I love this video. I am an admitted hoarder.....fabric, books (about 800), art supplies, journals. 18 years ago I bought a huge old Methodist church (built in 1917 and added on in 1951). Now I'm 73 and it's time to start parting with most of my "stuff". Promised my 2 sons I would not leave it for them to sort out. But right now I'm busy making Japanese rice bags. Last year I read 29 books (all history). So far this winter I've read 23 books (all history). I'm never happy unless I have a project going. This spring I will continue getting rid stuff. 😊😊😊
Just saw this today (Nov 13, 2023) and laughed because I just returned from a used book store. What came home with me? Two small notebooks! As I put them away I found one that has been languishing in a drawer. Oh dear me!
Oh, Kate! I laughed so hard when you pulled out tgat pike of blank sketch books/journals that you found while tidying up! I, too, have myriad blank hardbac and spiral bound notebooks of every size and paper made! I always come across a few of them lurking in my house, garage and car - there must be a dozen. They breed like rabbits, I swear!😅 I must gather the courage I need to toss out, re-gift or donate them once and for all instead of just redistributing them once again to various corners of my living spaces where they will escape use yet AGAIN. Loved your curtain dress and the way you blended into the curtain like a chameleon, then, "Presto change-o!" and Kate returns to us with a big grin! You are such fun, dear friend!😂
Ah Kate is so good seeing you so chipper. You can tell you are feeling much better now. Love the rug you made. It's so pretty. Have fun sewing. I know you will. Take care
I, too, have a stack of blank notebooks or journals or whatever they’re called. You made me giggle ... of course we love them, and always have a plan when we get a new one. The last couple of years, though, I’ve been keeping one on the end table by my chair and call it my “memory book”. It’s where I make notes of “things to remember”. It’s pretty surprising just how many times I’ve actually looked back to find the name of a quilt pattern, a website, a recipe, etc. Love the coziness of your sitting room. 🥰
Your magic “disappearing act” was delightfully funny!!!!!! I’m watching you here in america with my sunday morning coffee - you and your videos have been lifting my spirits all year. Thank you for that - we continue with seriously curtailing our activities and wearing masks and worrying about politics, all of which is overwhelming, so i watch your videos over and over to gain a sense of cheerfulness, kindness and hope. Thank you for being such a beacon in these troubling times.
I totally agree with you Nancy. Kate is a wonderful delight in the midst of our "situation" in America. It's so depressing, then we turn on Kate and get uplifted. Cheers to you Nancy. Hang in there. I'm praying our mess will straighten up soon.
Nsncy, your note echoed exactly what my morning is, as well as the sentiments, so thanks for your comment! So nice to have this community together with Kate.
Nancy,Darlene and Regina I totally agree with u.So grateful for Kate and the community here.I'm going to make a cup of tea and watch more of Kates videos.
I'm in America too and I agree with the comments here that you give cheerfulness and hope. I am very happy you are feeling well again. God bless you, Kate.
Sitting on the lime green sofa - sorting and kiting my cross stitch projects....... I had a lot of blank note books, and books, , until the last move 6mths ago, and couldn't bring myself to pack them to move them as I was doing it myself, so they went to a charity shop for someone else to enjoy. Your sitting room, looks like a nice place to be come winter time for cozy hang work.
you are inspiring Kate! love your videos.....I have 26 empty books on one of the shelves of my 7 bookcases!! my home has a wonderful 25 yr collection of beauty & stuff....much art & antique glassware etc and I have been slowly weeding through it but you have lit a fire - many thanks!! so glad you are feeling better & as someone else suggested - lovely to see 'your light back on'!! much gratitude to you for reminding me to enjoy our rich lives!
So, so glad to hear you are feeling well. I love your sitting room. I like the idea of taking away the extra couch and putting the chair there. II think it would fit there better but more important the chair has a memory that goes with it. Yes, I too have empty books on empty books LOL and I am dreaming of a new one for 2021 with all good intentions of using it. LOL At this moment as I watch this I am knitting ugly blankets for my friends. We are going on a trip to a cottage and it will be cool in the evenings so we can use our ugly blankets to cover up in. Then they will take theirs home Stay well Kate my dear youtube friend.
I too have been doing down sizing, I teach adults knitting, sewing and painting and beading, which I haven’t been able to do in 2019 Because the schools have been closed. I have just finished sewing about 800 masks for a company in Texas which has helped with my finances since I didn’t earn income from the school. On my last visit from my son, he said mom don’t die and leave me with all these beads and crafts, so last year I have been weeding out. Did I mention the masks I made with all my materials on hand, embarrassing admission. I’m 82 and so enjoy your real life videos. I spent the afternoon quilting my throw watching your videos while you were quilting.. keep me inspired please.
Kate, I only discovered you a couple of weeks ago and am thoroughly enjoying you. My life has taken quite a turn the past 6 months. My husband died February 19, then in March Covid shut down our business. My son and I have an embroidery and screen printing business so we were considered "non-essential" My best friend moved away. Then in May I broke my leg. Now the last week we have been inundated with smoke with all of the forest fires around us. My sewing and quilting and church friends are the only things that keep me going. But I have made a whole lot of new friends on TH-cam and FaceBook, sewers, quilters and embroiderers. I too have been downsizeing because I don't want my kids to have to do it when I'm gone. So I have a big stack of books to take to our used book store. They buy some of them. A lot of vinyl records and other household "stuff" I so enjoyed watching you cleaning out the drawers in your cabinet. I would sit and just laugh and laugh. I hope you video cleaning some more of them. Anyway, this has gone on too long but I just wanted you to know how much joy you have brought into my life. I live in Oregon but I think we could be really good friends.
Cant BELIEVE I've only just discovered you, I so love your posts!! Thank you and I'm so glad you're feeling better. You remind me of my mother, actually you remind me of me! I'm British but now living in California, and though I've never been to Northumberland I do know how beautiful it is! I love seeing your cats and chickens and beautiful green garden. I think I found you because I'm also very excited about quilting, and am a fan of Kaffe Fassett, who lives in London (as you know). We go back to England and Scotland every few years, my hubster loves it too. Thank you wholeheartedly for sharing your life with us, you bring such interest and joy to my day!
I had my first visit in months to my local charity shop last week (they have a craft room upstairs). They had one of those wooden craft things and I thought of you; then today you showed your own which was the same style. Funny how you can be doing something or be out and about, and think of somebody you've never met; although after watching your videos the past 2 years I do feel a connection haha. Lovely to know your almost 100% better - you're looking well - hugs from Hull :)
Kate your decluttering and simplifying continues to inspire me - I have continued my weekly plan to go thru life’s stuff and am slowly making progress.I have given myself a year to downsize so not to overwhelm myself .I keep myself accountable by recording my progress in my journal.- I have completed my bedroom and now am working in my small studio which is a disaster but I know by organizing I can get my creative space back again.I love to make things and paint but I have so much stuff that it interferes with me doing what I love - So far a load to the charity shop and a bin of recycling ,I already am feeling less stressed.💗
Have to chuckle about the top. Went to Hong Kong in '87 and saw Mom's floral drapes made as a woman's suit. My travel companion fell in love with the suit but couldn't stop laughing when I told her that she was wearing Mom's drapes.
You only have eight blank books? That's admirable. I'm afraid I have been more of a collector with books, pens, and pretty papers. You are doing wonderfully well getting things pared down.
Hi Kate, seems we creatives just love to collect things! I laughed out loud when I watched you show and count how many blank books you have; I’m the same way! I know I was going going to do something special with them, but by now for me, I forgot what. 🤣 You look healthy and happy, stay safe! We’re still in lockdown until the end of the month here in Hawaii. Since I have so much I can do at home I’m not worried. I never thought grocery shopping would be an outing for me! 😂
I have three empty journals and eight spiral notebooks of various sizes still left to use. But since I have befriended some nearby trees, I am determined now to save trees and this whole last year, I have been using accumulated journals and notebooks as journals (I have been journalling regularly since 1994). I have some very small-format ones as well - using them as well either as quilt planning notebooks or for journalling when I am not at home (well, that was pre-COVID when I could sit in a local coffeeshop or restaurant). I'm glad to see I am not the only one and that it is a genetic thing among women!!
I really enjoyed your tour of your sitting room. And I'm so glad you are feeling better. You mention your knitting but we hardly ever get to see any. I saw a quick look at a sock you were working on once. PLEASE us knitters would love to see more knitting projects you are doing!!! Love you and your cozy home and peaceful chats. Like everyone else I'm rarely getting out seeing anyone so chats with you are so welcome and calming. Thank you for taking the time to podcast!!
