Someone Touched a Nerve!!

Last week I decided to take my Christmas cards along to the craft fair with me to write while it was quiet. Due to bad weather it was quiet all day and the cards did not keep me busy for long!

Whilst I was writing one of the other stall holders noticed that I had made some of my cards.  Now I love to make Christmas cards. I don’t do them for everyone, just about 15 that are for relatives and close friends. I take a photo of the kids that is somehow Christmassy then use it for the card.

This year as they were both shepherds in their school play; I got them to wear their outfits, stood them by the washing machine holding one of Dad’s sock’s each and I did the caption “while shepherds wash Dad’s socks by night”. I then decorate the card a bit with stars and glitter and bobs your uncle a funny card with an up to date picture that I know will be appreciated.

So there I am showing the card and the stall holder says “how nice for you that you have the time to make your own cards”. Well that left me a bit shocked and offended. I kept my mouth shut and refrained from saying  “well actually I work five days during the week, Sunday at this market, I make things for this stall, I have two kids, I cook most things from scratch and yes, I do make an effort and make my own cards, I do it with my kids, it’s quality time for us all, it’s fun and it makes me feel good and if you made an effort I bet you could find the time too.” I actually was pleased that I kept my mouth firmly shut but have spent quite a bit of time thinking about what was said. It really bothered me.

Firstly I know that I am a busy person, I fit a lot into my days. But for me doing craft things is a hobby and one that I take pleasure in. If I don’t feel like doing it I don’t. So while I watch TV in the evening I might make some jewellery or a lavender bag for a present. Or, shock horror, I might forgo the TV completely and sit in the dining room making something.  My children sometimes join in, sometimes they don’t. I don’t think it takes quality time away from them, in fact it gives us quality time together or I am doing it while they are in bed. Mr B is often working on the computer in the evening so it’s not taking anything away from him. So to all those people who say they don’t have the time, I challenge you to just try. If you tried to find a bit of time I bet you could. If you don’t want to, fine, but don’t criticise those who do find the time. Don’t belittle other people just to feel better about yourself.

Crafting is not a middle class hobby of bored housewives. Lots of people do it in their spare time because they find it relaxing and enjoyable. If you prefer to veg on the sofa watching TV or spend time surfing the net, then great, but don’t then moan about people who have a bit of get up and go who are willing to make an effort.