2025-07-16T15:59:16-04:00

🧶 Tour de Fleece Week One:

July 16, 2025July 16, 2025/Barbara (Doll) Creelman/Leave a comment

My Wheel, My Spindle, My Why

Posted on July 12, 2025 by Barbara aka Doll

The wheel is humming, the spindle is whirling, and Tour de Fleece 2025 is officially underway! There’s something energizing about spinning alongside a global community—each of us finding our rhythm, one draft at a time.

Whether you’re just joining in or you’ve been prepping for weeks, Week One is about beginning. And this year, I’m starting with gratitude, curiosity, and a basket full of beautiful wool.

This week’s video is a summary of week one and a catch up as well. Scroll to the bottom to view the video.

✨ What I’m Spinning

This week I’m working with both my spinning wheel and my drop spindles. They offer different joys. My wheel brings long, peaceful stretches. My spindles are perfect for spontaneous spinning outside or during quiet breaks in the day.

I’ve chosen some naturally dyed wool. It includes onion skins and just a hint of avocado. I also have some fleece in natural shades. It’s not about spinning for speed; it’s about connection: to the fiber, the rhythm, and the story each skein holds.

🎥 On the Channel:

Tour de Fleece Week 1: My Wheel, My Spindle, My Why
This week’s YouTube video walks through:

My fiber and tool choices
How I prep for both spindle and wheel spinning
Why Tour de Fleece is about more than just yarn—it’s about peace, purpose, and play

📣 I’d love to know—are you spinning this year? Drop a comment or tag me @dollcancreate on Instagram!

🧵 Spinning Reflections: The Ritual of Beginning

Starting something new always brings mixed feelings—excitement, nerves, maybe a little overwhelm. But here’s what spinning taught me this week: start small, and let the joy grow.

Even 15 minutes a day is enough to settle into flow. The sound of the wheel brought me back to center. The pull of the spindle and the twist of the wool did as well. This isn’t about pressure. It’s about presence.

🌟 Join Me?

If you’re spinning along, I’d love to follow your progress! Tag me on social media or send a note. Whether you’re making art yarn or refining your drafting technique, your journey is valid and beautiful.

Let’s spin a little joy into the world—one twist at a time.

Follow along all month at dollcancreate.com and on YouTube @dollcancreate

Preparing for the Sabbath: A Pause in the Quiet

July 5, 2025/Barbara (Doll) Creelman/Leave a comment

In the hush before the dawn,
A pause is gently drawn,
Not from haste, nor from demand,
But from the stillness of the land.

Today, we set aside the race,
To carve a moment, find our place,
In quiet steps, we prepare the way,
For tomorrow’s calm, the gift of day.

A cup of tea, a whispered prayer,
A mindful breath, a moment’s care,
The clutter fades, the peace takes hold,
In simple acts, the Sabbath unfolds.

Not tomorrow, but today we sow,
The seeds of rest we long to know,
In silence deep, in quiet grace,
We find our hearts a sacred space.

So as the sun begins to set,
The Sabbath pause, we’ve gently met,
And though tomorrow’s peace may come,
The rest begins when we’re undone.

Blessings as you rest this evening.

Tour de Fleece: Day One – Let’s Get Spinning!

July 5, 2025/Barbara (Doll) Creelman/Leave a comment

Welcome to my channel! I’m Doll from Doll Can Create, and I’m thrilled to share my journey with you through the Tour de Fleece 2025. If you’re new here, I believe anyone can create—whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro. It’s all about learning, growing, and getting better each day, and today, I’m taking you along for my spinning adventure.

See video below.

What’s On My Wheel?

I’ve hauled my Babe wheel up the stairs. Let me tell you, one of the best things about these wheels is how light they are. For the first day of the Tour de Fleece, I’m spinning a lovely BLUEFACED LEICESTER. This fiber is from Rampart Farm and Woolen Mill, in Branchton, Ontario. I bought this fiber last fall and dyed it myself using onion skins. I added just a touch of avocado. Although, the avocado didn’t really leave much color on this batch.