I have a library in my house, a room devoted to books and plants, 2 of my very favourite things. And they just keep finding their way into my home. I know I need to purge, but I get a rush when I find another classic that I don't already have in the 2nd hand shop. Ah well. It's wonderful to see you looking so well and perky again. I am glad you feel better! Val from Busby, Alberta, Canada.
I CANNOT resist (a) fabric shops, and (b) stationery shops. Like everyone else here I feel that a lovely pristine notebook is a joy forever. Literally. So very glad you feel good again. You look like your "light" is back on. x
I would feel right at home in your house, it’s so warm and inviting. I actually love that rose fabric with the green background. I can’t resist certain rose fabric. Especially if the roses are cottage roses. Well I feel happy right now, seeing your old spark back, and smiling from the inside out. It is good to see you looking so well. You were sick for such a long time. I have been going back and forth in Oregon and Washington, both are equally bad with the wildfires. Smoke fills the air, and as a result, my asthma has gotten so bad I’m needing additional help with the breathing. In my whole life, with the one exception of Mt. St Helens 40 years ago, we are dealing with hazardous air outside, the worst air in the world according to yesterdays news. Not good. Everyone stay safe. Stay safe Kate. There are a lot of us out here who care and want you to stay healthy. Love, Lita XXX
Aaaahhhhh....!! My Mom is from Grimsby and my Grandma alway wore a pinnie open, yet tied in the back. She loved bright colored, floral patterns just to brighten up gray days. When I first saw you in this smock....I time traveled and enjoyed some wonderful memories. Thanks....!
Re.: Keeping the chair or the little sofa dilenma. Truth is which is more comfortable to sit in for long periods of time... Like the 2 hours it takes to watch a movie. Which is at the right angle for you to do your knitting and needle work (quilting and such). Which one smells better? Which one does the cats like? If no one sits in the chair... that's the one to go. 💜🌞🌵😷
Finally removed my 22 year old love seat/sofa from the master bedroom. Only the cat was napping on it. At one time there was a large TV across from it. Replaced the loveseat with the IKEA ottoman/twin bed. So far only the cat has slept on it. Lol
I not only have a stack of unused note books, and sketch books, I also have a large bin of handmade books that I used to tote around to crafts fairs. I should never have to buy a blank book in my life time. But, I probably will. Oh, dear. I'm glad you're feeling better. Enjoy the sewing, and the clear out :)
I needed a book to write shopping lists in or take note of things that I needed to remember etc...........so last week I bought a set of 10! Then I bought a pack of 10 pens to go along with them! So yes, I know what you mean lol. Glad you're feeling much better, you look wonderful. As for your chair/sofa predicament, removing the sofa would make the room look m.ore in order but at the end of the day just get rid of what you don't need.
Oh, my goodness. Took inventory of all the blank books, journals, etc. and I'm stunned at how many I have. As for donating books, normally they would go to my library. The sale of books supports all the libraries charities. Not being accepted now due to Covid-19. Now taking them to a local shop which supports the Humane Society. Everything there is donated. You are looking and sounding well. Take care.
Found myself nodding along in agreement throughout this chat, as I often do. I chuckle to think how many of us are doing that at the same time. I'm sure many of us are doing a big tidy along with you as well. I am! It's very satisfying! Blessings, Kate.
My husband is the book worm . I finally put his feet to the fire and he got rid of at least 500 books. Now there is a bedroom full of fabric that I am working my way through. It produced a very large Trip Around The World quilt thanks to your inspiration.
A joy ! You should be Mrs Green 😂🤣 had a laugh out loud moment on the can’t see me 🤪 I think keeping the chair & getting rid of the sofa a better idea ( personally ) will give you far more space & for a change you can swap the room around spring / summer arrangement & autumn / winter cosines. My next project is to clear out bedding I no longer use ( use to take in foreign students ) & had bedding towels separate from family for them a winter project when I can’t get out Keep safe & continue your recovery 🥰 Sherry Iris indie yarn dyer is a collector of stationary books bet she can beat you 👍
Sorry, I didn't know you were ill. I thought I lost you thru You Tube but would run across your videos again. Glad you seem so well and sparkly now. I have no empty notebooks. I like cutting up left over paper from when my kids were in college years ago. My downsizing was 5 years ago. I have 3 rooms left of everything I need to sew, knit or read. Every year or so a dozen books goes to a library book sale. Take care.
Lovely to see you so well again, Kate. For those on the sofa I have some book advice which worked for me. I went from over 3500 to about 600, painlessly. To start with I put 2 wine boxes in the car boot, one for the charity shop and one for the second hand book shop buyers. I then weeded out a few each week and put them in the car straight away. When the boxes were full I dropped them into the appropriate shops and went to the wine shop and got 2 more boxes. Going to the wine shop was a reward..... The book seller gave me one price for each book, but double that amount in credit if I wanted that, so in the process I actually bought some more books, but again this was not a problem. The criteria I used were 1. no misogynist authors or content (that was a quick sweep of mid 20th century classics' boys) 2. Did I need to own a copy or could I get it quickly from the library? 3. Was the book a positive sentiment holder - special gifts or marking special events? If so I kept it, or gave to someone who would like it. 4. Any books that weren't mine (books of my late mother which I needed to keep for a while after her death before I could part with them), or one off reads (novels bought/given for holiday reading). 5. Duplicates of reference books (how may french dictionaries does a woman need with google on tap?) 6. Any favourites falling apart which I could replace with a decent copy. Over 6 months 3000 books left my house with no pain at all, no heavy lifting, and only the occasional rescue from the car. It was not an overwhelming process, in fact some weeks it gathered momentum and I had 2 trips to the wine shop. Good luck
Kate you are looking and sounding so good. So glad you are back to your "old" self. This has not been a great year for sure. I've been getting rid of a great deal of unnecessary items as well. It sure feels good to have some space to breathe. I have a little house and it had way too much in it. You are a breath of fresh air for me on this Sunday in US. Thanks Kate. My next step are books also.....have way too many....
I can clean out. I can organize. But then I look around and see "things" that I just know has good purpose. I do believe I am happier with a bit of clutter!
It is amazing how you feel when you declutter your home. You do not know how much "stuff" you have and never use until you start cleaning out. Now you can breathe better and enjoy your home and don't feel confined. I have moved to a smaller place and gave alot of items to Habitat( which sells the items to help build houses for those who need a place or a better place to live Also those people who are receiving this home has to put in so many hours to help build the house. I still have to much stuff, but when I get the go ahead from the orthopedic doctor, I shall get this home organized and make it a happy place
We sorted our books when we last moved house and it was an experience! We reduced 6 bookshelves to 2. Your sitting room looks very cosy and as long as it’s suits you, that is fine! Smiled at your Von Trapp moment! Take care x
Hi Kate, I'd get rid of the chair and keep the sofa. Your room looks lovely, it's made me realize that I need to get rid of some things, I de cluttered when we moved into this small bungalow, but I can do more I think. It's so small here that I had to re-home many of my books, living here is like living in a 'compact and bijou matchbox'. I love your videos, no matter how stressed I am, or irritated, by the time I've watched you, I'm calm again, I really appreciate all the effort you put into filming.
Kate, as you were talking I was nodding and smiling in agreement. I can't believe we have so much in common. My problem is that when I start to go through my books I stop and have a read at this one and that one and then time has passed and I think, "I'll get back to that another time."
I lost my Condo and everything in it when I was 72 and just settling into retirement. Now, I'm 86 and my home is full of "stuff" again. When I make an empty spot, I found that I'm soon filling it again. Over the years, I've been busy stocking up on supplies for my many hobbies, as well as classes I gave and took 2 of my 3 bedrooms, got rid of a wall,turning them into my craft room/studio which is now over flowing. So now what I do is re-organize and tidy up and will let my kids do what they will with all my "stuff" after I die....or get placed in a "home". Little Mrs. housewife of the 50's & 60's with everything clean and in place has become the person that says...oh well, there's always tomorrow. :-). I've been on self imposed lock down now for a year and am enjoying the heck out of it.
