I'm back, just to say hello and to thank all you lovely people who have questioned my whereabouts, or asked friends if I'm "all right"!
I am all right, but I wasn't for a good part of 2017; I jumped down my hidey-hole and, except for occasional forays on Instagram (mhoutz4) and Facebook, I laid low.
I have continued problems with my foot...not life-threatening, but life-changing. I had a complete rupture of the tibialis anterior tendon, resulting in drop-foot and considerable pain. It's not "fixable", so I have to find ways to live with it. I wear a brace a good part of the time. The psychological fall-out was way worse than the physical part...a good part of my identity is wrapped up in how I move and walk, how I present myself, what clothes I wear...none of this will be a surprise to you who have followed me over the years! At any rate, it hit me like a bomb and it took many months to come to terms with it. But I have succeeded in facing it and am determined to "take my body back" and live as I have done for many years! YAY!
I have not been sewing since early last year; not only was I distracted, but I haven't been able to keep up my years-long 4 miles a day walk, and my body has reacted badly to that...i.e. I can't wear a lot of my lovely clothes! SO...I am starting to walk again, gradually, and am determined to recreate what I can of the best parts of who I "used to be". I am in the process of cleaning out my studio, getting rid of a lot of excess "stuff", and whether I will sew again will be addressed in the future.
Other than that, Dave, Teddy, Micmac and I are all fine..
and wish you all a happy and healthy 2018.
I DO miss having a place to share what new things, books,meals, etc. I am enjoying...
so maybe I will blog occasionally. I'm not making that decision right now.
One thing I would love to share is a new makeup I've discovered (this is my opinion, only) It's LookFabulousForever, started 5 years ago by a lovely 65-year-old woman who despaired of finding makeup items suited to an aging face. The makeup itself is fabulous (I've ordered 3 times) but the very best part for me is a series of wonderful videos showing just how to apply the products and what tricks can be used to look better as you age. Most of the videos are done by Tricia Cusden, the founder, who is a beautiful woman. So part of my determination I wrote of above includes looking the very best I can!
Here's a picture of me on a "road trip" with my dear friend Shams in October as we drove up to Ashland, Oregon, to attend a Design Outside the Lines workshop, put on by Diane Ericson and featuring Kathryn Brenne, a wonderful pattern designer for Vogue Patterns, a teacher of couture sewing skills and a leader of workshops in her own right. What a great time we had! Check out Shams post about it if you're interested.
Best wishes to all of you...thanks for caring! Till we meet again!
TTYL
Margy
I'm so sorry to hear about your foot; I remember you were cautious about it last year in Paris. There can be no better recommendation for a make-up line than your use. You always look fabulous.
ReplyDeleteAh, yes, you were in on the beginning of it! Thanks for the compliment...I miss you!
DeleteI am so sorry to hear this, but not surprised to hear you are bouncing back a bit. I have nothing but respect and admiration for you and nothing but fondness for your inner glow:).
ReplyDeleteShe does have an inner glow which I love, wish I had one.
DeleteThank you, Lisa (and Daisy)!
DeleteSo lovely to hear from you. Just take care x
ReplyDeleteThank you, Lala Land!
DeleteOh no! I would miss my daily walks so much so understand (a bit) of what you must be going through. I hope it doesn't effect the sewing machine peddling should you decide to make something new :). thanks also for the links for the videos. I was just playing around with my make up this morning. Take care xx
ReplyDeleteThanks, Vicki...yes, a walking routine becomes a part of your life. I'm back to 1 mile a day and will increase as I can. Do check out the LFF videos...they are fantastic!
DeleteSending love.
ReplyDeleteThank you, Regine!
DeleteSo good to hear from you, and I hope you continue to find ways to recreate your life. Adjusting to a chronic condition is so difficult-in fact, my husband just picked up his permanent disabled plates and hanger today. Thank you for the makeup recommendation as I am struggling to find a foundation which looks natural and makes me look 35. hahahhaaa
ReplyDeleteThanks, Mary...you certainly know about re-creating your life! You have been a good role model for all of us. Sorry for your husband...those wake up calls are hard...
DeleteHow nice to hear from you once again! But I'm sure sad about your foot troubles, and really bummed that your sewing has diminished. Here's to many joys ahead this next year. You're such an inspiration! My very best to you.
ReplyDeleteThanks, Kansas Sky!
DeleteSending Light to you and your beloved family and 4-legged friends! May 2018 be filled with abundance and gratitude!
