The past week has been spent finishing off the studio and having a massive clear out - nothing has escaped my ruthless purge! Anything that I no longer want, need or use has been either moved on to someone who has use for it, given to charity, recycled or dumped (a last resort but necessary) As a result the energy in the flat is totally new and I feel I have room to breathe again! It is a great feeling!
Going through things so thoroughly really gives you time to think about what you actually need, what is necessary to your life. For a while now I have been realising that I want to live a more 'simple' life, that is, only consuming that which I need and not just mindlessly adding to my material possessions or buying something to make me 'feel better' (something I have been guilty of in the past). I need to actually look at what I have and use it, rather than adding to the mound of things that I just 'wanted' rather than actually needed. I have also started to look at what I already have and appreciate it.
After the moanfest that was the last post I felt really bad - partly because I am aware that one of the purposes of blogging is to inspire and connect, not bring people down but also because I realised how ungrateful I was being. I am so lucky to be able to dedicate one whole room in my house to crafting, so what if the floor isn't perfect, at least I have a floor! I think the way I was feeling was a result of the fear I was feeling about actually moving forward and taking myself and my making more seriously - crafting is not only a hobby to me but a way to supplement my erratic income. Also, that room represents to me a safety net - it has always been in the back of my mind that if I get really desperate for money I can let it out and at least cover the mortgage. Changing its' use is a scary thing for me and all my gripes about the flat, the floor etc were really just a manifestation of my subconcious fears about change and being without an income - all free-lancers go through this I'm sure - and spending money that is not being replaced - and who do I think I am thinking I might be good enough to earn a living in this way? Of course all these fears are in my mind which brings me to my point about cultivating an 'attitude of gratitude'. We would all be happier if we mastered the art of living in the moment. We should enjoy what we have here and now rather than fixating on the past or worrying about what might happen in the future - no one can predict or control that. So rather than make new year resolutions (a little late for that anyway) I am aiming to live from now on with an attitude of gratitude - so I will start by saying how grateful I am to have such a lovely new studio, grateful for good health and most of all grateful for good friends who have taken time to help me over the past week (shelves are great David!)
I spent a very happy day in my new workspace yesterday making things and finishing off yet more bits and pieces that were found lurking half finished in the room when I was clearing it out.
Yet another Tea Cosy......
...a cushion made of tweed and a felted mohair scarf (charity shop find)-
...washbags to finish the order I took before Xmas.....
and some wee hotties with the new cotton velvet ribbon I bought recently...
...I like the green best (although I can imagine it might be a little garish for some peoples tastes)
Now that everything is in order I can start on a totally new project - Knitting Bags for me and Anna. Here is our design (after detailed discussion)...
I can tell you are impressed! My 3 years spent at art school were not wasted, no Siree!
I would like to end with this....
...this card was given to me by a lady I was lodging with whilst down in Newcastle doing a particularly stressful job - I have had it on my fridge ever since. I have made my decision - I really hope I can stick to it.
Go girl! Beautifully written and inspiring post. Fear can literally freeze us to the spot. It takes courage to make changes, to clear out and be grateful for all you have. Happy days Dx
Posted by: Diana | January 22, 2008 at 01:37 PM
Hmmm, I have been facing the same challenges and doing a massive clear-out as well. I agree, it feels good! I can now find my way ahead...and it is filled with inspiration...(and less 'stuff')..;)
Also, although 'they' say blogs are to be inspirational, they are also a way of making new friends. If your readers are true friends, they won't mind the occasional rant...I know I didn't. But I'm glad your feeling better!
And I can't wait to see the knitted tote with that comes from that incredible, detailed drawing...;)
xx
Posted by: Sarita | January 22, 2008 at 02:35 PM
What a fantastic post - thank you! I can totally relate to everything you're saying; you've inspired me to have a proper sort out and to get my finger out to stop focussing on all the things I don't have (not enough time/space/talent/confidence... you know the sort of thing) and spend a bit more time appreciating - and taking advantage of - the things and opportunities I do.
(love the green hottie too :~)
Posted by: MallyPowell | January 22, 2008 at 02:37 PM
Amen, sister! it's getting past the nag-nag voice of fear, we all have it... Your new room is beautiful and is a reflection of a 'recognised' part of you. I'm sure there is a goddess at work today..having just written my own post, think she is trying to grab my attention! Cx
Posted by: caireen | January 22, 2008 at 06:21 PM
there is no way happiness... happiness is the way.
good for you. I like your attitude my friend.
Posted by: monica | January 23, 2008 at 05:56 PM