What to do?

Monday, March 29, 2010

I almost don't know what to do with myself! After finishing a large project, I'm usually at a loss. While writing, I'm consumed ....every minute is spent trying to get it done and to the printer. I've turned in our new quilt book, Country Inn, to Brian Grubb, our book designer for this project. Now I have lots of free time and he's busy.

I'm looking through all of my cooking magazines....thinking hmmmmm....maybe I should cook something new. I'm playing a bit of music on my piano.....maybe I should learn a new song. I'm looking at my fabric thinking this would be a great time to start a new project....but nothing seems to capture my attention.

Usually this period of wandering around doesn't last too long. I know I will be able to focus on something soon.....I just don't know what it will be.

I've been taking some time to clean the studio hoping that might make me want to get back to work. But no luck there.....I guess I'm on vacation for now.

Somebody light a fire under me please!

Until later,

Alma

32 comments

  1. Sounds like me after finishing a big project -- for myself! I think you deserve to just relax for now, after all the work you've put into the new book. I can't wait to see it!! And buy it too! :D

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  2. Ha ha, I love this, I on the other hand have so many new patterns, I don't want to show anyone cause I am so far behind!!!! Actually if I wait a week, then I will ahead for Easter, next year!!!!
    Enjoy your peaceful rest, and relax!!!
    Hugs,
    Margaret B

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  3. Sounds like heaven to me...I usually have my projects stacked up like winter flights over Chicago...

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  4. I hate that feeling!! I think we ALL feel it once a big project is finished...you just need to jump in and start something new!! Visit a Quilt Shop! :O)
    Paulette

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  5. I usually have soooo many projects on the list, it's hard to decide which one is next! Some times our inner self tells us to stop and smell the roses - go visit an antique shop, something I know you love........... hugs.
    Linda P in GA

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  6. Cleaning up my sewing room always helps. Sometimes pulling out my quilt journal(quilt doodles) or looking at quilts I designed in EQ gets me motivated. I have just visted two antique quilt exhibitions and that seems to get ideas going for me. You are a busy bee so a wee rest might just be in order.

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  7. Down time is as important to creativity as the busy time. It gives your mind time to process things. I usually sort and put things in place, go through magazines and books and read my blogs :) Howdy Alma. Jan

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  8. Everyone needs a little time to regroup. Don't beat yourself up. Think of it as spring break for yourself. Work on the project that you have been putting off for work. I love to go junking or antiquing for inspiration. Today when I needed a pick up from a hard day at school and taking a test I went home and had my favorite bowl of ice cream, mint chocolate chip with crushed sugar cookie cone on top. It was a great pick-me-up. I know you will find yours.

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  9. Oh, Alma. Is there anything stamped on the bottom of the ironstone dish in your banner? I love it so much and would like to keep an eye out for one Just Like It :-)

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  10. Oh, meant to ask: what does the book designer do?

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  11. all is well
    the fire is just banked and smoldering
    i feel certain it will spark into creativity in no time

    a little down time for the brain
    is always good

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  12. I generally go through a very similar period after I finish some major project. I think of it as very similar to post-partum depression. :)

    I usually give myself permission to poke along for a day or two and decompress. Sometimes I get out my crayons and color.

    :) Linda

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  13. Breathe..... and enjoy your vacation!! You'll be back designing for us soon enough!!

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  14. Sit down, have a cup of tea. Think about all of the people that you have made so happy with your books and patterns and blogs and friendship. Smell a rose. Smile at the blue sky. Pet a dog and read an article in a magazine or on-line. Enjoy doing nothing for other people for awhile. Life is good!

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  15. Just relax Alma, I'm sure you deserve a break. Why not sit down with a good book or go off antique hunting - that might get the juices going again.

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  16. Make yourself a cuppa, put your feet up and just stare out of the window for a while. You deserve a rest!

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  17. Why not stitch a little something for yourself? Happy day....Joy

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  18. Thanks for the abc pattern, use a cloth beach house by blackbird desngs by fashion and a free pattern for a basket, and I have become a basket to work.
    Thanks for your designs and work I leave my blog address. because I can not find your email.
    http://arcadelabores.blogspot.com/2010/03/cesta-de-labores.html

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  19. Breaks are good for the soul. Everyone needs some down time. It will make the creative juices flow again soon. Have fun with your spare time.
    ~Nan

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  20. take a break and get lost in a good historical fiction book! the descriptions therein of time, place, and characters will probably inspire a brand new line of fabrics,quilts, and needlework for you.

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  21. I do the same thing when I finish a big project. It never takes very long for something to catch my eye and inspire me. I'm sure you'll be busy again very soon. In the meantime, enjoy the down-time!

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  22. I just want to thank you for getteing a new quilt book done. I am on the last block of Love Letters and will be ready to start a new project.
    when I am not feeling very creative I pull out my Where Women Create magazines and have a glass of tea....it always gets me going.

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  23. Oh, what I wouldn't do with a week's down time! Savor it - I know how busy you are - you'll soon be looking back wistfully...

    Julie

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  24. it's funny because I was feeling exactly the same as you and I decided to have a look at my favourite blogs. I didn't know what to do! I finished and apron with some applique kittens yesterday and today I just don't know what to do!
    what to start! It won't last long.
    Have a look at my kittens and tell me what you think, pls!!
    From Spain

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  25. This is a time to rejuvenate and get your creative ideas simmering. Enjoy the spring weather. I will say I missed your postings, as they are inspiring for us to get things going when in a slump. Happy Easter

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  26. Alma i'm full of ideas if you want!!! Oh..if just we would be closer!!!

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  27. Sounds like you have a little window of time to partake in something that makes you happy!
    I have ordered your new engagement calender because I have never owned one of yours and the photos look to me like a very delicious dessert! You ladies are so very talented. Happy spring!
    Louise

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  28. Oh gosh do I ever know that feeling! I'm not sure if it's a good feeling or not. :) If you decide, how about giving me a clue?

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  29. I think that we all feel the same after a big project end.. it happens too after you finished reading a book that you loved, page after page.. When you arrive at the latest page you feel so sad..and nothing on the bookshelf seems to be interesting...you're still cought in the latest words and you don't want to finally close the book...
    I'm sure that you will soon surprise us with the next project..
    I fell in love with ALL the projects in "Honeysuckle Manor", I think that I will stitch all of them, sooner or later! ^__^
    Thank you for the beautiful projects you create for us!
    Paola.

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  30. It really sounds like Spring Fever to me. Slow down and take it easy for a little while--you've earned it!

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  31. I LOVE this picture..........smiles, Linda

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  32. will they be out in the stores soon

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