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100 Mile Life/Grandma Core

Project for Lent — April 4, 2025

Project for Lent

/Barbara (Doll) Creelman/Leave a comment

This is not a transcript but some additional thoughts:

In this video I share a bit of a tutorial as I knit the 10 row blanket – adding in a new colour/section.

What does this project mean to me? While I knit, I meditate. I meditate on the day, the weekly scripture. I pray for my family, friends, and community.

With so much chaos in our world today a few moments of relaxation, stillness, and prayer is just what the Doctor would order – if I had a GP that is.

Watch the recording of Facebook live:

I think I chose a especially a modular one, because it’s only 10 stitches and it’s something I can work on every day.

https://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/ten-stitch-blanket (free on Ravelry)

While working on this blanket, I’m not finding specific emotions connected with it, possibly joy. It’s very calming to work on it. I don’t have stress or anxiety about needing to get it done or moving forward with it. It’s just coming together.

The colors I use are coming from bits and pieces that I have had spindle spun over the last few months that are in jars. And when I choose a color, the only thing I’m looking at is that it’s not the same as what is the row before. So it needs to be contrasting or complementary, but not the same. But I’m not creating a specific color pattern as I go.

Working on a modular design means I don’t have to worry about getting through, like, 200 stitches in a day or in an hour or whatever. Ten ten stitches and then 10 stitches back, so 20 stitches. It it isn’t very much. And I try to work on whatever little ball of yarn I have. I try to finish that color when I sit. But it’s not time it doesn’t hold me up whether or not I have enough time to do it. It’s the time I have intentionally decided to pick it up.

In the last week of working on this blanket, I realized that there is a message to be found here about diversity, about differences, and how things can all mesh together, that we’re all interwoven. So I believe there’s a sermon in there.

So do my colors reflect my personal journey? I don’t believe so. I’m drawn to purple, blues, pinks, but the bulk of the blanket are more neutral earth tones. So I’m not sure color plays into the emotion for me.

So the colors I choose might reflect my day. Or if I’m tired of working on neutral tones, maybe I want a splash of color in there to brighten things up. Or maybe the day’s dark because it’s raining and cloudy and foggy. And so I need something in purples or pinks, gold or yellow to lift my spirit.

I think the modular design connects with my personal journey in that small changes are helpful, that although it’s been a long road in life to get to where I am, there have been bits and pieces of my life that have come together in beautiful ways and helped me to move forward in much the same way as this blanket does, in much the same way as my faith does.

May you continue to find blessings as you walk through Lent to the celebration of Resurrection Day!

Pastor Barb aka Doll

My 30 Day Fibre Declutter Challenge — April 3, 2025

My 30 Day Fibre Declutter Challenge

/Barbara (Doll) Creelman/Leave a comment

30-Day Fiber Arts Declutter Project: Why I’m Doing This

Like many fiber artists, I’ve spent years building up a collection of yarn, needles, books, and patterns. Every new project seems to come with new tools and materials, and before you know it, you have an overflowing stash. But here’s the thing—I’ve been working on decluttering my home, and there’s one area I’ve completely ignored: my fiber arts supplies.

That changes today!

I’m kicking off a 30-Day Fiber Arts Declutter Project, where I’ll go through everything—yarn, needles, books, patterns, and tools—to decide what stays and what needs a new home. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by your own stash, I’d love for you to join me!

Why Declutter Fiber Arts Supplies?

As knitters, spinners, or fiber artists, we know how easy it is to collect things. We see beautiful yarn, and we buy it—even if we don’t have an immediate project in mind. We hold onto tools just in case we need them someday. We have patterns and books that we swear we’ll use… but haven’t touched in years.

I’ve realized that my clutter isn’t just taking up space—it’s making it harder for me to enjoy my craft. I forget what I already own, I feel guilty about unused supplies, and sometimes, the sheer amount of stuff makes it harder to start a new project.

This project is about more than just tidying up. It’s about making space for creativity, inspiration, and the joy of fiber arts.

What I’ll Be Decluttering

Over the next 30 days, I’ll be sorting through:

✅ Yarn: I love my stash, but there are skeins I’ll never use. It’s time to be honest about what fits my current style and projects.

✅ Knitting Needles & Tools: I’ve somehow ended up with multiple sets of the same needles. I’ll be keeping my favorites and passing along the extras.

✅ Books & Patterns: Some have been great resources, but others no longer serve me. I want my collection to reflect what I actually use and love.

