I did try to do without a sewing/craft center in my home for a while, thinking I didn't have time for that stuff any more, anyway. Turns out it's really something I NEED to be happy. Creating is a part of who I am and I don't function properly without it. Yes, I definitely need to have my priorities straight (for example, homeschooling my children IS more important than crocheting an afghan, believe it or not ), but creativity, crafting, has to fit in somewhere. Crafting is one of my only emotional outlets, because I don't talk a lot or easily, and I can't be bothered writing that much (blogging doesn't count as writing for some reason).

Crafting, creating, making also allows me the freedom to be frugal -- I can (and will, hopefully) make my entire maternity wardrobe out of fabrics I already have. I can make quilts and afghans to keep my kids warm. I can make my own dish cloths, bed linens and towels. I can make all of my Christmas gifts from materials already in my stash. I am not at the mercy of the department store if I need pretty dresses for my girls or summer outfits for my boys.

Crafting also allows me to express my love for my family and friends in a tangible and individual way. My children all sleep under quilts made by mama. They know I made them each a quilt because I love and treasure them. My sister received a handmade journal cover as a going-away present. She knows I made her that gift because I love her and value her friendship. My hand created gifts are an expression of how I think of each person.

So, keeping all of that in mind, it was important for me to carve out a space for my creative endeavors. I still need to work on it some, and weed out some of the things that I don't really need in there. It's also a constant effort to keep random things from being dropped in this area (it's located very near the front door). Oh, but it's mine. :-) I am thankful for that.