Love the fact that your husband can be a stay at home dad. 24 years ago, I became a stay at home dad with our second child, and it was awesome to be so involved in my sons upbringing. It also gave me time to pursue my hobby of making children's fancy dress clothes, which grew into a part time business as our kids grew older. I love the fact that more couples are embracing the concept that either partner can be the primary carer.
Bravo to your decision, and to stay-at-home dads! My father took on part-time work so he could keep an eye on me while my mother worked full-time. And he had been raised by a single father himself. We should normalize this in society.
It's a small thing in the overall video, but I appreciate so much that you included a whole range of coworkers, including the housekeeping staff, etc., in your overview. I always think that people can forget that everyone working in an org is worthy of mention. Great video!
The bit at the end is so super important. Sharing and dividing responsibilities in a way that works best in your situation should be the norm for all relationships. You are both awesome, and I love seeing you in costumes together!
Pointing out Matt as a stay at home dad definitely helps not just with the time management aspect but parts of your life that you would need to think about for being a parent and physician. Especially with things like Grey's Anatomy having every doctor have 5 kids and work, pointing out that you really do need a support structure in place to achieve those lifestyle goals helps people see that as a normal reality. Normalize stay at home dads.
I actually raved about you to my husband when i first found you. A mother, doctor and sewing intricate costumes/garments as a hobby? We love a multi-tasking Queen
In explaining how a busy person gets so much done, it's also really important to talk about the part of life they don't have to do, so I'm really glad you included the part about your husband. For example, planning and cooking meals takes a lot of time. If someone else is doing that for you, that's a huge chunk of time you get back. I'm really tired of the 'we can do it all' mentality, there are always trade offs and finding those that work for you is what's really important.
Hearing that you accomplish so much by slow steady progress made me realize i should stop waiting for the day i have 12 hours straight to work on my costumes. I also have a bunch of projects at the same time and always thought of it as a bad habit but i realize now that this can be an advantage if looked at from a different perspective :) Great Video and thanks for the advice
I love a good "things I have done" list. I have cfs/ME and find that regular to-do lists can sometimes be unhelpful, but "things I have done" can keep me motivated as well as being a good diary so that when I'm inevitably fatigued I can look back and go "oh yeah I've actually done a lot"
@@Sarandib22 Productivity as self-harm is a WORD. I have fibromyalgia and too often I have pushed myself so hard one day that I was laid up for a week after. Retro Claude has some great videos about crafting while disabled that really helped me get in a better frame of mind.
I just wanted to say that you're such an inspiration to me as I'm studying to become an engineer myself and it's really encouraging to see someone balance art and stem like you do. (most of my art friends are not into stem at all and my stem friends are not into doing art at all)
I think the balance of always having something you can work on yet not doing so in a hectic way is an important take away here. When you list it all it appears hectic but it's clear that it's really not. It's a pace that has room for you. I appreciate that as it can be quite stressful to hear about how productive people are productive.
I love your "one hour a day" rule. I want to do so much but often feel overwhelmed or that there isn't enough time before I leave for work (evening shift automotive assembly worker). But I tend to have about an hour that I feel isn't enough but maybe I need to start thinking "it's enough to start" . Thank you!! Now all to do is to wake up and not sleep 12 hours...
I love that you included the last bit about your husband! It is so great you give him the due respect he deserves staying home to help support you and your child. Lots of men never really give their stay-at-home wives the recognition that being a support person really deserves. It's great that y'all found something that works well for your family!
I'm so happy you added the shout out to Matt for being a stay-at-home Dad. My husband and I have been considering a similar arrangement. It's so validating and comforting to see other awesome women with that arrangement. And it always warms my heart when stay-at-home Dads get more visibility. It's really something we need to normalise in our society.
I like the bit about the journaling, too! In my case I sometimes get bad brain fog so remembering things is sometimes difficult. Taking time to write it all down however you can is so helpful!
My husband stayed home with our son for the first 2.5 years, mostly because the job market in our area was awful at that time, but he loved being home with his baby! He was (and still is) an amazing father to our child allowing me to work and have time to participate in all my hobbies. We’ve been exceedingly fortunate that one of us has always been able to stay home with our now 15 year old baby. Thank you for this video. I’ve forced myself to be a monogamous maker for many years as I was afraid if I did something else, I’d just abandon the previous project. It’s almost as though I feel I have permission to work on multiple projects, now! Work on what brings me joy, but make sure to work on one project every day. Wonderful advice!
seconding that "monogamous maker" identity - I tend to pick a project, then power through until I'm done. Until this year, I've only ever worked on 2 projects at a time, at most. I'm primarily a knitter, so I have a "purse project," which isn't too complicated and is small enough to bring with me, and then something else that is either too complex or too large for "on the go." But since I've gotten more into sewing and have dealt with the struggles of patterning, fitting etc., I am now way more likely to need a break from a project to recharge and regain excitement.
I've always wondered how human(or super human) you are balancing your work and hobbies etc. Now I know your secret.. lol. Thank you for the insights and I am going to try to apply some of it too, as I am also sewing for my tiny little shop in a craft village. Keep up the great work, its so much fun to watch. Regards from Sth Australia.
Christine: Provides interesting information on different types of doctors, gives good advice on time management, says sweet things about her husband. Me: PUPPY! Oh my God, it's a PUPPY! IT'S SO FLUFFY!
This was a great peek into your time management process. I have wondered how on earth you get so much done! Awww, what a wonderful tribute to your husband!! I can understand why you initially chose to keep it personal but I think that you said it so well. My husband and I traded off our work hours so that one of us was always home with our kids. When it's important to you, you make it work. I can't wait to see those projects that you have on the go!!
You and your husband have created this wonderful partnership that is bases on love, respect, and honor. You son is a blessed and happy child because you both have the best interest of the family!❤️❤️❤️ I love it and my heart smiles if it could. Continued blessing and shine your beautiful spirit. Life long fan!
This is so impressive, I knew you had a job but wow, doing all of that work and still making such amazing costumes? And such an important job too! You're an inspiration to all of us!
It’s the bare minimum to be a good but shoutout to Matt for being there and we Stan Supportive Husbands 👏🏽 P.S. Waiting eagerly for the Court Suit Video.