The Emotional Side of Decluttering

Decluttering isn’t always easy. Letting go of fiber arts supplies can feel personal. Some yarns hold memories of projects never started, gifts never given, or plans that never came to life. There’s also the guilt—thinking about the money spent or the “waste” of giving something away.

But I remind myself: letting go doesn’t mean failure. It means freeing up space for the things that truly bring joy. When I donate yarn, someone else gets the chance to create with it. When I pass on books, another knitter finds inspiration.

So, I’m approaching this project with kindness toward myself and the understanding that my stash should serve me—not the other way around.

My Plan for Documenting This Journey

To keep myself accountable, I’ll be documenting my 30-day challenge through:

📸 Instagram: Sharing progress photos and before/after shots of my stash
🎥 YouTube: Weekly vlogs showing my decluttering process and lessons learned
✍️ Blog Posts: Writing about the emotional and practical sides of fiber arts decluttering

If you’d like to follow along, I’d love for you to join me! You can declutter with me, share your own experiences, or just enjoy the journey.

The Biggest Decluttering Challenge: Getting It Out of the House

One of the hardest parts of decluttering isn’t sorting through things—it’s actually getting rid of them! I don’t want to be one of those people who bags everything up… only to let it sit in the car for weeks.

So, I’ll be making a Declutter & Donate Checklist to keep myself on track. That way, the items I no longer need can quickly find a new home where they’ll be loved and used.

Join Me!

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by your fiber arts stash, I invite you to declutter along with me! Whether you’re tackling your yarn, your tools, or even just organizing your space, let’s do this together.

What’s the hardest part of decluttering for you? Drop a comment below—I’d love to hear your thoughts!

✨ Happy crafting (and decluttering!),
Doll

Spinning for 100 Days: Finding Joy, Rhythm, and Mindfulness — April 2, 2025

Spinning for 100 Days: Finding Joy, Rhythm, and Mindfulness

/Barbara (Doll) Creelman/Leave a comment

  • Hi friends! It’s Doll from Doll Can Create.
  • Sharing my 100-day spindle spinning challenge.
  • A fun and engaging challenge with a group of us.
  • Today, I’m spinning fiber that was a Christmas gift.

The Joy of Handspun and Modular Knitting

  • Wearing a handspun, modular knit scarf (ENTRALAC pattern).
  • Made this scarf years ago—still a favorite.
  • Modular knitting is a satisfying and creative process.

Why a 100-Day Challenge?

  • Creates space to slow down and breathe.
  • Spinning is calming and meditative.
  • Establishes a routine—spindle does the work.
  • My two goals:
    1. Spin 100+ grams of fiber on a spindle.
    2. Document the journey and share my next steps.
  • Storing singles on a jar for plying later.

The Rhythm of Spinning

  • Currently on Day 7 of 100.
  • Challenge ends as Tour de Fleece begins.
  • Tour de Fleece → switch to wheel spinning.
  • Spinning is part of my daily routine (morning or refocus time).
  • BFL blend fiber with hints of yellow—feels soft and luxurious.

Challenges and Magic in the Process

  • Breakage happens—especially while meditating.
  • Accidental reverse spinning weakens the twist.
  • Drop spindle really does drop sometimes!
  • Spinning is a sensory experience:
    • Feel the fiber.
    • Watch the spindle spin.
    • Listen to the soft whir.
  • Connects to mindfulness, prayer, and meditation.

My Favorite Spindles

  • Lightweight spindle by Nick (cherished piece).
  • Heavier spindle with a moose design (great for blending/plying).
  • Hand-painted spindle by Annie May (2004, found on eBay)
    • Heavier, good for beginners.
    • Marked an inch for wraps-per-inch checks.
    • My first spindle

The Satisfaction of Handmade Yarn

  • Spinning takes time but is deeply rewarding.
  • Even imperfect yarn (thick, thin, uneven) is beautiful.
  • Handmade yarn is art—you create something unique.

Join Me on This Journey

  • Follow along with my 100-day challenge!
  • Share your spinning progress if you’re joining.
  • More spinning conversations and tutorials coming soon.
  • Whatever you’re creating—be proud of it!
  • You are not alone—I’m cheering you on!

Be blessed.

Doll from Doll Can Create

Reflections for the Final Days of Lent —

Reflections for the Final Days of Lent

/Barbara (Doll) Creelman/Leave a comment

Introduction
As we enter the final stretch of Lent, these days serve as a time of deep reflection, renewal, and preparation for Holy Week. This devotional is designed to guide you through themes of compassion, humility, trust, and discipleship. Let us walk these remaining days with open hearts, seeking to grow closer to Christ and embrace His call to love and serve.

