Good morning, as I sit down with my cup of coffee, with this weeks topic: Crafting as Sanctuary: A Caregiver’s Creative Escape. I’m reminded of my escape/happy place into the world of crafting on my live stream, Early Morning Coffee with Lorrie. Amidst the whirlwind of my niece and my responsibilities—caring for my older sister with Lewy Body/PSP, managing my full-time job, and cherishing my moments as an involved grandma to four wonderful grandchildren—I’ve found solace in the rhythmic dance of paper, colors, and patterns.

Monday: The August Paper Pumpkin’s Deep Resonance
The forget-me-not and lotus flower cards from the new Paper Pumpkin kit were more than just crafts for me. The Forget-Me-Not symbolizes the devotion and memories I share with my loved ones. And the Lotus Flower, emerging pristine from murky waters, mirrors my resilience in face of daily challenges.

Tuesday & Wednesday: Venturing Beyond the Usual
I often feel boxed in by routines and schedules. But on these days, using pieces from the original card projects, I designed alternative cards. Each unique creation signifying that even within constraints, there’s room for individuality and self-expression.

Thursday: Embracing Every Emotion
Crafting the cards from Stampin’ Up’s Birthday Card Organizer Kit was a revelation. I created a variation of each card, from “It’s Okay to Feel the Feels” to “Happy Birthday”, served as a mirror to my emotions—a reminder that they’re valid and worth celebrating.

Friday: Patterns, Colors, and My Time
Crafting isn’t about perfection. This Fun Friday, I lost myself in patterns and lines, crafting cards that symbolize my occasional breaks from routine and my own little bubbles of ‘me time’.

This week’s theme, “Crafting as Sanctuary: A Caregiver’s Creative Escape,” truly resonated with my personal journey. Beginning each day with this creative ritual not only brings a smile to my face, but the joy of gifting my handmade cards and witnessing others’ smiles is absolutely priceless.

Join me on my crafting journey. I warmly invite caregivers and their supporters to tune in every weekday at 6am for my live stream, “Early Morning Crafts and Coffee With Lorrie” And if you can’t make it live, rest assured the recordings will always be there for you. Crafting has become my sanctuary, my therapy, and my deepest joy. I firmly believe that amidst the many roles we play, everyone deserves a moment of creativity and peace.

Until next time,

Spend some time in your happy place.

Lorrie