Flosstube 25: An autumn storm of starts, stash & stories

[@liztedlock7717]

Thank you so much for sharing your journey of healing. It can’t be easy to put all your feelings out there, but thank you for doing so. Yes, we have all felt those feelings of being inadequate. I know I have in my life. I am 63 now and still have those feelings.....but they do pass. I have learned to reach out to find others around me that I can share life and joy with. Having people like you, here on KZbin, is part of my social life even if we are a world apart. So even though you may already know this, and will hear it many times from others, I would just like to add my support and let you know how much you are valued and loved in this community. It means a lot to have you and everyone that contributes to our group to put out all the wonderful videos of sharing all the creative crafts. I look forward to many more for as long as you feel like sharing! Take care of yourself. 💕❤️

[@dawnusaus68]

Oh Mieke 💙💙💙 Thank you for being so open and honest, both to yourself and to all of us. Childhood scars never really heal, but recognising them as a trigger can go a long way in helping us deal with our adult emotions. I hope you continue to get healthier (mentally and physically) each and every day! 😘

[@astitchybug2014]

Dear beautiful Mieke. Thank you for your bravery and honesty, thank you for bringing yourself to our stitching community even in this difficult time. Your Heavenly Father says you are enough, for he made you in his image and he is well pleased with the work of his hands. Liz xx

[@foranika68]

Hello Mieke. I just want to say you something from the bottom of my heart: You are such a STRONG woman! With this courageous openess you are certainly helping a lot of other viewers out there (including me). Thank you and all the best for your recovery! Kind regards from Germany.

[@andreac-iheartcrossstitch]

Hello dear friend!! Your stitching choices just blow me away with how amazingly awesome they are! Your weekend in Germany sounds like a dream vacation! Thank you for sharing yourself with us. I know it's not easy to talk about the deep and heavy side of life, but you did it with such composure. I know it took a lot of courage to do that. You are absolutely not alone in how you are feeling. I'm so glad that we are friends and can support each other as we struggle through life's challenges. Hugs to you!! 💙💜💙💜💙💜

[@stitchywitch42]

That floss is perfection. There is something amazing about stitching with floss we dye ourselves. I just finished stitching with my first dyed floss and I think I fell in love with it. The fabric you dyed is also amazing...my colors. Thanks for the story, we do have amazing people in our community and I am glad you had an amazing weekend. Audrey Your story about yourself is truely amazing and heartfelt and I wish you success in finding your true self, be blessed my friend 💙💙💙

[@Pharmageek06]

I'm tearing up listening with you! I have many of the same fears and irrational thoughts in my own mind. Thank you so much for sharing your experience! It's so important to know we aren't alone in our feelings. I'm glad you've been able to stitch more! I always love your little blue corner of Flosstube.

[@SumiraO_9513]

I so love the colors you chose. The one you hand dyed is lovely. Thank you for your heartfelt video. I am sorry you are going through a difficult time. I will keep you in my prayers. You are beautiful inside and out. And you are very strong and brave to share your story. I am sure it helps many people.

[@sheliaburton541]

I so enjoy your videos Mieke Your WIPS are awesome!!! You are such a beautiful, wonderful person and I am so glad you had a great weekend with your friends. I care about you and your health. I will pray that you heal completely. Hugs to you dear lady.

[@shariwitt1977]

Hello Mieke, you are delightful to watch and listen to...so happy for your wonderful adventure, and the amazing floss and fabric you created. Wishing all the best for you, Shari Witt

[@Hexagonstitches]

Thank you for sharing with us. Your projects are beautiful. It is good for people to hear that life has it’s difficult times but we can overcome

[@patriciakasmarek6680]

Thank you for being you. Your honesty about your journey is awe inspiring. You are not alone and I will say that it is a journey. I have been where you are and the truth in coming to love yourself as you are is sometimes long in coming but when you manage to change the words that you use to talk about yourself in your mind to positives, things change for the better. There are times when I backslide but I’m getting better at catching myself and stopping those negative thoughts. You are such a bright, joyful, passionate light in our community. I look forward to seeing your progress in a few weeks.

[@sofiamochon-ciniglio4010]

First off, I would like to say that your stitching is absolutely beautiful. I really love the colors and I think your project is definitely off to a good start. I have dealt with similar issues and I know that it isn't easy; I used to feel insecure and still do. My thoughts go out to you and I hope you are feeling better. Big hugs 💙

[@sampsontoledo3467]

I am glad you are sharing what you are going through and finding ways to deal with it. I think it is important to voice the hardships we went through as a child. Our childhood issues does affect us as an adult. The outcome of how you're dealing with all you're going through is beautiful, I think that is displayed with your threads that you've dyed and the WIPS you're working on. I'll keep you in my thoughts. It's hard, but keep it up. hugs.

