I was busy today… and guess what? I am ALMOST finished with painting my kitchen cabinets… so you know what that means?
If you’ve been reading my blog for any time at all, you probably remember this… if not, stay tuned and see what it means…
I think I might be able to get my cabinets finished Tuesday… I can hardly contain myself… I looked for a blog post where my kitchen was just getting started and one post was in April 2018…so it’s definitely been a work in progress…
I wanted to get in a little sewing time and see what I could come up with for a skirt for Stella’s romper… I had in mind, like Charlotte suggested, one that opened up in front like they sometimes did in the 40’s and 50’s…and I even made one for myself in high school, in probably 1972 or so…
…and this is what I came up with…
I added a waistband onto a gathered skirt and made a tab at the end of the band, so it reduced the bulk of the gathers. There is one snap to hold it in place. The waistband just meets the other end and the buttons are only sewn on for decorations… I didn’t want the shiny silver snaps showing when Stella was wearing it, so I left them off.
It easily stays onto of the back piece, OR you can separate it just a little bit and show the romper underneath…
BUT…that’s not all… you can turn it around so the buttons are on the backside…
…and it looks like this…
I am not using a flash on these pictures of Stella… her hair is just that shiny… I have my regular lights on for when I take pictures, but her hair is almost glistening…
Okay, next I have to figure out shoes for this outfit… I’ll have to work on this…
Well, I hope you like it… You better keep Luca away from the computer today, Joy! I think Stella is looking awfully pretty in this!
See you tomorrow,
Blessings, Jeanne
I just LOVE the skirt! I’m so glad that you made it so it can open down the front. I never had an outfit like that, but I always thought they looked so nice, and took a casual outfit and dressed it up a bit.
I was checking ebay tonight for a Baby Blue Rozen (a little too pricey for me) or a Stella. I haven’t placed any bids yet, though–still thinking (plus I know Stella is still available via the usual channels). You are all a bad influence on me! LOL
Tomorrow is our 47th wedding anniversary; I have Bible study (and a salad luncheon) in the morning, but tomorrow night we’ll be going to Arnie’s on the waterfront for our dinner. We didn’t get to do that last year, as everything was closed due to the pandemic! We’re bringing our neighbor with us, too; her late husband was Ron’s best friend and the best man at our wedding.
Congratulations on your 47th. It’s wonderful that you’ll be able to really celebrate this year and how thoughtful of you to bring your neighbor. She has such a strong connection with you and Ron and I know this will be a blessing for her. Have fun!
CHARLOTE, happy anniversary; enjoy your special day with your special guest at your special place. It all sounds perfect. 🎁🍾🎂🎉🎈🥰
CHARLOTTE, I just went back to yesterday’s blog to see if Joy or Theresa had responded to my notes and saw yours, so I am answering you here, today.
Well, I took Latin, too, and never regretted it, especially when doing the vocabulary portion of the SAT’s; knowing the Latin roots helped me knock that portion out of the park, though it didn’t help me with the math, alas.
If you want to order a doll from Un Bonjeur de Calibri, just go to their site and send an email with your request. Both owners, Alexandra and Emmanuel write excellent English and will happily help you. Their correspondence/reply time is very timely. Yes, I am really excited about getting my preorder in for Rebecca. She is due in July. (They also have a Juliette with a beauty spot on her cheek and long curly hair. Quite stunning but not my cup of tea. ) Now you and I both know how we can get a better shot at some of these exclusive European RRFF’s!
Have a super day!
So question? When you received your doll from France, did you have to pay any duty fees? I haven’t had to from Sweden, but wondered about France. And what are the shipping costs?
The night I placed the order using PayPal, I paid the price listed plus shipping. The next day Emmanuel informed me that the price I had paid included the VAT tax so he refunded me. The doll is going to his store in July then being sent here. Shipping €30?
Thanks. What is VAT tax? Haven’t a clue here. 🙂
Thanks for the info about ordering from France, Sally. I will consider that.
Let’s see….do I need another doll??? Silly question…!!!
Wishing a very HAPPY ANNIVERSARY to you and Ron. I hope you have a wonderful time and how sweet to bring your neighbor along with you. She certainly does have a special connection to you. God’s blessings on your special day.
Somehow my Dear Charlotte disappeared.
Happy Anniversary!
The outfit is darling and the skirt is perfect. I love it! If you have two more of the little buttons, they would look great on the placket with the ruffle. This is sooo cute and authentic-looking.
Congratulations on your anniversary, Barbara. I wish everyone would say what state they live in when posting. I know it sounds boring to include it every time, but Jeanne always has new followers who won’t know where the waterfront is where you’ll be having dinner. It’s especially interesting because blog followers live in different countries, too. Thanks.
