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-   -   I'm in the doldrums! (https://www.quiltingboard.com/main-f1/im-doldrums-t85591.html)

hospicenurse 12-28-2010 02:34 AM

I'm there too.......I plan to switch to another hobby for a while...crocheting.

Maybe1day 12-28-2010 02:36 AM


Originally Posted by Caer Urfa
Does anyone else feel like this after Christmas? I have oodles of ideas and projects and new patterns and .. and ... But I would like to know I'm not the only one - please!

As others have already said, no your not alone with this. I haven't so much as looked at my sewing machine for a good month as we have been away on vacation and then had to get ready for Christmas
I have a centre to border so I can send it on the 15th Jan and the local challenge piece to be completed by the 21st Feb which I have done no more to than draw up on graph paper. Just can't seem to get motivated enough to do anything at the moment.

SuziC 12-28-2010 03:49 AM


Originally Posted by clem55
I seem to go through this most every year after Christmas. I think we just plan so much, and are doing so much that the days fly by, and then , wham! it is over and done and we have to stop and reconnect with everyday things. Give our minds time to adjust. LOL

EXACTLY :!:

SSTeacher 12-28-2010 04:11 AM

Even though you don't want to hear "pep talks," they ARE what will motivate you, as well as seeing all the beautiful quilts the "board" posts. I have a dear friend in Indiana who is a marvelous quilter--makes a lot of valor quilts for the VA. We get on the phone and "talk" quilting and when I hang up, my first thought is to "get quilting." I don't always do it, but it sure stays in my thoughts and eventually I "get around to it"--like this morning.

We got almost a foot of snow here in Virginia and are somewhat "homebound," which I do no mind at all. Off to make the backing for a baby quilt.

smagruder 12-28-2010 05:09 AM

This is totally normal. We spend so much time preparing and anticipating for the holidays that when it is over in 20 minutes, we are a little down. It is a psychological thing. We just all have to get through it. I am still anticipating.... family over for New Year's Day and a week later a Baptism for grandbaby girl, Lily. When that is over, I will get hit with the doldrums I suppose. Oh, wait, there if the trip to Tampa for my grandson's first birthday party. Then I really will be down in the dumps! Smile, you have lots of company.

#1piecemaker 12-28-2010 05:18 AM

You've got House-a-toe-sis!!!! Get out quick. Go shopping and get more fabric and books!!! Then go back and relax and watch it rain while you're looking through them.

moosegirl 12-28-2010 05:33 AM

Quilting and sewing is in my blood-I would die if my sewing machine was dormant more than one day! I walk by the machine and it's like a magnet-the pedal to the metal even if its only one seam on a piece of patchwork. Finished 5 messenger bags over the weekend and the blocks for the batik swap. My projects are piled high and I love working on them. Moosegirl

grann of 6 12-28-2010 05:35 AM


Originally Posted by Caer Urfa
Does anyone else feel like this after Christmas? I have oodles of ideas and projects and new patterns and .. and ... Every year I get like this, just can't settle to anything. Is it because I have time on my hands, the only spare time in the year, or just the letdown after a busy end of year and celebrations. To really produce I need to be pushed to the limit and time poor. Another good reason could be that we have had continual rain for well over a week and much of Queensland and northern NSW is flooded. You might think that is a good time to get organised, but I get out patterns, sort my stash, scan through my craft magazines, print off projects found by Crafty Bear, decide I am going to finish that Christmas present that has now turned into a birthday present, prepare the backing for a quilt finished 6 months ago and so it goes on. Don't give me motivational hints! I have already given myself a good talking to! But I would like to know I'm not the only one - please!

Nope, me too. I think it is the letdown after rushing around for months getting things made and getting ready for the "Big Holiday" and then POOF in one day it is over with. I was just cleaning out my fridge of all the leftovers from Christmas Brunch asking myself why I always do this. And every year I tell myself I will make less. Then it seems they eat less. Next year......

Anne Marie 12-28-2010 05:49 AM


Originally Posted by sweet
I understand what you are saying. One really cool discovery that I have made since moving to Louisiana is that the Mardi Gras season is about to begin and that is a sure cure for the doldrums here. I hope you can find an early spring to perk yourself up! Take Care...