[@yarnsnthreads]

I just love your hand dyed floss. They are just lovely. You have some great projects coming up. Thank you for being so transparent with your life struggles. I have been on a similar journey, so I have some idea what you are going through. I won't say I understand, because it's not my journey but yours. I am glad you seem to have the support around you that you need. I will say being on a similar journey, finding an art form is such a balm throught it. I will continue to pray for you as you start to spiral up. ❤❤❤❤

[@thelazystitcher]

I hope your journey continues to take you where you need to go to recover. I’m glad you’re taking care of yourself, you’re taking all of the right steps and I want the best for you! Thank you for sharing your beautiful stitching and stories and I hope you had a wonderful holiday season ❤️

[@DarlingBluebell]

Thank you so much!

[@bonniehinshaw3131]

Hello my speical freind , I know how hard it was to speak of your life with us . I too struggled with those feelings . In fact, it wasn't untill I met my husband and he showed me how loved and special I was , and how every person , model , sports person , movie star , all have flaws . Sooo , I stopped reading the paper and I only listen to the news at night . He made me see people for who they are , not for who they portray. It's a process , and I agree with you, keep the people you love close and they will help you through this . I love your color choses for you projects . You have such a good eye for that . Just know we all here at floss tub land love you and are there for you ! 😉😊🤗🤗🤗

[@passionforcrafting1161]

Mieke, it was so good seeing your lovely face again. You have the most awesome WIPs and believe me I was a bit jealous when you talked about your weekend with Joke and Jan and the dying part. Your threads are so gorgeous! Keeping you in my thoughts, feel yourself hugged... Hope we meet again soon, Dunja

[@emilybweber]

I love you just the way you are! Thank you for sharing your story. Oh, and lovely peacock threads!

[@ameyostitch8073]

❤️ thank you! For being so honest. This could be me talking. My fears of not being enough has torn down my life so many times. I am now at the same point in life as you. It taket a lot of courage to really see your feelings and how you think about yourself!

[@patriciavanroekel8856]

Powervrouw 💪🏼 Het komt goed lieverd, na de diepe dalen komen de hoge bergen! En tot die tijd blijven we lekker dansen, steekjes zetten en nieuwe avonturen beleven 💋❤️

[@ladybirdstitcher4200]

Hi Mieke. Your projects are stunning. It’s wonderful that you were able to spend time in the Germany countryside with your lovely friends. The fabric and floss colours are beautiful. Such lovely combinations of colour. All your projects are stunning - you’ve chosen them all so well and it really shows. I’m glad that your physical health is better and that you are receiving the help you need to improve your mental health. You are so right that society makes us feel that we are not enough and it’s so hard to convince ourselves otherwise. I find myself thinking like that all the time and it’s a real struggle to come up with reasons as to why we are enough. Thank you for being so open and honest in your journey. It must be very difficult to work through but I hope you feel better about yourself soon. Take care and enjoy the activities that make you happy, so happy stitching and happy dancing. Take care xx

[@smith97097]

It is so beautiful. The design you are stitching with your thread. I love very thing you stitch. Your amazing.

[@joyfulcrossstitch]

Loved you amazing stories of dying your own floss with friends and your shopping adventure. Your chart choices are quite beautiful. I think you will find great comfort in Psalm 103. Here is just a small portion... heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from the pit and crowns you with love and compassion, who satisfies your desires with good things so that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s. Lifting you up in prayer for peace and wisdom. Sandra

[@KellyBellcambridgegiftsbykelly]

Hi Mieke, Beautiful video. Such beautiful stitching and things. Most importantly, thank you for sharing your journey. I do believe that every single person deals with this mental trial, well, some deal, some sadly can’t. I am glad that you are on the mend physically and that you have help to mend your head and heart. It is truly an ongoing struggle for me too and it was much harder when I was younger and working. I am not a person who appreciates competition- I am all about team work and combined strength rather than a single person who needs to be the best everything. It’s amazing anyone can function. I hope you find your key - I think you are on the right track. Acknowledgment! Knowledge is power. Power over your mind and those self doubting, deprecating thoughts. I hope some of this made sense. I feel your pain and I am keeping you in my prayers. Thank you for sharing. ♥️

[@Tinsleymumsey]

Thank you. Such a good heart💙💙💙

[@Cattysuecatz]

Very beautiful stitching! It sounds like you had an amazing weekend. Thank you for your honesty. You are not alone.