Hahahaha - yes! I LOVE stationary......especially sketch books......I have more than 8.....not going to tell you how many. Some have sketches in, some have the beginnings of stories in, some have designs for my dream shed in.....and so they go on. When I moved to my current home it was a big downsize.....I had to get rid of about 5000 books.....I thought it would break my heart but I was actually fine with it. Well done on this next stage of your big sort out. Lovely catch up with you today........and Eric overseeing everything! :-) X
🥰💕Thrilled to see you Kate! So happy to hear you’re feeling well! 💃🏻🎉I moved into my new house & am settling in & my new studio room is like being in creative heaven! Thanks for inspiring me to clean out. Gave sooooo much up during the big move. So happy to have all my things in one place. My OCD has been so difficult in finding things. But once I touch everything once it now has a new place & I’m starting to calm down. Everything has a place. We all have too much stuff. But I find as soon as I get rid of something I then need it??? Why does that happen to us artistic creative fiber artists? Enjoy your new room so HYGGE! Love it! 🥰💕🧶🧵🏠👍👍
So wonderful to see and hear you Kate! I'm glad you are feeling better. I had a good laugh at your top made from the curtain fabric. I'm in the process of making Barbie doll clothing for one of my granddaughters with "found" fabric. So far, I haven't touched the curtains ... but one of them is really pretty .... hmmmm. I'm enjoying your videos and find myself taking the calmer route, thanks to you, when I start getting worked up about too many things to do. Hugs from Pennsylvania!
I live in a coastal town an hour away from Cape Town, South Africa. I have just recently found you on TH-cam and I love your videos. You got me on to paper piecing and I'm busy with my first project. I'm also craft crazy and although we live very different lives, I so identify with you. I love seeing your home and bits and pieces. When you sort out, it inspires me to sort out. May you keep going for a long time. Kind regards.
So glad to hear you are feeling better. I love the top you made out of the curtains! It looks pretty on you. If you don't want to wear it out and about, I'd wear it around the house and enjoy it. As I get older my attitude is changing and I just think... If someone doesn't like it, they don't have to look at it! I Missed the cats in this video. I so look forward to seeing them. Hope Norma is well!
Hi. The curtain shirt was really funny. I live in endicott New York near Pennsylvania. I so enjoy you. It’s like a feeling of having my grandma to talk to . I’m probably older than you but it’s about your energy. I thank you for sharing and you make my covid life better. I hope things are getting better there. We have a new president so half of us are elated. I saw the fireworks from England. So kind Well. Keep up the videos please. 💜💜💜. Mary
When I saw that mat on the floor ,,I wondered if it was a proggy ,,Proddy mat you had made!!!!? Glad u mentioned it,,, I do hooked mats and have for 25 years now,,,a long time,,,It's a great pass time in winter,,,, Love UR cozy room now,,,,We have too much h furniture in our room,too,,,Starting to de clutter,,,, So glad UR feeling better!!! You look great,,,, I liked that flower top ,pinny on you!!! Elaine 🏡🏡🏡🏡
I love your sweet little video's, it really is very homely. I did a declutter and tidy up myself last year and it still feels so good. Got rid of a lot of books, I like to listen to them more anyway, Because crochet a lot and in a couple of weeks I got a "new" sewing machine and I really want to learn how to quilt. And I love listening to books in the background 💚 so nice that you feel better again, hopefully that will stay that way. Lots of love and greetings from the Netherlands ✌️
The sofa with the quilts should be in front of the vibrant green wall with the book shelf behind it and room to walk behind the shelf. A lamp on the shelf behind the couch. Loose the second sofa and leave the chair aprox where it is . This plan will open up the space and show off your beautiful colours !
Hi Kate, you are a woman after my own heart - I too looooove stationary and just yesterday as I was decluttering my bedside drawers I came across a few of those 'blank books'! so I have decided to wrap them up with a pen and give them to our opportunity shops as gifts for whomever would like them. enjoy the process of decluttering, it is very cathartic and your sitting room looks lovely.. It's great to see you looking well again xx
Oh my, I have had it in my head to do a lot of cleaning out & “downsizing”…lots of clothes & books here, too 🥴…you have inspired me…3years later 😊 I love your “actual” lime green sofa & truly love the virtual one, too😂
LOL - I found a box full of blank books when I was preparing to move. Perhaps you can make a 'Creative Corner' for Agnes...blank pages with pencils, crayons, or markers...paints, etc. A place where she can create artwork or write notes, messages, or stories when she's visiting. It would make an amazing memory book. You could add to it...(sorry - thinking as I"m writing!) - once it's full, replace it with another blank book to create a lifetime of memory books.
Kate so glad your health is improving. You have that familiar glow and cheery smile. I always feel like I'm watching an old friend and catching up when I watch your videos. I think that between the pandemic shut down and you trying to do daily videos to cheer everyone on the LGS drained you. Take care of you, we will be here when your rested. Thank you for your dedication. God bless!
Adding to the chair vs couch debate, if you replace the green couch with the chair, it would block the view to the door. The chair has a much higher back than the couches and to place it by the door would not give you a smooth flow. My vote is to dump the chair and see if you can angle the green couch to fit the space. If it's too big, then perhaps replace both with a smaller (lower-backed) chair?? Love your pink and green sitting room, Kate, so cosy! I'm enjoying the relaxed way in which you are de-cluttering. Very inspiring :) So glad you are back in good form.
Scarlett’s O’Hara...laughing because I covered furniture cushions (lots) in a beautiful French Provincial fabric and without thinking bought a dress I adored. Didn’t realize that the were almost identical until I had a party and a friend pointed it out- you are not alone...lol
I laughed when you confessed you empty books. I have loads, at least 20 of them. But unlike you I realised that I written on 4 or 5 pages of each book. Haha. They're still in my bedside drawer waiting for me to write on more pages. I'll never do it of course. 😬 I'm so glad you're feeling better and thank you for a peek into your lovely home. Look after yourself. ❤️
I meant to pop on right after I watched just after you posted. Anyway I smiled and so enjoyed our visit today. The curtain smock / curtain really made me laugh. Love your humor. Now have been weeding belongings etc. I think the one sofa should def go and the chair as well. Open that up. And yes we women love our stationery!! Weeded my stash too. Now. I do feel you should keep just 4 of the blank books and give the other 4 away. Once all of that is out your going to really enjoy the space.
I laughed out loud when you stood in front of your curtain. 😆 Thanks for that. 😀 With regards to stationery... I have more than I will ever be able to use... and I have many penpals. But, whenever I saw something that was nice for a decent price, well, I bought it. I have been really good at using it these past two years, though, instead of keeping it, because it was too nice to use. haha. Unfortunately I started watercolour painting last year, and now I have another cupboard full with watercolour paper and pads, as well as more watercolour paint I will ever need. Stop me... 😆 I'm so glad you are feeling better, and posting again.
If you get get rid of the small chair, angle the other sofa sort of corner to corner where the little chair now sits. I have organized all my books in one place in my studio, but now I need to start going through and moving some along. I have loads and loads of vintage knitting books that I might put on my Etsy shop ( when I get it up and running). You look like you are feeling much better...lots of energy. So happy to see you improved! Dale from Canada
OMG - I loved your dress from the curtain fabric! And, I am guilty of a blank book collection just like you!! Also, going through & purging books, kitchens things, & clothes as well!! All of crafts things will come after that, not so much purging , but better organization! Grad video & inspiration for me, Kate! Thank You!
I laughed out loud when you pulled the drape shut and I saw your clothes matched. If I were there with you, I'd be itching to get my hands on those books on the platform. They would look very attractive if they were nicely stacked and organized. Or you could put a big cushion and comfortable pillows over there, pull the drape, and have a private reading nook. The grandchildren would like that too.
I have spent several hours cleaning out large chest of drawers and had 7 small blank books and three small sketch pads I was just looking at when you pulled out your blank books so... yes, I do seem to collect books thinking I will journal but never have. It is good to hear you are feeling well again and hope you enjoy the autumn.
I would remove the 2nd sofa and put the chair there. My Dad was a printer and I have always loved paper and stationery, and Vienna has definitely inherited that from me, she has many many books also and often buys a new one that she can't live without 😂 it is nice to see you looking so well. New Zealand is waking up to spring here, we have been preparing gardens and planting seeds.
I am so happy to hear you are feeling well! I can only think of 4 blank books. I might find more if I went looking for them, but what plagues me more is starting a new journal before I finish the one I am writing in. I probably have 20 journals that are half to three-quarters filled, and I just stopped using them and moved on to a new one. A new journal feels like a fresh start, and maybe sometimes that is just what we need.
