One of the best pieces of advice in most situations is to take exceptionally good care of yourself. But be wary of the difference between self care and self indulgence.

What’s The Difference Between Self Care and Self Indulgence?

First of all, I don’t think there is anything wrong with self indulgence. After a shitty day, stuffing my feelings with pizza or saying fuck it to working out is a perfectly acceptable response. At least once in a while.

But recently, a friend of mine was going through some difficult issues that seemingly weren’t going to resolve anytime soon. She kept reminding herself and others involved, that the best course of action was to take really good care of themselves. But she also made sure to understand just what constituted good care and what didn’t.

I know me. When I’m in a situation where I’m feeling self-pity, I’m prone to look for quick solutions. Even if those quick solutions aren’t very good for me on a long-term basis.

So, now whenever I have the thought, “Poor me.” I take it as a reminder to treat myself well. And if my ideas about treating myself well include large amounts of new yarn, sugar, white flour, money, ice cream or burying my face in a screen to avoid thinking about it, I choose another option.

All I have to do is look at those self-health tasks that I tend to want to neglect. Journaling, dental care, walking or hiking or biking, giving myself a manicure and/or pedicure or reading.

What are your best ways of treating yourself well?

Current Crochet

The current short-sleeve top project is getting close to the length where I’ll need to start shaping. So I decided to do a bit of measuring and designing.

With about 14 inches completed on the body, I have about two more color stripes to where I start shaping for the arm-holes.

Also, Meredith asks (in comments from last post):

“Why is one end curling and the other isn’t? Is that something to do with the structure of crochet stitches? I’m not a regular crocheter, but I am curious.”

Honestly, I’m not sure. It actually curls on all of the corners right now. Like you, I’m not that knowledgeable about the structure of crochet stitches. I have a couple of options for addressing it. First I’m going to try ironing it. It’s cotton, and it’s not curled in an aggressive way. Ironing may fix it. If that doesn’t work, I’ll add a crochet edging.