The main picture is my bucket of cross stitch projects that I had to buy.

There are 19 cross stitch kits that I hadn’t started. Unfortunately, some of them take a long time. I usually cross stitch while watching television or while I wait around for an appointment. Maybe I spend an hour a day cross stitching. These projects keeps my hands busy, and my mind occupied. I also generally listen better while I am stitching a way like an old granny. Unless, I get a knot in the string, then I am irritated and need people to leave me alone. Currently, there is a knot in the one I am stitching. I had to put it in a time out.

It is a little Hedgehog! It is very adorable. I love the stamped cross stitch, because I do not have to think that much. I still end up with something adorable.

A problem with my ADHD is my impulsive control. I call it “the itch.” That is why I have so many. I really can’t help it. When I see one I really like I physically need it. It bothers me and I cannot get rid of the thought. The desire is there for days or even weeks. I really have to try my hardest to squash the impulse. “You don’t need another one”, I say. Or “You don’t have to the money to spend, because of x, y and z.” Sometimes, the desire is too strong and I give in. Then there are the feelings of guilt and shame, especially when an unexpected expense pops up. I feel terrible. Then I start to spin out of control and grow angry with myself. I put myself down a lot of the times. These things I am working on with my therapist. It is still a work in progress. My therapist suggested I start writing things down, so the feelings of forgetfulness can subside. Therefore, I will have it in my notebook, and I can come back to it when ready. I haven’t started it, but I bet there will be a long list.

At the end of the day, cross stitching and embroidery make me happy. I really enjoy the end result and I am very proud of it. I wish I had a better way to balance my obsessions’, but go for progress and not perfection, as my therapist says. Easier said than done. BUT I am trying and that is all I can do!

Toodles!