I can very much relate about the stash of lovely journals. What I have allowed myself to do is use the ones with less appealing covers. Then I have started to make hand sewn journal covers. Great place to practice some patchwork, embroidery or the like. My last one was a lovely sashiko type effort. If you make them for a fairly standard notebook you can transfer the cover to your current one.
wonderful to see the sparkle in your eyes again. Do not be down about the garden. I was not well and only have some squash and courgettes and a very few flowers. But we have those we love and this wonderful LGS. Bless all who visit here and share in its kindness and love! 💞💛🙏
Oh Kate. LOL. Even after a recent purge in both locations, I have the most ridiculous number of blank journals, sketchbooks, composition notebooks, etc. Most of my planners turn into something of a scrapbook of that moment in time, though this year has been less than scrap-worthy so the planner is sorely lacking, lol. I recently purged one of many micro collections of stationery, and I literally had sticker sheets that I didn't want to "waste" on just any folder or piece of paper, or letter. lol. I have dreams of junk journals filled with trip trinkets, tokens and pics, etc...But, as with most things, I complicate my basic idea with "improvements" of grandiose craftacular ideas, and then a simple things becomes a monster, lol. Your sitting room looks quite lovely! Thank you for sharing your progress with us, and I'm SO pleased to see you feeling like your normal self again!
I appreciate your "I complicate..." statement. That's my life. Have plenty of fabric. Now for the complications: Added fabric specifically for masks. Which mask pattern (they are probably all good and are free)? Who else can I make them for. Will they like it or will the fabric and time be wasted? Now it is September and I have made 0. Been wearing disposable masks...😷
Would you consider a makeover of the top into an apron? Add a lime green and a pink frill to the bottom with a couple of pockets above for a 50s feel. ( Polka dots in one colour would add zing). Back fabric could be used for lining for extra durability. Would also need ties at waist and for around the neck of course. Great to see you looking and sounding so much better.
I hoard notebooks and often can't bear to 'spoil' them by using them. I came across you very recently and was thrilled beyond belief to discover your coptic binding tutorial. My next project. I'm a sewer and love your curtain dress. Wear it with pride, I would. x
The curtain fabric is so pretty. Wear it for gardening! I'm fond of stationery too, I make birthday and thank you cards. Was nice to see more of your home with your handmade treasures. Good job on downsizing.
...the curtain top is fun-and it’s an example of making a toile/muslin mock-up that is fun and resourceful. Great top for house cleaning since it’s so cheerful!
Hi Kate, I have to say you've got your umph back...you're right about looking back at the earlier videos, you can see you weren't well. It's great that you've managed to half your possessions, or at least some of them. I had to laugh about the notebooks cos I have about twelve!!.. I've been clearing out aswell and sent everything to the air ambulance which is great because they come and collect anything you give them apart from bric-a-brac. I've got rid of a ton of books too but I've still a good few in the cellar which I'll sort out and old paint tins which will never get used! Great to see you looking so well and back to your sewing projects. Stay safe and don't wear yourself out. Big hugs Lynne (Sunderland) 💐🌈🌸
Well, I'm a bit late to the lime green sofa today. Had a lovely day with my son, dil, and g'dau for brunch. The quiche we had was delicious, dil had lots and bagels. Great time, great conversation. You are looking so much better Kate. Happy days. All the clearing out is going well. Glad you are able to enjoy your sitting room again. It looks quite cozy. So my day started with family and is ending with time watching & listening to you----so enjoyable was it all. Thank you for sharing....as always - stay well and see you in a few days on Patreon. xoxo
Oh err! I counted the empty books ...... 14 journal type and 8 drawing/watercolour pads. I’m 62 I will not fill all this paper in my lifetime 😂 In my defence I journal every day but you’ve got me thinking now about reducing my stuff! You’re always inspiring and I’m so pleased you’re feeling well again. 😊
Kate...Take your curtain SMOCK and add a pocket all along the bottom and use it in your garden next year when you gather your veggies!🙄 you do seem to be feeling much better. I am so glad. My purge starts this fall. I'm finishing up a huge window reglaze project (19 large windows) and should be done by mid October. After that the purge begins! Thank you for sharing. 😙
So glad you're feeling better I've certainly missed your cheerfulness. It has been very calming for me here in these tumultuous United States. Please stay well.
So pleased to hear that you are fighting fit again. I must admit you are looking more like your former self. I’m watching in bed with earphones and giggled out loud at the notebooks, I woke my hubby. 🤣
Glad to hear your feeling much better. We were worried about you! Yes, sometimes looking we begin to understand the struggles our bodies were dealing with. Sending love and hugs from my beautiful California which is currently burning from both ends. Pray we get rain, gentle rain.
I have 19 junk drawers, and having trouble reducing them, I keep trying to no steps forward? Horrible feeling that I will leave it for me children, I am 75 and not the energy we once had to start big projects. Love you videos.
I can relate, I'm 66 years old and a year retired. I've been gradually reducing as I don't want our sons to have to deal with it all later. Will you children help you? Perhaps contact members of your church, community, for volunteers to help pack up, take away while you direct and sort?
Dear Kate, u looked gorgeous in your curtain material apron. It's adorable. Do keep wearing it. Looking forward to yr quilts, yr family, yr cats, Eileen, yr world. I so enjoy watching u. U are a very special person and it's obvious cuz u have wonderful children. Luv u and all. Keep wearing yr curtain...it's beautiful!!!
I’m chuckling because I too have lots of empty books. A drawerful in fact, then there’s the shelf too. But I’m with you about the chair. I think the energy in the room would be much better with the chair at an angle and the other sofa gone.
I made a joke last week, Kate, that my tombstone should read "Died with the most wordless blank books." Not going to fight anybody for the title. There are just too many contestants. Love your art wall, your fabric pillows, all your "wonderful things." Stay safe.
All the colour in your living room is so much more inviting than the 'white-modern look." I like it when the grand kids can just lounge and not get scolded as 'things will get dirty."
Yes I agree keep the chair and lose the second couch. It will make the flow of the room much more comfortable. Easy to try for a week by just moving the couch out but not getting rid of it until you are sure.
The empty books/notebooks! Ahhh! Of course I identify, a vast reader tends to be a thinker--and, a thinker needs various notebooks to jot down the brilliant ideas that dance about in our heads. Readers are writers!
The only reason I would get rid of a couch or chair is if it was uncomfortable. I like more options to sit. Glad to hear you are feeling better. Yes, take us along while you stitch. I love watching people do handwork.
Great job Kate! It looks magnificent! Now the worse part for me would be to get it out of the house. I love the purging and then it sits in the garage! I’m so glad you’re feeling better! Can’t wait to see what you are stitching! ❤️
Afternoon kate,glad to see you seem back to normal.Talking of books,material,craft stuff....yes ,i have a lot..but cant seem to clear,i give up! Just resigned now this is ME! Xx
So happy you are feeling better. Decluttering.......I can do it. I have been making face masks for months now. My living room looks like a Chinese sweat shop....😉. But I have used a lot of my fabric that I've gathered over 20 years or so. A big part of that had been bought in the Netherlands and shipped to the USA when I moved here. Now the demand for masks had dwindled down a bit I can see what's left and what stays or goes. Over the winter I'm planning to tackle all my craft supplies. Either use them or donate them. Your doing an awsome job clearing out. Ohh....I love your rug. Maybe you can teach us how to do that....🤗
I recently did a bit of a cleaned up and found quite a few notebooks. I know why I purchased them - record quilt projects, knitting projects, etc. I have finally filled up one but it has recipes, websites of interest, knitting patterns and quilting patterns that I like. Hmm. What do I do with it now. Summer is better than winter to be sick. Glad you are feeling recovered.
I use the FlyLady method of decluttering and keeping the house tidy. It’s made a huge difference in my mental well-being, I think. It’s difficult to stay focused and positive in a cluttered house. So I’m really enjoying watching you declutter. Now you have me thinking about furniture clutter!
Thank you Kate. Great job on the sitting room. It looks comfy. I try to “clean out” stuff in April and September so it’s not so overwhelming. I’m more conscious now of buying something that I need rather than want. I read Marie’s book on organizing but only used parts of it. We here in the states really look forward to and appreciate your upbeat and kind videos but even more during our current chaos. Take care. Mary
I love this video. I am an admitted hoarder.....fabric, books (about 800), art supplies, journals. 18 years ago I bought a huge old Methodist church (built in 1917 and added on in 1951). Now I'm 73 and it's time to start parting with most of my "stuff". Promised my 2 sons I would not leave it for them to sort out. But right now I'm busy making Japanese rice bags. Last year I read 29 books (all history). So far this winter I've read 23 books (all history). I'm never happy unless I have a project going. This spring I will continue getting rid stuff. 😊😊😊
Just saw this today (Nov 13, 2023) and laughed because I just returned from a used book store. What came home with me? Two small notebooks! As I put them away I found one that has been languishing in a drawer. Oh dear me!
