Winding Down from Winter

I can't deny that I have been in a terrifically good mood these last few weeks. I'm pretty certain that this boost of energy is in large part due to the fabulous weather we've been having in New York City. Spring has a way of rejuvenating us. We open the windows to let in the fresh air, scrub the house clean, notice the budding trees and flowers (always brings a smile to my face). Even my dog has a little extra spring in his step (pun intended)! I have been enjoying spending time with dear friends I didn't get to see much of this winter while I was hibernating and hard at work with my hook and fiber. All in all, things are great.

Of course, there is also an element of exhaustion and relief that the busy winter crochet season is now, for the most part, behind me. This year brought so many exciting moments. Through Hook Me Up! Brooklyn. I had the opportunity to meet so many wonderful people, all of whom have been so complimentary of my work. That's very gratifying. When you sit at home working away, creating, imagining - all by yourself - it's a great feeling to step out into the world and have people respond positively to what you've created. I've done theatre for most of my life, and throughout the rehearsal process there are always people around to direct you, guide you, and collaborate with you as you work toward performance. You get to have that feedback. It's not the same experience with this other side of my creative life. I mean, there are friends to bounce ideas off of and draw inspiration from, but at the end of the day, the cheese stands alone.

What I have realized is that as we put ourselves out there, and show the world what we've got, we have the opportunity to draw inspiration from the people we meet and the responses we get - both positive and negative. This is something I have always known as a performer, but didn't understand that I could apply it to my crochet creativity as well. Now, I see inspiration everywhere! I've never considered myself someone who was into Fashion with a capital "F"(ironically, my office is in NYC's Fashion District), but I now understand, more deeply than ever, how ALL of the world's creative energy is tied together. Now, what I see as I walk down the street sets off ideas in my mind like fireworks. There have been moments this last year when I was just about BURSTING with ideas; I could not get them sketched/jotted down on paper fast enough! This is not a problem. This is a blessing.

This wheel doesn't stop spinning, I've got many exciting things in store for Fall/Winter 2012-2013, the preparations for which start NOW. Some of these things will even involve you. Yes, YOU! So stay tuned.

And thanks for hangin' out.

Danielle