Doll Can Create

100 Mile Life/Grandma Core

🕊️ Bread for the Journey — April 13, 2025

🕊️ Bread for the Journey

/Barbara (Doll) Creelman/Leave a comment

Palm Sunday Reflection on Luke 19:28–40

As Palm Sunday arrives, we find ourselves at a turning point in the story of Jesus—a moment of celebration that leads directly to the cross. In Luke 19:28–40, Jesus enters Jerusalem on a colt, welcomed by crowds shouting praise, laying down cloaks, and waving branches. It looks like a victory parade, but beneath it lies something much deeper.

Jesus is not entering the city to claim a throne. He’s entering to give Himself away. He is becoming bread for the journey—for the disciples, for the people, and for us.

🎉 The Joy of the People: Nourishment Through Worship

As Jesus approaches, the people rejoice with loud voices. They’ve seen His miracles, heard His teachings, and sensed something holy in His presence. Their praise is passionate and heartfelt.

Yet we know how quickly the mood will shift. From “Hosanna” to “Crucify Him” in just a few days. Their joy is real—but fragile.

Still, this moment teaches us something essential: joy is food for the soul.
Even if we’re walking through hard times, worship sustains us. Singing, praying, laying our hearts before the Lord—these are ways we take in spiritual nourishment.

Worship is bread for the journey.

🕊️ The Humility of Jesus: Gentle Strength

Jesus chooses a colt, not a warhorse. He doesn’t enter Jerusalem as a conqueror, but as a servant King. This is not how the world expects royalty to behave—but it is the way of Christ.

In our own journeys, we often hunger for peace, not power. Gentleness can be more nourishing than strength. In the quiet humility of Jesus, we find a model for how to live, how to love, and how to keep going.

Humility is bread for the journey.

🪨 Even the Stones Will Cry Out

When the Pharisees try to quiet the crowd, Jesus responds:
“If they keep quiet, the stones will cry out.”

What a powerful truth. The praise of Jesus is so real, so essential, that even creation would rise up if people stayed silent. We were made to worship. And even when life feels heavy or quiet, praise keeps us connected to something bigger than ourselves.

Whether sung in full voice or whispered in prayer, our praise matters. It keeps our spirits fed.

Praise is bread for the journey.

🍞 Jesus Is the Bread

This triumphal entry leads to an upper room, where bread will be broken. Then to a cross, where His body becomes the broken bread for the world. Then to a tomb—and finally, to resurrection.

Jesus doesn’t just walk the journey—He becomes the nourishment for ours.

🌿 As Holy Week Begins…

What do you need for your own journey right now?

Maybe you’re weary. Maybe you’re grateful. Maybe you’ve been quietly carrying burdens no one else sees. Wherever you are, Jesus meets you—on a colt, in humility, with joy, with peace. He offers Himself again, not as a concept, but as living bread.

So come. Lay down your cloak. Lift up your voice. And let Him feed you.

Jesus is your bread for the journey.

Wishing you a blessed Holy Week. May your heart be fed and your spirit strengthened for the road ahead.

Link to full worship experience:

Linden Park United Church weekly announcements and information:

Linden Park Contact Information:
484 East 16th Street, Hamilton, ON L9A 4K8
For Pastoral Care please call (905) 252-1894
Rev. Barbara Creelman/OM
Sunday at 10:30 A.M.
Mailing/Cheque donation address:484 East 16th Street
Hamilton, ON L9A 4K8
Office – 905-385-7891
Dial-A-Sermon number: 905-296-1014

LINDEN PARK FUNDSCRIP GIFT CARD FUNDRAISER – Please fill out an order form (on top of mail slots in the Narthex) along with a cheque made out to Linden Park United Church
Due Sun. April 27th

PAPERLESS OPTION FOR ENVELOPES – If you wish to
go paperless, Linden Park offers:
1)PAR (Pre-authorized Remittance). Please email or call Sheri for more information.
2) E-TRANFERS are also available and can be sent to
Lpuc@rogers.com

THIS WEEK AT A GLANCE:

Today: Refreshments following worship

7:00pm Gemini AA

Monday 6:30 pm Beavers & Cubs

Tues. 4:00 pm T.O.P.S L/H
7:00 pm Police Choir Practice

Wed. 8:00 am TOPS – L/H
9:00 am Quilters
9:30 am Bible Study – Library
10:30 am Coffee Time

Thurs. 12:00 pm Gemini AA – Rm. 1
7:00 pm Scouts, Ventures & MedVents

Friday 10:30 am Good Friday Worship
Sat. 10:00 am The United Church of God – L/H

Our Lenten Project this year will be for SOCKS Canada. Your donations can be directed in two ways: i) the general fund – which supports the children, gardens and education; ii) Women 4 Women : W4W: This gift of $30.00 will provide one girl at Joyland Special Needs School with feminine hygiene products and underwear for a full year. Please pick up a sock for your donation. Feel free to make a cash donation. If writing a cheque, please make it out to: SOCKS Canada Relief Organization.
You can also e-transfer your donation to kenyanhugs@gmail.com
security question- name of charity / answer – socks.