[@DarlingBluebell]

Thank you! 😘

[@YanyStitcher]

A big Hugo my friend! So much truth in your words, we will be here, if you want us, for you 🥰🥰🥰 BTW just ordered the Blackbird booklet thanks to you 😘😘💙💙💙

[@stitchingsunshinerae]

The floss you dyed is gorgeous!!!!!!!!!

[@jomariehogle1980]

Great finish. Enjoyed as always.

[@alicecolyn1838]

Hello Mieke. I only found your flosstube a week ago and have been binge watching. This floss tube #25 really touched me I am 50 now and every bit that you shared I could relate to but have been seeing myself as selfish for feeling like you described. I do hope 2 years later you are doing much better. Thank you for helping me understand why I feel the way I feel.

[@DarlingBluebell]

Hi Alice! Thank you so much for your words. I am very glad to say that YES, two years later I am doing much, much, much better. It has been a very bumpy road (which I talk about in my videos at some point :-)) but I am now in a place where I am happy and healthy again.

[@dorispatton5866]

Everything is so pretty. I just love it and got to have it.

[@judyrosy]

I 100% understand you. I am nearly 60 years old now but feel as you do and can relate to everything you have said. Bless you my dear girl. Peace to you and to your lovely, talented heart. I ache for this world and our society that has gone so far wrong. Praying for you. I believe there is coming a place and time when all things will be made right. In the mean time....I stitch to help myself. I hear the words of eternity while I stitch. I hear quiet and gentle words of truth and life while I stitch. Be at peace young dove....you are loved and precious as I am learning that I am as well. Slowly. But learning. Enjoy your stitching....listen while you stitch.... ❤

[@CreativelyYours]

Hey Mieke! Wow!!! Ik ben bijna jaloers op jullie dye avontuur, stof en garen zijn geweldig geworden!! Hoe geweldig is de Handwerkboetiek? Ik was ook net een kind in een snoepwinkel 😉 super dat je zo open was met je life update!! Ik weet hoe moeilijk dit kan zijn. Maar zoals je zei, je komt hier als een sterker persoon uit!! Knuffel van mij 😘

[@sofiamochon-ciniglio4010]

I also have to say that I had many interests and thing about me that were considered "different" by many of my peers. It was an extremely uncomfortable feeling and I completely empathize with you. Even now, I still have those memories come back to haunt me. I keep wanting them to go away... There are times when my insecurity is too challenging to deal with and feel at peace with. Learning to be satisfied with discomfort is difficult and no one enjoys that state of mind. Thank you so much for sharing your honesty. You are a wonderful human being and I wish you all the best.

[@KittenStitcher]

There is real strength in vulnerability. Thank you for sharing yourself through your video. Good luck on your journey and your upward spiral. :) - T

[@kellysluiter5241]

The Christmas Garden is one that has been calling my name. I just need to choose fabric and floss. I understand your brain fog, it’s hard to deal with. Your thoughts are blank and words disappear. One day that fog lifts and your thoughts become battles you have to fight with. I want you to know your inner beauty outshined your outer beauty. It really put a huge smile on my heart. Thank you. I hope you have a wonderful stitchy week.

[@terribland7275]

I am new to your channel. Wow your project are beautiful. As you spoke of your life I sat and thought you were saying exactly what I feel about myself and I am 53 and still struggle with it. However I didn't admit whose feeling to myself until recently. Good luck on your journey, stay strong, and love yourself.

[@hipgrammy2003]

I have to tell you, firstly, your stitching and color choices are fantastic! BUT, secondly, your life updates really shook me up. I am over 70 years old and I recognized so many of your feelings as those that I have struggled with for most of my life. I am so happy that you are able to recognize them this early in your life and can hopefully find a way to deal with them so that you will have a more peaceful life. Please continue on your journey with a more positive attitude!

[@alisstitchingstudio9866]

My Dear Friend Mieke, you are so amazing to speak so openly about what you are going through. I want to share a powerful word that has helped me get over some truly hideous times in life - EMPOWERMENT. Keep doing things that make you feel empowered and strengthened. Your dancing and eating well will make the physical endorphins release into your system daily, movement and laughter are so important. Your friends here will support you and share your love of our wonderful hobby. You are not alone, I will be an older sister and tell you to stop consuming media that pushes ideals that make you feel less. You are not less, years ago I stopped watching the news and reading the paper due to too many triggers, this might help you too. Your loving family and friends think you are wonderful and I hope I am counted as one of those. You can control your inner thoughts and I am so happy to hear you have lots of support in place. Wish I could give you a hug in person. Please take care and you are welcome to message me if you want a chat. P.S. all of your stitching looks beautiful and sorry I enabled, oops, no not sorry. Lol, keep up the lovely stitching, I am pretty sure you have enabled me to get the BB designs booklet for that Christmas pattern . Love Ali.

