I can't believe how happy this makes me:

For the first time ever I have a NEW sewing machine, complete with all the whizzbang stitches and automatic everything!  It took me a while to gather the confidence to even thread this lovely machine, but eventually I did sew a sandwich wrap together and it was magic.  I should have taken a photo of my first project but only thought of that after I SOLD it!! Yes, two fantastic events in one day.
Amazing.
Here's my new friend:

Earlier in the week I busied myself making a pencil roll for niece H's fifth birthday.  It was a pain to sew but turned out ok in the end. I used this pattern.

finished it just before my old machine packed it in!

I hope she likes it.

H and I went orienteering on Wednesday at Westerfold's Park.  It was great fun and tiring at the same time, and we made some new friends too.

R spent the morning with Oma and attended an Intimo party held at a friend's house.  I was told that she particularly enjoyed the grapes and crackers on offer and it made her giggle to see all the lovely 'booby bras'. 

Our week of fun and excitement was marred by the sudden departure of the girls' art teacher.  Apparently she 'had a meltdown' 15 minutes before the class was due to start, and resigned.  We are all mystified as to the real reason why she's left.  The children of course are extremely disappointed.
Here is a picture of the girls before art class:

clowning around in the car

Unfortunately I wasn't quick enough to capture the looks of sorrow and dismay when they were told A had left forever.  Must be more diligent next time.