It’s hard to judge how these things will affect you in advance, but in my case the sudden loss of my furry friend really had me fall apart. Some things and habits in your life are so strongly interweaved with associations, it is hard to keep your mind of the thing you miss so dearly. For me, my indoor hobbies like knitting and reading, I do on the couch, with a content cat on my lap. So the sudden hole in my heart left me without any motivation to do these things. I even almost felt guilty, weirdly enough. I guess these things must sound pretty drastic to some, after all it’s just a cat, but when you own a pet you know it is so much more than that. In the past 2 weeks I don’t think I’ve knit more than a couple of rows, and I haven’t read anything at all, despite having a good start to my year reading-wise.
Anyway, no knitting ment no blogging, so I know I’ve been a bit silent around here. I think what I needed was something new, something association free. It was a coincidence that I’d already signed up for a sewing class last week. At first I felt like cancelling, but a new challenge might just be what I need to keep my mind distracted. So I went to my first ever sewing class, without any experience whatsoever.
There’s so many talented bloggers out there that have mastered both knitting and sewing, and I love the idea of a handmade wardrobe with additions of both of these crafts. I don’t have any illusions that I’ll be making my own dresses anytime soon, but my goal this year was to at least start learning the basics. Really just learning how a sewing machine works would already be an improvement to my current state.
During the first class I made a pillow case with a zipper. When I got home the boyfriend seemed very impressed. The thing is, the nice lady that taught the class put in the zipper, and all the seams I made were in the inside, invisible to the non-inquisitive eye. I’ll spare you pictures of these seams, but just imagine a drunken person trying to draw a straight line. Yes, it looks something like that.. Because you know what? Making a straight seam is HARD!!
How much of an eyesore this thing is going to be remains to be seen, because during the last class I didn’t get much further than fabric cutting and one seam in the pocket. So if you like the idea of a dark blue apron with flower ruffles, stay tuned! In any case I’m learning, I’m trying and I definitely was distracted from my heartache, so the class has already been a success.
I’m so sorry for the loss of your beloved cat. It’s so hard to lose an animal friend – they become such a huge part of your daily life that it really does feel like there’s a hole in your heart when they’ve gone. I’m glad that the sewing class has given you something engaging to do that gives your heart a bit of a rest, as well as something new and cool to learn. The apron looks good so far, and I’ll be excited to see how your ruffling goes!
it sounds so difficult, and again I’m really sorry for your loss, grief is grief and don’t ever let anyone tell you otherwise. I’m sorry you’ve been struggling with it so much,I hope you feel better soon. Giving yourself a new challenge is probably the best thing to do, distractions and working with new pretty materials. I’m looking forward to seeing the things you make – good luck! xxx
I’m so sorry about your cat, and I’m glad to hear sewing class is helping get your mind off things. I’m excited to see how your apron goes. Here’s to mending hearts and learning new skills.
I am so sorry that you lost a best friend and a beloved pet. It is difficult. When our Zoe left us I was heartbroken but then our Frodo entered our life and I felt twice as much love for both. I hope in time you have wonderful fond memories. Hugs.
My heart continues to go out to you as you mourn your cat. I’m glad you decided to stick with the sewing class, and in time you will get used to your cat’s absence. In the meantime, treasure the memories you have of your friend.
Loosing a pet can be heart breaking. Remembering and cherishing the times you had with your special furry friend means that they really were special …that unconditional love is hard to beat. I think you are doing the right thing, do what feels right, some days are good some are bad, isn’t that what the ups and downs that life offers. Maybe sewing and mending will help a little with mending your own heart? Hugs from Montana
oh sweetheart I know the feeling all too well. I’m glad you are learning how to sew. Once you are a kicka** seamstress, could you teach me?
and by the way, it’s not just a cat, it is a loving companion that fills our hearts and lives with joy and the loss of such a creature is perfectly fine to grieve.
give yourself time….and soon all the wonderful memories will bring you comfort rather than heartache…..and your needles will be flying along again. until then….enjoy the new journey—and challenge—-and be sure to pass on any tips. (I’m still at the wonky seam stage!!!)
Grief is different for everyone. I was far more upset over the loss of my dog than of some humans. Take your time getting back into the swing of things, because it’s no fun to do things you love if you’re forcing yourself to put on a happy face. But good for you, learning new things! I can’t sew a straight line to save my life.
So sorry you are still feeling down. I can relate completely. I think it’s grand that you went ahead with the sewing class. Sometimes all you need is a distraction and finding a new passion. I own a sewing machine but I hardly use it. I have never really gotten past that sewing a straight seam thing. Maybe your progress will inspire me to dust it off and give it a little go. Take care of yourself!
Really pleased that you are using the guilt you felt through grief to drive you to do something positive, good for you!! I hope that you enjoy finishing your apron.
So sorry you feel down… When I lost my dog, I remember that I was completly unable to knit without any mistake. Sewing class sounds fun and a good way to entertain your mind while learning a new skill.
Hang in there! Learning new things can be challenging and exhilarating but at least you’re trying. I bought a sewing machine a few years ago and still have not learned how to properly use it. Craftsy has some terrific classes for beginners that I might check out this summer.