I was shocked to see Tim Tams at Giant today, even marked with “Australia’s Favorite Cookie.” They are $2.99 a pack and come in original and caramel (none of the other Dangerous Liason flavors). I have no idea why they are here but I am happy and can’t wait to report how they compare to the originals. The weird thing is that they are being manufactured by Pepperidge Farms — not Arnott’s. I wonder if the recipe is the same and what made them want to bring them here?

My friend Courtney coordinated an awesome tie dye event. I haven’t tie dyed since Girl Scouts so I was excited. She bought soda ash and assorted dyes and we all brought various white garments we bought from local thrift stores beforehand.

The actual tie dying was really fun. There are so many different techniques available and directions on the internet. However, I’m not one for following directions so I chose to just make it up as I went along. As a result, I ended up with some  curious garments. I think my favorite is the tie dye onesie. I also liked the way the purple tie dye skirt turned out. The tie dye’s girl’s dress was labeled as a top and I only found out later that it wasn’t a camisole. Oh well. The tshirt was a funny disaster. One I will wearing alone and at home. It is really soft, though…

I finally sewed my neck tie bag. I followed a lot of the other examples on Craftster.org but made it a lot more simple. I haven’t really sewed before, but this project was pretty easy. I used black thread and the zig zag stitch. The top has a zipper. I didn’t line it or do anything fancy. I’ve been using it for about 6 months now and been putting all my school folders, books, etc. in it (it is a large bag). So far it has held up really well, despite all the heavy stuff in it. I got all the neck ties from the Freecycle community (McLean branch). Thanks to all the retired gentlemen who gave me their ties and could contribute.

UPDATE: Since this I have been commissioned to make a similar bag for a woman who works at my school out of her father’s ties (who recently passed away). I think this is such a great idea and such a nice way to remember someone. Something to keep in mind if you sew!