Today the process of saying good bye continued. My sewing teacher had her end of the year party and I scribbled a Dutch note for her, which she was very happy about. I will miss her, and sewing. I am not worried about seeing my teacher again in the future though, she seems like an institution and I am sure I will find her right where I left her, when I will come back.
She is very gracious. Actually, she is just amazing in general. Through being patient, kind and welcoming, she is able to create an extremely positive atmosphere in her sewing class, which allows people to work away on their own project, while connecting with other students in the class.
The class is usually full of chatter, and English is strictly prohibited. For me this meant that the sewing lesson was the only moment during my week in which I would actually speak Dutch, and I have lived in the Netherlands for two and a half years by now.
I find sewing very therapeutic and hope I will be able to continue with some kind of group or classes in Honduras. Another great thing about sewing is, of course, the creation of something useful and pretty. I was able to make two dresses and a skirt and scarf outfit. Although I do not feel competent to actually sew much on my own, I do feel like I have gained some valuable skills I can build on. And hopefully one day I will be able to sew outfits, or change existing ones, without any help.
Chiara.