ReplyDeleteThank you, golden star!
DeleteI’ve always enjoyed your blog, you have a unique perspective and hope you continue to share things with us, sewing or not sewing. Here’s to a wonderful new year!
ReplyDeleteThanks so much, Jane!
DeleteHope you have a wonderful 2018!
ReplyDeleteThank you, Irene!
DeleteIt was so nice to see your post, but I’m sorry it’s been a rough year. Wishing you all the best in 2018.
ReplyDeleteThanks, Jessica!
DeleteReally nice to see your post! Best wishes from Germany.
ReplyDeleteChristine
Thank you, Christine!
DeleteMargy! So lovely to hear from you. I'm sorry that you've been troubled with foot pain. The fact that the docs say there can't be improvement would really make things difficult emotionally.
ReplyDeleteI'm cheering you on as you slowly get back into walking. Walking is excellent not only for physical health but also so great for personal well being. Just do what you can.
I can't believe how big Teddy is. He's definitely thriving! :)
I've always loved and admired your sewing! That being said, if your sewjo is silent I hope you still feel like sharing your other creative interests...books, cooking, your garden, travel...I've loved reading it all.
Take good Margy! Wishing you all the best this 2018.
Thanks so much, Sue. I'm up to a mile a day now and will increase as I can.
DeleteGood to hear from you!
Oh, no, that sounds awful about your foot - I am glad you are learning to "live around it", Margy. Thanks for popping back - I was happy to see your post in my feed. Happy 2018 to you!
ReplyDeleteThanks so much, Sheila!
DeleteLovely to see you blogging again, keep well and hope that your foot improves. Happy New Year from Australia.
ReplyDeleteThank you, Linda!
DeleteHappy New Year, Margy! So great to see you!
ReplyDeleteI am truly sorry about your foot problem and the impact it has been having on your life, but I am glad your creativity and spirit are getting you through.
Good luck with your studio clean-up! If you have the inclination, I would love to see where this takes you. Who knows?
As for Look Fabulous Forever, isn't it great? I have tried it myself and love it. And I agree, the videos are fantastic. You look fabulous in these photos. xo
Hi, Mel...so nice to hear from you! I think my "word of the year" will be resilience! Glad to find another LFF user. Happy New year to you!
DeleteGreat to hear from you and Happy New Year! So sorry to hear of your health challenges and am not surprised you have powered through to recognize the changes needed. Change is growth and I look very forward to whatever you may share in the future. Best wishes, Margy!
ReplyDeleteThanks, Bunny...change is indeed growth, once you accept it!
DeleteI'm so glad to hear from you but sad about your injury. It is not easy getting old and having things break down. I hope you find ways to cope and still live the way you want to. You look great and your smile is as beautiful and sunny as ever.
ReplyDeleteThanks so much, Connie!
DeleteMargy, thanks so much for sharing. You are often in my thoughts, and will be even more now - such a challenge. I miss hearing from you and hope 2018 brings more healing. Coco
ReplyDeleteThanks so much, coco.
DeleteI want you to know how much I've enjoyed your posts for years, but never commented...glad to hear about what's going on with you. Just keep up the good fight. Now I want to recommend a book to you- "A Gentlemen in Moscow" by Amos Towel....my favorite of last year and maybe my favorite of all time.....Do what you need to do to become comfortable with your new self.....Sincerely, Laura Casey
ReplyDeleteThank you, Laura! AGIM was one of my very favorite books last year, too. Happy New Year!
DeleteMargy, I am hoping 2018 will be a much better year for you. I have enjoyed reading your blog for many years and love to go back in the archives looking at your makes. You are such a positive role model for maturing beautifully in so many ways. I will miss your new sewing inspiration but keep sending us those recipes, book recommendations and whatever else you think we might need! Best Wishes
ReplyDeleteThank you, jackielshep...what lovely comments! Happy New Year to you.
DeleteIt was so good to see a post from you but I'm truly sad to hear about your foot issues. Several years ago I had to face the fact that I could no longer wear fashionable shoes due to worn out feet. It was crushing but I have adjusted as you have. I think putting emphasis on the upper half of the body is an excellent idea and you have such a lovely, bright face. Please continue to blog on whatever you wish to share. I love your style! Karen
ReplyDeleteThank you, Karen...how our body parts betray us! Good for you for adjusting so well.