What a good idea, Susette; I often don’t think of mentioning where I’m from, and when we talk about weather, it might be a good idea!! LOL
I’m from the greater Seattle area–north, actually, as I don’t “claim” Seattle. (Long story…) For those who know the area, I live in Mountlake Terrace.
Love the outfit, specially the hat. I agree about the flowers. Where do you find all those paper flowers?
I always add NH to mine and I agree it would be fun for everyone to do so. We are having a beautiful spring with much needed rain. Our fruit trees have been in full bloom.
Hurray for the day that those cupboard doors are painted and Jeanne you can say “I am done with this kitchen remodel”
Since her cute little toes are separated, flip flops would be perfect! And an ankle bracelet. Too much? I am a big fan and wearer of flip flops.
How do we change our names to show states? I’ll try adding my state to the name section below and we can all see if that works.
Boots might look cute with that skirt, Though I think I might like sandals with the romper pants, and they’d be easier to make, and Stella already has a handmade hat. You’ll surprise us.
I’m so happy about the cabinets. I’m looking forward to pictures.
OK — that was easy – all you have to do, if you want your state or country to show up, is to add that to your name just before you send your message.
Marilyn, you are brilliant. It IS nice to see where bloggers are from and it really is so simple. A tip of my hat and thanks!
Are you on the Front Range?
Marilyn is in Boulder.
Jeanne, this outfit turned out so so cute! The fabric goes perfectly with her coloring and her hair! I agree with Suzette’s suggestion of a couple buttons on the placket. The way you whip up those straw hats is amazing! Are you up for the challenge of some sweet little straw sandals? You would need pretty tiny flowers, but I’m sure you have some in that room of yours somewhere!
Luca’s not up yet, but I’m sure he will be enamored with the photos of Stella in her additional skirt. Looks like she’s not about to go creek wading with that skirt length, but definitely a picnic in the park is in order. I’m sure Luca will pack a lunch for them both. Knowing him, he will want to throw in a couple of Hostess Cupcakes for dessert. 🙂 I too would like to see a few buttons on the front of the romper if there are any extras. Stella’s shiny hair is remarkable. If it were braided, it would remind me of Little House on the Prairie or Ann of Green Gables. I think Stella can wear just about any era of fashion. So fun.
And excitement builds for the final cabinet brush stroke. Just think, you can hang up your paint brush and sit on the porch with some lemonade until the next project arrives. Looking forward to that cake. 🙂
Hi, Joy,
I wrote you a long note last evening on yesterday’s post. Please check it out when you have a moment?
Tell your Luca that my Luca prefers Yo-Yo’s over Hostess Cupcakes. Maybe our boys should go on a camping trip.
Talk to you later!
I’ll head back to yesterday and see the post. As for camping, I have the tent! Made it last year so we’re all set. Now, how to make Hostess Cupcakes?
Sounds like a plan.VAT is a tax.
Thanks.
Hi Jeanne…
Been working on those cabinets since April of ‘18? You must be totally tingling with excitement that tomorrow may be the day. Wow! Good for you. And can’t wait for the the pics. Also, that cake looks mighty naughty and I am glad it’s not on my counter, though there is still a piece of fresh strawberry rhubarb pie there, but I’m saving it for my super skinny hubby.
I am so in love with this outfit on dear Stella. The skirt is marvelous. Maybe I will be the only person to say I prefer the bodice to NOT have buttons as the pretty ruffle is there. I always say “less is more”.
Have an awesome day. Is your company still with you? Another gloomy one here in Salida. Radar says it’s raining cats and dogs. Liar, liar, pants on fire!
Hi Sally,
I saw the other day that you wrote you live in Salida and I just saw your comment yesterday that you live on 6 and G. My dear friend’s son lives on G St. as well. Could be your next door neighbor for all I know. Small world!
Hi. Laura. We looked him up today and it looks like they live on K. But it is surely a small world. 😊
TO THERESA from yesterday’s post. I answered your comments last night after I had a chance to open my Rozen. If you have a moment, please take a look.
JEANNE, when you opened you Rozen did she have a strong resin odor and any dark ring on an upper leg? Theresa says that was her experience. I’m happy to report all was ducky with my girl. Theresa seems to be getting the clothes and naked doll freer from the scent. I am so sorry she had to deal with this. That’s a bummer.