Day 30: A Heart of Compassion
Scripture: Colossians 3:12 – “Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience.”

Reflection:
As we draw closer to the end of Lent, we reflect on the call to embody compassion. Christ’s ministry was marked by deep love and care for others, especially those in need. How can we intentionally clothe ourselves with compassion today?

Prayer:
Lord, soften my heart so that I may see others through Your eyes. Help me to be kind, patient, and humble in my interactions. Let my actions reflect Your love. Amen.

Practice:
Show compassion in a tangible way today. Write a letter, visit someone who is lonely, or extend kindness to a stranger.

Day 31 Carrying Our Cross
Scripture: Luke 9:23 – “Then he said to them all: ‘Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me.'”

Reflection:
Following Christ is not always easy. It requires sacrifice, self-denial, and a willingness to trust Him even in difficulties. What are the crosses you carry in your life? How can you surrender them to Jesus?

Prayer:
Jesus, give me strength to bear my cross each day. Help me to embrace both the struggles and joys of discipleship, trusting that You walk beside me always. Amen.

Practice:
Identify one challenge in your life and offer it to God in prayer. Reflect on how Christ carried His cross with love and perseverance.

Day 32 The Power of Humility
Scripture: Philippians 2:3-4 – “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.”

Reflection:
Jesus, the King of Kings, humbled Himself to serve others. He washed His disciples’ feet and gave His life for us. True greatness in God’s kingdom is found in humility. How can we imitate Christ’s humble heart?

Prayer:
Lord, teach me to walk in humility. Help me to set aside my pride and serve others selflessly, just as You have served me. Amen.

Practice:
Find a way to serve someone today without seeking recognition. Consider helping a family member, volunteering, or doing an act of kindness in secret.

Day 33 Trusting in God’s Plan
Scripture: Proverbs 3:5-6 – “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”

Reflection:
Life is full of uncertainties, but God’s plans are always greater than our own. When we surrender our worries to Him, He leads us on the right path. Do we fully trust God with our future?

Prayer:
God I surrender my plans to You. Lead me in Your wisdom and guide my steps according to Your will. Strengthen my trust in You. Amen.

Practice:
Write down one area of your life where you need to trust God more. Spend time in prayer, surrendering it to Him completely.

March Reflections: Fiber, Faith & Finding Calm — March 31, 2025

March Reflections: Fiber, Faith & Finding Calm

/Barbara (Doll) Creelman/Leave a comment

Hello friends,

As March draws to a close, I’ve been reflecting on the rhythm of my days—filled with fibre, faith, and finding small ways to bring more peace into my life. This month has been about creativity, mindful making, and managing anxiety with intention. Here’s a glimpse into what I’ve been working on and learning.

Spinning & Knitting Updates

March has been a full month on my needles and spindle! Here’s what’s been keeping my hands busy:

  • Socks, a shawl, a sweater, and a blanket—each one growing stitch by stitch.
  • Spindling DK brown & spinning fawn—finding joy in slow, meditative movement.
  • Carding white & brown wool—preparing fiber is just as satisfying as spinning it!
  • English Paper Piecing (EPP)—a quiet, mindful project for piecing beauty together.
  • Knitting a hat—because there’s always room for one more.

I’m also planning recorded a spindle plying tutorial, which I’m excited to share soon! You’ll see this later today.

Lenten Knitting & YouTube

I continue to work on a Lenten knitting project, setting aside an hour a day to stitch with intention. This ties into a YouTube video I’m creating about faith and knitting, where I explore how these practices intertwine.

Another video I create is this shortform: “Finding Calm: Strategies for Managing Anxiety.” I’d shared how spinning and knitting has become powerful tools in my journey, along with other techniques that help me reset when anxiety starts creeping in.

Managing Anxiety: What’s Been Helping

Anxiety has a way of showing up uninvited, but I’ve been focusing on small, tangible ways to shift my mindset. Here are some go-to strategies I’ve been leaning on:

  • Fresh air & water—getting outside, even for a few minutes, helps.
  • Knitting—stitching my worries into something tangible.
  • Watching something funny—laughter truly is medicine.
  • Healthy food—choosing what nourishes both body and mind.
  • Writing down blessings—a simple way to shift perspective.
  • Decluttering—turning tidying into a game keeps it from feeling overwhelming.
  • Driving—sometimes a change of scenery is all I need.

Recognizing the early signs of anxiety—like staying up too late or feeling a racing heart—has also been key in catching it before it takes over.

