graduation dress Pattern: McCall's 4825 (modified) Fabric: cream-colored rayon with a semi-shiny gold satin trim Construction Notes: I designed this dress (see preliminary sketch here), but my mom made it. She widened the straps of the pattern, changed the skirt to my specifications, and changed the sash somewhat (the bow is detachable). My favorite parts of the dress are probably the self-covered buttons on the left side, and the pin-tucks running down the front of the bodice! Miscellaneous Ramblings: In May 2005, I graduated from college with a degree in English Literature. I will not get started on a rant about my feelings on the worthlessness of college (which began growing after I'd already gone through a couple of years of college), but instead focus on my graduation, which was pretty nice. :) Many of my family members flew in for the occasion, and several out-of-town friends joined me. We hosted a small, private, but very lovely party in the afternoon. It was meant to be a garden party, but several days earlier, my town experienced a massive hailstorm, which ruined our garden. Instead, we bought masses of peonies from a nearby peony farm, and moved the party indoors. I also had a special bouquet of white and pink ranunculus for the occasion. Throughout the day, I got lots of compliments on my dress, thanks to my mom's excellent skill! back