Anyway, I haven't had a ton to post about this week, but I got to thinking. I had asked readers of this blog what their favorite post is, and the winner of that highly unscientific poll was Cancer Chemo and What I Wore Part 4. While I like that one, and I'm proud of the post, I actually have two posts that I like better. From a day-to-day usefulness perspective, the two that I think are the best are:
The Right Bra Makes All the Difference
and its sequel,
More on Bra Fitting - Bring a Tape Measure
Whenever I work with students or the occasional private client, one of the first things we talk about is fit in the bust area. Different bras give different results in fit, and I think it's always good to remind yourself to check the fit of your bra. The general rule of thumb is that a good bra will last 1-2 years, depending on how you care for it. I hand wash and hang dry all my bras. It preserves the shape and extends the life. I advise strongly against washing bras in the washing machine, even in one of those lingerie bags. The agitation does bad things to bras. And face it - bras are expensive, so its worth the slight extra time it takes to hand wash them. I use shampoo on mine. It works just fine.
I Study Nuclear Science/I Love My Classes...
Last week I started radiation treatments. I've been mentally prepped for this since I was first diagnosed, so they don't scare me. The only major hassle with them is that, instead of 6 hours every third week, which was what I spent at chemo, I go Monday through Friday for 10 minutes per day. That includes the amount of time it takes to get changed out of street clothes, set up, zapped, changed back into street clothes, and out the door. If you are ever looking down the gullet of 6 weeks of radiation treatments, do yourself a favor. Try to go to a location that is convenient for you. I know it's not possible for everyone, but it does make life that much less stressful.
Parting Shot - Pincushion!
Happy sewing!
11 comments:
Tell Susan I said "hello", I'm still in debate about doing the Sit n Sew in NYC this August... you know I want to, I just don't know if I should! Any plans for a Stitch n Bitch in your studio this summer? That would be a fun (and cheaper) alternative! Keep up the good work with radiation, you'll be done before you know it!
I've been meaning to buy pins from her...
Oh, Ann, you have no idea how much I wish I could be there!!! I'm so glad you are doing well with your radiation. I'm getting ready to watch our favorite movie and I have to say no one reminds me of Mame more than you!
I love how casually American sewers refer to classes with Kenneth King or Susan Khalje. For a humble Aussie that is akin to "I spoke in tongues today"!
I have a crazy teacher who wears dark glasses.
Things are looking great, and they're only getting better!
Gosh, I didn't think anyone remembered Timbuk3.
I've never been able to use a wrist pincushion. I always end up knocking my hand against something, and the pins come out.
Amen to the importance of caring for your bras. I use a short wash on gentle cycle with a long soak and then hang dry. Makes such a difference in their useful life and in how they make me look! Who wants a beat up stretched out bra that has seen the inside of the machine too many times? I am hooked on better bras. I swear they can take a few years off.
Of course, both the pincushion and french curve are out of stock. I'll keep trying and admire yours in the meantime.
Best of luck with the radiation!
Ann, I think this one is my favorite post. It has three links one about the triumph of a courageous woman and the others are how to measure and position the "girls". BTW- That pin cushion is a must have. ;-)
C
Sending good vibes for the radiation - that frequency must be a colossal PITA, never mind that the process can't be fun either.
I use a wrist pincushion which I made (well, actually I'm onto my third - I've worn out two!). I use elastic rather than velcro, and sewed a sleeve to the bottom of the pincushion to thread the elastic through so I could easily remove and replace it when it wears out. I wouldn't be without it, and got used to it so fast that I almost stabbed pins into my wrist two days after I'd made my first one when I hadn't put it on!
Oh I purchased one of the cushions at her draping class this month and LOVE it! I second Kristine's nudging for a Boston stitch and bitch - or I could host one in DC in July! How patriotic! Good luck with the rad txs! You are a rock!
xxoo
Laura
I own a yarn shop, so I get to sew very infrequently but love to read your blog! Amen to the measurements...we're actually offering a measurement class today. So many fit problems could be alleviated if you just face the music and get your real measurements down on paper!
Hang in there...sorry about your tough spring. It is great that you have a wonderful community virtually and IRL to surround you. Thanks for the great blog.
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