Oh, Kate! I laughed so hard when you pulled out tgat pike of blank sketch books/journals that you found while tidying up!
I, too, have myriad blank hardbac and spiral bound notebooks of every size and paper made!
I always come across a few of them lurking in my house, garage and car - there must be a dozen. They breed like rabbits, I swear!😅 I must gather the courage I need to toss out, re-gift or donate them once and for all instead of just redistributing them once again to various corners of my living spaces where they will escape use yet AGAIN.
Loved your curtain dress and the way you blended into the curtain like a chameleon, then, "Presto change-o!"
and Kate returns to us with a big grin! You are such fun, dear friend!😂
Ah Kate is so good seeing you so chipper. You can tell you are feeling much better now. Love the rug you made. It's so pretty. Have fun sewing. I know you will. Take care
I, too, have a stack of blank notebooks or journals or whatever they’re called. You made me giggle ... of course we love them, and always have a plan when we get a new one. The last couple of years, though, I’ve been keeping one on the end table by my chair and call it my “memory book”. It’s where I make notes of “things to remember”. It’s pretty surprising just how many times I’ve actually looked back to find the name of a quilt pattern, a website, a recipe, etc. Love the coziness of your sitting room. 🥰
Your magic “disappearing act” was delightfully funny!!!!!! I’m watching you here in america with my sunday morning coffee - you and your videos have been lifting my spirits all year. Thank you for that - we continue with seriously curtailing our activities and wearing masks and worrying about politics, all of which is overwhelming, so i watch your videos over and over to gain a sense of cheerfulness, kindness and hope. Thank you for being such a beacon in these troubling times.
I totally agree with you Nancy. Kate is a wonderful delight in the midst of our "situation" in America. It's so depressing, then we turn on Kate and get uplifted. Cheers to you Nancy. Hang in there. I'm praying our mess will straighten up soon.
Nsncy, your note echoed exactly what my morning is, as well as the sentiments, so thanks for your comment! So nice to have this community together with Kate.
Nancy,Darlene and Regina I totally agree with u.So grateful for Kate and the community here.I'm going to make a cup of tea and watch more of Kates videos.
I'm in America too and I agree with the comments here that you give cheerfulness and hope. I am very happy you are feeling well again. God bless you, Kate.
What a lovely comment for Kate. ❤️
I knew it. A woman after my own heart, with empty books and overflowing bookcases plus crafts of all kinds spilling over everywhere. 😊
Sitting on the lime green sofa - sorting and kiting my cross stitch projects....... I had a lot of blank note books, and books, , until the last move 6mths ago, and couldn't bring myself to pack them to move them as I was doing it myself, so they went to a charity shop for someone else to enjoy. Your sitting room, looks like a nice place to be come winter time for cozy hang work.
you are inspiring Kate! love your videos.....I have 26 empty books on one of the shelves of my 7 bookcases!! my home has a wonderful 25 yr collection of beauty & stuff....much art & antique glassware etc and I have been slowly weeding through it but you have lit a fire - many thanks!! so glad you are feeling better & as someone else suggested - lovely to see 'your light back on'!! much gratitude to you for reminding me to enjoy our rich lives!
So, so glad to hear you are feeling well. I love your sitting room. I like the idea of taking away the extra couch and putting the chair there. II think it would fit there better but more important the chair has a memory that goes with it. Yes, I too have empty books on empty books LOL and I am dreaming of a new one for 2021 with all good intentions of using it. LOL At this moment as I watch this I am knitting ugly blankets for my friends. We are going on a trip to a cottage and it will be cool in the evenings so we can use our ugly blankets to cover up in. Then they will take theirs home Stay well Kate my dear youtube friend.
I too have been doing down sizing, I teach adults knitting, sewing and painting and beading, which I haven’t been able to do in 2019
Because the schools have been closed. I have just finished sewing about 800 masks for a company in Texas which has helped with my finances since I didn’t earn income from the school. On my last visit from my son, he said mom don’t die and leave me with all these beads and crafts, so last year I have been weeding out. Did I mention the masks I made with all my materials on hand, embarrassing admission. I’m 82 and so enjoy your real life videos. I spent the afternoon quilting my throw watching your videos while you were quilting.. keep me inspired please.
Kate, I only discovered you a couple of weeks ago and am thoroughly enjoying you. My life has taken quite a turn the past 6 months. My husband died February 19, then in March Covid shut down our business. My son and I have an embroidery and screen printing business so we were considered "non-essential" My best friend moved away. Then in May I broke my leg. Now the last week we have been inundated with smoke with all of the forest fires around us. My sewing and quilting and church friends are the only things that keep me going. But I have made a whole lot of new friends on TH-cam and FaceBook, sewers, quilters and embroiderers. I too have been downsizeing because I don't want my kids to have to do it when I'm gone. So I have a big stack of books to take to our used book store. They buy some of them. A lot of vinyl records and other household "stuff" I so enjoyed watching you cleaning out the drawers in your cabinet. I would sit and just laugh and laugh. I hope you video cleaning some more of them. Anyway, this has gone on too long but I just wanted you to know how much joy you have brought into my life. I live in Oregon but I think we could be really good friends.
Cant BELIEVE I've only just discovered you, I so love your posts!! Thank you and I'm so glad you're feeling better. You remind me of my mother, actually you remind me of me! I'm British but now living in California, and though I've never been to Northumberland I do know how beautiful it is! I love seeing your cats and chickens and beautiful green garden. I think I found you because I'm also very excited about quilting, and am a fan of Kaffe Fassett, who lives in London (as you know). We go back to England and Scotland every few years, my hubster loves it too. Thank you wholeheartedly for sharing your life with us, you bring such interest and joy to my day!
I had my first visit in months to my local charity shop last week (they have a craft room upstairs). They had one of those wooden craft things and I thought of you; then today you showed your own which was the same style. Funny how you can be doing something or be out and about, and think of somebody you've never met; although after watching your videos the past 2 years I do feel a connection haha. Lovely to know your almost 100% better - you're looking well - hugs from Hull :)
Kate your decluttering and simplifying continues to inspire me - I have continued my weekly plan to go thru life’s stuff and am slowly making progress.I have given myself a year to downsize so not to overwhelm myself .I keep myself accountable by recording my progress in my journal.- I have completed my bedroom and now am working in my small studio which is a disaster but I know by organizing I can get my creative space back again.I love to make things and paint but I have so much stuff that it interferes with me doing what I love - So far a load to the charity shop and a bin of recycling ,I already am feeling less stressed.💗
Have to chuckle about the top. Went to Hong Kong in '87 and saw Mom's floral drapes made as a woman's suit. My travel companion fell in love with the suit but couldn't stop laughing when I told her that she was wearing Mom's drapes.
You only have eight blank books? That's admirable. I'm afraid I have been more of a collector with books, pens, and pretty papers. You are doing wonderfully well getting things pared down.
Hi Kate, seems we creatives just love to collect things! I laughed out loud when I watched you show and count how many blank books you have; I’m the same way! I know I was going going to do something special with them, but by now for me, I forgot what. 🤣
You look healthy and happy, stay safe! We’re still in lockdown until the end of the month here in Hawaii. Since I have so much I can do at home I’m not worried. I never thought grocery shopping would be an outing for me! 😂
I have three empty journals and eight spiral notebooks of various sizes still left to use. But since I have befriended some nearby trees, I am determined now to save trees and this whole last year, I have been using accumulated journals and notebooks as journals (I have been journalling regularly since 1994). I have some very small-format ones as well - using them as well either as quilt planning notebooks or for journalling when I am not at home (well, that was pre-COVID when I could sit in a local coffeeshop or restaurant). I'm glad to see I am not the only one and that it is a genetic thing among women!!
I really enjoyed your tour of your sitting room. And I'm so glad you are feeling better. You mention your knitting but we hardly ever get to see any. I saw a quick look at a sock you were working on once. PLEASE us knitters would love to see more knitting projects you are doing!!! Love you and your cozy home and peaceful chats. Like everyone else I'm rarely getting out seeing anyone so chats with you are so welcome and calming. Thank you for taking the time to podcast!!
I have a library in my house, a room devoted to books and plants, 2 of my very favourite things. And they just keep finding their way into my home. I know I need to purge, but I get a rush when I find another classic that I don't already have in the 2nd hand shop. Ah well. It's wonderful to see you looking so well and perky again. I am glad you feel better! Val from Busby, Alberta, Canada.