I did see your post, Sally – glad to hear that you didn’t have any “odor” issues with your Rozen. I have gotten new Kaye Wiggs bjds from jpop dolls, and they would also have a resin odor, but this one was stronger. I’m sure it will go away eventually. The “ring” is on the trunk of her body, around the right leg opening. It’s not a dark ring, it’s more of a ridge about 1/8″ from the opening with a shiny edge to it. It looks like something that should have been peeled away or smoothed off before it hardened, or something. It’s not terrible, it’s just unusual. Hard to explain. 🙂
Sorry to hijack your blog like this Jeanne!! I do love this outfit you are working on! 🙂
So that was weird… I posted a reply to you, but then it said it was awaiting approval, or something like that… then it wasn’t there anymore. I didn’t say anything bad, honest! 🙂
Anyway, yes, I did see your reply yesterday, and I’m glad you didn’t have the strong “odor” I had with my Rozen. I’ve had new Kaye Wiggs resin bjds from jpop dolls, and they had that odd resin smell, but this one was different. Stronger. It’ll go away eventually. The “ring” is on the trunk of her body, around the opening for her right leg. It’s not a dark ring, but a sort of ridge 1/8″ out from the opening, with a shiny edge to it. It’s like something that should have been peeled off, or sanded away, before the resin hardened, or something. It’s not terrible, just unusual. It won’t show and doesn’t bother me.
Sorry for taking over your blog, Jeanne! I really like this outfit you are working on! 🙂
Theresa, I got that same message about “waiting for approval”. Weird, indeed. Thanks for your note and glad the ring issue is not as big as I was thinking. She is awfully sweet and sort of dreamy looking to me. Love her.
Have a super day.
Sally it’s what happens when you use a name other than the one you have been using. It lets Jeanne know something is different and she needs to approve the person.
Thank you , Barabara. Yes, I am going to drop using my last name here, so you have explained that as raising a flag. Also, thanks for telling me Boulder is where Marilyn lives, which is in the Front Range. Have a great evening.
🙏
Oh my! Love the skirt and the way Stella can wear it either buttons facing front or to the back … to cute! I suggested flip flops a few days ago. I think they would be pretty easy to make. But then again you made one of your beautiful hats and that takes lots of time…
Jeanne I’m so excited for you! Your kitchen is nearly done … Awesome! Almost time to CELEBRATE woohoo!
It’s another beautiful day here in Western New York, the sun is shining and it’s in the mid 70’s. I live in the country on the edge of Lockport, New York. My house is in the heart of wine country on the Niagara escarpment. On clear nights Toronto, Canada is visible from our living room window. Niagara Falls is about a 30 minute drive. There that should give everyone a good idea where I’m at. ; )
I need to get … oral surgeon appointment today
Enjoy your day… Hugs
Ingrid
What a wonderful idea to add our location to our message name. Hopefully I will remember to do that when I finish this. I actually have a written list of everyone that I know of but would love having it right before me when I’m reading.
Stella’s pictures are beautiful and her outfit has become a truly versatile ensemble. I love the skirt – both ways. The idea of buttons on the placket is a great idea. Hope you have the buttons to do this. Does the outfit come in my size?
I can’t wait to see pictures of your completed kitchen. Having a DIY family where it’s considered evil to hire anyone to do anything even though the finished product may not be seen for years, I’ve learned the meaning of the word “patience”. But when things actually do reach fruition it’s an amazing feeling. We lived in our house for 25 (now nearly 31) years before I managed to get rid of my 1945 kitchen. The base cabinets were too narrow for a dishwasher and the kitchen was of such a configuration that a portable would have been in the way of the walk area so I did without. I figured I grew up without one and my grandmother lived her whole life without one so I could survive. But the day my new kitchen was finished and I had a dishwasher I thought I was in Heaven, especially when family came over for a meal.
My hubby designed my kitchen and it’s wonderful. I told him he ought to design kitchens for a living. We had to work with the plumbing, gas and electric that were already there as well as the window configurations, but it came out fabulously and it is so efficient – and has lots of electrical outlets which my old one didn’t. The hot water heater that had previously been in a closet was moved to the garage and in it’s place is my oven and microwave/convection oven. The cabinets came from Lowe’s but the installation was done by David and son Jason. My high-end cooktop has an interesting history. Someone Jason knows does kitchen upgrades for the very rich. They get rid of things I never dream of having. David told Jason he’d take the castoffs. They were still in working order and au courant, they just wanted something new(er). We replaced the knobs and David fixed a couple other things and I have a cooktop I otherwise could not afford. I didn’t think I’d like it because it has that heavier look to it, but it’s kind of like having a gigantic trivet where I can set things out of the oven. It has no pilot light so there is no problem doing that. The high-end microwave/convection oven also came from the home of the rich and famous. Just call me Second Hand Rose.