[@jonihall8754]

Oh my goodness....I am so glad I came across your Flosstube video today....I can so relate to your feelings and you expressed it in such a way that made me realize that is exactly how I feel - Not enough. I am glad we have this community to support each other and to know - We are enough and we are not alone with our insecurities. Thank you.

[@evelienjol7169]

Wat goed van je dat je je gevoelens wilt delen en dat je alles ook nog eens zo goed hebt verwoord. Als ik de reacties zo lees zijn er veel mensen die zich hierin herkennen (waaronder ik). Het kost veel tijd om weer uit het dal terug te krabbelen maar je komt er wel Mieke! Knuffel van mij. Groetjes Evelien

[@mikytova]

Hi Mieke! I can't get enough of your stitching! Your projects are sooo beautiful! You are very lucky to have such a great LNS! Regarding your life update, I am not a doctor but I think that realizing what the problem is is the first step towards getting better. There is nothing wrong with being little bit selfish and taking care of yourself! You are freaking awesome woman!!! ❤❤❤

[@debbieblewitt5378]

Thank you Mieke for being so open in sharing your very difficult journey. Your words echo my own feelings. It is so hard to accept that we are ok as we are. We are our own worst critics. But continue to give yourself time and love and moments of joy. Wallow in your stitching and dancing. Thank you for expressing your inner beauty through your x stitch, your videos and your honesty. You ARE good enough and I am giving you a huge virtual hug. Kia kaha.

[@DarlingBluebell]

Thank you so, so much Debbie. A big hug back! It is hard to accept ourselves, and I am SO glad that the stitching community is a place where I and others feel safe to be themselves. That means a lot.

[@melissaeggleston733]

Firstly, your wips are beautiful! The one on the gray xju fabric with your threads literally took my breath away! I'm so glad your stitching is giving you joy! We are the same age, and I really think you hit the nail on the head! The way we have chosen as a society, especially women in general, to market to one another is really detrimental. The way we can't just be good, we have to be the best. It's maddening! Just know that I'm sending you so much love while you navigate through this with what sounds like an excellent support team. I know you didn't want anyone to repeat it, but know that you really are enough! You were uniquely created, and only you can show the world kindness and love in exactly the remarkable and lovely way that you have, even through this channel. ❤❤

[@DarlingBluebell]

Thank you so much, Melissa. 💙 I felt very, very insecure in sharing all of this, but I am so glad that it is met with such loving encouragement. Thank you. 😘

[@TheCraftyCurator]

OF COURSE it's a DNA trellis design!! Nailed it!! LOL. Frasselt melts my heart every time I see it. That color combination just jumps off the fabric. Definitely a a fan favorite. ❤ You know I drooled over the threads you dyed, right? And that fabric!! What a fantastic experience!! Your plan for that fabric is perfect!! Now, that being said, it is my sincerest hope that you find your balance my friend. I could feel your distress as you described it and I empathize with you on so many levels. I admire your bravery for sharing your darkness with us. Our imperfections are what make us perfectly unique, and I hope as you sort through this and continue on your journey, you find peace within yourself. That is my wish for all of us. We're all on a personal and introspective journey, thank you for sharing yours. And you are not alone in your feelings. Not by a long shot my dear. You are simply one of the few brave enough to reveal it. I adore you. All the hugs. ❤❤

[@debbieblewitt5378]

Beautifully said.

[@DarlingBluebell]

I adore you right back! 💙 Gosh you have such a way with words do you know that? You describe it so perfectly and so lovingly. Thank you a million times. 😘

[@TheCraftyCurator]

@@DarlingBluebell Thank you. I meant every word. Even the part about drooling. 😂😘❤❤❤

[@drokka8363]

Thank you for giving yourself permission to be honest with yourself, and in reminding us that we are all in need of checking our own attitudes toward what we are told (and sold if we’re honest) about what it is to be an acceptable human being. That you are able to machete your way through the weeds of expectation is a massive step, and something that probably more of us should have the courage to join you in. Now, as for your stitching: how can a Canadian avail herself to some of those lovely Dutch designs (I’m always jealous when is see your instagram updates)? Continue to be kind to yourself 🙏

[@messystitchuation]

Hey Mieke, what a wonderful video on so many levels. Thank you for sharing your autumn storm of starts, stash, and stories with us. Your projects are simply gorgeous, as always, and I also very much enjoyed your stories about Joke, Jan and Patricia. Joke & Jan are truly special and wonderful human beings. Thank you also so, so much for your birthday wishes and you kind, kind words about me, you made me tear up over here, but in the best possible way. Again, I can’t wait to see your conversion! Lastly, I want to say how much I appreciate what you said about your process of healing and recovery and how much I appreciate you opening up and sharing your thoughts and reflections with us. You are so, so valid, my friend. I’m sending you a big hug.