I can’t comprehend how anybody can manage 24 hour shifts. You are amazing. I definitely wish I was more like you. I also love that your husband is a stay at home dad and enjoys it! I think more men should know that it’s totally an option for them and that there’s no shame in it (and that toxic ‘friends’ who imply there is should be dropped). Malcolm is a lucky boy to have such great parents who know how to work together, share the load, and use their different strengths for the good of each other ❤️
This is so validating, I always feel so useless and unmotivated when I realize how long it takes me to do pretty much everything. I often get myself into a zone and get very meticulous about the details -- but in a fun, interesting, engaging way. I have a great time in the moment, but when I step back and see that maybe one thing got done in all, it's hard not to berate myself. I'm glad that I'm not the only one who takes their time, and I'll take inspiration from your methods and be kinder to myself
I primarily knit lace-weight yarn, and occasionally hand-sew for the opposite reason...I don't want to get too much done! I love the process, but there are only so many knit goods one needs, and I already have too many clothes. I hope you give yourself permission to just enjoy the process instead of stressing about production time. I'd rather have an intricate beaded lace shawl I spent a year patterning and knitting with care then 12 pairs of socks, or what have you.
Honestly I figured you sewed and cosplayed to release stress. Because I know when I craft I can zone out. People forget you need to do something that will make you happy.
Hey, I just wanted to say you're wrong. You _are_ talented. You are worthy. And personally, I admire your self-confidence and ability to get things done. Thank you for being a real person with us.
I'm a professor at 2 colleges, so I've got a busy work life too, and many, many hobbies (cheesemaker, bookmaker, pine needle baskets, mead). People ask me how I get it all done. My impolite, unspoken answer is, How do you get so LITTLE done? Like you, I find creativity in my private life helps me in my professional life, and keeps me from being my work. Unlike you, I'm an empty nester, so that's created a lot of freedom in my non-work time. You miss the kids, but glory in the independence. Thanks for sharing .... you are delightful.
I find motivation elusive, there are so many want to dos then nothing. i've tried list, and i'll keep trying but it does give me hope to see how it can work once you've practiced and found a method for you. you're so inspiring Sewstine, and I'm so happy you share your talents with us. Also love when a family finds a great rhythm that works for both partners .
The note about your husband at the end is wonderful. I was trying to square the child care part into the rest of your extremely crowded schedule. Kudos to both of you for finding the perfect life balance for you. 😀
Your attitude is brilliant! You are kind to yourself, set realistic small goals and you don't beat yourself up. Doing a little each day is satisfying and makes you look forward to the next bit. I too love hand sewing in front of the tv.
Thank you for making a video like this! I feel so guilty when I don't get to finish my creative projects because my job is so demanding, but the way you turn it into manageable pieces and don't scold yourself for feeling tired, makes me feel like I can accomplish more with a few small changes
I've always been in awe of how you are able to balance your full time job, being with your family, the time it takes to create those gorgeous clothes, and the time and effort of creating your videos (since that involves filming, editing, and scripting). This was a wonderful video on how you are able to do it and makes me appreciate all that you do for your channel! 👏
Thank you for sharing; I was so curious about this and wondering if you just have superhuman energy levels or what? 😆 I think there are a lot more people who have unique work hours than many people realize. I think my mom had originally planned to be a stay-at-home mom, but her boss was desperate for her not to quit so he got her set up to work from home in 1984 before it was common and she continued that until 2010 so she was available to us kids anytime, and also able to indulge her workaholic tendencies whenever she wanted too. Now my brother is doing the same thing working from home and staying with his daughter most of the time, even before the pandemic, simply because his job doesn't require an actual office. There is a lot of flexibility in the world if you look for it. 😁
Hello! Thank you for adding that last bit of information. I'm also a mom and I agree that it's an important part of your time management. You are very lucky, and your husband is too. Lots of health to your family!
Ben Warren - Miranda Bailey’s husband moved from Grey’s Anatomy as an Anesthesiologist to a Surgeon to a Firefighter on Station 19. They eventually reveal he couldn’t help his friend in a high school era car accident and was always trying to find the career to help him. Not necessarily realistic but he did start out as an Anesthesiologist! Daughter of a CRNA, I Love both your careers. You don’t point out that your career is one of the most stressful professions. Congrats to you on all your success! 🎉❤
I'm a flight attendant, drummer in a competitive band, drumming instructor and a job coach for adults with developmental disabilities.... Oh yeah, I'm also renovating my house myself. I love historical sewing but I feel as if I'm terrible at managing my time. Thanks for sharing your tips! I'll be applying the "what I did" list to my life, because I always beat myself up about not finishing things!
Great video and a big shout out to your terrific husband. He sounds amazing, so supportive, hardworking and a great dad. Good on you for letting us know. It is so nice to have the full picture and I appreciate your transparency. So many would let ego dictate and give the impression that they juggled everything. It leaves the average person feeling inadequate. I'm very average and often feel inadequate. Your schedule then comes across as realistic and doable. I can implement some of your wonderful routines suggestions. Very encouraging and I must say your work is beautiful and an inspiration. Thankyou.
Good morning, you are very good at time management and being realistic about what you can accomplish and how much rest you need. Journaling is a great help too. I'm 72 now, and my husband has passed, but we used to dairy farm so he was VERY MUCH a hands on always available dad. And very paternal. It leaves the kids a great legacy. They are all adults now, of course, but they each acknowledge their great start. On a side note. One of them told me last week that she just realized how hard I worked when she was growing up, so don't expect your toddler to realize and give you kudos for a long time! She just turned 46, lol.
