Wednesday, November 24, 2010

radical gratitude

I am tempted to feel sorry for myself today.Franklin's play date (solo sewing time) was canceled due to illness (get well soon ryan!) as was one with jasper last week.It's still nasty icy out. Deadlines are looming.The heater at the studios keeps going out and it is my duty to try to do something about it. Holidays can feel lonely and disappointing even without the pressure to earn a living at Christmas. Juggling my crafty business and parenting can be isolating with all the focus it takes. You get the idea. Winter blahs plus baby blues times work anxiety equals self pity while the boy throws cheerios around the living room.So, in an attempt to change my attitude here is a thanksgiving inspired list:
I am thankful for...
a healthy curious almost one year old baby named franklin
a kind and capable father/husband/friend/number one unpaid employee named steeb
a studio in which to make big felty messes
a home that is cozy despite the weather outside
big pots of pumpkin soup and beef stew
strong coffee in favorite mugs made by cary lane
more ideas than time to execute them
making money from scraps and creativity
staying cuddled up under blankets sewn by loved ones
knit hats and mittens created with spincycle yarns

Wednesday, November 17, 2010

crunch time


It is that time of year again. When I thought I was doing well and then I realized I was terribly behind schedule.When unexpected health problems(this year just a nasty stomach flu)throw off my plan for efficiently using every last minute before the big shows. When my family celebrations take the backseat to potential family income. When I fall into bed exhausted then can't sleep with to-do lists and guilt taking turns running around my mind.
Also when I am most inspired and think of new items I want to make. When I want to sew gifts for friends and all the expected babies. When curling up with a steaming mug of something and a knitting project seems the perfect way to weather the storm.
Oh november. will you always be this way?
Here's what helps:
small doses of my favorite christmas music while sewing. This year the top albums are James Brown, Charlie Brown and a mix I made with contemporary classics like Do they know its christmas, simply having a wonderful christmas time and christmas in hollis.

the moment franklin falls asleep for a nap I take out my hand sewing.

networking with all the awesome crafty mamas I know to trade kid care.

a horoscope I received telling me that there was freedom in the unknown.

remembering I chose this lifestyle.