[@smith97097]

Mieke, I understand what you are feeling. I am going through the same thing. I’m still working on myself.

[@Jasmine-ur1sl]

I am sending you a virtual hug right now from across the pond. One of my university professors once told me that we take ourselves (our memories, life experiences - good or bad) with us wherever we go. Whilst we sometimes think we packed away the insecurities and unpleasant memories of our childhoods; stressors (work, relationships, life changing events) in our current lives may trigger our old insecurities to the surface. It doesn't help that we live in a society which bombards us with images of "perfection," and impossibly happy, overly successful people. You are amazingly braver than you think you are, Mieke. Thank you for this very honest video, and please don't edit it! I wish you a safe "journey," and virtually sending you my support. On the stitching side: I am a big fan of Arlene Cohen's designs, and can't wait to see your progress on her "Six..." I am currently working on one of the squares from that pattern as a Christmas present for my niece. Take care.

[@anniefecteau9910]

Huge HUG. Haven’t watched flosstube in ages and slowly getting back into it. You’re personal story strongly resonate with me and how my 2018 has been. Not going into details. It gets better. It’s a rollercoaster for sure.

[@DarlingBluebell]

Thank you so much, Annie. Hugs back! I hope 2019 becomes a great year for the both of us xx

[@anniefecteau9910]

Darling Bluebell o oh! It will ;)

[@StitchingIsMyHappyPlace]

Hi Mieke Wow, what a lovely weekend that you enjoyed, shared with lovely people. Your WIPs are all lovely. I have to say you are beginning to look better, your face doesn't look so drained. Great news that your iron levels are improving. You know, studies have proven that stitching is great for mental health, as it is meditative, so that's a good reason to stitch. Just do what makes you happy. Look for something beautiful each day, it might be a bird singing, a flower, a smell, anything that makes you feel good, even if it's just for a moment. Try a gratitude journal and write something in it each day that you're thankful for, some days it might just be that you woke up but other days it might be something wonderful. Baby steps, sweet girl, all in your own time. Just remember, that you are loved, even by people that you've never met in person. Take care Hugs Marie x

[@mildavasilkeviciute-zinkev6081]

I had the same problem. Still working with that "not good enough". You can change that, but it takes time. Let yourself be who you are and love yourself. Hugs. Hope you are better ;)

[@DarlingBluebell]

Hugs back! It is a struggle isn't it... But it makes us better and stronger persons. I hope 2019 will be a year of more self-love for the both of us xx

[@pamlacey136]

Listening to your heartfelt words, my heart ached for you. I wish I was their to hug you and comfort you. I can't find any words that will truly help. Just know that I am praying for you and a return to a full and happy life. Hugs......................

[@heathermackenzie4701]

Its funny, we live in different parts of the world but when your videos come, they seem to come when I need to hear them. Your words have been some life lines in the darkness of my life lately. So please keep sharing and I wish you continued strength for your journey

[@angelaspringett1262]

Wow wow wow☺. I have been riveted to your video, feeling like it was me you were talking to. There are sew many things that came up and I wanted to comment on them, but my brain hasn't been able to remember it all☺. ALL of your project choices I love and want to do. I could feel the love and excitement when you went to see your friend on the borders of Germany. I felt the rush when you were driving there and the warmth of your friends. The thrill of actually having to work with the artist when you dyed your threads and fabric. The colour you developed were stunning. I thought yes you are feeling brighter☺. Sew when it came to the 'life updates" I thought it would good news!. And it was, your bloods were getting better,but because of the illness of which I share with you you could not take that as being positive. I wanted to hold you in my arms and tell you that you a beautiful, caring person who people wanted to meet and listen to. One thing for certain is that with mental health, it cannot be hurried. You will get through the tunnel to the bright exit ahead. We have to realise that no-one is perfect. I have not had self confidence and belief in myself for well over half my life. And if I was honest I want to leave this place, but, I cannot. If I left, I would leave this legacy to my children especially my wonderful daughter, who is 23yrs old and still trying to find herself. She beautiful inside and out but she cannot see that. Sadly I think she has the hell that I live with facing her. That truly saddens me. What have I done to her? You come alive when you talk about cross stitch. Concentrate on that my dear. Cross stitch and the community that comes with it is a wonderful thing. How I wish I was able to help you, I would be better at helping you than helping myself. I totally get how our emotions can change from hour to hour. People who have not suffered do not understand, no matter how they try. Anyway, much too much typed about that. I'm going to have to get at least one of the charts you are doing. You have a good eye both for colour and design☺. I am sew looking forward to your next video. Please contact me if you need a sounding board. You have your whole life ahead, you have much to give and create. I send you my love and good wishes.p.s I shall be surprised if you get to the end of this ramble lol) x

