The costuming has begun

Not only has the costuming begun, but outfits for the four of us are nearly complete! These photos are not of the best quality. Still, you'll get the picture.

Hermione in her Gryffindor robe. Had to make the robe, as those in the store simply don't make the cut. I lucked out in my thrift store browsing and found a grey v-neck sweater & maternity skirt that I chopped way down to re-size. Hermione is very pleased.

This is Astrid, the viking girl (costume not quite complete). She's a dragon trainer, not a slayer. You may recognize her from the movie How to Train Your Dragon.

And most of the makings for my Jane Sparrow custome. I love the hat. The jacket, shirt & belt are all thrift store finds. I came across the jacket - just need to fix a few buttons - and I knew this was to be a pirate year for me. I think I'll wear my bond girl boots.

As for Dan... We simply will not permit his preferred grumpy old man costume. He's going to be Stoick the Vast - also a viking from How to Train You Dragon - who is incredibly strong but rather unintelligent (according to Wikipedia). I found a perfect thrifted horned helmet so that settles it.

Princess Leia

On Saturday, my youngest went to a Star Wars theme birthday party. Fortunately, on Friday afternoon, she willingly gave up her first choice character, Padme Amidala, and agreed to be Princess Leia. This is far from the ideal time for me to fit in costume making, but a Leia gown can be whipped up quickly. A trip to the costume store confirmed that their offers were hideous, ill-fitting and relatively expensive. Another stop at the fabric store... et voila!

Leia wore her gown 3 days in a row and tells me she plans to wear it for Halloween as long as I go as Han (Hana) Solo. Deal!

The big reveal: Nausicaa and Sheeta

Costumes for the girls are finished. Phew! Saturday is our elementary school's big fall carnival and costumes are encouraged. Makes me happy that they'll at least have two special occasions to wear them. As is my norm, the creation part took longer than expected but we're all happy with the results.

My littlest one is a bit bummed out that I am not going to be Dola, but I have spent several hours playing the role in recent days. She loves it when I reply to her inquires of "Dola?" with a cranky sounding "Call me Captain!" Makes her smile every time.

Introducing.....

Lusheeta Toelle Ul Laputa

a.k.a Sheeta. Sheeta is the rightful ruler of the floating island in the sky, Laputa.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Castle_in_the_Sky

And another tough cookie.....

Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind. Her fox-squirrel friend is sadly absent in the photo.

http://animewriter.wordpress.com/2009/09/14/animewriters-mai-waifu-list/

I'm one proud Mama.