So... Yeah...

It's been awhile, friends. Lets just say life got in the way, things happened, blah, blah, blah. That and I made an awful wadder of a dress that Mr. Retro calls "The Sack Dress." It was a good idea and just turned out horrid. I may take pictures and create a post some day, but for now it just sits there and mocks me...

Here's a quick run-down of what I'm doing these days:

• Making my pregnant sister two dresses. It's hot, she's huge (I mean that in the most loving way), and she has nothing to wear. I'm using a pattern that I made her last time she was pregnant and trying my hand at sewing knits. It's a learning curve. 
• I've entered the Pattern Review One Pattern, Many Looks contest. The idea is to use one pattern, no alterations (unless you alter EVERY submission--of which there is a minimum of two--in the same way), different looks. Ideally, these looks are created via fabric selection and decorations. I'm using the version of Simplicity 1803 below and making one Fourth of July nautical themed dress with red piping on the bodice and a second version out of this crazy yellow, purple, and black print with solid yellow on the side panels. I haven't decide if I'll keep or nix the ribbons yet. 

• I'm also undertaking a new project that I don't want to divulge just yet. But I'll give you a hint: 

• Last but not least, the packing, apartment locating, mover searching part of the move to Miami is under way. Wait? Did I tell you, friends, about our impending move? Short version: Mr. Retro applied for, was awarded, and accepted a job at a college in Miami, FL. I'm very excited for this move as my research indicates that Miami is a city with a pretty rich history (I like history, I'm both a writer and a history buff) AND that history happens to encompass my favorite era: The Art Deco Era. There's an Art Deco Society and a Historical Preservation Society that I think I might see if I can become involved with. I've already scouted a few homes I'd kill to own (but are so out of my price range) and they're all lovely Art Deco era homes. They totally look like the house at which Kim Basinger's character, Lynn Bracken, resides in the movie L.A. Confidential. Big arched entry ways between rooms, heavy wooden front door, nifty little alcoves off of rooms, and recessed rooms. Some of my favorites (which are totally out of our price range) look like this:

I really love the "Spanish Style" of home in Miami!

Chandelier in the dining room? Yes please! 

And I would very much like an awesome door like that and windows for lots of light! 

This one is actually quite historical as it was built by one of the  Big Important Dudes who came down and developed Miami in the late 1800/early 1900s. All the house on this street look pretty much the same--oddly Tudor style. (I haven't seen them, only read up on them)

How much do you love this door?!

Wouldn't you like to live here? 

So how about you folks? Anyone own a historic home and have input as to what to look for? Anyone live./lived in Miami and have some advice? What are you up to these days, friends?