Thank you for this insight! It's very impressive how you manage all of this, but I also like that you have a healthy approach to your hobby. It's also such a relevant part, that many (including myself) often forget. That you don't press yourself to get certain things done in a certain amount of time etc. I am personally especially glad, that you did this important. Because information like this helps me at least a little with my decision. Right now I am at a "turbulent" stage of my life. I finished school last year and am doing right now a volunteery year in the medical field (also did a small training of 4-5 months to become some sort of paramedic, I know the term is not fully correct, because there is clearly more to it than a 4-5 month education to become a paramedic, but there is just not a better translation of what I am doing right now 😅, I am from Germany btw) Anyway, I am pretty much at this crossroad where I have to decide what I will do as a full-time job, where I will put main emphasis. And that either means studying psychology/medicine and being able to continue my creative passions as hobbies (even though there definitely won't be enough time for all of them) or I'll do an art major and follow these passions. But I will also have to commercialise them. It's a hard decision, both ways will have their hardships, but both also have strong pros and cons. It might sound strange, but I often when I brood about this question I also think about of who as an example that you can manage to become a doctor and fulfill this hard career and still don't have to give up all of your hobbies. I don't want to diminish your struggle with this, but it gives me hope. Anyway, enough rambling about me. I just wanted to say, that I am in awe of your creations and I think you seem like a very sympathetic person :). And sorry for this very long text, I am very good at babbling. (?) Greetings from Germany 😊 P.S.: If anyone somehow found the motivation to finish this novel and somehow finds more motivation to correct my spelling/grammar mistakes, feel free to do that After finishing school I don't often get opportunities to practise my English and I am scared that it will get rusty 😬
Hey, I am from Germany too and currently at a maybe similarly turbulent stage. I finished my degree last year and now try to figure out what I want to do as a job and how to get one.. I just wanted to answer because I studied fine arts, so I want to tell you: you probably won't learn a lot about 'making art' there. Most people just continue doing what they did before. It might even make you less creative/productive, because art academies can be pretty toxic environments... But studying arts might help get into jobs or just a kind of overview of the art world. But it's not guaranteed (I had a shitty and sexist professor, so I got no opportunities). If you want to make art, make art. And focus on that. Studying art doesn't make anyone an artist. Maybe this unsolicited advice helps you. Ps, I wish I had studied something else, and had kept art as my hobby. And had now a better chance to get a decent job.
Kudos to you for finding the right balance for your life and family. I could never keep your schedule - I’m just more lad back. And I’m happy for something to be finished when it’s finished, no deadlines. To do lists are helpful so you think out all the steps. And then you can just execute without taking time to plan.
Love seeing this! I'm an attorney and teacher and painter and all the things. I too make lists; the process you share is just as essential to secure accomplishments as it is for mental health. Thank you for sharing. It's also good to see someone who balances multiple professions with creative habits...that also aid in mental and emotional well-being!
My husband was also a stay-at-home dad and he is now working part-time so that he can take care of our children during the day, while I am working. But I'm still amazed by everything you can accomplish while working so many hours ! I think I work less than 45 hours a week and I'm still too exhausted to do anything else than read a little before bedtime.
I'd love to know more about the process you went through to becoming a doctor. It's always been a dream of mine, but now i'm getting a little older (comming up for my 30's, but not *that* old), i'm wondering if i'm even capable of it, and the online infomation i've found so far always seems to be from an outside perspective.
Im not a doctor or in the medical field, but as someone who has spent 7 years and still working towards my first bachelors can say...age is relative. The only problens come from as one gets older, they are more likely to have obligations that could limit time and energy for studying. But if you have the means and support system, I would say its possible if you really want to. The hardest aspect is carving out time to study so you dont stress about assignments, exams, projects etc. Really nail down those fundamental classes and take time to be prepared for advanced topics/courses.
You're not too old! Adults change careers all the time, or go back to college in their middle to older ages. The tuition and resulting student debt (if you live in the US) is no joke though. 😩
Age is but a number if you are willing to put in the work. My bestie is an OBGYN and she got married and had two kids while in med school. Her mentor went back to med school with four kids at home. If you are determined and will put in the long hours, you got this!
There is an expression about time that I think you might find relevant. The best time to plant a tree is 20 years ago, the second best time is right now. Don't worry about what you didn't do when you were starting your adult life after high school. Think about what you want to be doing now and get moving down that pathway. You're going to be 30 no matter what. Might as well be doing what makes you happy.
I know someone who sold his business and went to med school in his late 40s with 12 kids to support...if its what you love and feel called to, run after it!
OH. MY. GOODNESS. The bird/floral machine embroidery is absolutely stunningly beautiful! You never cease to amaze me, Christine. You do all things VERY well! Such a talented woman. Your digitizing skills are above and beyond those of the average digitizer . . . you have the ability to make your work look hand-embroidered. Keep up the impeccable work! Thanks for sharing some of this amazing talent with Classic Sewing. Again, you're amazing. Hugs! (And kudos to you for taking the time to thank your sweet husband for being such a great stay-at-home dad and support system . . . very thoughtful.)
Thank you for the peek into your daily life! I love to do lists and I break them up into bits, too. It absolutely is very helpful to see things done. Also, every family does what works for them and that's awesome! Matt being a stay at home parent is rad and I love the love and support you give to each other.
Thank you for sharing the info about your hubby, it's lovely that you have a wonderful job that helps so many and a hobby you enjoy, I was a single working mum and did a deplomer and a fine arts degree, and time management was key to keep all the ball's I was juggling in the air, you have my respect for the work you do and the beautiful dresses you create.💖
Your “things I did” list is such a great idea. I have been working full time from home with a homebound child for months while my husband works full time in the office and my other child is in school, and I often feel like I’m floundering and getting nothing done when in reality, I’m actually doing so much, and it takes looking at it on a page to realize it. ❤️
Thanks for sharing that Matt is not working a paid job, too. It's great to see how it works for you and good for others (whose work/life is quite different than yours) to not feel down if they can't manage the quantity of hobby time/work as you do. Love your projects!
I am a Respiratory Therapist and use my sewing as a way to stress relief, I love your journal idea and may incorporate that into my daily routine. Thank you for your inspiration
I think you also have an astounding amount of energy and ability to persevere. I think if I had your demanding job I’d be a tv watching zombie whenever I wasn’t working!
I really admire your work ethic. I'm disabled so I am at home most of the time, and I still don't get as much sewing done a week as you! Hopefully these tips will help me manage a little better. I particularly like the 1 hour/day rule! Even on my bad days, I think that would be manageable!
Thank you for this! I also love to sew and I’m starting vet school this year. I was worried about being able to make time for both but you have always been such an inspiration to me! I love that your interests are so widespread. Thanks for sharing your tips ☺️
Wow! Thank you for sharing your behind the scenes lifestyle logistics! It's really neat and inspiring to see how you go about accomplishing your hobby. I am inspired to get more hand sewing done on tired days! The one hour rule sounds great! I could watch Voltron with my kids!
