Wednesday, February 3, 2010

A Daily Reprieve...



Life can be difficult, at times, and some days are more challenging than others. It's important to find ways to give ourselves joy.

When dark clouds of discouragement, disappointment, or sadness start to form, a hobby that we love can bring a ray of sunshine and warm our hearts.




Throughout my entire life, boredom has been a complete stranger to me. Usually, my schedule was so full, it was challenging to eek out a few minutes of free time. Today, there's a little more time but dark days still come from time to time.

One of my hobbies that brings intense happiness is doll collecting. Since October, when I started this blog, it has been my delight to share some of my dolls with you. Hopefully, some people out there share this wonderful hobby. (And if you don't like dolls, maybe you skipped that day's post and that's fine, too.)

So today, as emotional storm clouds gather, it's time to get some joy going.
The doll shown at the top of the post makes me smile every single time I look at her. She was standing on a shelf in a thrift store and when I saw her, I could almost hear her giggles. You can see her little tooth inside her warm and beautiful smile. She's a first class darling! She even has deep, adorable dimples!

While I had no intention of adding to my doll collection that day, I knew she had to come home with me. Whenever tears fill my eyes, just looking at this little sweetheart makes me smile.

The tall blonde lady with the white satin dress came from a very special friend in my life who lived with us when she was a teenager. Now she has teens of her own. She knew how much I love dolls and when she gave me this beauty, she also knew I'd be delighted. She was so right!






Sharing some other sweeties with you, too. To see any photo close-up, just click on it!








Which hobby, if any, do you pursue when you are feeling sad? What brings you joy?

16 comments:

diane stetson said...

My joy comes from making music...I love playing the piano and singing. I have zero collections in my house. I live very simply and enjoy each day. Your doll collection is extensive and they are all beautiful. I'm so glad you enjoy it. xo

Chatty Crone said...

First of all - you are correct - if you want to beat depression - keep busy - help others.

Right now my blog is sort of my hobby and I love making cards to send to people and oh yeah - my grandson!

Sandie

PS So far in our talent shoe - we have a banjo, bells, and humming glass - teehee.

Jenny said...

Love your dolls. For me I beat depression by turning outward. Doing for others. Not focusing on just myself.

Susan said...

Hi Di...I know how much music brings you joy and that is wonderful, wonderful. Thanks for the compliment on my collection! And thanks for visiting! Always, Susan

Susan said...

Hi Sandie....Isn't blogging a fabulous hobby? I love it! Love meeting all the great people, including you! Thanks for your visit and comment. Sincerely, Susan

Susan said...

Hi Jenny...Oh, I agree with you 100 percent that doing for others is the BEST remedy for depression. I think focus on self helps perpetuate depression, don't you? But I do love my dolls! Thanks so much for visiting and for commenting. Love having you stop by. Sincerely, Susan

Rebecca said...

That first doll - the one with dimples - is definitely a charmer! Do you name your dolls?

Unknown said...

Susan, your dolls are all so charming and too adorable! Just looking at their photos made me smile.

You have a wonderful collection!

Cheers!
Tina

The WalMart Vegan said...

Love your dolls! I don't collect dolls, but I love to make doll clothes -- sew, knit, crochet and sometimes all three in one outfit...lol.

Susan said...

Hi Rebecca....I used to name my dolls but now there are too many. I love the one with the dimples, too. She makes me smile every time I look at her. Thanks for visiting and your comment! Hope you had fun at the birthday celebration! Sincerely, Susan

Susan said...

Thanks for your sweet words, Tina. The dolls today are a tiny part of my collection and I love them all! Share them on the blog, little by little. So glad the photos made you smile, too! Sincerely, Susan

Susan said...

Dear The Real Me....How nice of you to come and visit my blog! Thanks for the comment, too. That's great that you make doll clothes. Come back often! Sincerely, Susan

Adrienne said...

Oh my - that last doll pictured! Gorgeous!!!

My biggest problem is being ADD and everything is appealing. So - I cross stitch, embroider, oil paint, re-do stuff, garden, write (still working on commas, though), cook, all-around handy "man" around the house, and have had so many "careers", I've lost count. Great way to live!!! Who wants to be "normal"?

Susan said...

Oh Adrienne....Yes,yes, YES to your comment. I wholeheartedly agree. Variety truly IS the spice of life and all that goes into it, don't you think? Thank you so much for your visit and comment. Both are so appreciated! Sincerely, Susan

Susan (Between Naps On The Porch.net) said...

Hi Susan,
Such a beautiful collection you have! And it's obvious you've taken great care of them. It was a delight to visit and see their sweet faces! :-)

Susan said...

Awwwww, thank you, Susan. You are very sweet yourself! Sincerely, Susan

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