A Maker's Thought

It's been a while since I've share a post like this, but something happened last weekend that I don't want to forget. Plus, it serves as a very good reminder that our gift of making is something pretty special, and being able to share that beyond ourselves is worth the risk.

So remember those green potholders I shared a few weeks ago?

I made them to be able to write a tutorial on how I make scrappy potholders, and at the start, I didn't really have an idea of an eventual recipient. But for some reason, as I was making them, it came to me who I wanted to give them to. There's a server at a local restaurant that I visit fairly often. Usually it's mom and I or hubby and I, but whatever, she sees us coming and welcomes us in. We chat about our week and no matter the day, she makes us laugh, serves us well, and makes us glad we came.

So just before the last time hubby and I were headed there, I whipped up a gift bag and popped the potholders in. I can't say I didn't question whether taking the gift to her was a good idea. I mean, I've never taken a gift to a restaurant server before. But I just wanted to show our deep appreciation for the joy she adds to our visits.

After our order had been placed, I told her I'd made her something. She pulled up a chair to open the gift bag, peeked in, and wouldn't you know? She nearly cried. That there were potholders in the bag was meaningful to her. That they were handmade was meaningful to her. She thanked me over and over again. 

All this to say, if sharing one of your handmades crosses your mind, just do it. Risk feeling foolish. Risk an apathetic reaction. Because there's a good chance you'll experience what I did.... sincere appreciation from the recipient, and a personal gratefulness for your own giftedness as a maker.