The problem for Caer Urfa is that it is summer for her in Australia. She has fall and winter to look forward to. I think we are all experiencing the "let down" after the holidays. Cheer up. Think of all those quilting days we will have in the New Year. Best wishes.

Cybrarian 12-28-2010 06:01 AM

Many have mentioned gray, cold, wet weather-- well I live in Florida and it's the same here. I believe these feelings, inertia we experience is in part from running on adrenalin for extended periods. Also realizing how quickly the year has past and those pesky regrets. I try to mentally list the blessings when these feelings surface. Some will say "well that's age talking" (I'm 58), but my 13-18 year old students talk about the same feelings! I stroke and sort my fabric, look at my magazines and books with an eye to something new- a project, technique or skill I've avoided because I didn't have the time to focus on it before. Seems to help me.

LindaR 12-28-2010 06:05 AM

this is awful but I"m always so glad when Nov/Dec is over...when January hits I know spring can't be but 4 months behind...LOL I don't have much energy either and could be sewing up a storm but can't get motivated either. I think its my age????

llong0233 12-28-2010 06:15 AM

It's all part of the circle (cycle) of life. If we didn't have the "downs" how would we recognize the " ups"? Just go with what you body tells you and leave the rest to your brain. I see from the responses on the board it's universal so at least we don't have to suffer in silence! Take good care of yourself. You worked hard and fast on everything you gave and now is the time to recharge. So, taking a little of my own advice, I think I'll go have a cup of hot tea and leaf through a book of quilt patterns, just for fun. Take care.

quiltincharlotte 12-28-2010 06:25 AM

No, you are not the only one! I make up about 40 Christmas cookie plates, hand made gifts, etc., busy from Nov. til Christmas. Takes me weeks to get back into my routine and do things for ME!! Hang in there, I am in the doldrums, too, and glad to hear it is not just ME!! I think your message just inspired me, since I know I am not being lazy, just "recouping"! Happy New Year!

quilt3311 12-28-2010 07:01 AM

I think it just takes time to come down from all the hustle and bustle of the Holiday. Getting ready is exhausting and when its over its just UGH! I spend this week with a sketch pad, just jotting down ideas for projects and maybe sewing a bit if I have something I was working on before the Holiday. Hang in it will pass. And yes, when its cloudy and dreary its always harder to fee up.

PiecesinMn 12-28-2010 07:26 AM

I thought maybe because it's winter and not enough sunshine (a concern here in Minnesota) but I see where you are from and it's your summer right? I feel the let down after the Christmas season because we still have so much winter left and have had so much winter already. Maybe it's more the loss of the anticipation of the season. Well, don't know if this helps you but its helped me. THanks.

Originally Posted by Caer Urfa
Does anyone else feel like this after Christmas? I have oodles of ideas and projects and new patterns and .. and ... Every year I get like this, just can't settle to anything. Is it because I have time on my hands, the only spare time in the year, or just the letdown after a busy end of year and celebrations. To really produce I need to be pushed to the limit and time poor. Another good reason could be that we have had continual rain for well over a week and much of Queensland and northern NSW is flooded. You might think that is a good time to get organised, but I get out patterns, sort my stash, scan through my craft magazines, print off projects found by Crafty Bear, decide I am going to finish that Christmas present that has now turned into a birthday present, prepare the backing for a quilt finished 6 months ago and so it goes on. Don't give me motivational hints! I have already given myself a good talking to! But I would like to know I'm not the only one - please!


QuiltingPinjinsa 12-28-2010 07:45 AM

We all have those times. Get with a friend at least once a month and work on one project you have put off. You will get more done in a year then what ya can think.
Hang in there. :-P

JeanDal 12-28-2010 07:49 AM

Sounds like coming off an adrenaline high type thing. I know I feel that way.

BettyGee 12-28-2010 08:00 AM

You are not alone. Guess we'll figure it out eventually. We've been struck by the gods who break things; garage door, coffee pot, etc. Seems like we ticked somebody off big time, but in the grand scheme of things we're really just fine. Hang in there, you're certainly doing the right things and the cloud will lift. Hey you live in one of the most beautiful places on the planet, even if it is a bit soggy right now. I'll be thinking of you.