I CANNOT resist (a) fabric shops, and (b) stationery shops. Like everyone else here I feel that a lovely pristine notebook is a joy forever. Literally. So very glad you feel good again. You look like your "light" is back on. x
I would feel right at home in your house, it’s so warm and inviting. I actually love that rose fabric with the green background. I can’t resist certain rose fabric. Especially if the roses are cottage roses. Well I feel happy right now, seeing your old spark back, and smiling from the inside out. It is good to see you looking so well. You were sick for such a long time. I have been going back and forth in Oregon and Washington, both are equally bad with the wildfires. Smoke fills the air, and as a result, my asthma has gotten so bad I’m needing additional help with the breathing. In my whole life, with the one exception of Mt. St Helens 40 years ago, we are dealing with hazardous air outside, the worst air in the world according to yesterdays news. Not good. Everyone stay safe. Stay safe Kate. There are a lot of us out here who care and want you to stay healthy. Love, Lita XXX
Aaaahhhhh....!! My Mom is from Grimsby and my Grandma alway wore a pinnie open, yet tied in the back. She loved bright colored, floral patterns just to brighten up gray days. When I first saw you in this smock....I time traveled and enjoyed some wonderful memories. Thanks....!
Re.: Keeping the chair or the little sofa dilenma. Truth is which is more comfortable to sit in for long periods of time... Like the 2 hours it takes to watch a movie. Which is at the right angle for you to do your knitting and needle work (quilting and such). Which one smells better? Which one does the cats like? If no one sits in the chair... that's the one to go. 💜🌞🌵😷
Finally removed my 22 year old love seat/sofa from the master bedroom. Only the cat was napping on it. At one time there was a large TV across from it. Replaced the loveseat with the IKEA ottoman/twin bed. So far only the cat has slept on it. Lol
I not only have a stack of unused note books, and sketch books, I also have a large bin of handmade books that I used to tote around to crafts fairs. I should never have to buy a blank book in my life time. But, I probably will. Oh, dear. I'm glad you're feeling better. Enjoy the sewing, and the clear out :)
I needed a book to write shopping lists in or take note of things that I needed to remember etc...........so last week I bought a set of 10! Then I bought a pack of 10 pens to go along with them! So yes, I know what you mean lol. Glad you're feeling much better, you look wonderful. As for your chair/sofa predicament, removing the sofa would make the room look m.ore in order but at the end of the day just get rid of what you don't need.
Oh, my goodness. Took inventory of all the blank books, journals, etc. and I'm stunned at how many I have. As for donating books, normally they would go to my library. The sale of books supports all the libraries charities. Not being accepted now due to Covid-19. Now taking them to a local shop which supports the Humane Society. Everything there is donated. You are looking and sounding well. Take care.
Found myself nodding along in agreement throughout this chat, as I often do. I chuckle to think how many of us are doing that at the same time. I'm sure many of us are doing a big tidy along with you as well. I am! It's very satisfying! Blessings, Kate.
My husband is the book worm . I finally put his feet to the fire and he got rid of at least 500 books. Now there is a bedroom full of fabric that I am working my way through. It produced a very large Trip Around The World quilt thanks to your inspiration.
A joy ! You should be Mrs Green 😂🤣 had a laugh out loud moment on the can’t see me 🤪 I think keeping the chair & getting rid of the sofa a better idea ( personally ) will give you far more space & for a change you can swap the room around spring / summer arrangement & autumn / winter cosines.
My next project is to clear out bedding I no longer use ( use to take in foreign students ) & had bedding towels separate from family for them a winter project when I can’t get out
Keep safe & continue your recovery 🥰
Sherry Iris indie yarn dyer is a collector of stationary books bet she can beat you 👍
Sorry, I didn't know you were ill. I thought I lost you thru You Tube but would run across your videos again. Glad you seem so well and sparkly now. I have no empty notebooks. I like cutting up left over paper from when my kids were in college years ago. My downsizing was 5 years ago. I have 3 rooms left of everything I need to sew, knit or read. Every year or so a dozen books goes to a library book sale. Take care.
Lovely to see you so well again, Kate. For those on the sofa I have some book advice which worked for me. I went from over 3500 to about 600, painlessly. To start with I put 2 wine boxes in the car boot, one for the charity shop and one for the second hand book shop buyers. I then weeded out a few each week and put them in the car straight away. When the boxes were full I dropped them into the appropriate shops and went to the wine shop and got 2 more boxes. Going to the wine shop was a reward..... The book seller gave me one price for each book, but double that amount in credit if I wanted that, so in the process I actually bought some more books, but again this was not a problem. The criteria I used were 1. no misogynist authors or content (that was a quick sweep of mid 20th century classics' boys) 2. Did I need to own a copy or could I get it quickly from the library? 3. Was the book a positive sentiment holder - special gifts or marking special events? If so I kept it, or gave to someone who would like it. 4. Any books that weren't mine (books of my late mother which I needed to keep for a while after her death before I could part with them), or one off reads (novels bought/given for holiday reading). 5. Duplicates of reference books (how may french dictionaries does a woman need with google on tap?) 6. Any favourites falling apart which I could replace with a decent copy. Over 6 months 3000 books left my house with no pain at all, no heavy lifting, and only the occasional rescue from the car. It was not an overwhelming process, in fact some weeks it gathered momentum and I had 2 trips to the wine shop. Good luck
Kate you are looking and sounding so good. So glad you are back to your "old" self. This has not been a great year for sure. I've been getting rid of a great deal of unnecessary items as well. It sure feels good to have some space to breathe. I have a little house and it had way too much in it. You are a breath of fresh air for me on this Sunday in US. Thanks Kate. My next step are books also.....have way too many....
I can clean out. I can organize. But then I look around and see "things" that I just know has good purpose. I do believe I am happier with a bit of clutter!
It is amazing how you feel when you declutter your home. You do not know how much "stuff" you have and never use until you start cleaning out. Now you can breathe better and enjoy your home and don't feel confined. I have moved to a smaller place and gave alot of items to Habitat( which sells the items to help build houses for those who need a place or a better place to live
Also those people who are receiving this home has to put in so many hours to help build the house. I still have to much stuff, but when I get the go ahead from the orthopedic doctor, I shall get this home organized and make it a happy place
We sorted our books when we last moved house and it was an experience! We reduced 6 bookshelves to 2. Your sitting room looks very cosy and as long as it’s suits you, that is fine! Smiled at your Von Trapp moment! Take care x
Hi Kate, I'd get rid of the chair and keep the sofa. Your room looks lovely, it's made me realize that I need to get rid of some things, I de cluttered when we moved into this small bungalow, but I can do more I think. It's so small here that I had to re-home many of my books, living here is like living in a 'compact and bijou matchbox'. I love your videos, no matter how stressed I am, or irritated, by the time I've watched you, I'm calm again, I really appreciate all the effort you put into filming.
Kate, as you were talking I was nodding and smiling in agreement. I can't believe we have so much in common. My problem is that when I start to go through my books I stop and have a read at this one and that one and then time has passed and I think, "I'll get back to that another time."
I lost my Condo and everything in it when I was 72 and just settling into retirement. Now, I'm 86 and my home is full of "stuff" again. When I make an empty spot, I found that I'm soon filling it again. Over the years, I've been busy stocking up on supplies for my many hobbies, as well as classes I gave and took 2 of my 3 bedrooms, got rid of a wall,turning them into my craft room/studio which is now over flowing. So now what I do is re-organize and tidy up and will let my kids do what they will with all my "stuff" after I die....or get placed in a "home". Little Mrs. housewife of the 50's & 60's with everything clean and in place has become the person that says...oh well, there's always tomorrow. :-). I've been on self imposed lock down now for a year and am enjoying the heck out of it.
Hahahaha - yes! I LOVE stationary......especially sketch books......I have more than 8.....not going to tell you how many. Some have sketches in, some have the beginnings of stories in, some have designs for my dream shed in.....and so they go on. When I moved to my current home it was a big downsize.....I had to get rid of about 5000 books.....I thought it would break my heart but I was actually fine with it. Well done on this next stage of your big sort out. Lovely catch up with you today........and Eric overseeing everything! :-) X
🥰💕Thrilled to see you Kate! So happy to hear you’re feeling well! 💃🏻🎉I moved into my new house & am settling in & my new studio room is like being in creative heaven! Thanks for inspiring me to clean out. Gave sooooo much up during the big move. So happy to have all my things in one place. My OCD has been so difficult in finding things. But once I touch everything once it now has a new place & I’m starting to calm down. Everything has a place. We all have too much stuff. But I find as soon as I get rid of something I then need it??? Why does that happen to us artistic creative fiber artists? Enjoy your new room so HYGGE! Love it! 🥰💕🧶🧵🏠👍👍
Oh, Kate, you are your old self again! Yay! Such a delight to see you healthy and full of vim and vigor! TFS the inspiration!
