Episode 24: Franklin Habit's Needlework Vlog, In Which I Conquer Filet Crochet

[@elizabethlussier4423]

This week, I have to go visit my new appartment. It's a big deal for me because it's 30 min away from everyone that I know and I don't drive anymore, there is no taxi, bus or other transportation means for me to visit my son and friends. But , I live with MS and walk with crutches, this appartment is all change for someone in a wheelchair, there is bar in the bathroom, the rooms are large enough to walk or roll by any means that I have to. It's redone, fresh painted, my dog can be with me, there is a ramp for a wheelchair... So I cannot refuse, it's so perfect! The other option is go in a home for disabled people. So I have to jump and hope that all will be well. Thank you for being so open in your video, I'm sure that I am not alone who feel reassured and hopefull about any change that we have to make in our live to be happier. Good week to you!!! (and everyone who read my note)

[@thewol7534]

I am facing a second move (January) in six months, and a difficult year ahead chemotherapy). Your delightful, tranquil, thoughtful vlogs will be part of what gets me through this hard time. Thank you for the time and care you put into your works. The bread you cast upon the water feeds many souls before it comes back to you. Merci.

[@mry5892]

Hang in there. Chemo is hard, but it's what they have. I am still above ground 19 years later due largely to that combo of surgery, chemo, and radiation. Good thoughts coming your way.

[@LynnMoewai]

Please have a look on the web for Chris Beat Cancer,,My husband said No to chemo after it killed our neighbour given 6 months of life and he got two day's following chemo which killed him not the cancer,,my husbands cancer has stopped growing and all we have done is followed Chris' s advise which is eat whole foods only nothing junk and drown yourself in anything good,he's even got a beat cancer kitchen (recipes),,good luck to you,,You can beat this :0)just as a bonus,my husbands 70 has grey hair and it is now regrowing black his orginal colour how good is that?

[@helenmorrell2717]

Wishing you positive thoughts,comfort peace,and love in the coming year. ❤️

[@alicianavia4522]

Feeling somewhat depleted myself, I thank The WOL for putting into words what I'm feeling, much better than I'm capable of doing at this time. And of course, thanks to you, Franklin for creating the opportunity with your honest and candid words.

[@susanharris-rohde1127]

God bless you on your health journey!💚

[@blou5598]

My dear Franklin, I must say that I love and respect you for your openness, honesty, courage, and wisdom. A major life change is never easy and you have shared the range of emotions so accurately. I have lived vicariously through your transition to Paris (with some degree of positive envy) and am so happy to hear that you are settled--for the most part--and are in a state of CALM. It is always a joy to visit with you through your videos. Thank you for your sharing and for your inspiring talent.

[@terryhickman7929]

Well, B Lou just said exactly what I was thinking while watching this video. A mere thumbs-up isn't sufficient. It is joyful to see that your state of mind and heart is improving and I hope it continues for you forever. Paris does nourish the artistic soul, I believe. And Paris should be glad to have you !

[@bonniemiles7957]

If you made sheer linen or cotton panels you could hang them now then pin the crocheted motifs in place until you were most pleased before inserting them. That way you could have privacy and license to finish the project as you have time.

[@anitareynolds7114]

For the last year or so I have slowed then stopped knitting, just because I was in pain. I have recently made the decision that I no longer wish t live in pain...so on December 20. I am getting an early present and getting a new knee on the right side, and 6 weeks later a new left knee. and the decision sent me back to the needles and I have finished a pair of socks for my husband and am halfway through a shawl for my daughter-in-law. Not a physical move but HUGE mental one, so I identify in a major way. So thank you for this post which is a big help for me personally, at just the right time.

[@thizizliz]

How lovely to hear you say that you are feeling better. It would seem that you made the right choices for yourself. In college I learned the concept of opportunity cost: everything we do comes at the cost of something else. When the benefits of the change outweigh the loss of whatever was given up to obtain it, the decision was the right one. #breathe

[@pamh1468]

Oh my goodness the story of your mother recovering your sofa took me back. My mom was also a wonderful seamstress, took a class and recovered my favorite reading chair for me. It must very early 1970’s. What a lovely memory, thank you.