Sourcing Local: My 100-Mile Life Challenge

Another focus lately has been my 100-Mile Life in 100 Days challenge. I’m continuing to seek out locally sourced wool and other products, making mindful choices about where my materials come from. It’s been an eye-opening experience, deepening my connection to both my craft and my community.

Looking Ahead

As April approaches, I’m eager to continue these projects and see where they lead. If you’re also on a journey of mindful making, I’d love to hear from you—what’s been on your needles, spindle, or heart this month?

Until next time,

Doll from Doll Can Create

The Blessing of Humility and Hospitality | Luke 14:7-14 — March 30, 2025

The Blessing of Humility and Hospitality | Luke 14:7-14

/Barbara (Doll) Creelman/Leave a comment

Some of my sermon and bible study notes:

1. Humility: Taking the Lowest Place (Luke 14:7-11)

  • Jesus tells a parable about a banquet where people seek the best seats.
  • He teaches us to take the lowest place, letting the host elevate us if needed.
  • Life lesson: Aging brings natural humility—our roles change, and we may feel overlooked.
  • Key verse: “For all those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.” (Luke 14:11)
  • Reflection:
    • Have you experienced a time when humility brought a blessing?
    • How has growing older taught you humility?

2. Hospitality: Inviting Those Who Cannot Repay (Luke 14:12-14)

  • Jesus challenges us to welcome those who cannot repay us—true hospitality is selfless.
  • We often show hospitality expecting something in return, but Jesus calls us to a different way.
  • Life lesson: Even if we can’t do what we once did, small acts—calls, visits, kind words—reflect Christ’s love.
  • Key verse: “Although they cannot repay you, you will be repaid at the resurrection of the righteous.” (Luke 14:14)
  • Reflection:
    • Have you ever been blessed by someone’s kindness when you had nothing to give back?
    • How can we show hospitality to the lonely or those in need?

3. Living with Kingdom Values

  • We don’t need recognition—God honors the humble.
  • We don’t need repayment—God blesses generosity.
  • Reflection:
    • Where can I choose humility in my life?
    • Who can I bless with kindness without expecting anything in return?
  • Encouragement: God sees, remembers, and will reward every act of humility and love.

Closing Prayer:
Ask God to help us walk in humility and extend kindness without expecting anything in return, trusting in His eternal promises.

📖 Key Takeaways:
✅ Humility brings unexpected blessings (Luke 14:11).
✅ True hospitality expects nothing in return (Luke 14:14).
✅ God sees, remembers, and will reward every act of love.

Reflection Questions:
🔹 Where can I choose humility in my life?
🔹 Who can I bless with kindness without expecting anything in return?

If this message encourages you, like, comment, and subscribe for more faith-filled content!

🙏 Let’s grow in faith together. Share your thoughts in the comments!

#BibleStudy #ChristianFaith #Luke14 #Humility #Hospitality #Sermon #FaithInAction

How to Ply Yarn with a Spindle: My Simple Method — March 29, 2025

How to Ply Yarn with a Spindle: My Simple Method

/Barbara (Doll) Creelman/Leave a comment

Hi friends! Welcome to this tutorial where I share my personal method of plying yarn from a spindle. While there are many techniques out there, this is the one that works best for me, and I hope it helps you too. (this is not a word for word transcript)

Getting Started

Before we begin, here’s what you’ll need:

  • Your favorite spindle (or one of them, if you’re like me and have several!)
  • A small amount of spun singles
  • Your hands—no fancy tools required!

This method works best with a fiber that has some grip to it. Today, I’m using a beautiful fiber from Germany that’s naturally grabby, making for a warm and fuzzy finished yarn.

Step-by-Step Plying Process

1. Preparing the Singles

  • Remove the spun singles from your spindle.
  • Wrap the singles around your hand by first looping it around a finger and then wrapping it around your open hand.
  • Once fully wound, slide the loops down onto your wrist, creating a bracelet of yarn.

2. Setting Up for Plying

  • Find the two ends: the one from the inside of the bracelet and the outermost strand.
  • Make a slipknot with these two ends and attach them to your spindle.
  • Start spinning in the opposite direction from how you originally spun the singles.

3. Plying the Yarn

  • Hold the two strands together and let the twist distribute evenly as you spin.
  • If needed, gently guide the twist so that the yarn plies consistently.
  • Wind the newly plied yarn onto your spindle and repeat until all singles have been plied.

