Feel so bad - Last night my daughter phoned to ask me if I would make 16 party bags (the boys with a small scull & crossbone and the girls with a small fish or shells) for their pirate and mermaid party. Of course I said 'yes'. I then had a sleepless night wondering how on earth I was going to get it done and the fact is I just have not got enough time to do this project. I still have a shirt to finish for myself and some towels for my DH's tennis club. I leave early on Friday morning for Johannesburg, with several appointments before I go. I now have to break the news to Charlotte. I know she will say it is fine but I feel I have let her down. Why couldn't she have told me a week ago????

Been there done that,i always work the night shift when this happens and somehow i get it done BUT thats just me!!!hugs

Living during stressful times...
I have learned to tell my children (and others that ask for free work) that I must sleep on it and let them know later. I love to help my children, but too often I was saying "yes" -- when my time restraints should have made the answer "no"
I am glad it worked out.
Take good care of you!

2 comments

by airyfairy 22 Oct 2013

I find that the main problem is that everyone wants things yesterday.

by rescuer 22 Oct 2013

I like to blame Microwave ovens for that. ;)

If you were supposed to embroider them is another possibility.: Buy some iron -on print paper, get some pictures of the internet, and print the pictures of pirates etc, and iron on the fabric.
Or perhaps you can buy paper bags and print them directly on the bags.
Hugs Gerry

My daughters are/were famous for last minute request.They know for a whole year something is coming up and they wait until late to decide what they want.Well, not anymore. I told them it stresses me out, so I want 'time' to do it or not at all.That forced them to ask early and sure helped me too.I have slowed down but they think I can still get 'everything' done.Not true-LOL Glad she called back but sorry you didn't sleep, worrying.-Toogie

I am glad it worked out for you. I hope you finish everything you already have to do before you leave.

Just have send a mail to you about an idea to make tags for the kids which Charlotte could add to ready-made bought bags. Good to see that you have solved the problem :o)
Greetings, Bettina

My daughter has just phoned me to say - don't worry we will make another plan. The party is a picnic being held at a model railway park so it will be difficult for the children to make crafts there. Thank you for your support. Hugs Sarah

i like Gerry's bag idea and one of my kids went to a party where they put craft paper on the table and let the kids decorate it. It took up some time and kept them busy. Another option is to buy the little made bags from a dollar type store and add a simple outline stitch or even an applique stitch that they could color in. It is difficult to tell your kids that you are unable to find the time to do their request.

I know how you feel!! She sounds like my daughter! But don't worry. She'll understand. Suggest she grab some stamps, etc & have the kids make their own bags by decorating those plain handled paper bags you can get at the craft stores. Keep the kids busy & you off the hook!! And kindly suggest she give you more notice next year!

1 comment

by hightechgrammy 22 Oct 2013

Gerry, that is such an excellent idea! The kids will love that! and you are right, Sarah's daughter will totally understand!