[@jenjohnson1136]

It is a good thing that your iron levels are increasing, although as your doctor pointed out it will be some time more before they are where they should be. I hope that you are able to find some peace in your mind as time goes on. You will not always feel as you feel now. Your stitching projects are beautiful.

[@lwright622]

Mieke, your video came up in my feed. Your taste in stitching and color selection is very similar to mine. I have now subscribed and will be binge watching Darling Bluebell today! I too am dying to start the Christmas Garden Sampler. Thank you for sharing your color suggestions. I called 2 different cross stitch stores asking for recommendations on a silk conversion. Both store did not want to share the names of the color choices unless I purchased the threads from them. I understand supporting stores, but really.... Needless to say I didn't purchase from either store and will order some fabric and layout the Gloriana's that you suggested to see how will they go with the fabric. I don't have as many color selections as I can not stitch on linen. I have to stitch on an evenweave fabric. I look forward to getting to know you better through your videos. Thank you for sharing your talents and your life. Hugs from Texas.

[@DarlingBluebell]

Thank you so much, Lisa! I hope you enjoyed the binge watch :-) I prefer evenweave to linen as well. I have slowly accustomed to stitching on linen, but it took time. Maybe, if I may be so bold, maybe you could treat yourself to a beautiful xJuDesigns linen one day (the Hungarian lady over on Etsy). She got me into using linen :-) Her colours are so beautiful and her fabrics are sooo soft and nice to work with. Maybe something to consider if you want to treat yourself sometime. ;-) Let me know if you do, and happy stitching! xx

[@jennyrajaballey7601]

Hi. Thank you for your video. You have helped me solve a stitchy problem. I too want to start Christmas Garden. Like you it is not something I usually stitch but it caught my attention. I found the book after months and bought the called for threads and wanted to do it on platinum or vintage country mocha. BUT did not like it because it was muted and the beige disappeared into the fabric. So I got different fabric but didn't work and have been staring at it for weeks. But your solution with brighter silks makes so much sense to me. I love your Gloriana choices. So a big thank you. Also thank you for sharing your personal journey. I have had those moments too as many people have. Your journey is your own and though it is hard now, it is yours to celebrate. It helps me to try and be patient with myself. And to count my blessings. I am fortunate to have this hobby that helps me meditate and stay motivated. Take care. With colours like your peacock threads in your life it can only get brighter.

[@NoviceStitcher]

i am glad that your physical health is getting better. as for your mental side i understand completely. what you are experiencing is what i went thru before i got on my medicine. i am a rapid cycleing bi-polar heavy on the depression.. i know that you may not want to acknowledge it as such and maybe it is not the same, but I really think you should see a mental health doctor. if you do have bi-polar-ism than medication can help you so much better. keep seeing your life coach either way. I am also proud of the work have put into your projects. it is so .lovely to see you enjoying them again. i am so proud of you for stepping outside your comfort zone. ever since i saw you doing the autumn circle one, i have seen you do more projects that do not include blue. don't grow so far beyond that you forget about your signature blue. i really love your color choices. i can only hope to be as good as your as the years go by. im still a novice when it comes to color choices. i have to grow outside by own comfort zone a bit more

[@katarinakovacova7821]

We love you just the way you are.

[@Crea-Logboek]

You are such a brave woman! Although I have only discovered your channel a few months ago, I have been watching your videos with interest. Thank you for your latest update, as I was wondering about how you are doing. It is not easy to deal with a burn-out and the storm of feelings that come with it, let alone to talk about it so open-heartedly. Thank you for doing this and know that you are not alone. Heel veel sterkte de komende tijd en blijf vooral de dingen doen die je leuk vindt en die je energie geven.

[@darlenel-k-dlklife]

I am happy that you are feeling better. I have to say that you sound so much like me and some of the challenges that I am currently facing. I understand the journey is a difficult one and please know that I would always be willing to chat via email with you. I always enjoy seeing your stitching and especially when you are stitching with the blues and teals.

