I love to craft! Obviously.... :)
I don't go anywhere without a knitting project of some sort, but you probably already knew that :) My school bag usually has at least one ball of yarn, my pencil pouch has a crochet hook and my wallet has a pair of mini scissors.
So naturally, the first thing I packed for coming here was two of my largest packing cubes full of yarn and every needle and hook I own. I wasn't about to be supply-less on this new adventure. Probably a bit overboard as I came to find out that Bosnia does in fact have craft stores. Although a few things are tricky to find. (I have since come to the conclusion that I brought way too much stuff :( yes, even yarn!) Less is most definitely more!
In addition to two craft stores (whose owners know me for sure by now), my first several months here I attend crafting classes at a lovely organization called Duga. There I went twice a week for knitting/crocheting and weaving. I recently swapped out weaving for a cross-stitching class where I am learning traditional techniques and patterns in this region (it's called zmjanjski vez).
Just bought the cool banner in the middle from their store. Hand woven too!
It's really quite wonderful! I have gotten to do a tv interview with them, make hats that they sell for humanitarian action in their store, meet many inspiring women and learn new techniques (and even teach them). I also volunteer at children's events which are such a blessing as I dearly miss the children I watched and interacted with in the US. More recently, I did a presentation at the local college (in collaboration with Duga) about the traditional craft of zmjanjski vez and it's origins - It was really fun to research and present! We taught everyone who came how to do the craft and discussed together topics about womanhood for Women's Day which took place on March 8th.
Now my exchange adventures bring me new places (like violin lessons :), but I still pop into the Duga store frequently where I am always welcomed with a smile, a cup of tea, and sometimes cake. And good conversation!
Duga means 'rainbow' in Serbian
I am inspired weekly by the women there. They are all so sweet and loving. One of them speaks a little English but otherwise, we are left to practice our bilingual skills. I am learning more Serbian every day and it's fun to try to conversate. :) They have baked me cakes and cookies and gifted me crocheted goodies, embroidered cards, and bags. One woman even gave me a Christmas gift. I loved it and was so touched by their thoughtfulness!
Duga has been such a blessing and the women there are so inspiring. I hope and pray young people everywhere can find the beautiful pockets of wiser, older people passing on crafts and wisdom! Gen Z (and the others too) we have so much to learn!
Thank you for all your prayers. I can tell you Jesus is answering so many of them!
*heart emoji*
- Sophie
תגובות