Some inspiring tips there to help with achievable time management. I personally went from working a full time job, engaging in hobbies, and going to grad school full time to being on full disability by the age of 30 due to a degenerative health condition. Quite the unexpected about face! It’s a challenge to feel successful or productive because it’s so tempting to compare my productivity now to the “before times”, but I really like your chunked to-do lists and “things I did today” lists. Great ideas for someone who has limited energy and functional time - you’ve inspired me to try them! Also, I know it’s personal, but your acknowledgement of your husband and normalization of unique/ non-traditional work balances is so important! Thank you for highlighting this. My dad took an early retirement to help manage all my doctor visits and disability care that I need - he sometimes diminishes himself and feels guilty my mom works so hard, but honestly there is no way I would have been able to manage my condition or stay safe (I pass out 20x weekly with only 15-30 seconds of warning) without his support. Both my mom and I think he is awesome, but society can be pretty harsh towards men who choose to prioritize their families in non-traditional ways.
Thank you for all the background information. Your beautiful work is even more amazing knowing how hard you work at your job. I also love your wicker critters on the shelf behind you. I have an antique wicker cat that would fit right in there
Soooo much great information 😍 I love how you use task bundling so that you can fit in your hand-sewing with your TV watching. And it’s also interesting to hear how you arrange your projects and their steps according to difficulty and time allowed-it seems like it would make it really easy to say “it’s a low spoons day, I can sew this for an hour and stop and let myself be satisfied”. I recently changed my “to-do” list into a “what I did” list (I write it down on my calendar so I can always encourage myself) and I found it also made me more likely to overcome obstacles. I have a lot of anxiety but if I tell myself I can at least try doing the thing so I can write down that I tried I find that it gives me more courage. I love what you mentioned about your husband. Yes it’s not a “tip” per se but I think if you are able to think about building relationships with others so that you both benefit from it that is a kind of tip to life! I know when I was feeling discouraged about “accomplishing” my goals when I was home it was so important for me to hear from my partner that he really appreciated everything I did much more than I was giving myself credit for. I also know that I was feeling really overwhelmed recently with the state of my craft room but all it took was confiding in my friend and she agreed to come and help for a few hours tomorrow. I can’t wait to see the lady doctor outfit!
Did you do that embroidery on the jacket!?! WOW just amazing!!! So important to share that your husband is a stay at home dad because many women (people) may think how does she do it all!? You are so lucky to have him and he is a great dad! 💘
It's kind of off topic, but I love that you mentioned where your journals are from. I just finished my 3 year education as a bookbinder and I really hope that there's enough interest in hand-bound books so that I can make a living on it. So thank you for giving the craft a little visibility :)
love hearing about the small and easy tips you take up to manage your intense schedule!! also i REALLY love those little wicker animals in the back. so cute!!
I love this! Thank you so much for sharing. As a new mom, my time looks very different these days. I will definitely be implementing some of these tips!
I find journalling so helpful as well :3 the books are so beautiful. Slow and steady is great advice. I find the work you make and present so inspiring
love following the progress on your IG. and...i cannot wait to see the Victorian Lady Doctor and the Cottagecore Nurse Joy! and i'm sure, as frustrating as the sewing projects can be (and are more often than not lol) it's probably such a great way to destress from the stresses of the "day job" and probably helped your sanity during the past two years! keep up the amazing work, Supergirl!
Thank-you so much for taking the time to provide amazing videos on top of the exceptional sewing, the highly skilled career as a doctor as well as the rest of it! You are a wonderful inspiration to me.
The peace of mind knowing your child/ren is/are being taking care of while you are earning a living can never be underrated. Because of my earning capacity was greater than Hubby's while our kids were younger he stayed at home. I could go to work and not worry about their care and well being. (Even if he did let them watch Alfred Hitchcock and have dessert first.) Thanks for being real about how you make it work. And thanks to Matt for stepping up to be a great partner and dad.
So nice of you to share your routine with us! 💐 Personally I realize I'm older than you and was never as organized but there is always time to learn new things or old things better 😀! You doing you I like how you've found balance in rest time , and family time. Tys 💕🇨🇦
This is actually such fantastic advice! I really want to try making a checklist of what I have done rather than what I haven't so I don't feel guilty, it actually sounds like such a good idea! Not to mention, you have patience of steel! The patience to give your projects time is such an admirable skill to me cuz I am so impatient! But what fun is the destination if the journey wasn't fun too, I guess.
Thank you for sharing your experiences!! I've been really struggling with trying to balance my time between work, hobbies, and being tired haha But this has given me a bunch of ideas on how to do things a bit better!
Fellow doctor (ED) and sewing enthusiast saying thanks for the reminder about the importance of choosing which tasks to do at what times. Sometimes I feel like I wear myself out doing sewing tasks with high cognitive load when I would be better resting and hand sewing! Looking forward to seeing your Victorian Lady Doctor - might need to do one myself!
Love the fact that your husband can be a stay at home dad. 24 years ago, I became a stay at home dad with our second child, and it was awesome to be so involved in my sons upbringing. It also gave me time to pursue my hobby of making children's fancy dress clothes, which grew into a part time business as our kids grew older. I love the fact that more couples are embracing the concept that either partner can be the primary carer.
Bravo to your decision, and to stay-at-home dads! My father took on part-time work so he could keep an eye on me while my mother worked full-time. And he had been raised by a single father himself. We should normalize this in society.
I love your explanation of realistic workloads without that toxic positivity instagram mom vibe that's so prevalent. Thank you!
It's a small thing in the overall video, but I appreciate so much that you included a whole range of coworkers, including the housekeeping staff, etc., in your overview. I always think that people can forget that everyone working in an org is worthy of mention. Great video!
The bit at the end is so super important. Sharing and dividing responsibilities in a way that works best in your situation should be the norm for all relationships. You are both awesome, and I love seeing you in costumes together!
Pointing out Matt as a stay at home dad definitely helps not just with the time management aspect but parts of your life that you would need to think about for being a parent and physician. Especially with things like Grey's Anatomy having every doctor have 5 kids and work, pointing out that you really do need a support structure in place to achieve those lifestyle goals helps people see that as a normal reality. Normalize stay at home dads.
I actually raved about you to my husband when i first found you. A mother, doctor and sewing intricate costumes/garments as a hobby? We love a multi-tasking Queen
In explaining how a busy person gets so much done, it's also really important to talk about the part of life they don't have to do, so I'm really glad you included the part about your husband. For example, planning and cooking meals takes a lot of time. If someone else is doing that for you, that's a huge chunk of time you get back. I'm really tired of the 'we can do it all' mentality, there are always trade offs and finding those that work for you is what's really important.