DeleteThank you for sharing with us. Have missed your blog so much and now I know why. You will be in my thoughts and prayers. Please blog when you can about food, Dave, the "children," about anything. It's always been a treat to read whatever you have to say. May 2018 be a healing year for you!
ReplyDeleteThank you very much, Margene!
DeleteIt is so good to see you here and you are beautiful as ever. I am glad you are learning to live with your new normal and not just giving up. That is the best attitude. God bless. I look forward to what ever you post here.
ReplyDeleteThanks so much, Susan!
DeleteGood to hear from you, but sorry for all you have been going through. Having experienced a similar situation with my foot (e.g. tendon repair, then complications, now a brace) over the past three years, I can certainly sympathize and understand what you are going through. One thing that is rarely talked about by docs and others is just how much a situation like this impacts your mental health. Sometimes you don't realize just how much until you take stock of your feelings and emotion; or when you (hopefully) finally make a breakthrough and take steps--as you appear to be doing--to find ways of coping. Wishing you the best for finding new ways to meet the challenges ahead and good shoes to accommodate the brace that aren't totally repulsive.
ReplyDeleteThanks, Mary...it sounds like you know only too well what I've been going through. You're so right about the mental health aspect; it seems rather
Deletestupid to complain about a (relatively) small injury, but I had no idea of the psychological damage I would experience. Oh, well...thanks so much for the thoughts!
I have read your blog for years, though I rarely comment (perhaps never?)... but I want to wish you the very best of luck with finding a path through this challenge. I've had two surgeries, with continued pain still, on my left foot/ankle and it can be so disheartening. I hope you develop a way to regain your sense of identity in whatever direction fulfills you best. I hope you find a new way to take back those daily walks that invigorated you physically and emotionally. And I hope that knowing so many of us "out there" care and support you helps.
ReplyDeleteMay you have a very happy new year.
Thanks, Kathleen, knowing of my supporting blog readers definitely helps!
DeleteSorry for your foot pain.
I've missed your blog posts and seeing your marvellous garments. Friend has drop foot so know what you are going through. She's hoping that the causes of hers will allow her to heal in time, though it's likely to take a year. Get back to blogging when you can and a Happy New Year!
ReplyDeleteThank you, purpleivy!
DeleteMargy, thank you so very much for sharing that transitioning to a new body image is a serious challenge. Whole-hearted congratulations for doing that work, and for coming out on top. You are an inspiring model. I thank you dearly--for your sharing your sewing skills, your fashion sense, and your growth as a person. Whoo-EEE!
ReplyDeleteAh, Cordell, what a nice comment! Thank you!
DeleteAlive and kicking - thank goodness!
ReplyDeleteOK maybe not 'kicking' but still making a mark and we are all thankful for that....I can only aspire to walking 4 miles a day.
Happy New Year
Hey, Ruth...Happy New Year to you!
DeleteMargy- ((Hugs)). I have never posted a comment but I have read your blog for years and have really missed you. I admire your style, not just in clothing but how you live your life. It has been a model for me as I move into retirement.
ReplyDeleteI am so sorry to hear the extent of your foot problems and how it has limited you. I can so sympathize with the emotional toll of a life changing injury/illness.
Take care of yourself. May 2018 be a healing year for you.
Thank you, unknown...I appreciate your post.
DeleteMargy - I also have never posted a comment but am a long-time reader of your blog and admirer of your sewing inspiration. So sorry that you are going through this...but hopefully 2018 will be a better year, a "new normal" year. Hopefully you will feel the call to sew and create again - you inspire all of us with your talent! And although you are frustrated by body changes...the upside is that you can create a lot of new wardrobe pieces!!
ReplyDeleteThank you, katio...there's always a silver lining!
DeleteThis long time reader of yours but who has never posted says Welcome Back! PS your Teddy is soooooo cute!
ReplyDeleteThanks, Diane!
DeleteI too have never posted, but am so glad to hear you're okay. You have always been an inspiration to me with your joie du vivre (?) and great sense of chic. I hope 2018 improves your health and your spirit continues to revive.
ReplyDeleteThanks so much, fiber femme!
DeleteI love this post, Margy! You are my hero. This last year+ has been a huge challenge for you, but you've taken care of yourself despite everything (and have given me loads of support), and now you are pushing forward.
ReplyDeleteYou are so much more than sewing, blogging, cooking, traveling, or your other passions. I love your motto (I'm paraphrasing your pithier version), "As this is how things are, how shall I proceed?"