So wonderful to see and hear you Kate! I'm glad you are feeling better. I had a good laugh at your top made from the curtain fabric. I'm in the process of making Barbie doll clothing for one of my granddaughters with "found" fabric. So far, I haven't touched the curtains ... but one of them is really pretty .... hmmmm. I'm enjoying your videos and find myself taking the calmer route, thanks to you, when I start getting worked up about too many things to do. Hugs from Pennsylvania!
I live in a coastal town an hour away from Cape Town, South Africa. I have just recently found you on TH-cam and I love your videos. You got me on to paper piecing and I'm busy with my first project. I'm also craft crazy and although we live very different lives, I so identify with you. I love seeing your home and bits and pieces. When you sort out, it inspires me to sort out. May you keep going for a long time. Kind regards.
So glad to hear you are feeling better. I love the top you made out of the curtains! It looks pretty on you. If you don't want to wear it out and about, I'd wear it around the house and enjoy it. As I get older my attitude is changing and I just think... If someone doesn't like it, they don't have to look at it! I Missed the cats in this video. I so look forward to seeing them. Hope Norma is well!
Hi. The curtain shirt was really funny. I live in endicott New York near Pennsylvania. I so enjoy you. It’s like a feeling of having my grandma to talk to . I’m probably older than you but it’s about your energy. I thank you for sharing and you make my covid life better. I hope things are getting better there. We have a new president so half of us are elated. I saw the fireworks from England. So kind Well. Keep up the videos please. 💜💜💜. Mary
When I saw that mat on the floor ,,I wondered if it was a proggy ,,Proddy mat you had made!!!!?
Glad u mentioned it,,,
I do hooked mats and have for 25 years now,,,a long time,,,It's a great pass time in winter,,,,
Love UR cozy room now,,,,We have too much h furniture in our room,too,,,Starting to de clutter,,,,
So glad UR feeling better!!!
You look great,,,,
I liked that flower top ,pinny on you!!!
Elaine 🏡🏡🏡🏡
So happy you are feeling well! Shalom ❤️🙏🏻
I love your sweet little video's, it really is very homely. I did a declutter and tidy up myself last year and it still feels so good. Got rid of a lot of books, I like to listen to them more anyway, Because crochet a lot and in a couple of weeks I got a "new" sewing machine and I really want to learn how to quilt. And I love listening to books in the background 💚 so nice that you feel better again, hopefully that will stay that way. Lots of love and greetings from the Netherlands ✌️
The sofa with the quilts should be in front of the vibrant green wall with the book shelf behind it and room to walk behind the shelf. A lamp on the shelf behind the couch. Loose the second sofa and leave the chair aprox where it is . This plan will open up the space and show off your beautiful colours !
Hi Kate, you are a woman after my own heart - I too looooove stationary and just yesterday as I was decluttering my bedside drawers I came across a few of those 'blank books'! so I have decided to wrap them up with a pen and give them to our opportunity shops as gifts for whomever would like them. enjoy the process of decluttering, it is very cathartic and your sitting room looks lovely.. It's great to see you looking well again
xx
Oh my, I have had it in my head to do a lot of cleaning out & “downsizing”…lots of clothes & books here, too 🥴…you have inspired me…3years later 😊 I love your “actual” lime green sofa & truly love the virtual one, too😂
Thank goodness, it's not just me that cannot resist a pristine book of smooth paper!
LOL - I found a box full of blank books when I was preparing to move. Perhaps you can make a 'Creative Corner' for Agnes...blank pages with pencils, crayons, or markers...paints, etc. A place where she can create artwork or write notes, messages, or stories when she's visiting. It would make an amazing memory book. You could add to it...(sorry - thinking as I"m writing!) - once it's full, replace it with another blank book to create a lifetime of memory books.
I think we can all see just how well you are now... back to your usual bubbly self... welcome back Kate x
Kate so glad your health is improving. You have that familiar glow and cheery smile. I always feel like I'm watching an old friend and catching up when I watch your videos. I think that between the pandemic shut down and you trying to do daily videos to cheer everyone on the LGS drained you. Take care of you, we will be here when your rested. Thank you for your dedication. God bless!
Adding to the chair vs couch debate, if you replace the green couch with the chair, it would block the view to the door. The chair has a much higher back than the couches and to place it by the door would not give you a smooth flow. My vote is to dump the chair and see if you can angle the green couch to fit the space. If it's too big, then perhaps replace both with a smaller (lower-backed) chair?? Love your pink and green sitting room, Kate, so cosy! I'm enjoying the relaxed way in which you are de-cluttering. Very inspiring :) So glad you are back in good form.
Scarlett’s O’Hara...laughing because I covered furniture cushions (lots) in a beautiful French Provincial fabric and without thinking bought a dress I adored. Didn’t realize that the were almost identical until I had a party and a friend pointed it out- you are not alone...lol
I laughed when you confessed you empty books. I have loads, at least 20 of them. But unlike you I realised that I written on 4 or 5 pages of each book. Haha. They're still in my bedside drawer waiting for me to write on more pages. I'll never do it of course. 😬
I'm so glad you're feeling better and thank you for a peek into your lovely home. Look after yourself. ❤️
I meant to pop on right after I watched just after you posted. Anyway I smiled and so enjoyed our visit today. The curtain smock / curtain really made me laugh. Love your humor. Now have been weeding belongings etc. I think the one sofa should def go and the chair as well. Open that up. And yes we women love our stationery!! Weeded my stash too. Now. I do feel you should keep just 4 of the blank books and give the other 4 away. Once all of that is out your going to really enjoy the space.
I laughed out loud when you stood in front of your curtain. 😆 Thanks for that. 😀 With regards to stationery... I have more than I will ever be able to use... and I have many penpals. But, whenever I saw something that was nice for a decent price, well, I bought it. I have been really good at using it these past two years, though, instead of keeping it, because it was too nice to use. haha. Unfortunately I started watercolour painting last year, and now I have another cupboard full with watercolour paper and pads, as well as more watercolour paint I will ever need. Stop me... 😆 I'm so glad you are feeling better, and posting again.
Kate, next time Agnes comes to visit you could dress up in your "curtain" tunic and play "where's Grandma?".
If you get get rid of the small chair, angle the other sofa sort of corner to corner where the little chair now sits. I have organized all my books in one place in my studio, but now I need to start going through and moving some along. I have loads and loads of vintage knitting books that I might put on my Etsy shop ( when I get it up and running).
You look like you are feeling much better...lots of energy. So happy to see you improved!
Dale from Canada
Oh my, I have so many blank books! And yes, we do love our stationery!
OMG - I loved your dress from the curtain fabric! And, I am guilty of a blank book collection just like you!! Also, going through & purging books, kitchens things, & clothes as well!! All of crafts things will come after that, not so much purging , but better organization! Grad video & inspiration for me, Kate! Thank You!
I laughed out loud when you pulled the drape shut and I saw your clothes matched. If I were there with you, I'd be itching to get my hands on those books on the platform. They would look very attractive if they were nicely stacked and organized. Or you could put a big cushion and comfortable pillows over there, pull the drape, and have a private reading nook. The grandchildren would like that too.
I have spent several hours cleaning out large chest of drawers and had 7 small blank books and three small sketch pads I was just looking at when you pulled out your blank books so... yes, I do seem to collect books thinking I will journal but never have. It is good to hear you are feeling well again and hope you enjoy the autumn.
I would remove the 2nd sofa and put the chair there. My Dad was a printer and I have always loved paper and stationery, and Vienna has definitely inherited that from me, she has many many books also and often buys a new one that she can't live without 😂 it is nice to see you looking so well. New Zealand is waking up to spring here, we have been preparing gardens and planting seeds.
I am so happy to hear you are feeling well! I can only think of 4 blank books. I might find more if I went looking for them, but what plagues me more is starting a new journal before I finish the one I am writing in. I probably have 20 journals that are half to three-quarters filled, and I just stopped using them and moved on to a new one. A new journal feels like a fresh start, and maybe sometimes that is just what we need.
I can very much relate about the stash of lovely journals. What I have allowed myself to do is use the ones with less appealing covers. Then I have started to make hand sewn journal covers. Great place to practice some patchwork, embroidery or the like. My last one was a lovely sashiko type effort. If you make them for a fairly standard notebook you can transfer the cover to your current one.