Hearing that you accomplish so much by slow steady progress made me realize i should stop waiting for the day i have 12 hours straight to work on my costumes. I also have a bunch of projects at the same time and always thought of it as a bad habit but i realize now that this can be an advantage if looked at from a different perspective :)
Great Video and thanks for the advice
I love a good "things I have done" list. I have cfs/ME and find that regular to-do lists can sometimes be unhelpful, but "things I have done" can keep me motivated as well as being a good diary so that when I'm inevitably fatigued I can look back and go "oh yeah I've actually done a lot"
@@Sarandib22 Productivity as self-harm is a WORD. I have fibromyalgia and too often I have pushed myself so hard one day that I was laid up for a week after. Retro Claude has some great videos about crafting while disabled that really helped me get in a better frame of mind.
I call them my To Do list and my Ta Da! list. 😆
I just wanted to say that you're such an inspiration to me as I'm studying to become an engineer myself and it's really encouraging to see someone balance art and stem like you do. (most of my art friends are not into stem at all and my stem friends are not into doing art at all)
i love stem and art. i feel like these interests work so well together. good luck w your studies!
I think the balance of always having something you can work on yet not doing so in a hectic way is an important take away here. When you list it all it appears hectic but it's clear that it's really not. It's a pace that has room for you. I appreciate that as it can be quite stressful to hear about how productive people are productive.
I love your "one hour a day" rule. I want to do so much but often feel overwhelmed or that there isn't enough time before I leave for work (evening shift automotive assembly worker). But I tend to have about an hour that I feel isn't enough but maybe I need to start thinking "it's enough to start" . Thank you!! Now all to do is to wake up and not sleep 12 hours...
I love that you included the last bit about your husband! It is so great you give him the due respect he deserves staying home to help support you and your child. Lots of men never really give their stay-at-home wives the recognition that being a support person really deserves. It's great that y'all found something that works well for your family!
I'm so happy you added the shout out to Matt for being a stay-at-home Dad. My husband and I have been considering a similar arrangement. It's so validating and comforting to see other awesome women with that arrangement. And it always warms my heart when stay-at-home Dads get more visibility. It's really something we need to normalise in our society.
I like the bit about the journaling, too! In my case I sometimes get bad brain fog so remembering things is sometimes difficult. Taking time to write it all down however you can is so helpful!
Yes! It's also so much fun once you get into the world of pretty inks and papers too!
My husband stayed home with our son for the first 2.5 years, mostly because the job market in our area was awful at that time, but he loved being home with his baby! He was (and still is) an amazing father to our child allowing me to work and have time to participate in all my hobbies. We’ve been exceedingly fortunate that one of us has always been able to stay home with our now 15 year old baby.
Thank you for this video. I’ve forced myself to be a monogamous maker for many years as I was afraid if I did something else, I’d just abandon the previous project. It’s almost as though I feel I have permission to work on multiple projects, now! Work on what brings me joy, but make sure to work on one project every day. Wonderful advice!
I love the "monogamous maker" term. Thanks for coining it.
seconding that "monogamous maker" identity - I tend to pick a project, then power through until I'm done. Until this year, I've only ever worked on 2 projects at a time, at most. I'm primarily a knitter, so I have a "purse project," which isn't too complicated and is small enough to bring with me, and then something else that is either too complex or too large for "on the go." But since I've gotten more into sewing and have dealt with the struggles of patterning, fitting etc., I am now way more likely to need a break from a project to recharge and regain excitement.
I've always wondered how human(or super human) you are balancing your work and hobbies etc. Now I know your secret.. lol. Thank you for the insights and I am going to try to apply some of it too, as I am also sewing for my tiny little shop in a craft village. Keep up the great work, its so much fun to watch. Regards from Sth Australia.
Christine: Provides interesting information on different types of doctors, gives good advice on time management, says sweet things about her husband.
Me: PUPPY! Oh my God, it's a PUPPY! IT'S SO FLUFFY!
This was a great peek into your time management process. I have wondered how on earth you get so much done! Awww, what a wonderful tribute to your husband!! I can understand why you initially chose to keep it personal but I think that you said it so well. My husband and I traded off our work hours so that one of us was always home with our kids. When it's important to you, you make it work. I can't wait to see those projects that you have on the go!!
You and your husband have created this wonderful partnership that is bases on love, respect, and honor. You son is a blessed and happy child because you both have the best interest of the family!❤️❤️❤️ I love it and my heart smiles if it could. Continued blessing and shine your beautiful spirit. Life long fan!
This is so impressive, I knew you had a job but wow, doing all of that work and still making such amazing costumes? And such an important job too! You're an inspiration to all of us!
It’s the bare minimum to be a good but shoutout to Matt for being there and we Stan Supportive Husbands 👏🏽
P.S. Waiting eagerly for the Court Suit Video.
I can’t comprehend how anybody can manage 24 hour shifts. You are amazing. I definitely wish I was more like you. I also love that your husband is a stay at home dad and enjoys it! I think more men should know that it’s totally an option for them and that there’s no shame in it (and that toxic ‘friends’ who imply there is should be dropped). Malcolm is a lucky boy to have such great parents who know how to work together, share the load, and use their different strengths for the good of each other ❤️
This is so validating, I always feel so useless and unmotivated when I realize how long it takes me to do pretty much everything. I often get myself into a zone and get very meticulous about the details -- but in a fun, interesting, engaging way. I have a great time in the moment, but when I step back and see that maybe one thing got done in all, it's hard not to berate myself. I'm glad that I'm not the only one who takes their time, and I'll take inspiration from your methods and be kinder to myself
I primarily knit lace-weight yarn, and occasionally hand-sew for the opposite reason...I don't want to get too much done! I love the process, but there are only so many knit goods one needs, and I already have too many clothes. I hope you give yourself permission to just enjoy the process instead of stressing about production time. I'd rather have an intricate beaded lace shawl I spent a year patterning and knitting with care then 12 pairs of socks, or what have you.
Honestly I figured you sewed and cosplayed to release stress. Because I know when I craft I can zone out. People forget you need to do something that will make you happy.
Hey, I just wanted to say you're wrong. You _are_ talented. You are worthy. And personally, I admire your self-confidence and ability to get things done. Thank you for being a real person with us.