Catherine Marie 12-28-2010 08:10 AM

OMG! I'm getting anxious just reading your post. I am so like this, it isn't funny. I'll plan, as you do, and then I'll start a number of projects and hurry through some, and dawdle over others, and then make myself crazy!!!This year one of my goals is to work on one thing at a time, make sure it isn't more than I can handle, and take mental and emotional breaks when necessary. It might be difficult at first but with my quilt angel's blessing, I'll be more pleased with my results no matter what it is- from the lowliest quilted hot pad to the most detailed of sewing projects, no matter what it is.
And unending rain would be a challenge that I can only imagine. Here it would be the never ending snow but so far this winter, my little neck of the woods has been miraculously spared.
Have a Happy New Year. We, here, always get to see the New Year being rung in from Australia when it is still several hours away from us. You know how to put on a fireworks display.
All the best in 2011.

gloria11 12-28-2010 08:18 AM

Believe me, your not the only one.. I have this whole week off and had decided before christmas, that I just couldn't wait I was gonna sew to my hearts content and now I can't do anything.. just so down and don't feel like doing anything .. between the weather, the let down of the holiday... I guess my mind and body is saying forget it we need down time

Deborah12687 12-28-2010 08:25 AM

I am just going to do nothing for a few days then get busy on my book.

duckydo 12-28-2010 09:38 AM

It is not just you. I have had the lazy's ever since Christmas. I think it is just kind of like jet lag. You will get it back. If I can I visit a fabric store and sometimes that inspires me, but if I buy a new project then when I get home I get back in the funk, just go to get some inspiration

Ginnie 12-28-2010 10:06 AM

I'm just sitting here watching 3 grand kids , can't do anything but being a referee, boo boo kisser, etc. so glad to have them and glad to see them go. 2 of them are sledding now, got to watch for the neighbors mean dogs, and the baby is napping. Hope to keep my sanitly intact.

Regina

catrancher 12-28-2010 10:17 AM

I could have written your post right down to the Oregon rain. I helped myself by making a decision about what kind of projects to make in the new year. Ordinarily, I make bed quilts. No reason--just habit. The other day it occurred to me that I'm only going to make small quilts this year--table runners, placemats,etc. Maybe even a backpack or bag I've had my eye on. It perked me up right away for some reason. Maybe a change of pace would help?

TN Donna 12-28-2010 11:32 AM

You are not the only one. I too hae unfinished projects. I made it to my sewing room and put away gift wrap and bows left by my daughter. I then put away the leftover material and patterns from the last minute gifts. Next I pulled out a baby quilt (baby due Jan.18th) and serged and put binding on the back. I now have to finish it by hand as I chose this choice. I too need a dead line or extra push.

quiltmaker 12-28-2010 12:50 PM

Personally, I love the calm after Christmas. Family and friends just getting together and enjoying each other....no rush to get this or that done. I love the New Year....great beginnings and opportunities for everyone. Deciding on what new quilt to make and the endless possibilities are inspiring in itself. That said my family & friends always want more quilts. The unexpected and delightful coming our way. I generally reach for all the joy out there because life is just to darn short to not enjoy and be grateful for every single thing. We could all go on about the things that aren't quite what we would like them to be but for me that is just another adventure to conquer.

patdesign 12-28-2010 12:54 PM


Originally Posted by sweet
I understand what you are saying. One really cool discovery that I have made since moving to Louisiana is that the Mardi Gras season is about to begin and that is a sure cure for the doldrums here. I hope you can find an early spring to perk yourself up! Take Care...

Yaaa LSU and Mardi Gras. I lived there for 3 years, (Baton Rouge) and spent almost as much time in New Orleans as BR. Doldrums is a state of mind, your just need something to look forward to. New Quilt anyone? :D

Quilt 12-28-2010 01:46 PM

This Thursday my Bee group is getting together and hitting some quilt stores together. I bet we come off the day with our little brains full of ideas and motivated to get going with some new project.

golfer 12-28-2010 02:15 PM

Give into this feeling. It will pass. Try reading some books with a box of chocolates. That will make you feel better.
I feel a little let down after Christmas because our sons and other family members live out of town and it is too far to travel.