[@carolsmith9201]

I woke the cat laughing at the poem at the end! What a delightful bit of silliness.

[@devnaroberts3755]

Somehow the most difficult life altering decisions I have made led me to exactly what you described as your new mindset. I describe it as elation that does not dissipate! I must say, seeing you in place at your new peaceful and beautiful Paris workroom gives me joy. It was always a little jarring for me that you had to cope with the noise in your Chicago workroom neighbors. Do you ever play classical music tuned low as a background... I find it calming, restorative and that it somehow releases my creative "juices". On the other hand, one of my friends revels in quiet. May your joy and contentment increase day by day!

[@bettymish]

I find it such comfort sitting with you on your vlogs. Complete relaxation. (Loved the filet Crochet introduction). I feel like we are kindred souls. The things you tune into are what I tune into. Loved your explanation of how you enjoy making things instead of buying them. Growing up in a house where your parents would tackle creative but useful projects. I thought it was mostly your grandmother who encouraged you. I'm glad your parents also had a part in that. And yes in life we always question our major and minor life decisions but we just do the best we can with what we know at that time. Thank you for sharing.

[@heyBrownBerry]

Your reflections (and your filet) were SO welcome, Franklin.

[@LizbethPlenty]

This getting older lady really appreciates that you love old ladies. My thing is mostly creative visible darning and knitting/crochet mending. Thank you for sharing your wonderful work and esthetic. All the best

[@justineventimiglia7979]

I just spent the most delightful half-hour knitting and watching your blog. My desire to knit over the last several years has been waning but today I nudged myself to get back into it. It was a pleasure to knit and listen to your stories, especially the part about your mother making her own curtains and learning how to reupholster furniture. I wish you the best of luck on the filet crochet! That intense feeling of mastering a skill is one of life's greatest pleasures.

[@elainelim325]

The Workroom Studio is looking so cozy, such a happy place. I am fortunate enough to have my own Studio room in my house and it’s truly me….just like yours is truly you!!

[@ladylilithparker]

Franklin, I'm so happy for you that the changes you've made have had such a positive effect on your well-being. I'd been feeling stuck and miserable myself for a while and, thanks to a recent change, am finally feeling like I'm heading in a better direction, so I can relate to what you've been through. The mitts are looking lovely, the filet crochet is charming, and you're right, the light in the workroom does make everything look better (but I had to scowl when you claimed you didn't look good -- you're a looker and no mistake). I hope things continue to improve and settle, and I look forward to the next video.

[@Mindfulnessification]

Thank you so much for this message! I am so happy for you and you speak my language, Franklin. Your projects and wanting to make some of your things yourself and your aesthetic. So beautiful! Settle into the joy! 💫🧚‍♀️❤️ I am just recreating my life by looking at it from a higher perspective and truly taking the time to figure out…what do I want. Lots and lots of knitting for sure. Travel soon, and lots and lots of calm! 🌟❤️🌟

[@lindahealey6992]

I like very much how you shared how you’ve been feeling, it means so much to me-and I I’m sure, many of your followers. Also-Your sense of humor is divine!

[@ligamara]

Good for you! We moved to Europe 16 years ago and I love it. Ever since I saw “The Red Balloon” in a Minneapolis movie theatre as a young child, I just knew I wanted to live there, somewhere, in Europe. I could feel it in my bones.

[@Mindfulnessification]

I watched this again, from the original broadcast and just want to say how refreshing and beautiful it is to hear you speak so honestly about yourself. I love everything about your Paris lifestyle, at least what I can see. ❤

[@cynthiaps23]

Bravo on your new ventures. ☕👏👏❤❤❤❤❤❤Don't look back. Enjoy what life has in store for you in Paris. Awesome!