I'm a professor at 2 colleges, so I've got a busy work life too, and many, many hobbies (cheesemaker, bookmaker, pine needle baskets, mead). People ask me how I get it all done. My impolite, unspoken answer is, How do you get so LITTLE done? Like you, I find creativity in my private life helps me in my professional life, and keeps me from being my work. Unlike you, I'm an empty nester, so that's created a lot of freedom in my non-work time. You miss the kids, but glory in the independence. Thanks for sharing .... you are delightful.
Thank you for giving us a peek into your daily life. It seems fascinating and we should all take notes on multitasking and killing it consistently.
I find motivation elusive, there are so many want to dos then nothing. i've tried list, and i'll keep trying but it does give me hope to see how it can work once you've practiced and found a method for you. you're so inspiring Sewstine, and I'm so happy you share your talents with us. Also love when a family finds a great rhythm that works for both partners .
The note about your husband at the end is wonderful. I was trying to square the child care part into the rest of your extremely crowded schedule.
Kudos to both of you for finding the perfect life balance for you.
😀
Your attitude is brilliant! You are kind to yourself, set realistic small goals and you don't beat yourself up. Doing a little each day is satisfying and makes you look forward to the next bit. I too love hand sewing in front of the tv.
Thank you for making a video like this! I feel so guilty when I don't get to finish my creative projects because my job is so demanding, but the way you turn it into manageable pieces and don't scold yourself for feeling tired, makes me feel like I can accomplish more with a few small changes
I've always been in awe of how you are able to balance your full time job, being with your family, the time it takes to create those gorgeous clothes, and the time and effort of creating your videos (since that involves filming, editing, and scripting). This was a wonderful video on how you are able to do it and makes me appreciate all that you do for your channel! 👏
Thank you for sharing; I was so curious about this and wondering if you just have superhuman energy levels or what? 😆
I think there are a lot more people who have unique work hours than many people realize. I think my mom had originally planned to be a stay-at-home mom, but her boss was desperate for her not to quit so he got her set up to work from home in 1984 before it was common and she continued that until 2010 so she was available to us kids anytime, and also able to indulge her workaholic tendencies whenever she wanted too. Now my brother is doing the same thing working from home and staying with his daughter most of the time, even before the pandemic, simply because his job doesn't require an actual office. There is a lot of flexibility in the world if you look for it. 😁
Hello! Thank you for adding that last bit of information. I'm also a mom and I agree that it's an important part of your time management. You are very lucky, and your husband is too. Lots of health to your family!
Ben Warren - Miranda Bailey’s husband moved from Grey’s Anatomy as an Anesthesiologist to a Surgeon to a Firefighter on Station 19. They eventually reveal he couldn’t help his friend in a high school era car accident and was always trying to find the career to help him. Not necessarily realistic but he did start out as an Anesthesiologist! Daughter of a CRNA, I Love both your careers. You don’t point out
that your career is one of the most stressful professions. Congrats to you on all your success! 🎉❤
I'm a flight attendant, drummer in a competitive band, drumming instructor and a job coach for adults with developmental disabilities.... Oh yeah, I'm also renovating my house myself. I love historical sewing but I feel as if I'm terrible at managing my time. Thanks for sharing your tips! I'll be applying the "what I did" list to my life, because I always beat myself up about not finishing things!
Great video and a big shout out to your terrific husband. He sounds amazing, so supportive, hardworking and a great dad.
Good on you for letting us know. It is so nice to have the full picture and I appreciate your transparency. So many would let ego dictate and give the impression that they juggled everything. It leaves the average person feeling inadequate. I'm very average and often feel inadequate.
Your schedule then comes across as realistic and doable. I can implement some of your wonderful routines suggestions.
Very encouraging and I must say your work is beautiful and an inspiration.
Thankyou.
Good morning, you are very good at time management and being realistic about what you can accomplish and how much rest you need. Journaling is a great help too.
I'm 72 now, and my husband has passed, but we used to dairy farm so he was VERY MUCH a hands on always available dad. And very paternal. It leaves the kids a great legacy. They are all adults now, of course, but they each acknowledge their great start. On a side note. One of them told me last week that she just realized how hard I worked when she was growing up, so don't expect your toddler to realize and give you kudos for a long time! She just turned 46, lol.
Im so sorry about your husband , based on your comment i can tell that was a well lived life! Its my dream to farm with my hubby and have a big family
@@wisteria6656 Good luck following your dreams!
This was really helpful.
That’s great that your husband is a SAHD! ❤️
Thank you for this insight! It's very impressive how you manage all of this, but I also like that you have a healthy approach to your hobby. It's also such a relevant part, that many (including myself) often forget. That you don't press yourself to get certain things done in a certain amount of time etc.
I am personally especially glad, that you did this important. Because information like this helps me at least a little with my decision. Right now I am at a "turbulent" stage of my life. I finished school last year and am doing right now a volunteery year in the medical field (also did a small training of 4-5 months to become some sort of paramedic, I know the term is not fully correct, because there is clearly more to it than a 4-5 month education to become a paramedic, but there is just not a better translation of what I am doing right now 😅, I am from Germany btw) Anyway, I am pretty much at this crossroad where I have to decide what I will do as a full-time job, where I will put main emphasis. And that either means studying psychology/medicine and being able to continue my creative passions as hobbies (even though there definitely won't be enough time for all of them) or I'll do an art major and follow these passions. But I will also have to commercialise them. It's a hard decision, both ways will have their hardships, but both also have strong pros and cons.
It might sound strange, but I often when I brood about this question I also think about of who as an example that you can manage to become a doctor and fulfill this hard career and still don't have to give up all of your hobbies. I don't want to diminish your struggle with this, but it gives me hope.
Anyway, enough rambling about me. I just wanted to say, that I am in awe of your creations and I think you seem like a very sympathetic person :).
And sorry for this very long text, I am very good at babbling. (?)
Greetings from Germany 😊
P.S.: If anyone somehow found the motivation to finish this novel and somehow finds more motivation to correct my spelling/grammar mistakes, feel free to do that
After finishing school I don't often get opportunities to practise my English and I am scared that it will get rusty 😬
Your written English is very understandable. Good luck with major decisions!