I’m using a short draw technique for a worsted spin, aiming for a fine yarn. While it’s not the softest fiber, it’s incredibly easy to work with. That is exactly what I wanted for day one. I’ve decided to spin for about half an hour today. Still, I won’t make you watch the wheel spin for all that time. We all know that part’s not the most exciting, right?

The Sounds of Summer

As I’m spinning, I’m also enjoying the neighborhood sounds. There’s a hawk circling overhead. It’s calling out in his usual way. Nearby, a sparrow’s nest has taken up residence in the carport corner. The background traffic is minimal since we’re at the end of a court. I’m definitely getting all the wonderful outdoor vibes today.

Goals for Day One

My goal today is to spin for at least an hour. I’m going to focus on the wheel. I’ll also be picking up my spindle to do some work there. I’ve got a blue fiber waiting for me. I can’t seem to find it right now. So, I’ll be digging around in my stash to track it down. During the Tour, I’ll also be spinning some white of the same fiber.

Originally, my plan was to spin enough for a vest—or, if I’m feeling ambitious, a whole sweater. I’ve seen others do it, so why not? If they can do it, I can too. Right?

Challenges and Updates

I know some of you are probably thinking, “How does everything go so smoothly?” Well, I can tell you that this little wheel’s drive band is causing trouble. It’s jumping off every now and then. I can feel some minor grease or maybe soap residue on the fiber. It’s all part of the process. When I set the twist, it should be fine.

Speaking of which, I need a new drive band for the wheel. I’ll have to handle that before the end of the challenge. But, like I always say—there’s nothing like a little challenge to keep things interesting!

What’s Coming Up?

Looking ahead, I’ll be finishing up the Tour de Fleece at a campground. I’m not sure if I’ll bring my wheel. It all depends on space and what else I need to pack. I’m committed to spinning as much as I can throughout this month. I’m excited to share this experience with you.

Join Me!

I’ll be posting updates on Instagram, Facebook, my blog, and of course, on YouTube. If you’d like to follow along, please like this post. You can also subscribe to my channel. Share it with your friends. You can also join the fun using the hashtag: #NotAMasterSpinner and #TourDeFleece2025.

I’m so glad to have you with me on this Tour de Fleece journey. Let’s spin, create, and enjoy the ride together!

Take care, God bless, and I’ll see you soon!

Finding Rest in God’s Presence:

July 2, 2025July 1, 2025/Barbara (Doll) Creelman/Leave a comment

Embracing the Sabbath in the Summer Season

We are now entering the heart of summer. The days stretch longer. The world seems to slow down just a bit. For many of us, this season offers the perfect opportunity to step back from our busy lives. It allows us to reflect on the rhythms of rest that God has designed for us. It’s a time when we can honor the Sabbath, not just as a day off. More than that, it is a spiritual discipline that helps us reconnect with our Creator.

In Exodus 20:8-10, God commands us to “Remember the Sabbath day and keep it holy.” But what does that really mean for us today? How can we incorporate Sabbath into our lives? Our time is often consumed by responsibilities. We also have many tasks and distractions.

The Call to Rest

The concept of Sabbath rest isn’t just about taking a break from work. It’s about pausing to recognize God’s presence. It also allows ourselves to be renewed by Him. God established the rhythm of work and rest from the very beginning of creation. After six days of creating the world, He rested on the seventh day, setting an example for us. The Sabbath is a sacred time to step away from our labors. It is a moment to focus on what God has done in our lives. We also consider what God is doing now.

In the midst of a busy summer, it can be easy to forget the importance of this spiritual practice. The hustle of our everyday routines can prevent us from slowing down enough to truly rest in God’s presence. But the Sabbath reminds us to stop, reflect, and breathe in His goodness.

Rest as a Gift

In Matthew 11:28-30, Jesus invites us. He says, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” This invitation isn’t just for those who are physically tired. It’s for anyone feeling the weight of the world. It’s also for those carrying emotional or spiritual burdens. Jesus promises to give us rest—a rest that refreshes our souls and brings us peace.

Summer can be a time to experience this rest in new ways. We can spend time in nature. We can enjoy a slower pace of life. Or we can simply sit in quiet reflection. In these ways, we allow God to renew us. The Sabbath calls us to embrace this gift of rest. It allows our minds and bodies to be restored. This way, we can fully experience the peace that only God can give.