[@hojiscott733]

Oh my dear, yes, you have modern woman syndrome. Probably combined with a good dose of depression which is more the norm then not. I am a 64 year old woman in America and I've watched people for many years now, and you are quite correct; you are far from alone. Please believe that your self awareness and honesty will see you thru! We are here to listen and support in any way we can. I'm sure you know that's it's extremely important that you get plenty of sun thru the darker winter months for your mood. 💙

[@lisafall1904]

I so agree with your comments. Mieke I love your projects and the colors you choose.

[@AStitchTooFar]

wow wat een kanjer ben je toch :) dankjewel voor alles wat je met ons deelt, de uitjes je kleurcreaties en borduursels en alles wat in je leven gebeurt. Erg knap dat je het zo onder woorden kan brengen. Ik denk dat je een belangrijk punt hebt gevonden als 'openbaring' en ook weer herkenbaar voor mij. Het gaat je lukken hoor! En ik kan je ook zeggen dat in mijn ervaring het leren accepteren nooit helemaal ophoud, oude dogma's steken toch makkelijk weer de kop op. Maar nu kan je het tenminste als zodanig herkennen! Ik wens je een heerlijke decembermaand met je prachtige kerstprojecten, zo leuk dat je helemaal naar Roden bent gegaan en dat je net als ik zo'n goeie indruk hebt van de winkel! xx

[@DarlingBluebell]

Dank je wel lieverd! Wat bijzonder dat het zelfs voor jou herkenbaar is. Ik heb juist van begin af aan altijd de indruk gehad dat jij zo heerlijk gewoon jezelf bent en onafhankelijk op je eigen twee benen staat. Grappig hoe we anderen altijd beter inschatten dan onszelf... Dikke knuffel en ik ga de dagen tellen tot april! 💙😍💙

[@sweet68pea]

mieke I was in the same place as you are.. I was a 21 yr old nurse assistant who unfortunately got assaulted by a patient.. roll on till I was 28yrs old my brother rang me to tell me my mother had passed away... I had moved out of home and living with my wonderful fiancé who 6 months after my mother passed away said come on lets get married.. yes I was amazed by him.. my father gave me away but it took a whole week to get over my mothers death.. my husband then decided we needed to move back to be with both our families he took on a lesser paid job but yes we moved back … roll on to 2000 first we found out my father in law had cancer and passed away in may and then my father passed away in the October wow what a stressful time... we found a bigger house so you guessed it we moved again.. this was my breaking point.. my father the man I loved was no longer there.. I couldn't work due to the assault and at this time I have to use disabled aids i.e. wheelchair to get around, sticks, cushions but the main problem was I had an invisible illness..i had a mental breakdown due to all the stress and bother of my fathers death and my father in laws death we had moved 6 times in 3 yrs and I was not going to move again I saw a psychiatrist who gave me some anti depressants and yes I feel better but I like you were bullied at school I never feel worthy of my husbands love.. things that helped me was writing things down.. hobbies, best friends people to talk to, taking my medicine, im in constant pain from the assault so im on very high painkillers, I have a brother who has recently had twins so I get great joy out of them.. I hope my little story helps you and if ever you need to talk im here

[@judysayers2518]

💐x

[@StitchingSandie]

Thank you for sharing your story. Im in the same place as you, have been like this for 15 years. I never had real friends and I dont know why? everybody say Im so funny to bee with but they never stay? when I was 14 I gave up on friends and started to be with no one so I did not have anyone to talked to, have my boyfriend now that listening and hugs me when my thoughts is to hard on me. I have tryed therapy but it felt so wierd to talk to strangers once a week :P so stitching have been my therapy :) when Im done with something I think " WOW, did I do something this beautiful with the wierd stuff that is going on in my head?! " I know that I / we are not alone with this feelings, not be wanted, not be needed, nothing... But it feels alonee anyway :o Sending you many hugs but keeping my tears ( yes you made me cry but that is okey ;) ) Hope you feeling well soon and that I get to see you soon here to

[@mattieprowell2045]

you will come because I did by the grace of God because I Mattie Prowell did am 70 years now but through faith in God I am a whole complete be strong my child enjoy the best of your stitching and wear this world like a loose garment I am a cross stitcher too hug yourself for me

[@DarlingBluebell]

Thank you so much Mattie. 😘 You're very right. I know in my heart that God is the one place/person that can really learn to love myself properly. He made me after all! Which is amazing to know. 😍 Thank you for your encouragement.

[@VickiGiger]

Your work is lovely and enjoy seeing the progress and your comments. I'd like to cover my frames/hoops like yours. Can you tell me how to do that? How to measure and process to make? Thank you.