Finishing the Yarn

1. Making a Skein

  • Once all the yarn is plied, remove it from the spindle.
  • If you don’t have a niddy noddy, use the old-fashioned elbow method: wrap the yarn around your forearm to measure out a small skein.

2. Setting the Twist

  • If your yarn has extra twist, give it a quick flick or a gentle shake to distribute it evenly.
  • Soak the yarn in lukewarm water for about 20 minutes to set the twist.
  • Squeeze out excess water and hang it to dry.

Tips & Encouragement

  • If you’re new to spinning, don’t stress about perfection! It’s all about practice and enjoying the process.
  • Your yarn’s characteristics (twist, thickness, and texture) will determine its best use. Sometimes, the fiber itself will tell you what it wants to be.
  • Spinning can be addictive, and it’s easy to fall down the fiber arts rabbit hole! Enjoy the journey and explore different tools and techniques at your own pace.

Join the Spinning Community!

Are you taking part in a spinning challenge? I’m currently spindling for 100 days, leading up to the Tour de Fleece! Whether you’re just beginning or have been spinning for years, I’d love to hear from you.

Leave a comment below: Are you new to spindle plying? What projects are you working on? Need any extra help? Let me know!

If you found this tutorial helpful, consider subscribing to my channel or blog for more fiber arts content. Let’s grow together—my goal is to reach 200 subscribers, and I’d love for you to be part of that journey!

Happy spinning, and may your yarn bring joy to your hands and heart!

Until next time,

Doll from Doll Can Create

(Like, share, and subscribe to help support the channel and blog!)

100 Mile Journey Check-in March 28, 2025 — March 28, 2025

100 Mile Journey Check-in March 28, 2025

/Barbara (Doll) Creelman/Leave a comment

Embarking on a Hundred Mile Life—sourcing essentials within a 100-mile radius—has come with its share of challenges. Here’s how I’m tackling them:

Budget Challenges & Solutions

  • Local products can be more expensive, so I need to cut back elsewhere.
  • Reviewing subscriptions to streaming services:
    • Prioritizing only what we actually use.
    • Canceling unnecessary ones to free up funds for local purchases.
  • Reducing unnecessary delivery costs:
    • Checking if I’m paying for services I don’t need.
    • Finding ways to replace delivery items with local alternatives.

Finding Local Alternatives

  • Some items are harder to find, like canned goods and long-term storage items.
  • Farmers’ markets will be opening soon—good opportunities to stock up.
  • Meat sourcing has been a challenge:
    • Local meats can be pricey but not impossible to find.
    • Found a store in Hamilton with its own meat processing plant—more affordable and transparent.
    • Whole chickens are cheaper there than at big-box stores.

Tracking Local vs. Non-Local Spending

  • Need a better way to measure how much I’m truly sourcing locally.
  • Planning to use YNAB (You Need a Budget) to:
    • Separate spending into “local” and “non-local” categories.
    • Analyze where I can improve and adjust.

Minimizing Delivery Costs

  • Ensuring delivery services are within the 100-mile radius.
  • Already have local options for dairy, produce, and coffee:
    • Dairy: Prepaid for a year’s worth of delivery.
    • Produce: Can pick up for free in Ancaster (15–20 min away).
    • Coffee: Found a local roaster that delivers affordably.
  • Planning errands efficiently to reduce fuel costs when picking up local goods.

Looking Ahead

  • Expecting more challenges but staying flexible and creative.
  • The goal is sustainability—balancing cost, convenience, and commitment to local sourcing.
  • Continuing to track progress and refine strategies.

Have you tried focusing on local purchases? What obstacles have you encountered, and how did you overcome them?

Let’s start a conversation. What steps will you take this weekend?

Till again,

Doll from DollCanCreate

Walking Through the Final Days of Lent: A Journey Through Ephesians — March 26, 2025

Walking Through the Final Days of Lent: A Journey Through Ephesians

/Barbara (Doll) Creelman/Leave a comment

As we approach the final days of Lent, we reflect on the transformative message of Ephesians. This powerful letter reminds us of our calling to walk in the light, redeem our time, and stand firm in faith. Let’s journey together through these last days, drawing strength from God’s Word.

Walking in the Light (Day 23)
“For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light.” – Ephesians 5:8

Lent is a season of transformation. We were once in darkness, but Christ has made us light. Today, take time to reflect: How is God calling you to shine His light in your daily life?

Prayer: Lord, help me walk in Your light. Let my actions reflect Your truth and goodness. Amen.