Susi 12-28-2010 02:26 PM

Here, Here! It happens to the best of us!

sewwhat85 12-28-2010 02:39 PM

i am there with you

Caer Urfa 12-28-2010 02:49 PM

Wow, thanks for all your thoughts, what a great bunch you are. I feel a real kinship with so many of you now. I am one of those cursed people who feels guilty if they're not "doing" something and like to finish the day feeling I have achieved something, even if its only cleaning a window. At my age who knows how much time there is to make and do all those things going round in my head. I need at least another 50 years. Anyway, the sun is out today, before more rain for the new year, so I can get out and commune with nature, a friend has just rung to arrange morning tea tomorrow, and I have a couple of hours sewing planned. Yay, I'm getting back on track, hope all of you are too. Goes to show we're all sisters under the skin wherever we live.

annyroony2 12-28-2010 03:00 PM

I am right there with you. Spent all morning cleaning out my scrap drawer because I couldn't decide on a pattern to start on. I may need to get away for a day to clean my head and start fresh new year's.

Taughtby Grandma 12-28-2010 03:18 PM

I'm in limbo. I too have completed the Christmas gifts and a couple wedding quilts thrown in. My sewing room is actually clean!! I found out what my cutting table really looks like. I have some ideas for a quilt for a friend who's birthday is in March. I'm trying to not start a new quilt till after the new year, but I have some time off from work Thursday and Friday, I don't know if I'll hold off. I also recieved some gift cards for JoAnn's so that where I'm off to on Thursday.

Hope you feel brighter soon!

eimay 12-28-2010 03:41 PM

It is universal!! For Christmas, my daughters asked for "happy lights". They simulate intense daylight in order to raise seratonin levels. I also opt for chocolate.

wraez 12-28-2010 03:47 PM

most likely you are feeling the letdown after all the buzz of activity for Christmas.

take some time to refresh yourself, smile and look at your 'to do' list and find something to get you excited again.

I'm sorta feeling the same way but desperately need to reorganize/clean my sewing area. That is what I am doing today and finding things that I want to get started on BUT I am putting it off until my area is newly clean and reorganized.

warm quilt hugs, sue in CA

oldlady 77 12-28-2010 03:58 PM

"Happy Lights" and extra vitamin D.

garysgal 12-28-2010 04:04 PM

Yep-me too! Mine stems from having to put away all of the Christmas stuff myself. I have too much, and this year I have to down- size, but it's hard to do. I don't think I'll put up anything but a wreath next year!

Pat P 12-28-2010 04:14 PM

My cabin fever doesn't set in until March. I love Jan/Feb no parties, just good comfort FOOD usually no company because of weather, time for sewing, good books in other words TIME FOR YOURS TRULY. Hang in there!

BettyGee 12-28-2010 04:30 PM


Originally Posted by Caer Urfa
Wow, thanks for all your thoughts, what a great bunch you are. I feel a real kinship with so many of you now. I am one of those cursed people who feels guilty if they're not "doing" something and like to finish the day feeling I have achieved something, even if its only cleaning a window. At my age who knows how much time there is to make and do all those things going round in my head. I need at least another 50 years. Anyway, the sun is out today, before more rain for the new year, so I can get out and commune with nature, a friend has just rung to arrange morning tea tomorrow, and I have a couple of hours sewing planned. Yay, I'm getting back on track, hope all of you are too. Goes to show we're all sisters under the skin wherever we live.

If this helps, your message just made my day! It has been a stinker of a day, but it is almost over and all obstacles have been overcome. As my husband said, we will pull through this too. You have found wonderful group of people by being a member of this board. I just joined in October and have made a friend in Idaho that is as close to me as if I'd known her for years. I'm so happy to hear you are perking up, keep on "perking." We are all here for each other, I found that out in the first two weeks. When things get stinky just put out a call, we will be here for you.


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