Sunday, 17 August 2025

Life is getting in the way...

Extra shifts at work, time with my beautiful grandchildren, social events, and a stubbornly sore back—lately, it feels like the universe is conspiring to keep me from my craft corner. Sitting in my usually comfy chair now triggers painful spasms, and standing all day isn’t an option either. The chiropractor visits are helping, though they’re not exactly budget-friendly.
Still, I’ve made a little progress on my very short list of current projects. The “Dad scarf” is a blessing—easy to pick up, with short rows that let me sneak in a stitch or two before I need to move again.
 The variegated yarn dances between blues and greys, catching the light in ways that make it look surprisingly bright. It’s a quiet joy, even in small doses.
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Meanwhile, the cosy ripple blanket sits quietly, hook paused mid-row like a bookmark in a well-loved story. It’s waiting patiently while life takes the lead. I know I’ll return when the moment’s right.
Progress has been slow, but the colors still bring comfort. It is very much brighter in real life. Each wave reminds me that creativity doesn’t vanish—it simply ebbs and flows. And sometimes, even a paused project holds its own kind of beauty.
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When my back permits, I’ve been turning to something a little less yarny. As you know Tony and I are working on a jigsaw depicting Hawker Hurricanes. He’s helped a bit (though I’ve definitely done more!), and the planes are now proudly assembled.

I’ve moved on to the headland and sandy shore beneath them, fitting pieces in when I can. It feels surprisingly good to click a few into place—like small victories in a quiet campaign. I can’t sit or stand there for long without my back stiffening, but even brief puzzle bursts bring a sense of progress and achievement.
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Slow progress, small victories, and a few stitched moments—life may get in the way, but it hasn’t stopped me yet. With extra shifts ahead and a new role to orient into, craft time will remain limited for now. My back is still protesting, but I’m hopeful it will grow stronger again. In the meantime, I’ll keep finding small moments of creativity—whether it’s a scarf row, a puzzle piece, or simply a moment to breathe. It’s not about speed—it’s about showing up, one gentle step at a time.
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Until next time, may your needles dance, your yarn remain untangled and your stash whisper only inspiration.  
 

15 comments:

Jennifer said...

Crafting is about enjoying the process. Having a finished article is a bonus, but the enjoyment of creating is something to be savoured.

Karen S said...

Back pain is no fun. I hope you can sort it out and get back to your projects.

Anonymous said...

You're right, a little at a time, it's the process. Hope your back continues to improve.

Maria said...

Do hope your back gets better soon and it’s nice to do a little crafting and puzzling.

Jocelyn is Canadian Needle Nana said...

A lovely written post, Lou. Besides seeing your progress, I loved the phrase hook paused like a bookmark in a well loved story. All good!

Janice said...

It must be so frustrating having your back playing up. I do hope you recover soon. I’m pleased that you are able to still enjoy a little of your favourite things, even in small doses.

Lianne makes stuff said...

Oh Lou look after yourself! I hope your back feels better soon.

Julie said...

Gosh I hope your back eases soon Lou - that must be tricky in the line of work you do. Your knitted & crochet projects are coming along wonderfully.

Susan said...

Oh poop about your back...it is so tiring when you cant do what you want to/need to do. (My knee is playing up so sending you sympathy..)Little bits of each project is better than none!
Hoping you are back to feeling better soon.

dianne said...

oh, this post is a soothing read - thank you!!! deep breath and exhale ... and again .... and again

Jenny said...

I certainly feel for you and your back pain, not nice at all as I know well.

Fiona said...

Hope your back improves quickly, it does hamper things....
Hugz

kiwikid said...

I hope your back is better soon, your crafting will be there waiting for you when you can comfortably return. Great looking puzzle and your knitting looks wonderful too.

Jo said...

So sorry your back is giving you so much grief. I hope it gets better soon. Just take your time on the things you have on hand. Enjoy your puzzle together

Ma Betty said...

Take care of that back of yours Lou.