I can't wait to see what you do in 2018! You can count on me for anything! xoxoxo
Ah, thanks, Shams...and thanks for listening to all the bitching while I was on my journey! "This being the case, How shall I proceed?" Sometimes it takes a long time to accept the first part!
DeleteAnother long time reader here. You’ve been missed, and I’m very sorry to hear your tendon rupture can’t be repaired. Take care of yourself and drop by your blog when you feel like sharing with us. You are a joy to hear from and an inspiration for how we can live life to the fullest. I wish you the best in 2018.
ReplyDeleteThank you so much, Rosie Lynn!
DeleteMargy- thanks for letting us in on the painful year you've had on several levels. Whatever you do next or don't do- I'm sure it will be really, really something! I wish you the very best wherever and however you go. Thanks for the makeup referral.
ReplyDeleteThank you, wendyrb!
DeleteMargy, I had wondered why your very entertaining posts had stopped and now you've answered that for me. So sorry for your physical and emotional challenges but something tells me that you are a strong enough woman to rise above this and move steadily forward.
ReplyDeleteI know what it’s like to lose oneself (for years) and have faced fierce battles to be who I am today, so I know this is very possible and I plan to cheer you on in your journey.
Sending you positive thoughts and warm, though only virtual, hugs!
Thank you, Annie! I'm happy to have you as a cheerleader!
DeleteI follow your posts and adventures along with Shams and wish you all the best for 2018. We vintage seamstresses all get health challenges from time to time and always end up finding a "workaround" to continue doing what we love. You are such a classy lady with amazing clothes and ideas. You do deserve a time for reflection and focus to get you over this speed-bump and up and active again.
ReplyDeleteThanks, mrsmole...as someone (Bette Davis?) said, old age ain't no place for sissies!
DeleteIts been so good to hear from you as you were greatly missed. I am sorry to hear of your problems, but life seems to like sending these curved balls every so often and I am sure you will overcome this. I have read your blog for a long time and you have helped to me get back to sewing. I admire your style and taste and hope we continue to receive your blogs
ReplyDeleteThank you, Chris T...I'm glad to have helped you get back to sewing!
DeleteDear Margy...I have been inspired by your blog for four years and have missed you terribly...We are, I think, almost the exact same age (July 28 here!). I still walk every day - for now - so I feel the losses (multiple) that you have experienced and understand the collateral damage that these losses do. Remember, always, that you are very valuable to all of us, for all that you are and all that you do. You are missed and we certainly hope that you will come back to us when you are able to. I wish you strength as you 'rise above' what has happened.
ReplyDeleteWhat a lovely comment, Kamchick. Us old broads have to help each other!
DeleteI'm another faithful follower who wondered what happened to you. It's good to hear from you but sad to hear of your foot situation. I wish you the best and can't add anymore than what's already been said so until your next post do take care.
ReplyDeleteThank you, Mrs K...Happy New Year to you!
DeleteI've never been happier to see your post and to know you are still in good spirits and accepting the changes life has presented to you. I know I have missed your posts and photos immensely! You have shown me so much creative talent and style...and my closet & sewing room reflects your influence! I wish you continued good health, stamina and a very Happy New Year!
ReplyDeleteAh, thank you so much, LaLa! Those are very kind words! Happy New Year to you, too!
DeleteGosh, it's good to see you posting again! I really missed your stylish approach to living. So very sorry about the foot thing and I can totally understand how that would throw you for a loop - glad to see you come out on the other side. Love your posts about food, books, jewelry, clothing and thoughts on life, so I will welcome any that you care to share with us. Thank you for letting us know what happened - you were missed!
ReplyDeleteThanks so much, Joyce P. It's nice to be missed! Happy New Year to you.
DeleteI am sorry to hear about your tendon issue—so painful. I can believe that not being able to get around easily when you are a natural walker is life altering. Nice to see that you are dedicated to continuing walking. Hope you will have a happy and healthy 2018! Abbey
ReplyDeleteThank you, Abbey sews...Happy New Year to you!
DeleteSo sorry to hear about your foot issue, but I am glad you are able to deal with it. I have missed your creative posts! Please take time to heal yourself and relax and just enjoy life. If you aren't able to sew, that's ok. Your healing is far more important.
ReplyDeleteThanks for your nice comment, Stars Threads!