[@grettastephens1583]

Sitting sadly in an almost empty house surrounded by moving boxes (on my birthday) on the verge of an international move. Thanks for the reminder that taking chances to change your life takes courage and tears but is worth doing. It’s lovely to see you flourishing.

[@pluckyknitter5302]

What a lovely reminder to take care of ourselves 😘 and we are looking forward to watching your curtains come to life.

[@danielleboots7032]

Franklin, Thank you for sharing your parents influence on your creative life!

[@cherolynwolf5913]

You make me smile watching you, I usually watch most all the time!

[@cindyrosser2471]

I love antique pattern library! My favorite decorating era is 1910 -1920 especially pre WW I, when electricity and some modern appliances were first appearing in middle class homes.

[@jghkuijper1881]

Franklin, you have not chosen Paris, Paris has chosen you. To open up and explore your creativity. I wish you all the best with your journey, your intrinsic value will grow. Sometimes we have to go out of our comfort zone, because we tend to sabotate ourselves.

[@BrettSelmer]

Ah! I've seen work like this in flea markets and antique stores. Now I know it name: filet crochet! BTW, I love your vlogs.

[@donnacohen-avery8086]

I know exactly what you mean about burn out addling one’s brain. For me the big change was retiring from a very stressful long term (38 years) job. I do not regret it. I retired three years ago and it took a little time for my creativity to return. Now I find that that creative spark is shining brighter than ever. I’ve been doing the Artist’s Way and finding it very enlightening. I’m so happy that you are doing better and feeling well. Doubts are normal. Thank you for your honest accounts. I just love your channel.

[@francessnider7437]

Thank-you, Franklin, for your wise words today. We love you.

[@maryvanderwerp8015]

Thank you so much for your kind and thoughtful vlog. You inspire me to keep on my endless journey to improve my health and find my creative passion again.

[@belindahenkel713]

today.. this is my first introduction to your blog. a random choice of all you have on here....... and you speak to my crushed, creative heart.. thank you..xxx

[@IslandLady76]

Ok, your calming voice was so calming as I try to spread a “hole” of loose stitches and the “Julia” and the light brigade? Cracked me up. Had to stop and comment.

[@barbarasmith2693]

Crochet is my first language. I found this very inspiring. I watch you knit amazingly complex(at least they seem so to me) and gorgeous lengths of fabric and delicious finished pieces of knitted loveliness and I sigh, knowing that feeling of being unable to accomplish with my hands the thing that I have envisioned. And I know full well that it's not my hands that are the difficulty. It's my weary mind. Knitting fingerless mitts with that beautiful pattern (and doing it _well_ ) would be a momentous achievement for me. But filet crochet? This I can do, in my sleep and with a meditative calm that comes from the repetition of the work. I once read that people who are to be considered intellectually "gifted" most often do not do well when faced with repetitive tasks. Phooey! Although I do not consider myself to be among their ranks, some of the most gifted people I've ever known have been regular gluttons for what others consider to be repetitive hand crafts. It's also good to step away from things one can achieve easily (and seemingly by rote) and to stretch the brain and the fingers with work that takes more concentration and attention. I may have to take a stab at some cabled fingerless mitts of my own!

[@tanyaseaman67]

I completely agree with making things for yourself -- both for the process and the pride in having created something I really wanted my own way. So many projects don't get done, of course! But I find myself in stores really looking only for inspiration, rarely for purchasing. After making my first sweater ten years ago, which taught me how to customize the waist and hips, I've never bought another pre-made sweater. I hadn't realized how well I could make my own fit me so well, and sweaters weren't after all so difficult and allowed me a lot of creativity and endless challenges whenever I craved it and wanted to experiment.

[@michellecornum5856]

Ah, Dear Franklin: What a Large Adventure! I hope that whatever led you to France serves you well.

[@lynnnielsen]

You look so much calmer. I'm so glad you had the courage to make the change you needed. It is inspiring!