Embracing God’s Presence

As we pause to rest, we also pause to recognize God’s presence in our lives. Summer is a wonderful time to slow down. It is a perfect time to take in the beauty of creation. We appreciate the flowers in bloom, the sun shining brightly, and the stillness of a quiet evening. These moments invite us to remember that God is in all things, and in His presence, we find true rest.

But true rest isn’t just about being physically still. It’s about spiritually resting in God’s arms. It’s about surrendering our worries, releasing our anxieties, and allowing His peace to wash over us. In these sacred moments of stillness, we hear His voice. We feel His comfort. We experience His love in a deeper way.

How to Practice Sabbath in the Summer

Create Space for Silence – Take a walk in nature or enjoy a quiet moment with a cup of tea. Sit in your favorite chair with a Bible in hand. Carve out moments of silence to reflect on God’s goodness.
Disconnect from Distractions – The summer heat can often lead to a slower pace. Use this time to disconnect from screens. Step away from emails and social media. Embrace the freedom of being present in the moment.
Enjoy the Outdoors – Spend time outside, taking in the beauty of creation. Go for a walk in the park, sit by the lake, or simply enjoy a sunset. These moments remind us of the Creator’s handiwork.
Worship and Reflect – Take time to worship, either in a community setting or privately. Singing hymns, reflecting on scripture, or simply praying can help us reconnect with God’s presence.

Hymn for the Day: Take Time to be Holy

Closing Thought:
In this busy world, it’s easy to feel like there’s always something more to do. But the Sabbath is a gentle invitation to slow down, rest in God’s presence, and embrace His peace. This summer, let’s commit to honoring the Sabbath as a sacred space to be renewed and restored. Remember that the rest we find in God is not just a pause from work. It is a deep and lasting peace that fills our souls.

May this mid-week pause encourage you to take a step back, breathe deeply, and find rest in God’s loving arms.

Blessings to all

Ready, Set, Spin: Your Tour de Fleece Prep Guide

July 1, 2025/Barbara (Doll) Creelman/Leave a comment

Tour de Fleece Checklist

The Tour de Fleece is a fun and exciting challenge for spinners all over the world. Whether you’re a beginner, it’s a fantastic way to push your spinning skills. If you’re seasoned, it’s a great opportunity to engage with the community. If you’re gearing up for the Tour de Fleece, having a clear plan can help you stay focused and organized. Here’s a simple checklist to make sure you’re ready to spin!

1. Set Your Goals

Before you dive into the Tour de Fleece, take a moment to set your spinning goals. Ask yourself:

What fibers do I want to spin during this challenge?
How much spinning do I want to achieve?
Do I want to try a new technique or spin for a specific project?

Setting clear, achievable goals will keep you motivated and help you stay on track throughout the event.

2. Prepare Your Fiber

Now that your goals are set, it’s time to get your fibers ready. Go through your fiber stash and pick out the ones you’d like to work with. This could include:

Washing and prepping raw fibers
Carding or combing fibers to make them easier to spin
Sorting fibers by color or texture for a specific project

Prepare your fibers ahead of time. This will save you precious time during the challenge. It will let you focus on the actual spinning.

3. Prepare Your Tools

Your spinning wheel or spindle is your main tool, so make sure it’s in top shape.

Clean and oil your spinning wheel or spindle
Check your bobbins for wear and tear
Make sure you have any extra tools, like knitting needles or crochet hooks, ready for finishing your spun yarn

Taking a moment to check your tools now can prevent any delays during the challenge.

4. Plan Your Spinning

A little planning goes a long way! Create a daily spinning schedule to help you stay organized and committed. Rest days (July 15 & 21) are part of the challenge. Be sure to schedule those into your plan.

What fiber will you spin each day?
How much time can you dedicate to spinning?
Do you need to factor in time for other fiber-related tasks (like plying or setting your yarn)?

A clear spinning schedule helps you pace yourself and keeps you from feeling overwhelmed.

