Ivana, two years ago I turned eighty. It seemed that everything in my life had reached an “alteration “ time both professionally and personally. My career as an administrator for 25+ years came to a halt. My relationship with my children was now changing from that of a parent of young adults to that of middle aged adults. I was now even a great grandmother rather than just a Mom. In late Summer I renounced all of my responsibilities for the upcoming seasons ahead. I claimed this period as my Sabbatical. My eldest reminded me that this was generally taken after a earned period of commitment to a professional role. “Well, then it has been properly stated”. Often times we , especially women, halve to reclaim our voices, and set new perimeters for ourselves. Bravo to you at your age for recognizing it😊

@therepublicofme

5 ай бұрын

Properly stated indeed. Thank you very much dear friend. ❤️

@bluejay5531

4 ай бұрын

I love this, wishing you a wonderful soulful Sabbatical 💐

Never apologize for taking the time you need for you. We are here to see your creative journey and that involves time of rest. People don't realize podcasting is draining- and so is life. Well done you, for knowing when to pull back before you burn out. The cabin and project bags your mom gave you are stunning! I'm jealous of your garden fresh produce lol. Happy knitting 💚🧶💚

@therepublicofme

5 ай бұрын

thank you ❤️❤️❤️❤️

Once I heard a fantastic therapist say “ we are human beings - not human doings. I love that and maybe it can provide you some of the same Peace it gave me. ♥️

@therepublicofme

4 ай бұрын

That is a good quote and I will remember it... thank you for sharing. Ivana ❤️

Beautiful woman, so calm, take back your time, no pressures! That smile from your mother’s gift, warms my heart, as a mom and mamie. Find your path and go towards it, no apologies needed.

@therepublicofme

4 ай бұрын

That is so nice... thank you very much. Ivana ❤️

So many have said it- no apologies- do what is best for you. I did miss you but as they say there is a time and place for everything. this was a nice reminder for myself to do the same. I so often do what is expected- always in a rush to please. Well I took a hard fall on my face on my anniversary Dec 28- and fortunately did not fracture anything but what a wake up to slow down!! I enjoy your garden and the moments you share. Also, thanks for the sharing of your mom’s beautiful talent in her gifts. Thank you for sharing. ❤️

@therepublicofme

4 ай бұрын

I hope you have recovered. Dec 28 was my birthday... it's like I was telling you to slow down. Take it easy Louise and I wish you calm and relaxing Easter. ❤️

Creativity. This is why I love your channel. Thank you for sharing your life journey. Amazing beautiful soul.

@therepublicofme

4 ай бұрын

Thank you very much Debra ❤️

Hi Ivana, Good Morning!!! Knitting/crafting is a journey we are on. How we decide to accomplish that journey, the direction we take is up to each of us. We own our joy and determine how it's executed. I started my knitting journey this morning exactly as you did! I put on my vanilla wool socks that I just finished, then- on went my crocs- most comfortable shoes ever! Then filled my cup with Kuerig coffee to begin this day! But no veggies right now- too cold here! You live in such a beautiful climate. Its good to see you again friend. We will enjoy you sharing what ever you choose to share. Its wonderful to see you again. Knitting hugs, Carrie from Northern San Francisco Bay Area😘❤🐶🐑🌹☕☔🧵🪡🧶

@therepublicofme

4 ай бұрын

Thank you very much Carrie ❤️

Welcome back, Ivana. I’m so glad that you gave yourself permission to do nothing. I think that you did something wonderful. You gave others permission to rest, recharge, relax, and enjoy the fruits of their labour. My aunt always said that down time is critical. That’s when we heal, when new ideas are allowed to come to the surface unencumbered. I see that you come by your creativity honestly - you inherited a wonderful gift from your mom. Those chalets are exquisite. I look forward to your next episode whenever you’re ready, Ivana. No pressure, just abundant peace.