Hey, I am from Germany too and currently at a maybe similarly turbulent stage. I finished my degree last year and now try to figure out what I want to do as a job and how to get one..
I just wanted to answer because I studied fine arts, so I want to tell you: you probably won't learn a lot about 'making art' there. Most people just continue doing what they did before. It might even make you less creative/productive, because art academies can be pretty toxic environments...
But studying arts might help get into jobs or just a kind of overview of the art world. But it's not guaranteed (I had a shitty and sexist professor, so I got no opportunities).
If you want to make art, make art. And focus on that. Studying art doesn't make anyone an artist.
Maybe this unsolicited advice helps you.
Ps, I wish I had studied something else, and had kept art as my hobby. And had now a better chance to get a decent job.
I got a nerve block when I broke my ankle, and it was such a huge, huge relief. I’m so grateful for your profession!
Your Matt is amazing! And yes, hand-sewing does soothe the soul.
I'm also a chronic multitasker (2 jobs + full time student + thesis + sewing hobby) and this still blows my mind.
Kudos to you for finding the right balance for your life and family. I could never keep your schedule - I’m just more lad back. And I’m happy for something to be finished when it’s finished, no deadlines. To do lists are helpful so you think out all the steps. And then you can just execute without taking time to plan.
Love seeing this! I'm an attorney and teacher and painter and all the things. I too make lists; the process you share is just as essential to secure accomplishments as it is for mental health. Thank you for sharing. It's also good to see someone who balances multiple professions with creative habits...that also aid in mental and emotional well-being!
I love that you aknowledge that priceless husband of yours. You wouldn't be able to do it all as a single parent.
My husband was also a stay-at-home dad and he is now working part-time so that he can take care of our children during the day, while I am working. But I'm still amazed by everything you can accomplish while working so many hours ! I think I work less than 45 hours a week and I'm still too exhausted to do anything else than read a little before bedtime.
I'd love to know more about the process you went through to becoming a doctor. It's always been a dream of mine, but now i'm getting a little older (comming up for my 30's, but not *that* old), i'm wondering if i'm even capable of it, and the online infomation i've found so far always seems to be from an outside perspective.
Im not a doctor or in the medical field, but as someone who has spent 7 years and still working towards my first bachelors can say...age is relative. The only problens come from as one gets older, they are more likely to have obligations that could limit time and energy for studying. But if you have the means and support system, I would say its possible if you really want to. The hardest aspect is carving out time to study so you dont stress about assignments, exams, projects etc. Really nail down those fundamental classes and take time to be prepared for advanced topics/courses.
You're not too old! Adults change careers all the time, or go back to college in their middle to older ages. The tuition and resulting student debt (if you live in the US) is no joke though. 😩
Age is but a number if you are willing to put in the work. My bestie is an OBGYN and she got married and had two kids while in med school. Her mentor went back to med school with four kids at home. If you are determined and will put in the long hours, you got this!
There is an expression about time that I think you might find relevant. The best time to plant a tree is 20 years ago, the second best time is right now. Don't worry about what you didn't do when you were starting your adult life after high school. Think about what you want to be doing now and get moving down that pathway. You're going to be 30 no matter what. Might as well be doing what makes you happy.
I know someone who sold his business and went to med school in his late 40s with 12 kids to support...if its what you love and feel called to, run after it!
It is the end of the semester as a university student and I am so burnt out and feeling unmotivated. This is what I needed to hear right now.
Cottage core Nurse Joy sounds like an amazing idea! Thanks for the video!
OH. MY. GOODNESS. The bird/floral machine embroidery is absolutely stunningly beautiful! You never cease to amaze me, Christine. You do all things VERY well! Such a talented woman. Your digitizing skills are above and beyond those of the average digitizer . . . you have the ability to make your work look hand-embroidered. Keep up the impeccable work! Thanks for sharing some of this amazing talent with Classic Sewing. Again, you're amazing. Hugs! (And kudos to you for taking the time to thank your sweet husband for being such a great stay-at-home dad and support system . . . very thoughtful.)
Thank you for the peek into your daily life! I love to do lists and I break them up into bits, too. It absolutely is very helpful to see things done. Also, every family does what works for them and that's awesome! Matt being a stay at home parent is rad and I love the love and support you give to each other.
Thank you for sharing the info about your hubby, it's lovely that you have a wonderful job that helps so many and a hobby you enjoy, I was a single working mum and did a deplomer and a fine arts degree, and time management was key to keep all the ball's I was juggling in the air, you have my respect for the work you do and the beautiful dresses you create.💖
Your “things I did” list is such a great idea. I have been working full time from home with a homebound child for months while my husband works full time in the office and my other child is in school, and I often feel like I’m floundering and getting nothing done when in reality, I’m actually doing so much, and it takes looking at it on a page to realize it. ❤️
Thanks for sharing that Matt is not working a paid job, too. It's great to see how it works for you and good for others (whose work/life is quite different than yours) to not feel down if they can't manage the quantity of hobby time/work as you do. Love your projects!
I am a Respiratory Therapist and use my sewing as a way to stress relief, I love your journal idea and may incorporate that into my daily routine. Thank you for your inspiration
I am just completely in awe of your ability to both be so organized AND to fit so much in AND the fabulous costumes and clothing you make.
Love that you are together and he is a wonderful husband and father!
I think you also have an astounding amount of energy and ability to persevere. I think if I had your demanding job I’d be a tv watching zombie whenever I wasn’t working!
Thank you for explaining all of this, you're absolutely awesome and I love what you do!
I really admire your work ethic. I'm disabled so I am at home most of the time, and I still don't get as much sewing done a week as you! Hopefully these tips will help me manage a little better. I particularly like the 1 hour/day rule! Even on my bad days, I think that would be manageable!
Thank you for this! I also love to sew and I’m starting vet school this year. I was worried about being able to make time for both but you have always been such an inspiration to me! I love that your interests are so widespread. Thanks for sharing your tips ☺️
I love the clip where you as Belle are sitting on the fountain surrounded by sheep! It brought me great joy!
Wow! Thank you for sharing your behind the scenes lifestyle logistics! It's really neat and inspiring to see how you go about accomplishing your hobby. I am inspired to get more hand sewing done on tired days! The one hour rule sounds great! I could watch Voltron with my kids!
Wow, nice job ! Admiring your overall work.
