Pinspiration and Back to School

I have big, big, Very big news! I am going "back to school". While spending 8 years in the Marine Corps was very rewarding and has led to much success in my life, I never really found the time to go back to school. I was always working too many hours or had too may other priorities. The time has finally come where I am out of excuses and full of excitement and the drive to finally finish!

I have been a little nervous about returning to school so much older than the average student. But I never really have grown up so perhaps I'll fit in or at least give everyone a laugh or two!

I would love to make some fabric book covers like the one pictured above and a pencil case - maybe one of the two pictured below or both.  While a pencil case seems like a way to add fun to an everyday item, I also see it as a way to be organized. I'll be on the go constantly during the week balancing my normal 40 hour work week with three classes. I'll have to stay organized to be successful.






I have also already planned to make the Amy Butler messenger bag below as a way to carry text books and other items too and from class. I'll be able to easily switch from my work bag into my school in a matter of seconds with everything I need for either location packed neatly inside.





It also wouldn't be back to school if new clothes weren't involved. I am pretty excited about my back to school dress that I am working on. It deserves it own post so for now you'll have to wait, but I promise you are going to love it!

The Amy Butler Field Bag and Tote

When I saw this bag on display at the local quilting shop I just knew I had to have one!  It is the perfect size for the gym or for light travel.

This was my first time using an Amy Butler pattern, and was surprised and a bit intimated by the lack of pictures to go with the directions.  However, that being said I quickly found the pattern descriptions to be more than sufficient and definitely made up for the lack of pictures. 

I'll get to test out the sturdiness of my bag this week when I return to the gym!  If getting to use my new pretty bag isn't motivation - I don't know what is!