I’m guessing this was taken around 1972. My sisters and I always got “dolled” up for Easter every year. We would get new white sandals, and my mother would make our Easter dresses. Normally, she would buy one pattern that could be adjusted to various sizes so she was able to use the pattern for all three of us, or at least two of us. We are four years apart, so that wasn’t always possible. However, my youngest sister was tall for her age, and I was kind of shrimpy back then (I’m in the center), so sometimes she could make it work.

This photo is a reminder of my DIY roots. Mom sewed back then not just because she enjoyed it but because it was a lot less expensive than buying off the rack. She was a SAHM, and every penny counted. My parents often DIY-ed out of necessity. She made our clothing, from special dresses like these to Halloween costumes to prom dresses to everyday wear. My father fixed our cars himself and made most of our furniture.

Because of their craftiness and frugality, I am able to DIY because I like it, not because I have to.