Today's post is a bit difficult for me and it comes with a heavy heart. The lovely Kristi Badger, someone who I only met virtually via this blog through her comments and most recently some emails, passed away on Wednesday. She was battling four types of cancer and the last email I had with her was about a month ago after I posted about Robin Hoods, the company that began a Kickstarter campaign to fund a line of headwear for women with hair hardships. We planned to have a Robin Hood head cover get sent her way. I've been struggling the past few days because I wish I had gotten this up sooner for her to see it. I was hoping that I'd get to see a photo of her in her Robin Hood and feature that along with her creations and all the info on her inspirational cancer blog she started. It's one of those moments that play over and over in your mind and it's been incredibly difficult for me to sit with it. I will say that when I started this blog, I had no idea how the amazing community of readers would touch me so much. Not only am I inspired by your creativity, I am inspired by you as human beings.
Today's post is a celebration of Kristi. She was the epitome of brave and you can read all about her cancer journey here - kstar76.blogspot.com. This came from one of our last emails and I thought I'd leave you with it before I post both of her remakes that came directly from her blog.
"I have found great joy and happiness in your blog over the years. I also have made two "new dresses," myself. They can be found in older posts on THIS BLOG I had started right before I was diagnosed back in April of 2011. Feel free to share the pictures on your blog if you like. That green silhouette dress I love."
Here are Kristi's creations...
So, I didn't realize how long it had been since I had posted something. I just finished up a project. The others I can't reveal until after Christmas. Quite a few crafty Christmas gifts my friends!! Those who know me know that I love the blog "New Dress a Day." If you want to check it out, it can be found here. I find it so inspiring that Marisa made a new item of clothing while spending only spending $365 in 365 days. Please pay no attention to my messy kitchen. So, here was the transformation of what began as a 3XL velour night gown:
It looks so big and comfy, I know.
Bringin' it on in...
Buh bye sleeves!
So long ribbon around the neck! (Ack, dog hair! Where did that come from?)
All ready for a holiday party!! I added a silver chain belt I got from Target a while back to accent my tiny waist...
...then I added some black tights and some black Chinese Laundry heels I got on clearance from TJ Maxx.
What a stunner :)
Here's Kristi's second piece...
Oh by gosh by golly how I love and adore the print on this dress!
So, don't hate me but I totally didn't get a picture of it before I removed the sleeves. Whoops, my bad! Anyhow, here goes othing!
OK, so this is after I removed the sleeves...
...they were long, they buttoned at the wrist and now they are GONE! (OK, not really, they are sitting on my coffee table.)
Oooo look! Pockets! I love 'em!
So long mid calf length, hemmed to the knee you will be!
Pin, pin, pin!
Lapels are all gone and tucked under!
I did a 'lil ruching at the sleeves - sooo super easy! Just sew a large stitch on your sewing machine and gently pull on one of the strands. Then sew over once you have the look you desire!
I know I look super thrilled! Haha! Hope you all enjoy! I can't wait to go to the half off Goodwill sale tomorrow! More adventures in sewing soon!
It's amazing to see someone's spirit shine through. Even though I only "met" Kristi through online interaction, it's like I knew her. She left this at the end of her email to me that made me tear up then when I first read it, and now is making the tears flow a little stronger.
Thanks for your inspiration and smile. As Mister Rogers said "You make each day a special day. Just by being you!"
I'm returning that Mister Rogers quote right back to you, Kristi. xo