5. Engage & Celebrate

The Tour de Fleece is all about community and fun. Don’t forget to share your progress with others:

Join a Tour de Fleece group or challenge
Post updates on social media using the hashtag #TourDeFleece
Celebrate your accomplishments at the end of the event, no matter how much you spin

Engaging with others and celebrating your journey is an important part of the experience. Remember, it’s not about perfection—it’s about progress and having fun!

By adhering to this checklist, you’ll be set for a successful Tour de Fleece. Whether you’re aiming to spin a specific yarn or you just want to enjoy the process, planning ahead is key. This ensures you make the most of this exciting challenge. Happy spinning, and may your bobbins be full!

You can download a printable checklist here:

The Hand of Grace:

June 29, 2025/Barbara (Doll) Creelman/Leave a comment

✋ A Five-Finger Prayer for a Faithful Life

(shared during worship at Linden Park Community United Church)

Have you ever looked at your own hand and seen a prayer?

I recently started praying with my fingers. No fancy words—just five simple requests that come from the heart. Each one is anchored in scripture and rooted in my deep longing to walk closer with God. I call it the Five-Finger Prayer, and it’s become a daily rhythm, a spiritual check-in, and a beautiful reminder of how God shapes us, one step (or finger) at a time.

Let me walk you through it.

👍 Take Me

Romans 12:1 – “Offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship.”

It all begins here: surrender. I offer myself to God. All of me—my plans, my fears, my gifts, and even my broken pieces. I hold nothing back. This isn’t about having it all figured out. It’s about saying, “Here I am, Lord. Take me.”

☝️ Love Me

Jeremiah 31:3 – “I have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you with unfailing kindness.”

After surrender comes the hard part: receiving. Sometimes it’s easier to believe that God loves others than to believe He truly loves me. But He does—with a love that never lets go. Every day, I pray, “Love me, Lord.” Not because I doubt Him—but because I need to be reminded.

🖕 Wash Me

Psalm 51:2 – “Wash away all my iniquity and cleanse me from my sin.”

This is the tallest finger. For me, it represents my need for God’s grace. We all carry things we wish we didn’t. Guilt. Shame. Regret. But the good news? God doesn’t just cover over our sin—He cleanses it. “Wash me, Lord,” I pray. “Make me new again.”

💍 Fill Me

Ephesians 5:18 – “Be filled with the Spirit.”

The ring finger symbolizes union, covenant, and connection. It reminds me that I can’t do this alone. I need the Spirit to fill me—again and again. I ask for strength, wisdom, peace, and joy. “Fill me, Lord. Pour into me what I can’t find on my own.”

🤏 Use Me

Isaiah 6:8 – “Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, ‘Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?’ And I said, ‘Here am I. Send me!’”

This is the pinky. It is the smallest finger, but it reminds me God can use even the smallest act. Even the simplest “yes.” I don’t need to be famous, perfect, or powerful. I just need to be willing. “Use me, Lord,” I whisper. “Wherever. However. I’m yours.”

👐 A Daily Practice

Sometimes when I don’t know what to pray, I just hold out my hand and go finger by finger:

Take me
Love me
Wash me
Fill me
Use me

Simple. Honest. Transformative.

🙏 Want to try it?

Take a moment. Look at your hand. And pray this with me:

“Take me, Lord. I surrender all that I am.
Love me. Let me receive the fullness of Your grace.
Wash me clean of anything that holds me back.
Fill me with Your Spirit and Your strength.
Use me to bring hope, peace, and love to the world.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

Let this prayer shape your day. Let your hand remind you that you’re held, loved, and sent.

📌 If this blessed you, you are welcome to print the Five-Finger Prayer Card. You can also share it with someone who might need it.

Thank you for reading, commenting, and subscribing to receive my blog updates.

✂️ Stitching Through Time: A Cozy Look at the History of English Paper Piecing

June 26, 2025/Barbara (Doll) Creelman/Leave a comment

Have you ever curled up with a tiny hexagon in hand, needle and thread at the ready? Have you wondered where this charming craft began?

Scroll down to the video.

English Paper Piecing is affectionately called EPP by many of us. It has a history as rich and layered as a well-loved quilt. It’s a craft built on slow stitching. It emphasizes thrift and the beauty of small things coming together to create something truly special.