[@Woeschhuesli]

In the 1980s/90s half-curtains („café“-style) were very popular here in Switzerland and there was still a lot of filet crochet going on. You still see them quite a lot in old houses that are out of town. In fact I inherited quite a lot of cotton and tiny crochet hooks of unbelievable fineness with wooden handles and protection caps from my mother-in-law. The mitts are so pretty - travelling stitch patterns like this always seem Alpine to me and that particular twisted stitch cable reminds me of Bavarian pretzels… 🤎🥨 They would go well with any Alpine costume, casual or formal! It‘s good to see you feeling better in your new environment.

[@gwendolenshepard9124]

I was raised to do things myself, too. My parents were similar to yours. When we had to move, I brought many pieces of wooden furniture made by my father. I cannot be more proud of them. I learned to cook from both my parents and have no problem making almost anything from scratch. Now I make many different foods from self created basic recipe. I turned to this same attitude to knitting and crocheting, and create many things from my own imagination.

[@ReallyJillRogoff]

Another delightful video. Thank-you for sharing your memories, thoughts, and feelings. I hope, a year later, you continue to feel that calm.

[@sarahmatthews2737]

My curtains growing up were definitely filet crochet! I had no idea! The pattern was ducks with bows around their necks courtesy of my mom. You just brought me back to my childhood bedroom in my mind! I love your videos and you are a great story teller!

[@kylesmith2836]

Bienvenue à France! I’ve recently « discovered » your vlogs via the MDK knitting blog. What caught my eye was the post entitled Letter from Paris. Our journey began over 7 years ago with the purchase of a share in a home in rural France. Fast forward today we are now the owners of a home in the same village. With the onslaught of COVID last winter we repaired (after a 2wk quarantine in London ) to our shared home where we promptly commenced looking for a place we could call our own. After much paperwork, administration, waiting, patience and the like we closed in July (after signing the compromis in January)! Something you said in your vlog made me think of a quote from one of our shared home owners that his time in our little village gave him a chance at a second life. We too feel that way and it is sometimes difficult to describe to friends. Look forward to meeting you at one of the upcoming European knit festivals. And on a practical note, you may find Emmaus a place to find used articles of all kinds, my favorite find a gently used Le Creuset pot for 10 euros. Savor the adventure!

[@53mags]

Thank you for sharing your doubt and uncertainties about your big change in life. I am glad it has made such a positive impact on your wellbeing. I look forward to seeing the progress of your filet crochet window coverings

[@wildmeadows8495]

The crochet venture is so inspiring. How wonderful that it marks a change for you!

[@castlehandmade]

What a pleasure it is to sit and chat with you. I’m only a recent follower (things take a while to reach us down here in Australia lol) I love listening to you talk about your creative pursuits, despite me not being a knitter. But what a thrill to learn today that you crochet! I’m a crochet teacher and designer and adore the technique of filet crochet. Looking forward to seeing your curtains evolve xx

[@wendilandkammer8368]

I'm so glad your health is getting better. This was, quite honestly, comforting.

[@mary-jeanfickes2486]

Wow! What a warm glow I got from your vlog today! I'm glad your move is working out so well for you. I am finishing up some big projects that I had put off for waay too many years, the last of which was new carpet for our house. That meant moving everything out of most of the rooms in our house but in the process we cleaned, de-cluttered and rearranged. So much work but a real breath of fresh air and now I too feel much calmer in my home🤗

[@DeathKnellPresents]

Feeling burnt out sucks. Been there, suffered that; and still I rise. How wonderful it is that you have turned a corner and are now headed in a good direction. You are very inspiring and I hope you have a great holiday season, complete with knitting (FO's) and new starts.

[@cherylbranche1532]

Moving slowly to Panama behind health and international presence. I fully understand the feelings about the process and big life changes. Inviting people out of one's life is not easy, yet important. I understand tired and I understand calm spaces. Delighted for you!