Sean and Dionne went on a belated honeymoon during the time of the kitchen remodel and we had the two very little children. It was an experience. Jason was also staying with us because he lived in Houston at the time. The temporary kitchen set-up was rudimentary with a microwave cart serving as coffee bar and a utility sink. Everything else was gone for awhile, so eating out was our only option. We had to replace the ceiling so we took the time to reinsulate the attic. Jason did this wearing a Tyvek suit. The only thing we hired out was the taping and floating of the drywall. A job David truly doesn’t like. David built the beautiful “cabinet” that holds my ceiling light and he and Sean did the vent hood over my stove – that took three years until David got tired of moving it every time he wanted to use his work table. I’m still waiting for the louvered pantry doors to be refinished (painted) but the door between the kitchen and dining room has at long last reappeared with a totally new finish. As I said “patience”. I don’t know about it being a virtue but it sure helps in maintaining good family relationships.
I hope you will send photos of this designer kitchen to Jeanne. We are living with 1949 cabinets although, we’ve remodeled the kitchen several times over the years. We’ve been in our house 45 years. 🙂
I might do that since the only thing that needs finalizing is the pantry doors. I also have some pictures of the work in progress. They are funny to see.
Great idea with a skirt. It fits beautifully with the jumpsuit and the bodysuit blouse is amazing. Greetings.
So happy to see the skirt added, Jeanne! It looks wonderful and Stella looks like a shining star! What a pretty doll!
I think sandals would be perfect with this outfit. They would be very versatile and would also be able to be used with other things. Probably easier to make than boots would be. I think it would be too hot for boots now though too.
That delicious looking cake is beautiful! And yes, I do remember it! My mouth is watering just looking at it! I guess we get to see the cabinets now?☺️
Congrats, Charlotte on 47 years of wedded bliss! Time flies when you are having fun!
I believe there is another Linda or two here on the blog, so I will be Linda from St. Louis. Surely people would know St. Louis is in Missouri! We are right next to you in Illinois, and could be there in 10 or 15 minutes!
This is going to be a favorite outfit for sure. Love the designs, the colors, the buttons, the print size, the skirt, and of course that fantastic hat!
The budding romance may have to have a boy/ girl combo set! You could hide the hair…or I may have sent you a short bob wig ? They would love to have a matching or at least a bit os a coordinated set.
Happy Anniversary Charlotte!👰♀️🤵♂️
The boy/girl set sounds like fun. 🙂
Back when my hubby and I first met and we were on the thin side, we had a couple shirts alike and one slacks/shirt outfit. It was fun to wear them to choir practice.
I’m sure you are glad to be on the home stretch with your kitchen painting. I remember when you found that cake. I actually tore that out of Country Living magazine years ago when they had it because the robin’s egg blue was novel for spring.
Stella’s outfit is certainly versatile now. It’s great to be able to turn the skirt around and make it look like a jumper. I definitely remember those split skirts now that I see one again.
I think sandals and a little ankle bracelet would be darling. Ankle bracelets were so much of a high school thing, homemade and gold. Finally, we are into the warm weather. Time to break out the sandals and polish my toenails. Bring on summer!!
Hi Laura, just did my toes this morning! Thought that was a clever thing to write considering spring and now summer is ahead!
Love the whole outfit. I think sandals would be great. We call flip flops jandals here but I have never worn a pair in my life. I can’t bear the thought of anything between my toes!
I was about 5 mins from home yesterday from walking the dog when it started hailing. I had taken my umbrella so was able to protect myself but Louis wasn’t impressed. He was groomed last Friday so didn’t have much protection from his coat! Our walk turned into almost a jog but not my choice lol. If he had been a bigger dog it would have been a full scale run. He couldn’t get home fast enough. As we got home it turned into a downpour but we were able to shelter then while I opened the door.
The tins of Altoids arrived this morning (at 6.16am according to the tracking e mail). Now that I have them I can look around and see if there is an alternative here but without a tin I couldn’t be sure of the shape or size. One of the tins is turned into a little travel sewing kit, the other is empty for putting in small items so I might leave the mints in the empty one for the two of them to enjoy.
Enjoy your spring and summer ladies, two weeks to winter here and I hate winter.
So glad you made it home safely in the sudden storm. Crazy weather.
I can definitely see the Altoids containers holding travel items. Besides sewing things, maybe safety things like Band-Aids and disinfectant packet, and a tiny flashlight. I’d love to see what you are making when complete.
Thinking of you and winter.
Jeanne, I’m late in adding to your post.
Stella’s outfit gets cuter by the day. Everything about the additions are the right accessories. So cute and quite a nice set for any of the RRFF.
So glad to hear your kitchen is about done!! That is wonderful. Hope we get to see pictures!
BTW- We will be heading home soon!😉
Dear Jeanne, the outfit looks adorable. I really like the hat!