slow sewing

I only managed to sew the parts for another doll today. That was after some frustration trying out shirring or smocking on an outfit. I had everything right (I think) but the top thread kept looping in the bobbin, was my tension to loose?! I tried several different things but nothing seemed to work so I did the quick sewing of doll parts. Any advice or wisdom would be appreciated, I really want to get this right!

I also got a bike today! I'm pretty excited about it, can't wait to take a ride. We have some bonding to do but I think she and I will like each other a lot. =)