[@catherinemontrose2102]

You touched a chord for me, Franklin, and thank you for that. I'm a writer and a fiber artist, and a singer, and this past year and a half has deadened my spark. I feel like I'm slowly regaining that side of myself. And that improvement is partly because I've moved with my family back to Colorado, where the mountains and sky speak to me. Have a wonderful time in Paris!

[@kathymccann8412]

Thank you for your candor and sharing. You are braver than you realize. And you are lucky to have been able to do it. Im looking forward to the new pages in your story.

[@SpindlesEnd2]

You sound calmer. I'm glad you're finding some form of mental rest and the ability to regroup.

[@horsenroundstudio]

Love, love, love filet crochet. I once set out to make what I thought was a filet doilie of a rose bouquet for a friend's wedding gift. It turns out that the original pattern was meant to be done in actual thread, so the doilie became HUGE, so I mounted it on a black velvet background and framed it for her instead. LOL. Now that I've started quilting again, I'm looking at quilt patterns with an eye toward making curtains to grow skills. So glad to see you making progress and rediscovering health and happiness.

[@eleonoraiggulden439]

Hello Franklin, I've added you as a 3rd subscriber after Kate at the Last Homely House and Arne and Carlos. I find all of you very relaxing to knit and listen to. I have made a large move from Toronto, ON to a small community right in the middle of NB. There is a small town 10 mins away with most everyday needs and big box stores about one hour. I left the bustle of the city for a small quiet community in the almost middle of nowhere but enjoying nature and the peace and quiet. I now have a home instead of a one bedroom apartment where I can do my knitting, weaving, and yes I have also done filet crochet. Not much and unfortunately gave the item away. Maybe I'll do some more.

[@Colleen527]

Great to see you again and no dinosaurs, I bet you don't miss them either

[@traciroberts3048]

I do understand the need to just stop, rest, and recoup. I can't wait to see how the curtains turn out!

[@andreamckay355]

Thank you so much! You worded it perfectly about what happens when you need a change in life and how scary it can be. I too left a 23 year career due to burn out and unhappiness. It took some time to get through an identity crisis and too be honest I am still on the road of discovery of me. However, very similar to you, I am finding passion in my craft again. I am so glad to hear you sharing your up and downs to know that the doubts still peak through but that it's okay. I think the window covering project is a creative and beautiful idea. The fingerless gloves are lovely and I am grateful to finally know what the reference term (twisted stitch) is. I have been admiring it in shawls recently and did not what it was. You are teaching just in conversation! Your vlogs in themselves are so enjoyable and I always grab my knitting just to sit and listen. It's like having a little knit tea party as you chat. It's such a calming session. Again, I truly thank you for your time in creating and sharing these video. Merry Christmas to you and yours.

[@reneegencur2469]

The mitts you are working on will be beautiful. I love the technique you are using. As for filet crochet, it is worth producing, especially for the type of project you will use it in. I agree that it reminds me of Grandma’s house, but now that I am a grandma, I have developed a new appreciation for it. Lacy curtains are great things especially when they are part of older neighborhoods like yours. It’s great that your move has been a very healthy one for you. I hope you continue to heal and restore your creative self. Happy holidays!

[@monicaferri3816]

I have just subscribed to your channel. Your mention of old ladies must have done the trick! Thanks for your very pleasant, informative and witty contents.

[@chrisb1682]

Brilliant.... You feel settled and calm and peaceful.... I think your move was very brave and exciting... I have done similar in the past and hopefully will do so again (the rut is a little deep at the moment!)... Bravo, le tricot et merci! Toujours très intéressant 😊💕🌿

[@KristenStieffel]

“A gear slipping” exactly describes my life for the last several years. Thanks for your words, Franklin. I”m so glad you are finding joy in your work again. ‪((Hugs))‬

[@FeatnikSF]

Oooh! Oooh! I had to pause at 10:37 to look at the arrangement of art on the wall above the sofa. (!!!!!)

[@janetmelcher3716]

The Charge of the Light Brigade is not funny, Julia Child is not funny, but the combination of you, Julia and Charge made me laugh, thanks!