@therepublicofme

4 ай бұрын

Thank you very much for such kind words. ❤️

Thank-you for the lovely company dear Ivana. I related to so much in this video. Often times, especially as women, we feel the weight of expectations (whether real or perceived) on our shoulders at all times. Over the past few months I've been giving myself the permission to do what makes ME happy (including, at times, doing absolutely nothing) and it has been so liberating! I won't lie, the guilt still creeps in at times and sometimes I find myself feeling like I should be doing more but I'm learning to slay those negative thoughts by reminding myself of the positive things I do/have done. It's a bit of a battle, but one certainly worth taking on and I figure I've spent the last 14 years beating myself up, I can't expect to heal overnight. Good on you for taking care of yourself as well and please keep at it ❤ Thank-you for sharing the precious gifts you received from your mom. That little cottage is just darling and she clearly put so much thought and heart into each little detail. And the project bags are beautiful. Such thoughtful gifts, made with love 💕 Hope you are having a wonderful Saturday and I look forward to your next video, whenever YOU feel like sharing 🤗❤

@therepublicofme

4 ай бұрын

Dear Nikki, Trust me when I tell you that getting rid of the guilt changed everything.... somehow I'm even more productive, crazy stuff. I think it is because I changed the "shoulds" into "coulds" and "chores" seem more like play now. ❤️❤️❤️

I have been in that "do nothing" sort of mood for a year and a half. I'm not sad or depressed..... I'm content. I want to sit in a lawn chair and look at trees, or sit in my bed and knit, or lay in the hammock. I have decided that I give so much energy at my job, being with people for 12 hours a day. I have decided that when I'm not at my job, I will give all my energy to me. I say you should take all the time you need between videos. They should be a creative joy, not a chore.

@therepublicofme

4 ай бұрын

That sounds beautiful and I'm definitely learning. Thank you ❤️

I absolutely love your authenticity. Thanks for sharing your journey-however frequently or not that turns out to be. Beautiful message about self permission. Thank you.

@therepublicofme

4 ай бұрын

thank you very much Jennifer ❤️

If you mom ever decided to make her projects bags to sell I would definitely purchase one! Love them❤

@therepublicofme

4 ай бұрын

she will be very happy to hear that, thank you. ❤️

Hi Ivana, it was lovely to see your 22:03 podcast. Well done for taking the time to do "nohing". We are important!!! I turn 80 in a few weeks and I decided this year will be MY year.I chose 2 words this year..patience and mindfull ... firstly for and with myself and also to apply it towards others, especially the patience..I am learning this new concept, so I wish you well with your new plans. Will enjoy watching when you have something to show us. xx

@therepublicofme

4 ай бұрын

Thank you very much dear Ursuala ❤️

What wonderful gifts your mum has made you. Things to treasure. My mum has gifted me several mosaic craft pieces and I love them. One is my teapot stand and so is used everyday. Hibernation is good. Take it when you can. It is interesting where we find the "permission" for this type of thing that we would otherwise feel guilty for. I think that we are so thrilled to see your episodes come up, that how regular they are is unimportant. Take care Ivana, xx

@therepublicofme

4 ай бұрын

Thank you very much Nicola. Those mosaic pieces must be so precious. Ivana ❤️

Allo Ivana, it’s lovely to see you. No apologies needed for taking time for yourself. We all need to take care of ourselves in whatever way that brings us back to our center, calmness & peace. Your gifts made by your mother are gorgeous.✨💛✨

@therepublicofme

4 ай бұрын

Thank you very much ❤️

I think your so right to slow down take time for yourself, guilt free. I wanted to thank you again, without knowing you have moved my knitting up a step or two. I now use your sweater plan to design my own knitwear.i used it to knit a cardigan. Also took a deep breath and had a go at cut in heels on socks, it is so much easier than I thought, thank you again.❤

@therepublicofme

4 ай бұрын

Oh that is so great Susan... you really made me happy when I read this, thank you ❤️

Do what brings you joy…..I will be happy with whatever you share, whenever you share. Take care of you❤️ Happy Valentine’s Day, Gayle in Min esoteric USA