Some inspiring tips there to help with achievable time management. I personally went from working a full time job, engaging in hobbies, and going to grad school full time to being on full disability by the age of 30 due to a degenerative health condition. Quite the unexpected about face! It’s a challenge to feel successful or productive because it’s so tempting to compare my productivity now to the “before times”, but I really like your chunked to-do lists and “things I did today” lists. Great ideas for someone who has limited energy and functional time - you’ve inspired me to try them!
Also, I know it’s personal, but your acknowledgement of your husband and normalization of unique/ non-traditional work balances is so important! Thank you for highlighting this. My dad took an early retirement to help manage all my doctor visits and disability care that I need - he sometimes diminishes himself and feels guilty my mom works so hard, but honestly there is no way I would have been able to manage my condition or stay safe (I pass out 20x weekly with only 15-30 seconds of warning) without his support. Both my mom and I think he is awesome, but society can be pretty harsh towards men who choose to prioritize their families in non-traditional ways.
Thank you for sharing something so personal! Your videos are so inspirational to my own sewing. Thank you for taking us along with you!
Thank you for all the background information. Your beautiful work is even more amazing knowing how hard you work at your job. I also love your wicker critters on the shelf behind you. I have an antique wicker cat that would fit right in there
I think in addition to your work ethic and time management kills, a key point is that you genuinely enjoy everything you do!
I’m a Stationery Stan and seeing your collection and the calligraphy OMG BRB SCREAMING
Soooo much great information 😍 I love how you use task bundling so that you can fit in your hand-sewing with your TV watching. And it’s also interesting to hear how you arrange your projects and their steps according to difficulty and time allowed-it seems like it would make it really easy to say “it’s a low spoons day, I can sew this for an hour and stop and let myself be satisfied”. I recently changed my “to-do” list into a “what I did” list (I write it down on my calendar so I can always encourage myself) and I found it also made me more likely to overcome obstacles. I have a lot of anxiety but if I tell myself I can at least try doing the thing so I can write down that I tried I find that it gives me more courage.
I love what you mentioned about your husband. Yes it’s not a “tip” per se but I think if you are able to think about building relationships with others so that you both benefit from it that is a kind of tip to life! I know when I was feeling discouraged about “accomplishing” my goals when I was home it was so important for me to hear from my partner that he really appreciated everything I did much more than I was giving myself credit for. I also know that I was feeling really overwhelmed recently with the state of my craft room but all it took was confiding in my friend and she agreed to come and help for a few hours tomorrow.
I can’t wait to see the lady doctor outfit!
Did you do that embroidery on the jacket!?! WOW just amazing!!! So important to share that your husband is a stay at home dad because many women (people) may think how does she do it all!? You are so lucky to have him and he is a great dad! 💘
It's kind of off topic, but I love that you mentioned where your journals are from. I just finished my 3 year education as a bookbinder and I really hope that there's enough interest in hand-bound books so that I can make a living on it. So thank you for giving the craft a little visibility :)
You are such a talented artist.
love hearing about the small and easy tips you take up to manage your intense schedule!! also i REALLY love those little wicker animals in the back. so cute!!
This was such a timely video for me thank you for sharing your strategy. And a great big shout out to Mat and you for excellent team work!
I love this! Thank you so much for sharing. As a new mom, my time looks very different these days. I will definitely be implementing some of these tips!
Honestly you are amazing!
I just found your channel & I’m in love with your talent, humbleness & transparency.
I definitely subbed!! Thanks
Incredibly talented! I can't wait to try the one hour a day rule.
I find journalling so helpful as well :3 the books are so beautiful. Slow and steady is great advice. I find the work you make and present so inspiring
This was so inspiring and I’m so glad you’re rewatching Star Trek!!!!
Congratulations on reaching your 100k subscribers and also for showing that you can have numerous passions and balance them. Congrats!
Thank you so much!!
love following the progress on your IG. and...i cannot wait to see the Victorian Lady Doctor and the Cottagecore Nurse Joy!
and i'm sure, as frustrating as the sewing projects can be (and are more often than not lol) it's probably such a great way to destress from the stresses of the "day job" and probably helped your sanity during the past two years!
keep up the amazing work, Supergirl!
Thank you, I often wondered where you find the time and energy for this passion... cudos to you and your family!
Uhm I think you're super freaking talented! And not just in sewing amazing things. Thank you for sharing this glimpse into your personal life!
Thank-you so much for taking the time to provide amazing videos on top of the exceptional sewing, the highly skilled career as a doctor as well as the rest of it! You are a wonderful inspiration to me.
I absolutely love your videos.
Love seeing this peek behind the curtain, and I continue to be so impressed at everything you do! (Also eeeee a fellow fountain pen user!!)
I LOVE this! Thank you ma’am!
I am already sooo hyped for the cottagecore nurse Joy
The peace of mind knowing your child/ren is/are being taking care of while you are earning a living can never be underrated. Because of my earning capacity was greater than Hubby's while our kids were younger he stayed at home. I could go to work and not worry about their care and well being. (Even if he did let them watch Alfred Hitchcock and have dessert first.) Thanks for being real about how you make it work. And thanks to Matt for stepping up to be a great partner and dad.
You are an absolute powerhouse of a human. Also, can't wait for the lady doctor video!
So nice of you to share your routine with us! 💐 Personally I realize I'm older than you and was never as organized but there is always time to learn new things or old things better 😀! You doing you I like how you've found balance in rest time , and family time. Tys 💕🇨🇦
This is actually such fantastic advice! I really want to try making a checklist of what I have done rather than what I haven't so I don't feel guilty, it actually sounds like such a good idea! Not to mention, you have patience of steel! The patience to give your projects time is such an admirable skill to me cuz I am so impatient! But what fun is the destination if the journey wasn't fun too, I guess.
Thank you for sharing your experiences!! I've been really struggling with trying to balance my time between work, hobbies, and being tired haha
But this has given me a bunch of ideas on how to do things a bit better!
This is so inspiring and just what I needed right now. Thank you. 🙏🥰
Fellow doctor (ED) and sewing enthusiast saying thanks for the reminder about the importance of choosing which tasks to do at what times. Sometimes I feel like I wear myself out doing sewing tasks with high cognitive load when I would be better resting and hand sewing! Looking forward to seeing your Victorian Lady Doctor - might need to do one myself!
I just subscribed bc I love sewing & art content, & anything medical! 💘