[@wannaknit]

Best of luck with your new adventure. Some decades ago I moved from Canada to the UK for not wholly dissimilar reasons. In many ways it was beneficial, but it did take at least a couple of years to mostly adjust to the cultural changes (and that was with a similar language) and even now it is rare that a day goes by when I am not reminded by something, or someone, that I am a 'foreigner'. Which can be grating. The other thing I learned is that no matter where you travel, there you are - you take your own self with you always.

[@iwondery1725]

Thank you for expressing the value of calm contentment; it is undervalued, particularly in America. I wish you all the best in your newly unpacked work room. BTW, I've found that the graphically laid out Japanese filet crochet patterns are much easier to follow than patterns that are written out in words, so you might want to check them out.

[@deniseroberts5901]

Filet crochet is fun and perfect for a Paris apartment window. IMO. ❤️

[@janelou458]

Sitting here listening to you and identifying with so much of what you are saying. We are one month into a move from Washington State to Wyoming. We moved to join our daughter and her family, but after 40 years in the same house, sorting and packing all our possessions and having them moved cross-country has been very overwhelming. Of course, retiring at the same time did not help anything. I've been working at the unpacking, because I know the more organized we are, the more like home it will feel.

[@kad40]

OMG, I completely forgot about Tanita Tikaram. Thanks for the nostalgic reminder.

[@lauraferguson8482]

Maybe, just maybe, I should just make my own bedroom curtains. It would push my skill level, I would enjoy the finished product, and I think the process would help give me something creative to ponder. Thank you for this post. I needed to hear it today. 💕

[@GiselaT54]

Always soothing the soul, you are! Thank you! 💗

[@Rop6ckc]

Thank you. I unearthed some filet crochet recently that I had done maybe 40 years ago when I had babies and toddlers running around. I probably took it on as a self-protection device. I may have to resurrect that craft. 😉

[@LynnMoewai]

Wow have I been there and done that,,you think I'm getting out of bed this morning and doing this or that,,not in my life something alway's comes along and if I'm lucky next week I will get that done,,when your creative it's hard to keep your brain in order to do this one thing today and pack the other creativity in line,,my brain was starting this,,I'm abit bored put that down start that and nothing would get finished,,I too had to make some big changes in my life once I realised some of it were people I had in my life,,Here in Christchurch New Zealand we suffered Earthquakes,,broken houses and fighting insurance companies to repair our homes Insurers Deny the damages,,We had to sue via the court's,,No work Christchurch city fell down too,,(Its all back up and running now ten year's on) cancer scare with my husband survived that and realised when we won our fight throught the court's what was really Important,, Health first,,,,having Nice people surrounding us and rid ourselves of anything NASTY..My first start after repairing our house was Helping out the Monarch butterflys which are nearly extinct here in NZ,,very satisfying,,I Love my Garden,,grow all of our veges,Full of Flowers and puts a smile on peoples faces walking around our part of the River we live on a small hill overlooking the river,,,I LOVE my workroom put on my favourite music and sing sing sing and can now settle down and do that one job I had planned to do and finish it before starting another,,then I found you Franklin,,Covid changed everything,,there is alway's something good that comes from the Horrible,You just need to look at the Positive instead of Focusing on the Frightening,,Doubt's and Worrys,,,If Covid Had not come along I would not have gotten the nice cheapy $2 membership of Craftsy,,Franklin your a joy to watch,,I'm getting back into Machine Knitting and already do as you say Swatches,,in the fashion world of tailoring my first training40 years of it (I'm also an Embroidery Machinist,Digitizer,Screenprinter,limited crochet?here we call them Samples we do samples in embroidery too,,that was the easy part,,you've now taught me Colors and boy has that saved me so much time doing so many samples that looked good on the thread,,but as embroidery bland,,as your mother has said to you,,if you like something you do really have to make it yourself or have someone else make it for you,,The fashion world taught me,,this is in this year and not next year,,fashion does not care if the color looks good on you or not,,just wear this it's in. Next year I'll sell you something else,,last year's it out.. I wear what I like,but make sure my husband does like it too,,he has to look at me :0) Crochet Curtains are beautiful whats not to Love about them,,you keep doing what your doing,,find yourself some Happy Like minded people in Paris and here online too,,Happyness rub's off and remember smiling is so Good for your face too,,Now to find time to Watch all of your Videos and keep you as another Positive Human I will be Happy to watch for as long as you let me learn from you..Roll on 2022 to a positive New year and to all of your subscribers too..