@therepublicofme

4 ай бұрын

Thank you very much Gayle ❤️

Ivana, you put into words just what I've been feeling for some time. Thank you for sharing your wisdom with us. It's always a pleasure to check in, however often you post.❤

@therepublicofme

4 ай бұрын

Thank you very much ❤️❤️❤️

Hi Ivana 🌷just catching up on KZread and just Loved this episode!!! 😍your beautiful smile as you told us about the gorgeous house your Mother made you and the beautiful project bags … the Joy they brought/bring you just so evident in your glow!!! Onto the next episode now!! … many thanks for your wonderful content as ever and sending lots of love ❤️❤️❤️

@therepublicofme

3 ай бұрын

Thank you very much ❤

Thank you for this - the guilt that comes with "doing nothing" always seems to be there and something I'm trying to get over because I really need those days. The older I get, the more I crave peace and creativity. The gifts from your mom are amazing! I appreciate you, thank you for taking the time to podcast and share with us.

@therepublicofme

4 ай бұрын

thank you very much Kim ❤️

Thank you for sharing Ivana ❤ permission to pause - a beautiful truth. Your honesty speaks to many. I am equally lifted by reading each heartfelt comment to you and the creating community. So deeply needed. Katherine May wrote Wintering: The power of rest and retreat. We all have seasons. Each serves a purpose. Be well

@therepublicofme

4 ай бұрын

So nicely said Julie... thank you ❤️

Thank you for giving your time to talk with us. You say you did nothing, but you were still creating. I’m going to try to do socks like you did. Looked easier than how i was doing it. Thank you for sharing your wonderful gifts from your very talented mom! Take care and do what your heart desires.

@therepublicofme

4 ай бұрын

Thank you very much Pamela ❤️

Nothing needs to be. We all know it. But sometimes we have to remember this to slow down and stay healthy.

@therepublicofme

4 ай бұрын

Very true, thank you ❤️

Lovely to catch up, your videos are always a treat but never expected. I admire you for giving yourself the breathing room to do what you want. This year I am saying ‘no’ to more things to give myself the time to do things for me and not always run around after other people, my mum is very sick and my job is very busy so my free time is important and needs to be given the reverence I deserve. I will give myself more time to craft, or nap or read, basically do things that make me happy. Much love x

@therepublicofme

4 ай бұрын

That is such a good decision and I'm so glad. ❤️

Hey Ivana. Very good to see you. Love the blankets. Glad you are back.

@therepublicofme

Ай бұрын

thank you ❤️

Cara Ivana...I loved this video and can resonate so much , as is often the case with you,with this difficulty in allowing ourselves to "do nothing" and BE...I am so happy that you actually did give yourself this possibility. The house that your mother built is such a heartwarming gift...magical ...Sending you Love and Light and off to see your next video.

@therepublicofme

4 ай бұрын

Thank you dear Barbara ❤️

I look forward to your spontaneous posting. Your authenticity warms my heart each time.

@therepublicofme

4 ай бұрын

Oh, thank you so much ❤️

Thank you for sharing your thoughts with us and giving us something to think about for ourselves as well. Looking forward to catching up again with you whenever that happens!

@therepublicofme

4 ай бұрын

Thank you very much Jessica ❤️

Your gentle and wizened spirit sits well with my sensibilities,Ivana.🙏A beautiful, thoughtful episode reminding us all to step back and reflect,listen to our bodies and act positively to emotions that arise.🙏Go well,dear heart.See you you when I see you. No rush.We'll all just pick up again effortlessly and without guilt.❤️Love from a sunny Melbourne 🙏👋🐨🌏xx

@therepublicofme

5 ай бұрын

thank you so very much ❤️

@AnnieDaddo

5 ай бұрын

Oh no,Ivana..it is I that wishes to thank you. Go well, in this madding world and always be true to your essence,as I too will be.Nothing less. ❤️🙏👋🐨🌏xx

Ivana. Thank you for sharing your thoughts with us, your sisters in this life journey (and to be correct, your brothers). I think the idea of 'doing nothing' is a very necessary part of one's life and whatever roles you assume. One must have down time to recharge the batteries. To incubate ideas and creativity. To muster courage and strength to do the million and one things we must do in order to live up to our own personal, social and familial expectations. I think you are on the right track. And yes.. speak about it. A lot of us need to hear that it is a good thing to give ourselves permission to do those things that give us inner peace and joy. It is part of being alive. Kudos!