[@DarlingBluebell]

Hi Vicky, thank you! :-) What I have simply done is take one of the grimeguards I already own and take the measurements of that fabric. I use 11x17 inch Qsnaps. My fabric measurements came to 2x 80 centimeters long and 20 centimers wide. It's a bit difficult to explain in just plain text, but I think if you look on KZbin for videos on how to make grimeguards, you'll find some. Good luck! :-) xx

[@lynnburkhalter1260]

Mieke? Are you going through the change? That's how I felt when I was going through mine.

[@TheSlovakFarm]

Well... I didn't notice you were holding your project upside down sooooooooooooooo LOL. Does borduurparadijs sell only paper patterns? Hugs and love to you... This is a fight that is going to take time for you darling and you may never fully win the battle.

[@jellybabies47]

Is there an auto focus setting on your phone camera? There should be one. I have a Samsung phone.

[@stitchedbyminalove]

I love that long pattern. I'm from the Philippines. Does the store ship here?

[@therockingstitcher]

Jemig, ik weet niet waar ik moet beginnen. Sterker nog, ik denk dat er niks uit gaat komen, maar ik denk en voel wel heel veel haha. Ik begrijp je reis zo goed. Ik ben zo blij dat je lieve ouders en een goede vriendin hebt (Patricia), die jou begrijpen. En een goede coach. Blijf naar ze luisteren. Ik was zo blij dat je zei dat Patricia je er op wees dat je je klachten teveel op je ijzertekort gooide. Dat viel me bij eerdere gesprekken ook al op. En ik weet hoe strontvervelend het is dat een burn-out zo ontastbaar is. Hoe makkelijk het is om bij een ander te zeggen dat het tijd kost en hoe moeilijk dat bij jezelf te accepteren is. Maar ook al heb je het gevoel dat je de bodem nog niet hebt bereikt, ik denk dat je grote sprongen hebt gemaakt door te beseffen wat er echt aan de hand is. Alleen dan kan je uiteindelijk weer blij zijn met het leven. Hoe moeilijk de reis ook. Bedankt voor je eerlijkheid, ik denk dat veel mensen hier iets aan kunnen hebben, hopelijk jij ook. Ik wens je zoveel goeds! O en zoals ik ook tegen Ingeborg en debbie heb gezegd, jullie moeten het echt eens gaan melden als jullie naar mijn LNS komen. Tss. Volgende keer met z’n allen, met alle noordelijke borduurdames erbij😊 Ik ga me zaterdag daar weer verlekkeren, zin in. Ik heb genoten van al je prachtige WIPs. Je hebt een geweldig gevoel voor kleur!

[@DarlingBluebell]

Oh verdikke woon jij bij Roden in de buurt? Aaaah dat was gezellig geweest! Ik laat het de volgende keer zeker weten! 👍🏻 Dank je wel voor je lieve woorden. Je hebt weer eens zo onwijs gelijk 😉 Ik ben wel heel blij dat ik eindelijk de ruimte heb gevonden om 'gewoon' te zeggen dat het niet gaat en dat werken echt nog enorm een brug te ver is. Eerst hierdoorheen vechten...

[@therockingstitcher]

Darling Bluebell Ik woon er zo’n 25 min vandaan, redelijk dichtbij dus. Ik heb met Ingeborg en Debbie al afgesproken dat we eens bij de Handwerkboetiek zouden mini meeten. Misschien wil je daarbij aansluiten? Als je het aankan. Misschien carpoolen met Ingeborg? Nou ja, er staat nog niks vast, maar wie weet. Lijkt me wel super leuk. En anders zeker laten weten als je hier nog eens heen rijdt. En wat een opluchting hè, dat je je niet meer hoeft te verschuilen. Nee het lukt nu nog niet en dat is prima. Komt wel weer.

[@angelaspringett1262]

Hi Mieke again. I've just tried to order one of the charts from your friends but of cause I cannot understand it lol. What do you do with your charts once you have finished them? Any chance you could pass it on to me at a agreed price? Please get back to me at your convince x

[@dorispatton5866]

Where can I get the pattern.The De Veluwe

[@DarlingBluebell]

Hi Doris, it's a design by Joke Trebbe De Nijs from our Dutch LNS Borduurparadijs. You can send them an e-mail to ask, if you wish. Their contact details can be found on their website, borduurparadijs(.)com. Good luck! :-)

[@Justjenniferky]

Your Wips and projects you are about to start are so beautiful! I loved the story of the weekend with stitchy friends and making the floss. What a great memories. Cherish those times. I am in love with Joke patterns do you know if we can get them in the US? I think I will do the Blackbird Christmas with you all. Do you have a Hastag? mini hugs Jennifer @mccracken5120