[@gamineski]

Thank you for sharing. So happy youare finding your joy.

[@lindadaley7469]

Hi Franklin: I am so glad to hear that you settling in to your new place and it is agreeing with you. I also love filet crochet and I have been doing some over the years. I mainly do doily's and tablecloths. I really, really love white lace curtains on my windows. They allow the light to come in (I am a person that needs a lot of light) and still affords a lot of privacy, as I can see out but people can't see in. I get most of my curtains at Value village, The Mission Store, or any other second hand places that I can find. And I have found some beautiful curtains at next to nothing prices at most of those places.

[@Acornbud]

Thanks for sharing your journey. I look forward to your creative ventures and adventures in your new digs! :)

[@kimberlyhailey22]

Last year I got laid off. It was my first moment in 10 years that I could say. What do I want to do. Glad your putting your health first.

[@lenabreijer1311]

I have moved cross country several times now. It is always a shock to the system. I wasn't prepared the first time and it caused me some problems. But it was beneficial in many ways in the end. I would like to do it again but I can't. This time my commitment here won't let me. I mean yes I could do it but then I couldn't live with myself. I totally understand the creative issues. I had that big time when I was caregiving and then dealing with death. I was just pulling out and starting again when the pandemic hit. At least right now I know what is happening and I know I will recover, I was almost there.

[@sophroniel]

I wish you could come here to New Zealand haha! I have never felt settled, and despite being in this place over a year, I finally unboxed all but one box of books yesterday and wow, the mental unloading is .... phenomenal. I cannot knit right now because of my arthritis, but watching you do so is enough for now 🥰

[@anunmaker]

I spent the better part of my lunch hour knitting while watching your Vlog. Thanks for keeping me company, I really appreciate you.

[@Loyal-cat]

Thank you for such a wonderful video. I am happy that you feeling some calm.

[@celestegarcia486]

Thank you for you beautiful words! Muchas gracias amigo!

[@jimsumpter9947]

Franklin, so happy that you are calm… I am needing some major rearrangement, inside and out, and your words are really very comforting! 🙂

[@marcymoir3389]

New subscriber here….love your channel……love filet crochet too…in the 70’s I made a filet crochet wedding dress for my SIL….all with fine crochet cotton …took me about 6 months …mainly because I messed up on the first 9 inches of the hem and had to rip it out…..now at 75 my eyesight would prohibit such an undertaking…..

[@heidilady]

Go figure…we are having one of the mildest winters here in Chicago in the ever, now that you are gone. Still would rather join you in Paris….and love the blog. :)

[@aimeehaase1601]

You are such an inspiration. I've done a few (big) things in my past that still haunt me, although the feeling is finally fading. It has taken me a decade, but I hope I am finally back on track. I start a new job in February that has been my dream job since 2007. I'm excited, and nervous. I know it won't fix everything, but I hope it brings me some calm. (I didn't realize until watching you, that 'calm' was the word.)

[@sunnyw4148]

Thanks for the inspiration. The whole package of moving to Paris, finding two favorite LYS, and getting a great apartment to create is helping me look at what I would really like to do next. From the next making project to perhaps a trip when the world seems a little safer.

[@MsLindaE1]

Thank you for this great and inspiring episode. I love how you are taking care of yourself and how your parents have molded you to do things that today in this world isn't happening. I'm in a position now that is making me contemplate changes and you give me the inspiration to just go ahead and do them.

[@funnykine808]

Aloha, Franklin! Thank you for sharing.