@therepublicofme

3 ай бұрын

Thank you so much Marina... your words and understanding really touched me. Ivana ❤️

I missed you dear, but I understand the need to have some time for yourself. I absolutely loooove your crochet blankets, they re for sure beautiful family heirlooms🩶🤍🤎🖤

@therepublicofme

3 ай бұрын

thank you Taci ❤️

I see where you get your talents🙌♥️

Wise decision, Ivana. Love your journey❤ Thank you for you and your courage to open your path making creative talent to us. I am inspired by your sharing. The light in you shines brighter. Stay well.

@therepublicofme

4 ай бұрын

Thank you so much Linda ❤️

I was just thinking recently we hadn't seen you in a while, so I'm relieved to hear you deliberately took some time off. I have heard a lot about the KZread algorithm (the god "Algo") punishing inconsistency, but I figure as long as I'm subscribed and have notifications turned on, your videos will find me. If I may say so, I feel that you are very blessed (and deservedly so, I'm sure) to have such a lovely family, especially your mother. When I saw the little house I was amazed, but when I saw the project bags I actually started crying. This was a beautiful story.

@therepublicofme

4 ай бұрын

Thank you very much. I do feel blessed and say almost daily how I'm the luckiest women in the world. I think my son and my husband don't believe me :) but I think it's true. ❤️

Hi Ivana, a video from you is always a treat but just so you know, we have no expectations or demands. Whatever you want to do, and whenever you feel like doing it, is just fine. Hope you feel better soon. ❤

@therepublicofme

4 ай бұрын

Thank you so much ❤️

So lovely to see you, I have missed your lovely presence. Don’t you feel empowered when you give yourself permission to do what makes you happy? Happy Birthday 🥳 ❤

@therepublicofme

5 ай бұрын

Absolutely empowered and it's such a freeing feeling. Thank you. ❤️

Looking forward to your new format. We all have to find our own way. Good luck!

@therepublicofme

4 ай бұрын

thank you very much ❤️

Always a pleasure to see your videos whenever they come out - no pressure 🙂

@therepublicofme

4 ай бұрын

Thank you very much ❤️

I loved this episode. It's so important to allow ourselves the time we need . I'm going to do that more this year too. I loved the gifts from your mum. She's so special ❤.

@therepublicofme

4 ай бұрын

I agree ❤️❤️❤️

Hello lovely, oh yes as mothers and entrepreneurs we are an extra special breed!! Never knowing our limits until we crash 😬 I’m glad you are listening to yourself and what you need. Lovely as always and the garden 💕 Your mum is so talented too! Thanks for sharing, Karen 🥰

@therepublicofme

5 ай бұрын

thank you dear friend ❤️

I also drive myself to be productive. It is funny, but I often look to my husband for validation when I need a break or to rest. He has never seemed to need it. Even while in the hospital I make lists of things that need to be done. When rest is the only thing that I should be doing, I am stressed over it. I wander what drives this. Is social or instinctual? Or a little bit of both?🤷‍♀️🤷‍♀️. Ivan’s, do what you need to do. We will be here for it when it can be uploaded. And if it can’t, we will be ok. Take care of you!!!!!!💗💗

@therepublicofme

4 ай бұрын

I also live looking at the "to do" lists :).... we are a strange breed. I'm getting better about it though as I'm getting older and I don't seem to be afraid to ask what I need. ❤️

I loved seeing you again and hearing your insightful thoughts. I had some great takeaways as I was “shoulding” myself this morning. Many blessings to you and look forward to seeing you when we see you!

