January Blahs

The holiday season is over. The happy obligations that kept us so busy last month are no longer there to obscure the shorter days, rain or snow and darker skies. We don't have that looming deadline with some wrapping paper, to keep us working on that unfinished Xmas gift. Maybe you have nothing to do but to bug your better half to take down the Xmas lights.

The January Blah's are upon us. What to do? What to do? One option is to get one of those daylight lamps, a blanket, some sherry and a good book. But that's not us, is it?





A better option might be to finish off that "almost made it" Xmas present so that it is ready for next year. You don't want to put it away just yet because you know that everytime you dig into the cupboard it will be sitting there like a guilty reminder. You don't want that lovely yarn to turn into a moth haven. Not inspired? Think of it as getting a head start on your Xmas shopping for 2011.

Nothing to finish off, then go shopping! That always works for me. Pull out those sample cards or visit a yarn shop.

Spend the money you made at that Xmas craft sale. If you sold something, then you've justified replenishing your stash. If you feel you don't have the room for more yarn, then buy some storage equipment or books.

At this time of year, we all need some colour in our world. If you cannot fly off to a tropical paradise then try working with tropical colours. Surround yourself with bright, warm colours and some steel band music and a glass of tropical punch. Think fushia, turquoise, cayenne, scarlet, tangerine, emerald green or lime. Forget for the moment the colours with names like, stone or slate, olive or kaki.

If you start now, you can have that project finished and ready to use by the time the warm weather arrives. Too many times I've been inspired to make something that I needed right then. This year, I plan to get a head start by weaving yardage for a summer wrap now. It is bright blue and fuschia and reminds me of a very gaudy Hawaiian print.

Can't think of a project to start? This is a great time to find and record some inspiration. Get the camera out and take some photos. The picture of the snowy grate reminds me of an openwork weaving using a cramming and denting technique.

I like the subtle colours of the wild rose hips against the yellow of the grasses.

If you live in Oceanside, try my favourite activity, beach combing after a storm. The fresh shells still have their bright colours, the wet stones show off their patterns and the seaweed is strewn along the sand like ribbons. If you are observant, you'll find inspiration even on a grey day.

Finally, if none of the above work for you, then pack up some clothes, a small project that you can work on and fly off to an exotic location. Oh yes, don't forget your camera.