DeleteOh I am sorry to hear of your foot issues. I am a physical therapist in my other life . It is hard when these tings are inflicted on you . I am so very sorry to hear that it has been so hard to adjust . All I can say is that the clients I have who focus on what they have left and make the most of it do better than those who stay grieving their loss for too long . That is easy to say but I do feel that you have a great capacity to adapt as shown by your keeping up with fashion etc and traveling the world . I feel that you are an optimist at heart . Try exercising in the pool , its possible to work really hard in water with the right instruction . That way you will keep up your muscle tone and strength. I will look forward to seeing you get back to being you . All the best Marianne
ReplyDeleteThank you for your observations and suggestions, mem...you are right about focussing on what I have...which is a LOT! It just took me a while to achieve acceptance for what I lost. Swimming is a good idea!
DeleteI was thinking about you the other week.... Very sorry to hear of this change in life. I've only been following you for a couple of years but have looked at your vitality for life as something to aspire to as I creep up the years. Love your fashion sense, and your wondering spirit. Keep going girl, make the most of life!!!
ReplyDeleteThanks, Joyce!
DeleteI discovered your blog several years back when I resumed sewing after a decades-long absence. With your grace, sense of style, love of travel and living fully, I found much more than the sewing inspiration and tips I was originally seeking! I'm very sorry to learn about the challenges you're facing with your foot injury and wish you the very best for moving forward and being able to enjoy the activities that nourish you.
ReplyDeleteThank you so much, Anne. What a lovely comment!
DeleteSO GOOD to see a post!! I also had been worried sick until I saw you on Shams blog! Getting older is not for sissies!! Please continue to post!! I bought my instant pot because of you and Shams, have looked into the bean club, and as an avid reader I thoroughly enjoy your book comments. I love your insights !! Take care of you and get to us as you have motivation. Just know you are a treasure to many of us and we wish you the best! The photo is great! Even Teddy and Micmac are color coordinated!! May 2018 be good to you and let us know how we can help support and encourage you!!
ReplyDeleteOh my was I glad to see your post! I would lay in bed some nights after reading my favorite blogs and worry about you. We live thousands a miles away. I only know you from your post, but admire your style, grace, lifestyle, and attitude about life. I am so happy you are here! You look beautiful, by the way.
ReplyDeleteHi Margy! I've been missing your posts! Sorry to hear 2017 was not a great year for you. Sounds like it has been a real struggle. You are beautiful person inside regardless if you can't wear your beautiful clothes. Sounds like an opportunity to go shopping or stitch some new things!! I have been enjoying "slow stitching" as in Alabama Chanin style. And, I'm loving it----all hand stitching. If you cant get to your studio or machine, maybe consider this. We had such fun together in Paris and I think of those good times often. If you want to chat more my email is: riharmelink@comcast.net. Or, I can send you my cell number via email and we can chat for real!! On your recommendation I ordered LFF last week. Can't wait to get it. Your sister of a different mother, Ruth H
ReplyDeleteIt's good to hear from you. I am very sorry about your foot, I can imagine it would be life-changing, and the goal would be to keep it from becoming self-changing in a way that doesn't work for you. I admire you so much, and I hear your voice from that time we had lunch and it inspires me. Wishing you all the best for 2018.
ReplyDeleteSo glad to see you back . I have missed you so much . The sewing,the travels , cooking and your book recommendations. I wish you well and all good things for 2018 . X
ReplyDelete“If you can’t fly, then run; if you can’t run,
ReplyDeletethen walk; if you can’t walk, then crawl,
but whatever you do you have to keep
moving forward.” -Martin Luther King Jr. Sending you love -Wendy
Margy, I'm so glad to hear from you! I am also so sorry to hear of your struggles in 2017. I'm so very glad to hear its not life threatening, but it sounds as though it is very much life changing! I love your sense of style, and you are an inspiration to me - I'm planning on making myself a motorcycle style jacket this year and have been stalking your posts on the ones you made! Looking forward to seeing what this year has in store for you, and following your creative makes!
ReplyDeleteIn the absence of a blog since April I was really worried, but am so relieved and happy to hear from you again. So sorry to hear about your problems, but I'm sure you'll manage to adjust your lifestyle to a new way of living. I wish you well and do hope you are able to continue with some sewing, but if not you still feel able to share with us a corner of your life.
ReplyDeleteWith very best wishes
SusanD
Hi Margy, I look at your IG account now & then, as well as your blog here. I am always hopeful that you are posting again. I hope you are doing well.
ReplyDeleteRobin