The Eleventh Day of Christmas

Along the same lines as I wrote about yesterday (finding stress busters)

 ~ Today feel the calm. Let it soak in…

Why do I create? Why do you?

It’s something I’m passionate about doing.

It’s my lifesaver.

It’s my centering point.

Early Christmas Eve morning, while the house was quiet, I happened across the embroidery website, SmartNeedle. I don’t usually “go there” because my sister is the Embroidery Expert in the family. She does beautiful work! But when I saw a couple of “free” patterns SmartNeedle offered, I couldn’t pass up the golden opportunity!

 

http://smartneedle.com/product/free2017sign/

http://smartneedle.com/product/free-sewing-room/

Then I went to their blog. It’s there I found the beginning of a two-part series called: Why Crafting is Good for You. Again, I highly recommend reading the full article where they explain the reasoning behind...

1.      It improves your overall focus.

2.      It helps us feel more calm.

3.      It can combat depression and help us feel happier.

4.      It boosts creativity and ingenuity.

5.      It may help you sleep better.

6.      It helps you develop good hand-eye coordination.

7.      It’s a great distraction from the stresses of everyday life.

8.      It sharpens your brain.

9.      It can increase your confidence and make you feel happier.

10. The mental benefits of crafting can help us feel better physically as well.

11. It gives you time for yourself, away from technology and other stimulation.

Embroidering is outside my comfort zone. I can manage a few labels for the Veteran Quilts, but that’s about the extent of my embroidery patience!

But, I’m going to give these two a try!

Crafting is good for me, and you!

National Craft Month

Today begins National Craft Month. According to the Craft and Hobby Association, each year over 56% of U.S. households are crafting! Are you one? Are you a crafter?

What is "crafting" anyway? The dictionary defines it as "an art, trade, or occupation requiring special skill, especially manual skill." (Emphasis added) For me it's more than using material things like paper, glue, scissors, or fabric. I think the percentage ought to be much higher when you think of all the things that's considered "an art" requiring a special skill.

I'm working on a list. In my opinion, it's "an art" of special skills when you:

Create the best person you can be.

Create a loving home environment.
Create an open heart of forgiveness.

All of the above requires a special skill set, and is an art to accomplish! Now, the 56% should be much much higher, correct? What would you add to this list? And, I ask again, are you a crafter?