Monday, June 28, 2010

Adjustments

I feel like I'm going through a period of transition and introspection right now.  I am really emotional about the oil spill in the Gulf, and that's on top of already feeling overwhelmed by all of the recent earthquakes and floods and economic strife and atrocities that humans commit against each other.  It's all just too much.  I find myself sitting down to write and not knowing what to say because there's just too much to say.  At least for now, I will revert back to what I know; what I can touch right now; the minutia that is daily life.  I will breathe in and breathe out and notice this moment right now because it is really all that I have.  And in being available for myself, maybe I can also be available for someone else.  That's a start.  This mother Merganser was seen by my friend Barry, who took this picture as she shuttled her babies down the falling tide on Woodard Bay.  A perfect example of being in the moment, I think.

Bronwyn is on summer break, and I have to say I am loving my mornings with her.  Instead of rushing to get out the door, we snuggle and read books and maybe take a tub just for fun.  I have been taking some time, too, to work on a fun new clutch design.  I haven't gotten things perfect, but I'm enjoying the process of fiddling.  I have discovered that I love pleats and so this new clutch will feature at least one.  Here is what it looks like so far:  These are being donated to a friend's raffle to raise money for breast cancer research.  Hence the pink theme!






Peace and love to you my friends; have a lovely week!

12 comments:

Miss Val's Creations said...

Adorable photo! It is so sad with everything going on in the world. Especially the oil spill because it is affecting so many things from wildlife to the environment and it is hard to see a light at the end of the tunnel!

Pam Corwin, Business of Crafts said...

Colleen - This post really speaks to me. I am (always) so appreciative of your honesty and authenticity. So many of us feel this way right now. It's really helpful to share it and know others are feeling it. It's a dark time, and yet the bird still sing and the world still turns and we need to find joy, as you put it, in the simple things.
I think we owe it to ourselves and each other to remember the little gifts, the moments, smile at each other, share the good parts. Putting the positive out there (where we can find it) helps all of us - it's all ripples in the pond.

juglans said...

I love the clutch!!! I might need to get one for my birthday in Septmeber :>

I cannot even think about the gulf. Really. I just go watch Glee or something. Sad but true!

Glad you all are enjoying your summer break - love to you all!

Colleen MacDonald said...

Thanks, my friends. I want to stay positive, but sometimes I feel ridiculous in my efforts.

vadjutka said...

So beautiful clucthes - I am almost tempted. I just dont use clutches - but sometimes I am tempted by really lovely ones.

About being in the moment: it is very important, and the only thing one can do.
That is why I love trekking on steep mountains: you have to concentrate on the NOW, otherwise you start to be afraid of the depth and the chance for an accident becomes very high.

Victoria said...

I feel the same way.... i find myself crying over the oil spill, and feeling tight in the chest at the general state of the world. I feel sadness, anger, and hopelessness... Then I hone in on what is around me and try to remember that in the midst of all that is too huge and too scary, there are still small tangible bits of grace and beauty... I hang the towels on the line and look at the blue sky, I water the small vegetable patch, watch the birds and bunnies in our backyard, listen to the train whistle across the field... and breath... and pray.

picciolo said...

Oh Colleen I've been feeling a bit like this too and what has helped me is trying not to put so much pressure on myself and enjoy each day for what it is. A bit like your living in the moment. You are so right, taking time to enjoy the small things like reading to our children is special and important. I hope you aren't feeling so blue now. And I love your new design clutch, they are very pretty.
x

Colleen MacDonald said...

Thanks, Jane. And everyone. It's people like you in my life that help lift me up. I so appreciate it!

Libby said...

I love the clutches! I hope you'll sell some when you're happy with them; I want one to put my ballet shoes in and go dancing :)

Colleen MacDonald said...

Thanks Libby! I hope to be selling them in a month or so! I'll put out a special announcement when it happens (of course!).

Unknown said...

Colleen - you inspire me. Your creations are beautiful, and so well done. You take such wonderful care of your daughter and your concern for the bigger picture is sincere. I believe God knows how much you can handle and will carry you along as you care for your corner of the world. As confusing as it all is to us, He is taking care of the rest :-)
♥Enjoy your summer.

Colleen MacDonald said...

Mary Kay, Thank-You. I appreciate all of these supportive comments.