May God’s blessings be returned to you as you bless others.

A Basket, A Journey, and a Bit of Decluttering — April 12, 2025

A Basket, A Journey, and a Bit of Decluttering

/Barbara (Doll) Creelman/Leave a comment

Hi friends,

Today, I’m bringing you along on a little journey that’s been a long time coming. You see, beside my favorite chair — where I do most of my knitting, spindle spinning, reading, and general life-living — there’s a humble little basket. And that basket has been… let’s just say, “collecting life” for quite some time. (scroll down for the full video)

*how I’d love my space to look

So I sat down (iced coffee in hand) and decided it was time to dig in. Literally. If you’ve ever had a crafting corner or a cozy nook that gradually grows into a black hole of projects, odds and ends, and mystery items — you’ll understand. Today’s mission: declutter the basket.

Treasures, Tools & Thrift Box Tales

The first thing I pulled out was a lovely little bag I picked up at a church sale. Inside? All my short needles — the perfect sizes for socks and mittens. I’ve decided that anything belonging in that bag is going right back in, including a couple of needle sets. (Side note: nitpick shorties — not my thing!)

Then out came a purple pouch filled with crochet hooks, loom hooks, and some needles that honestly baffle me. There’s even a handy little guidebook, which I’ve left open to the first page… just in case.

A skein of yarn dyed with acorns was next. It already has a home, so off it goes. One lonely wooden needle that snags yarn? Off to the thrift box. (Goodbye and thank you.)

I even found a book I’m reading — How to Be a Craftivist — still in the basket. It’s going back in, along with some fiber that’s destined for spinning. Little tufts of leftover fiber went into my bits-and-pieces jar. Those tiny leftovers are great for my modular knitting projects, and they always make me smile.

Nick made me a beautiful homemade niddy noddy, and that’s a keeper. Into the basket it goes. I found pieces of another one too, so those are staying as well. Oh! And a sweet little note from a fiber gift — that’s being tucked in with its corresponding wool.

Yarn, Cords, and Questions

Bits and bobs of sock yarn turned up — those went into their designated bags (yes, I have a few). A random blue chunky yarn? Not my vibe anymore. Thrift store pile. A cracked old Zing needle? Tossed. And I found an ornament I thought might be a spindle in disguise… we’ll see.

Circular needles, cords for electronic gadgets of mysterious origin, a sock gauge ruler, and a pile of “maybe someday” things… all sorted, tested, and either re-homed or released.

I even rediscovered a one-row scarf knit in hand-dyed Lincoln wool. That’s officially a project again — spring seems like the perfect time to pick it back up.

The Deep End

As I neared the bottom of the basket, the real forgotten bits started appearing — tiny scraps of yarn, a lone slipper (I don’t enjoy making them — thank goodness for friends who do!), a defunct mini music player accessory, and a fabric basket that was literally falling apart. Into the garbage it all went.

And then I found it — an old pillowcase. I’ve had it for years. It never quite felt right for sleeping, but it’s perfect for fiber storage. So I tucked it inside my newly cleared basket, turned it into a soft liner, and started filling it back up: needles, niddy noddies, books, current projects, and a few well-loved tools.

The Reward

By the end, my basket was organized, intentional, and calm. I can see what I have, access what I need, and enjoy this cozy corner again. It’s amazing how something as simple as decluttering a basket can clear your mind and make space for inspiration to flow.

It’s funny — this basket has been beside me since we moved here in 2021, and yet I hadn’t reached the bottom until now. Sometimes it takes a moment (or three years!) to make space, but once you do… oh, what a difference it makes.

Life Lately

As I sipped the last of my (unsweetened!) iced coffee, I started mixing up a homemade electrolyte drink — pineapple juice, coconut water, a pinch of salt, and a bit of cream of tartar. Hydration, here I come.

I’m also realizing my clothes are all hanging off me now, so a wardrobe declutter may be next on the list. When nothing fits quite right, it’s hard to feel grounded — even in your own home.

And yes, for those who are kindly concerned — I am looking into dental work, probably this summer when I can properly heal. It’s a big thing for me, and your prayers and support mean the world.

Looking Ahead

Lent may officially end on Palm Sunday, but I’ll be continuing my Lenten knitting project through Good Friday. I’ll be writing a blog post on that project (and the reflections that came with it) soon after Easter.

In the meantime, I’ll be:

  • Carding wool
  • Spindle spinning
  • Plying yarn
  • Knitting socks, mittens, and a Lenten blanket

I like having a few projects on the go — the variation keeps me grounded and engaged.

