Sun and Sardinia ... and sorting

Hello avid readers, I am back from a week of sun in Sardinia, staying with my Zio T. It was delightful to get away from the damp of Ireland, to the warmth of Cagliari. The image to the right is the city beach, and although 27 degrees was too cold for most of the natives, it was perfect for me. I spent several happy morning swimming in the sea, before being fed vast quantities of simply delicious pasta! (Sorry if you are suffering from the Autumnal blues, I'm not trying to make you jealous ... well maybe just a little).

Since I arrived back yesterday I've thrown myself into an autumnal clear out and sort out. I've cleared out some things from my wardrobe, which I've not worn for ages, and piled up a number of things in need of a quick stitch or two, and one or two which need more drastic attention. To filled up the spaces in my wardrobe I've also matched up some of my fabric and pattern for some new sewing projects.What to see?

I've been planning for a while to have a go at making a coat for myself, and I've decided on a jacket as my first outerwear project. I have the fabric, but can't decide whether to make the button up or zipped versions - any thoughts?

I need a couple of new tops, so have identified Burda 7798 (tunic version with long sleeves) for the black and white spots, and Gertie's Bow-Tied blouse for the plain white.

What with those, another pair of trousers from Simplicity 5140 in some of my Spanish fabric, and a couple of plans for handmade Christmas gifts, I'm going to be a busy girl.