Redeeming the Time (Day 24)
“Making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil.” – Ephesians 5:16

Time is a precious gift. Lent reminds us to refocus, using our time wisely for God’s glory. Consider how you are spending your days—are distractions pulling you away from His purpose?

Prayer: Father, teach me to use my time for Your kingdom. May my choices reflect Your wisdom. Amen.

Submitting to One Another (Day 25)
“Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ.” – Ephesians 5:21

True submission is about humility and love. How can you serve others with a heart that mirrors Christ’s love? This Lenten season, seek ways to live out His command to love one another.

Prayer: Jesus, give me a heart of humility. Help me to serve and love others as You have loved me. Amen.

Strength in the Lord (Day 26)
“Finally, be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power.” – Ephesians 6:10

Lent can be a time of spiritual challenge, but our strength comes from God. In times of struggle, we must lean on Him. Where do you need His strength today?

Prayer: Lord, I trust in Your strength, not my own. Equip me for the journey ahead. Amen.

The Armor of God (Day 27)
“Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes.” – Ephesians 6:11

Paul calls us to wear the armor of God: truth, righteousness, peace, faith, salvation, and the Word. Each piece equips us to stand firm in our faith. Are you clothed in His armor daily?

Prayer: Father, clothe me in Your armor. May I stand firm in faith and truth. Amen.

Praying in the Spirit (Day 28)
“And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests.” – Ephesians 6:18

Prayer is our direct line to God. As we prepare for Holy Week, let us deepen our connection with Him. How can you cultivate a habit of prayer in your daily life?

Prayer: Lord, teach me to pray continually. May my heart always be turned toward You. Amen.

Boldness in Christ (Day 29)
“Pray also for me, that whenever I speak, words may be given me so that I will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel.” – Ephesians 6:19-20

Paul asked for boldness in sharing the gospel. This Holy Week, let’s pray for courage to live and speak our faith. Where is God calling you to step out in boldness?

Prayer: Lord, give me courage to share Your love with others. May I be a witness to Your grace. Amen.

Grace Be With You (Day 30)
“Grace to all who love our Lord Jesus Christ with an undying love.” – Ephesians 6:24

As Lent comes to a close, we rest in God’s grace. His love sustains us beyond this season. May our journey not end here, but continue with renewed faith and devotion.

Prayer: Thank You, Lord, for Your grace. May I walk in Your love always. Amen.

As we conclude our Lenten journey, let’s carry these lessons into our daily lives. May we continue walking in light, redeeming our time, submitting in love, standing strong, and boldly proclaiming Christ’s message. May His grace sustain us in every season. Amen.

What’s in your tool kit? — March 24, 2025

What’s in your tool kit?

/Barbara (Doll) Creelman/Leave a comment

Finding Calm: How Spinning & Knitting Help My Anxiety

When life feels overwhelming, I reach for my fiber. The rhythm, the movement, the texture—these are the things that bring me back to myself. Spinning and knitting have become more than just hobbies for me; they are lifelines, gentle anchors that steady me when my thoughts start to spiral.

I can always tell when my anxiety is creeping in. It starts with staying up too late, doom-scrolling through news headlines, or lying in bed as my mind races through worries—especially about my family. My heart beats faster, and suddenly, the world feels a little too big, a little too out of control. I need something steady to hold onto.

That’s when I sit down at my spinning wheel. I place my foot on the treadle, letting the motion slow my thoughts. My hands draft the fibre, watching as it twists into yarn, transforming from something loose and chaotic into something whole. Also picking up my spindle and a small amount of floof works well. It’s a small act of control in a world that often feels uncontrollable. The wheel hums, the fibre moves through my fingers, and with each turn, I feel a little more grounded.

Knitting offers me the same comfort. The repetitive motion of each stitch feels like breathing—it moves in, it moves out. I don’t have to think too hard; I just follow the rhythm, letting my hands lead the way. Each row is a prayer, each stitch a step toward calm. There’s something about soft wool, warm colors, and familiar patterns that soothes me when words fail.

Over time, I’ve learned that my anxiety doesn’t just disappear, but I can meet it with tools—tools that bring me back to the present, that remind me I’m okay. A spindle, a pair of needles, a skein of wool. Simple things, but powerful in their quiet way.

Anxiety still comes, but now I know I’m not powerless against it. I have my fiber. I have my stitches. I have my breath and I have my faith.

What helps you find calm when life feels overwhelming? Maybe it’s fibre, or maybe it’s something else. But I think we all need a thread to hold onto.

Till next time,

Doll

Doll Can Create

100 Mile Life/Grandma Core

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