I've been playing around, learning how to use my sewing machine, and I think this turned out pretty well. The tote bag pattern is from Lotta Jansdotter's book, Simply Sewing.

I haven't sewn anything in years and years, but there are various projects I've been thinking about lately: tote bags, wallets, simple skirts, and (ultimately) curtains. Last week, I bought a sewing machine, and once I got the hang of how the machine basically works, I hit Goodwill for some fabric and picked up a beginner's book.

For my first project, I picked something absurdly simple: napkins. I know, not very exciting, but it was good practice measuring fabric, hemming, and then replicating it. (Not to mention threading the machine and figuring out what the bobbin does.) Next, I'll have to focus on sewing straight lines.

Here's another great meal prepared with recipes from How to Cook Everything Vegetarian. Pictured: Ricotta Dumplings with Quinoa and Sauteed Brussels Sprouts with Hazelnuts.

These two recipes together were absolutely perfect. This is my new favorite way to eat brussels sprouts!