Thank you for keeping me company during this decluttering journey. If you’re staring at your own version of “the basket,” maybe this is your sign to dig in, sort it out, and breathe a little easier.

With love, yarn, and the promise of a tidy corner,

Doll

Walking with Jesus: A Holy Week Devotional Guide —

Walking with Jesus: A Holy Week Devotional Guide

/Barbara (Doll) Creelman/Leave a comment

Introduction
Holy Week is the most sacred time in the Christian calendar, marking the final days of Jesus’ earthly ministry, His suffering, death, and glorious resurrection. This devotional guide is designed to help you walk with Christ each day, reflecting on the events leading up to Easter. Through Scripture, meditation, prayer, and personal action, may you deepen your faith and grow closer to the Savior who gave His life for us. Take time each day to pause, read, pray, and respond to God’s love and sacrifice.

Palm Sunday: The Triumphal Entry
Scripture: Matthew 21:1-11
Meditation: Jesus enters Jerusalem as a king, yet He rides on a humble donkey. The crowds cheer, but their hearts will soon change. Do we welcome Jesus into our lives with true faith or just passing excitement?
Prayer: Lord, help me to recognize You as my true King and to follow You with a heart that remains faithful in every season. Amen.
Call to Action: Reflect on areas of your life where you need to welcome Jesus more fully. How can you honor Him as King today?

Monday: Cleansing the Temple
Scripture: Matthew 21:12-17
Meditation: Jesus cleanses the temple, showing His desire for purity in worship. What distractions or sins need to be removed from our hearts so that we may worship Him fully?
Prayer: Lord, cleanse my heart and remove anything that keeps me from worshiping You in spirit and truth. Amen.
Call to Action: Take time today to examine your heart. What needs to be surrendered to God so you can worship Him wholeheartedly?

Tuesday: Teaching in the Temple
Scripture: Matthew 22:34-40
Meditation: Jesus teaches that the greatest commandments are to love God and love others. In what ways can we embody this love in our daily lives?
Prayer: Lord, help me to love You with all my heart, soul, and mind, and to love others as You have loved me. Amen.
Call to Action: Find one practical way to express love to God and one way to show love to others today.

Wednesday: The Betrayal Begins
Scripture: Matthew 26:14-16
Meditation: Judas agrees to betray Jesus for thirty pieces of silver. Are there areas in our lives where we betray Christ by choosing sin or selfishness over Him?
Prayer: Lord, keep my heart from turning away from You. Help me to be faithful in my love and devotion to You. Amen.
Call to Action: Examine your heart for any compromises you may have made. Ask God for strength to remain faithful.

Maundy Thursday: The Last Supper
Scripture: John 13:1-17, Luke 22:19-20
Meditation: Jesus washes the disciples’ feet and institutes the Lord’s Supper, calling us to serve and remember Him. How can we follow His example of humility and love?
Prayer: Lord, teach me to serve others with humility and to always remember Your sacrifice with gratitude. Amen.
Call to Action: Perform an act of humble service today, such as helping someone in need or offering encouragement.

Good Friday: The Crucifixion
Scripture: Luke 23:33-46
Meditation: Jesus endures suffering and death for our salvation. His sacrifice shows the depth of His love. How do we respond to such great love?
Prayer: Lord Jesus, thank You for the cross. Help me to live in gratitude and obedience to You. Amen.
Call to Action: Take time today to reflect on Jesus’ sacrifice. Consider fasting or setting aside a quiet moment of gratitude and prayer.

Holy Saturday: Waiting in Hope
Scripture: Matthew 27:57-66
Meditation: Jesus lies in the tomb, and His followers grieve. Yet, hope is not lost. In our own times of waiting and uncertainty, do we trust that God is at work?
Prayer: Lord, help me to trust in Your timing and to find hope even in the silence. Amen.
Call to Action: Spend time in stillness today, reflecting on God’s promises and trusting Him in times of waiting.

Easter Sunday: He is Risen!
Scripture: Matthew 28:1-10
Meditation: The tomb is empty! Jesus has conquered sin and death. How does the reality of the resurrection transform the way we live?
Prayer: Lord, You are alive! Fill my heart with resurrection joy and help me to walk in the power of Your victory. Amen.
Call to Action: Celebrate Christ’s resurrection by sharing His love and hope with someone today.

Catching Up on My 100 Mile Life — Check-In — April 9, 2025

Catching Up on My 100 Mile Life — Check-In

/Barbara (Doll) Creelman/Leave a comment

Hi friends, it’s Doll. Just popping in with a little life update — where I’m at in this 100 Mile Life journey.

  • We took a quick run to Costco after Bible study. Some hits, some misses!

