Things have a way of piling up there for myself and questions like the following from a young mom: “I’m doing all sorts of things to try and save a few dollars every way I can, on our grocery list, our clothing budget. Right now I’m so glad I learned the basics of sewing.

“Please if you can give me some help on relining the girls’ coat sleeves, I’d greatly appreciate it.”

She has three girls and that perfectly good coat, except for the lining, can certainly be worn again.

First, turn the sleeve wrong-side-out to see just what has happened. Sometimes the seams are just coming apart and can be re-sewn or repaired. However, if they need to be relined, I like to just rip out the old lining and use it for a pattern to cut a new lining.

If the lining is just wearing out at the cuff, for instance, then just remove that section of the lining and, using its pieces for a pattern, just add an extension to the lining itself. A section of the lining like the elbow area may be gone. Look it over carefully. Perhaps it can just be patched just like a knee or any other hole or worn spot.

That’s why garage sales are increasing. The clothing budget is usually the first thing to be cut off in tough times; the food budget can be slashed by eating out less.

“No one can go it alone. Somewhere along the way is the person who gives you faith that you can make it — just hang in there.” I don’t know who coined this phrase, but I’ve always liked it.

Have a very merry and blessed Christmas.

-Aunt Norie, P.O. Box 265, Tonganoxie 66086; auntnorie@att.net.