Oh Dear

So I am in California for a little rest and relaxation...I've been pampered and spoiled and am loving the foggy mornings & hot afternoons. Earlier today I happened to mention something about purchasing leather scraps to incorporate into my jewelry and my dad informed me that there is a leather store conveniently located on the other side of town. Not needing to add any more stuff to my jewelry making supplies, but curious to see the store, I hesitantly asked my mom if she'd be interested in accompanying me to visit said mercantile. She quickly said yes and we drove off in search of scraps I could add to my collection of goodies. Lucky me, they had boxes and boxes of leather leftovers and I found some beautifully colored pieces. One large, gorgeous, pearly swatch in particular screamed out *clutch* to me and I had to get it...oh dear. I don't even know how to sew. I've spent the last 2 hours searching the web for patterns and an inexpensive sewing machine. I think I've found another hobby. Oops. Stay tuned for the progress...I think I am going to try and make something simple to start...similar to this:

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