The Misses (and lessons learned):

  • Grapes from South Africa — delicious, but not local.
  • Mandarins from Morocco — sweet, but definitely outside the 100-mile goal.
  • Blueberry bagels — I thought they were fresh, but it turns out the blueberries were simulated. Big disappointment! I should have read the label more closely.

The Wins:

  • Oak Run Farm Bakery English muffins — made in Brantford, which is local.
  • Plain bagels (also from Costco) — possibly made in-house, but unclear.
  • Local apples still in my fridge.
  • Summit Dairy cream and chocolate milk — both local.
  • Allen’s Apple Juice — made in Ontario.
  • Local maple syrup (label gone, but I promise it’s local!).
  • Liverwurst — also a local purchase.

Freezer Peek (yes, I showed it!):

  • Bacon — 100 Mile approved and Canadian.
  • Shaw’s, My favourite ice cream — Canadian-made
  • Pierogies from Toronto — a great local find!
  • Leftover chili and other good things waiting for me.

Other food notes:

  • All our meat is Canadian, much of it local.
  • One exception: canned ham from Denmark — and yes, I love it.
  • Coffee is tricky. I’m finishing up my stash but plan to switch to Canadian-roasted or locally roasted beans soon. The price jump is real though , my favourite coffee— $18.99 now vs. $9.99 back in the day!

Reflections:

  • The journey is real — and full of trial and error. I do my best and pray over the rest, as the saying goes.
  • I started this for 100 days, which brings me to Easter Monday. After that, I might refine it even more and lean harder into local. As we move into spring/summer and planting season I believe that the journey will be a bit easier.
  • Local fiber is especially important to me — I’m really passionate about Canadian wool.
  • I’m still spinning every day (100 Days of Spindling!), and yes, I’m still knitting too. A mitten for the fall mitten tree, and slowly working on a sock.

What’s Next:

  • A new video coming soon on my fiber declutter and de-stash project.
  • Planning for Palm Sunday and the big parade — so exciting.
  • After Easter? I’m taking a reading week — some rest, some reflection, and gentle learning. A little soul-care.

To You, My Reader:

  • If you’re trying a 100 Mile Life or a 160 km journey, I’d love to hear from you.
  • What’s worked? What’s been hard? What have you joyfully given up on?
  • We all have those “I’m still buying bananas” moments — and that’s okay.

Final Thoughts:

  • I feel so blessed. I’m doing what I love, surrounded by people who care. That’s a gift not everyone has, and I don’t take it for granted.
  • Let’s keep encouraging each other. One little thing at a time is how it starts.
  • Until next time, friends — God bless and take care.
  • And remember: you can create too.
Climbing Trees & Changing Lives: A Letter from Zacchaeus — April 6, 2025

Climbing Trees & Changing Lives: A Letter from Zacchaeus

/Barbara (Doll) Creelman/Leave a comment

A short work of fiction –

“I got a letter in the mail today—from my son, Zacchaeus. Yes, that Zacchaeus. He wrote:

“I heard Jesus was coming through Jericho. As chief tax collector, I knew people hated me—maybe for good reason. I’d built a life on their losses. But something stirred. I ran ahead and climbed a sycamore tree like a child, just to see Him.”

Then Jesus stopped. Right under that tree.

“Zacchaeus, come down. I must stay at your house today.”

He knew my name. He didn’t rebuke me. He invited Himself in.

“It changed everything, Mom. I gave half of what I owned to the poor. I paid back four times what I stole. Jesus came to find the lost—and He found me.”

And then, his letter turned tender:

“Mom, maybe He’s calling your name too.””

Let’s take a few moments to reflect on this story.

Zacchaeus reminds us what Lent is really about: repentance, change, and grace. He felt unworthy, but Jesus called him by name. The crowds grumbled, but it didn’t matter—Jesus saw him.

We’ve all been Zacchaeus at some point—feeling small, hidden, maybe ashamed. But Jesus sees. Jesus calls. Jesus loves—more than He hates sin.

So as we near the end of Lent, maybe we ask ourselves:

  • What trees are we willing to climb to see Jesus?
  • Who needs our apology, our kindness, our open heart?
  • What can we give—not just in money, but in prayer, time, and love?

May we be generous. May we be kind. And may we remember: we are called by name.

Because the community—the bread we offer each other—isn’t just within the church walls. It’s out there, waiting to be fed.

Who are you feeding today?

Please share your thoughts. Has this story spoken to your heart or life today?

00:00 Opening Worship and Call to Worship

05:45 Sharing Good News and Community Updates

12:37 Interactive Scripture Reading with Children

21:37 A Life Transformed by Jesus

24:05 Reflections on Sin and Redemption

29:01 Living a Life of Repentance and Community

*picture found on Pinterest

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

Doll Can Create

100 Mile Life/Grandma Core

Skip to content ↓