| I learned to really love crafting years ago when a family vacation at the lake came with terrible weather. First was the rain and lightning, then the tornado warnings that kept us inside for most of the week. Distractions weren’t as plentiful as they are today – no internet, cable or videogames – but I made potholders on tiny metal looms and learned how to cross-stitch with kits from the town dime store (remember those?) Concentrating on perfecting my stitches helped to distract from the dreadful weather and canceled plans. With the weeks ahead looking like that rainy indoor vacation, I’m going to crack open my long ignored craft closet and lose myself in a project. Seems appropriate during National Craft Month to turn to something that research shows reduces anxiety, lifts moods and increases happiness. Fingers crossed we all have something beautiful to be thankful for at the end of this. Searching for a craft project? For stitchers, you can order a variety of kits from DMC which also offers free downloadable patterns or check out The Stitchery. For knitters, try Purl Soho. And you can find a variety of kits at Uncommon Goods, including building robots, crafting miniatures and a host of make your own alcohol kits that may come in handy. You Tube is a great place to look for how-to videos on almost any kind of craft. Looking for a different distraction? The Metropolitan Opera is offering free streaming from their opera catalogs and plenty of museums around the world offer virtual tours when you can’t visit in person. Looking for a good read? With many public libraries closed over the next few weeks, you can order online and still support your local bookstore at Bookshop. If you’re looking for a good book, head to mutterhood for our MutterReads recommendations or reply to this newsletter and we’ll offer personalized suggestions. At the end of every terrible, no good, horrible week, there’s bound to be a break in the storm. Stay safe everyone! This post is from our weekly newsletter. To stay informed and join the mutterhood community, you can sign-up HERE. |
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