🧵 Where It All Began

The roots of English Paper Piecing go back to 18th-century England. Creative hands and thrifty minds used paper templates to shape and stabilize bits of fabric. The earliest known reference to this technique comes from around 1770. It was often called mosaic patchwork because the shapes resembled tiled mosaics. These were pieced together into stunning geometric designs.

But the real magic? Many of these templates were made from recycled materials — letters, newspaper clippings, even pages torn from ledgers and books. Some of these hidden papers are still tucked inside antique quilts. They offer a glimpse into the everyday lives of people long ago.

️ How It Traveled the World

As English settlers moved across the ocean to North America, the tradition of English Paper Piecing also traveled with them. It became popular in colonial homes. Women used scraps of fabric and repurposed paper to make quilts. These quilts were both practical and deeply personal.

EPP was the ideal portable craft. It could be stitched by candlelight. You could work on it during long journeys or while visiting with friends. No sewing machine needed — just needle, thread, paper, and time.

❤️ A Stitch in Time

Through the 19th and early 20th centuries, English Paper Piecing became more than just a way to make blankets. It was a form of creative expression. It served as a quiet pastime and, in many ways, was a reflection of women’s resilience and ingenuity.

Some quilts were made over decades. Others became family heirlooms. And always, there was something deeply satisfying about taking what have been discarded and turning it into something beautiful.

🌼 The Modern Revival

Today, EPP has found a new audience among crafters. They appreciate the meditative pace of hand sewing. They also find joy in making something slowly, piece by piece. It’s part of the larger slow stitching movement — a return to intentional, meaningful making in a fast-paced world.

Quilters and creators around the globe continue to celebrate this time-honored technique. They use both traditional shapes like hexagons. They also innovate with modern patterns that push the boundaries of patchwork art.

💬 One Stitch at a Time

There’s something incredibly comforting about knowing that the stitches you’re making today echo those made hundreds of years ago. Sitting with fabric and thread connects you to your creativity. It also links you to a community of makers, both past and current.

So next time you hold a tiny hexie in your hand, remember: you’re not just sewing fabric to fabric. You’re stitching story to story, and soul to soul.

✨ Let’s Keep the Story Going

Have you tried English Paper Piecing? What’s your favorite shape to stitch?
Share your projects or EPP memories in the comments — I’d love to see what you’re creating! 🧵💬

I ponder

June 25, 2025/Barbara (Doll) Creelman/Leave a comment

In the Stillness, the Thread Unwinds

The world hums warm beyond my window,

but here, in this cool cocoon,

time softens its edges.

The spindle turns like a whispered prayer,

each twist a story,

each draft a sigh of peace.

Wool slips through my fingers—

ancient, gentle, knowing.

It remembers the sheep,

the pasture, the wind.

Knitting waits patiently beside me,

loops and rows like heartbeats,

quietly stitching joy into being.

In this hush, I am enough.

No striving, no noise—

just the sacred rhythm of hand and fiber,

and the deep exhale of summer grace.

Join me?

Come to Me:

June 22, 2025June 22, 2025/Barbara (Doll) Creelman/Leave a comment

💛 Receiving Rest in Christ

There’s a tiredness that goes deeper than just needing a nap.

It’s the kind that settles in your chest. It makes your shoulders feel heavy. It leaves you wondering if you’ll ever truly feel rested again. It’s the tiredness of carrying too much for too long—grief, worry, responsibility, regret.

And into that tiredness, Jesus speaks these gentle words:

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”
(Matthew 11:28)

What a simple, beautiful invitation.

🌿 The Rest We Really Need

Jesus doesn’t say, “Come to me if you’ve got it all together.”
He doesn’t say, “Come to me after you’ve figured it out.”

He says: Come.

Right now.
Weary? Come.
Burdened? Come.
Confused, heartbroken, overwhelmed? Come.

You don’t have to carry it all. You were never meant to.

🛑 What Are You Carrying?

We all carry things that wear us out:

The pressure to do more
The weight of caring for others
The sting of past mistakes
The fear of not being enough

Jesus sees it all. And He offers something the world never can: rest for your soul.

