What I’ve realised since being off work with stress and anxiety is that I need a creative outlet as part of my self-care. I’ve dabbled in knitting – something that I haven’t done since I was a child. I’ve taught myself how to purl and started to incorporate it into my knitting. I’m not likely to win any prizes or set up a business…unless hand knitted, slightly wonky scarves become a thing but I find it soothing and it gives my brain something different that’s not overly taxing or stressful to think about.
I also love cooking and baking. I’m not likely to appear on The Great British Bake Off anytime soon, but again, there is something immensely satisfying in turning flour, butter and sugar into cake or biscuits. The drawback is that as I live with my cat, I’ll be the one eating my creations. Not ideal given that my cholesterol and blood pressure are high.
I started jewellery making too. I made a couple of necklaces, a bracelet and a pair of earrings. Nothing fancy but again, I found it enjoyable if a little frustrating when even using tweezers, the tiniest of beads were bouncing off the table and into my rug. I’m sure most of them ended up in the vacuum cleaner as they were almost impossible to find!! I’m sure my cat thought I was crazy crawling around rubbing my hand on the rug trying to find the beads.
Now, I want to try my hand at making greetings cards. With Christmas approaching, it seems like a good time to give it a try. I’ve bought some bits from The Range and Mr Price and online from Amazon and Hobbycraft. I’m excited to get started. Not only will my friends and family receive something handmade and personal but I’ll have my creative outlet and adding another string to my bow.
I’ve also come to realise that I’d like to earn some extra money and have additional income. In an ideal world, I’d like to be able to work from home and ultimately be a stay at home Mum. (See my previous blog Maybe baby) I’ll post my efforts on my Instagram account @sassyscot79 and my Twitter page @SScot79 and who knows, it could be the start of something successful…
