort of pattern to model off of. That way, I know I like the fit and there won't be any surprises after spending an hour or two behind my machine.

I've taken a lot of inspiration from Merrick's Art for a few of my recent projects. She has little boys as well, is an incredible seamstress, a great Christian role model (both modesty and lifestyle wise) and I just love how real she is. This festive swing dress was made using a tutorial of hers that you can find here. So super easy and incredibly comfortable. The fabric flows easily over my bump and I know it will be an even bigger closet staple after baby comes and my body gets back to (sort of) normal!

Do you love to sew? What are some things you've found easy to make lately? I'm always in the mood for some great inspiration! Have a wonderful week and God bless!!

God Bless America!

Independence Day. One of the most celebrated holidays in this country of ours. The United States of America. Many have said that the USA is the greatest country in the world. In many ways I would have to agree. We are blessed with freedom and for that I am so thankful. The freedom to have a dream and to live it. The freedom to make my own choices. Whether they be good or bad, they are mine. The freedom to agree or disagree with others, including those that govern over us. And, perhaps the most important freedom of all, the freedom to love, worship, preach and share my Lord and Savior with those around me. Though I don't agree with everything my country stands for today, I know that God is in control. He is not at all surprised by the actions of our nation and he knows what lies ahead for us. I truly believe that we can turn back to God and the principles we were founded on. This Independence Day, instead of thinking about everything you dislike about the USA, be reminded of all the things that make it an amazing place to live. And, if you have time amid all the barbeques, fireworks and celebrations, please take a moment to say a prayer for America. God has blessed her in the past and he can do it again in the future! Happy Independence Day!!

I love dressing festively for holidays and coordinating outfits with my hubby and boys (much to their dismay). This dress isn't maternity but it is just so comfy it works perfectly! I've worn this for 4th of July celebrations before and I never regret it. With unpredictable Missouri weather, it's good to have an outfit that's easy to put together, simple to make evening appropriate (I've often layered a jean jacket or white button up over it) and still keeps you cool and put together looking throughout a day of celebrating. I also love these little white sneaks that I've been wearing so often lately. They have a cute floral pattern sewn in that adds a little feminine touch to any outfit and, since they are only about $5, they were an easy addition to my wardrobe. Another Independence day for the books!