i did it! this apron is the result of my very first sewing attempt (well, that is kind of true. i sewed one stitch in an old blanket and decided i knew enough to sew something spectacular). i had a lot of fun. even though some parts were incredibly frustrating,  when i finished i had probably the greatest sense of satisfaction and accomplishment that i have ever had after making something. and now that i've tackled an apron, i'm thinking that i can handle something that goes all the way around, like a skirt. anyway, i'm thinking of giving this to my sister for christmas since she was the one who gave me the sewing machine.