I can tell that you are feeling well again. You are back to your normal bubbly self and have a zest for life again which is wonderful!
wonderful to see the sparkle in your eyes again. Do not be down about the garden. I was not well and only have some squash and courgettes and a very few flowers. But we have those we love and this wonderful LGS. Bless all who visit here and share in its kindness and love! 💞💛🙏
Oh Kate. LOL. Even after a recent purge in both locations, I have the most ridiculous number of blank journals, sketchbooks, composition notebooks, etc. Most of my planners turn into something of a scrapbook of that moment in time, though this year has been less than scrap-worthy so the planner is sorely lacking, lol. I recently purged one of many micro collections of stationery, and I literally had sticker sheets that I didn't want to "waste" on just any folder or piece of paper, or letter. lol. I have dreams of junk journals filled with trip trinkets, tokens and pics, etc...But, as with most things, I complicate my basic idea with "improvements" of grandiose craftacular ideas, and then a simple things becomes a monster, lol. Your sitting room looks quite lovely! Thank you for sharing your progress with us, and I'm SO pleased to see you feeling like your normal self again!
I appreciate your "I complicate..." statement. That's my life. Have plenty of fabric. Now for the complications: Added fabric specifically for masks. Which mask pattern (they are probably all good and are free)? Who else can I make them for. Will they like it or will the fabric and time be wasted? Now it is September and I have made 0. Been wearing disposable masks...😷
@@carolg.6838
Would you consider a makeover of the top into an apron? Add a lime green and a pink frill to the bottom with a couple of pockets above for a 50s feel. ( Polka dots in one colour would add zing). Back fabric could be used for lining for extra durability. Would also need ties at waist and for around the neck of course. Great to see you looking and sounding so much better.
“Absolutely brilliant “ says this New Yorker
I hoard notebooks and often can't bear to 'spoil' them by using them. I came across you very recently and was thrilled beyond belief to discover your coptic binding tutorial. My next project. I'm a sewer and love your curtain dress. Wear it with pride, I would. x
The curtain fabric is so pretty. Wear it for gardening! I'm fond of stationery too, I make birthday and thank you cards. Was nice to see more of your home with your handmade treasures. Good job on downsizing.
...the curtain top is fun-and it’s an example of making a toile/muslin mock-up that is fun and resourceful. Great top for house cleaning since it’s so cheerful!
Hi Kate, I have to say you've got your umph back...you're right about looking back at the earlier videos, you can see you weren't well. It's great that you've managed to half your possessions, or at least some of them. I had to laugh about the notebooks cos I have about twelve!!.. I've been clearing out aswell and sent everything to the air ambulance which is great because they come and collect anything you give them apart from bric-a-brac. I've got rid of a ton of books too but I've still a good few in the cellar which I'll sort out and old paint tins which will never get used!
Great to see you looking so well and back to your sewing projects. Stay safe and don't wear yourself out.
Big hugs Lynne (Sunderland) 💐🌈🌸
Well, I'm a bit late to the lime green sofa today. Had a lovely day with my son, dil, and g'dau for brunch. The quiche we had was delicious, dil had lots and bagels. Great time, great conversation. You are looking so much better Kate. Happy days. All the clearing out is going well. Glad you are able to enjoy your sitting room again. It looks quite cozy. So my day started with family and is ending with time watching & listening to you----so enjoyable was it all. Thank you for sharing....as always - stay well and see you in a few days on Patreon. xoxo
Oh err! I counted the empty books ...... 14 journal type and 8 drawing/watercolour pads. I’m 62 I will not fill all this paper in my lifetime 😂 In my defence I journal every day but you’ve got me thinking now about reducing my stuff! You’re always inspiring and I’m so pleased you’re feeling well again. 😊
Kate...Take your curtain SMOCK and add a pocket all along the bottom and use it in your garden next year when you gather your veggies!🙄 you do seem to be feeling much better. I am so glad. My purge starts this fall. I'm finishing up a huge window reglaze project (19 large windows) and should be done by mid October. After that the purge begins! Thank you for sharing. 😙
So glad you're feeling better I've certainly missed your cheerfulness. It has been very calming for me here in these tumultuous United States. Please stay well.
So pleased to hear that you are fighting fit again. I must admit you are looking more like your former self. I’m watching in bed with earphones and giggled out loud at the notebooks, I woke my hubby. 🤣
Glad to hear your feeling much better. We were worried about you! Yes, sometimes looking we begin to understand the struggles our bodies were dealing with. Sending love and hugs from my beautiful California which is currently burning from both ends. Pray we get rain, gentle rain.
I have 19 junk drawers, and having trouble reducing them, I keep trying to no steps forward? Horrible feeling that I will leave it for me children, I am 75 and not the energy we once had to start big projects. Love you videos.
I can relate, I'm 66 years old and a year retired. I've been gradually reducing as I don't want our sons to have to deal with it all later. Will you children help you? Perhaps contact members of your church, community, for volunteers to help pack up, take away while you direct and sort?
Dear Kate, u looked gorgeous in your curtain material apron. It's adorable. Do keep wearing it. Looking forward to yr quilts, yr family, yr cats, Eileen, yr world. I so enjoy watching u. U are a very special person and it's obvious cuz u have wonderful children. Luv u and all. Keep wearing yr curtain...it's beautiful!!!
I’m chuckling because I too have lots of empty books. A drawerful in fact, then there’s the shelf too. But I’m with you about the chair. I think the energy in the room would be much better with the chair at an angle and the other sofa gone.
I love you Kate and your sense of humor!!! Would love to sit in your lovely cozy room and read as you chat away!!!!
That rug is gorgeous Kate!!! And I prefer the faded colours to the original ones. So glad you're feeling better. Take care! 🤗🤗🥰
I made a joke last week, Kate, that my tombstone should read "Died with the most wordless blank books." Not going to fight anybody for the title. There are just too many contestants. Love your art wall, your fabric pillows, all your "wonderful things." Stay safe.
All the colour in your living room is so much more inviting than the 'white-modern look." I like it when the grand kids can just lounge and not get scolded as 'things will get dirty."
Yes I agree keep the chair and lose the second couch. It will make the flow of the room much more comfortable. Easy to try for a week by just moving the couch out but not getting rid of it until you are sure.
The empty books/notebooks! Ahhh! Of course I identify, a vast reader tends to be a thinker--and, a thinker needs various notebooks to jot down the brilliant ideas that dance about in our heads. Readers are writers!
The only reason I would get rid of a couch or chair is if it was uncomfortable. I like more options to sit. Glad to hear you are feeling better. Yes, take us along while you stitch. I love watching people do handwork.
Great job Kate! It looks magnificent! Now the worse part for me would be to get it out of the house. I love the purging and then it sits in the garage! I’m so glad you’re feeling better! Can’t wait to see what you are stitching! ❤️
Afternoon kate,glad to see you seem back to normal.Talking of books,material,craft stuff....yes ,i have a lot..but cant seem to clear,i give up! Just resigned now this is ME! Xx
So happy you are feeling better. Decluttering.......I can do it. I have been making face masks for months now. My living room looks like a Chinese sweat shop....😉. But I have used a lot of my fabric that I've gathered over 20 years or so. A big part of that had been bought in the Netherlands and shipped to the USA when I moved here. Now the demand for masks had dwindled down a bit I can see what's left and what stays or goes. Over the winter I'm planning to tackle all my craft supplies. Either use them or donate them. Your doing an awsome job clearing out. Ohh....I love your rug. Maybe you can teach us how to do that....🤗
I recently did a bit of a cleaned up and found quite a few notebooks. I know why I purchased them - record quilt projects, knitting projects, etc. I have finally filled up one but it has recipes, websites of interest, knitting patterns and quilting patterns that I like. Hmm. What do I do with it now. Summer is better than winter to be sick. Glad you are feeling recovered.
I use the FlyLady method of decluttering and keeping the house tidy. It’s made a huge difference in my mental well-being, I think. It’s difficult to stay focused and positive in a cluttered house. So I’m really enjoying watching you declutter. Now you have me thinking about furniture clutter!
Thank you Kate. Great job on the sitting room. It looks comfy. I try to “clean out” stuff in April and September so it’s not so overwhelming. I’m more conscious now of buying something that I need rather than want. I read Marie’s book on organizing but only used parts of it. We here in the states really look forward to and appreciate your upbeat and kind videos but even more during our current chaos. Take care. Mary