“Take my yoke upon you. Learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart. You will find rest for your souls.”
(Matthew 11:29)

🤝 Walking With Jesus, Not Alone

A “yoke” sounds heavy, but in Jesus’ day, it was a symbol of partnership.

To take His yoke is to be linked with Him—to walk side by side. He’s not loading us down with expectations. He’s lifting the weight off our shoulders and carrying it with us.

Life won’t always be easy. But with Jesus, the burden is shared. The pace is kinder. The journey is gentler.

“For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” (v. 30)

💭 An Invitation for You Today

If your soul feels tired…
If you’ve been trying to hold everything together…
If you’ve been wondering if rest is even possible anymore…

Hear this: Jesus is still inviting you.

Come. Just as you are.
Lay down what you don’t need to carry.
Let Him teach you how to rest—not just physically, but spiritually, emotionally, deeply.

You don’t have to walk alone. You don’t have to be strong all the time.
You are loved. You are invited. You are held.

And there is rest waiting for you in Christ.

🕊 Reflection Questions

What burden do I need to lay down today?
What does rest in Christ look like for me this week?
How can I stay connected to Jesus, even in busy or anxious moments?

Tour de Fleece: The Calm Before the Spin The preparation continues.

June 20, 2025/Barbara (Doll) Creelman/Leave a comment

🧶

Tour de Fleece is right around the corner—and I’m getting ready for the spin of the season! Whether you’re a longtime spinner or new to the joy of the draft, I invite you to prep alongside me. Let’s talk bobbins, fiber prep, common challenges, and how we can all enjoy a slower, more intentional spin this year.

🌀 Clear the Bobbins, Clear the Mind

Step one: clear off those bobbins!
I’m starting with a multicolored purple merino blend that’s just begging to be chain-plied into a soft three-ply yarn. It’s a simple task, but it gets the energy flowing and makes room for what’s next.

✨ Bonus: I’ll be recording the process, so follow along for inspiration!

🤯 The Too-Many-Choices Problem

Let’s be honest—fiber stashes have a way of multiplying. The biggest challenge for me is deciding what to spin. Should I:

Spin for a sweater?
Tackle a luxury fiber?
Work through stash from local sources?

This year, I’m simplifying. I’ve picked:

One main fiber for the wheel
A few smaller samples for the spindle

Less decision fatigue = more time at the wheel.

💭 Over-planning Is Real

Ever plan to spin two pounds in three weeks? Me too. And when it doesn’t happen, the guilt creeps in.

So here’s my Tour mantra:
🌿 Be realistic. Be gentle. Show up with joy.

I’m setting a time-based goal instead:

15 minutes on busy days
30 minutes for flexibility
1 hour when I’m home and can relax into it

No pressure, just presence.

🧵 Tricky Fibers to Watch Out For

Every spinner has met their match. Mine?

Vacuum-sealed combed top – too compressed and slippery
Short staple fibers – easy to over-spin and hard to manage

If it frustrates me, it’s not going in the Tour basket. I’m choosing fiber that inspires, not irritates.

🎯 Making It Fun with a Tour de Fleece Bingo

Sometimes a little structure sparks creativity. I love using a Tour de Fleece Bingo card—either one of the many shared online or one I’ve made myself. It adds variety, keeps things playful, and gives me small wins to celebrate along the way. Check out Patreon for spinning folk who are on board.

✔️ Challenge met. Square marked. Spinner happy.

🌾 Local and Purposeful: My Spinning Focus

Aligned with my 100 Mile Life challenge, I’m focusing on:

Fiber from local farms and makers
No new purchases until I’ve spun what I have
Spinning with intention—thinking ahead to sweaters, vests, or cozy winter knits

This isn’t just about making yarn. It’s about making choices that align with my values.

💬 Final Thoughts

Tour de Fleece is more than a spinning challenge. It’s a celebration of creativity, community, and commitment—whether you spin for 5 minutes or 5 miles of yarn.

Let’s keep it light, joyful, and grounded.
And if you need a reminder: You’re already doing great.

🧵 Tell me in the comments: What’s the one fiber you can’t wait to spin this year?

100 Mile Life/Grandma Core