[@amethystanne4586]

Thank you, Franklin! The live chat was fun! I missed the first portion it it, so I am glad that you post the video here so that it can be viewed in it’s entirety.

[@franklinhabit]

Thank you for tuning in! And by the way, a KZbin "premiere" is always just a chance to watch the début of a new video (with live chat as a bonus) when it first appears. If you can't watch a premiere, or if you tune in after it begins, the full video will always be there after the premiere :)

[@amethystanne4586]

@@franklinhabit Thank you! I was not fully awake enough to read the details. I hadn’t even gotten my 1st cup of coffee, before clicking on your video. It was very scary 2 nights ago. A bad bunch of tornadoes were in the Missouri/Arkansas/Illinois/Kentucky/Tennessee part of the Midwest. Even in southcentral KY, we were under a tornado watch.

[@kristinm3729]

Thank you so much for sharing your perspectives on burnout - and on moving abroad. I don't imagine that anyone makes a life change of this sort without feeling intermittent doubt cuz wherever you go, there you are (and all that) which means you can't be elsewhere. I am so envious of your amazing journey and new adventures - though my life is wonderful in many ways plus I am no risk-taker. Think of how many people imagine moving to Paris in their lives. I mean, there's a catalog of movies on the topic! So when you may have doubts, remember: doubts live everywhere. Courage is much harder to come by.

[@jeanette6396]

Loved your trip to buy fabric! (I used to sew) so looking forward to flea market. Loved your filet crochet curtains idea, I wanted to do that for our living room but was daunted at the thot of so much work. However, panels would reduce that to manageable, great idea. 👍 great to see you.

[@dorotheekschmid]

I might have some tears now. It resonates so much. So happy you found the calmness.

[@BeautifulOaks]

Happy New Year, Franklin. Thank you for your candor about the move to France and work. I’m glad you are feeling the calm you needed. About your fillet crochet project, it’s looking good. As you you began talking about your attempts, I thought maybe finding an old maid to tutor you through the project would help but I finished listening before I made a comment. If it were me (even though crochet is my first language but I enjoy knitting), I would look for an old maid to tutor me because they usually have useful methods possibly no longer taught and enjoying the company. Best wishes on your curtains.

[@gwendolenshepard9124]

I think the curtains will created lovely shadows. My father learned crochet and did it while in the army during WWII because he rode so long on the trains. My mother used to be amazed that both my father and I could use the tiny steel hooks. I have made tiny lace tops on Christmas ornaments and snow flakes using thread and tiny hooks.

[@robertecaissie4008]

Your stories are very interesting.I’ll be following for sure .

[@dagmarnevill8408]

Yes... that sense of calm - interesting how one has to keep reminding oneself to find it time and time again. Thank you for your reflections and forward and onward wit the filet crochet! Maybe I'll have a go myself ...

[@margaretsweeney6468]

Franklin, so happy for you. Really enjoy seeing what you are up to. My friend Terry and I love watching the videos.

[@randi-marie7139]

This old lady has enjoyed having a knit and a chat with you. Thanks! And I'm pleased to hear you're doing well. Looking forward to our next chat.

[@danagiles3672]

I put my charts in page protectors and use dry erase pens to keep up with where I am. I love the old things too. I just recently learned to shuttle tatt. I needed to make my own lace lol

[@MollySing]

It's funny to think when I make big life changes they come in pairs. This time it was a new role at a new company and pregnancy. It makes a little hard to evaluate, but overall so far so good. Can I gently tease you about the negative self talk? I started a project on my wheel, an 'advent' 12 day spin, and it feels so good to have a project on my Lendrum again. I have been pecking away at a spindle travel project since July, but it takes time over target I haven't been giving it. Mostly I have been knitting with handspun in the mean time, making room on the shelf for more in my life. Molly : )

[@anneleonas7813]

Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts, life, and advice with us! I’m so glad you made a change that helped you, although your American students will miss you! Especially those of us in cold Chicago!