@therepublicofme

4 ай бұрын

Thank you very much. When I changed "should" into "could" it really made all the difference. Ivana ❤️

I love the reality of your podcast So truthful but loving Thank you so much for sharing with us

@therepublicofme

4 ай бұрын

Thank you so much ❤️

I have been there Ivana. To me the anxiety invades me when i sm doing. Othing but at the same time if you feel you need it do it ❤

@therepublicofme

4 ай бұрын

I know, from what I see in the comments it seems to be a common thread with women. ❤️

I struggle the same. I don't know how to do nothing. I am currently recovering from a shoulder surgery and I am struggling to stay in bed. "Do nothing" is what I am told to do but my gosh, it is so hard to do nothing.

@therepublicofme

4 ай бұрын

Once I let go, it became much easier. Changing "should" into "could" was the key for me. Ivana ❤️

Lovely to see you again! ❤

@therepublicofme

4 ай бұрын

Thank you! 😊❤️

I am glad you are well and have taken time to rest and renew. Thankyou for the videos.

@therepublicofme

5 ай бұрын

❤️

It’s hard to give ourselves permission to “do nothing” , but while doing nothing you are doing something, recharging your battery, listening and taking care of your body and mind to rest. Getting off the constant treadmill of creating content is a good thing. And our loved ones can really fend for themselves now and then! The gifts from your mom are so special. That little cabin in the woods is dreamy and the project bags are amazing! You have a very special bond. 🥰 Above all else take care of yourself. Only then can we show up for others. Much love to you dear Ivana. 🤗

@therepublicofme

4 ай бұрын

You are so right dear friend. I remember you faced similar issues after your retirement, but I see you have finally settled in the joy of spending time with what makes you fully happy. Fun times :) ❤️❤️❤️

Totally understand. The letdown after the holidays affected me, too. My weekly knitting group helps me get out of my head. I missed you and I know you are taking care of you. ❤ 0:01

@therepublicofme

5 ай бұрын

Thank you.... I hope you are feeling better by now ❤️

Ivana, it was so nice to see your episode. For some reason it hasn't shown up in my subscriptions, I only realized you had a new one from Instagram. I don't know why, but I thought maybe you would want to know? I'm going to click the bell thing in hopes it doesn't happen again. 💚

@therepublicofme

4 ай бұрын

Thank you for letting me know. I'll check in my settings when I upload the next one. Ivana ❤️

Your videos are are so peaceful and relaxing to sit and enjoy ~ thank you! I love the message about giving yourself permission to do nothing, a message I needed to hear ❤

@therepublicofme

5 ай бұрын

I'm so glad, thank you ❤️

I am so happy to see you are back. I will wait until everyone is sleeping that way I can pull out my knitting and say hello. I see everyone is wishing you Happy Birthday and I'm sorry I missed it. Glad you and your family are all well. You do what is best for you my friend. I myself it's only being selfish because we all feel as if we know you in real life. If you never came back except to let us know that you and your family are safe and well that would be enough.

@therepublicofme

5 ай бұрын

thank you very much dear Cricket. The irony is that ever since I started doing "nothing" I somehow seem to accomplish more things... go figure :) ❤️

💖🙏

@therepublicofme

4 ай бұрын

❤️

It was so nice to see you. I agree with what you’ve decided to do. It’s getting back to common sense really, isn’t it? And btw I consider that doing nothing is doing something. How exciting to get all those project bags. I like how you put this video together. I like the content. I wonder if your cat could feel the belly scratches I was giving him when he came on screen. Or is it ‘her’?

@therepublicofme

4 ай бұрын

Thank you so much. Both of my cats are boys and they get so many cuddles that I'm sure one of them was from you :) Ivana ❤️

What a lovely episode❣ and thank you for sharing all the beauty in your life at the moment. Permission is a peaceful place. I can relate to many of the thoughts you shared and I too this year am doing some similar slowing down & honoring myself. (I’ve started the year by slowly read The Feminine Way)

@therepublicofme

5 ай бұрын

thank you very much... I will look at The Feminine Way book. ❤️

You are my knitting guru. Embrace the day on the couch. We must tune into our intuition and give ourselves permission to…just…be…❤ And if we make a gorgeous sweater in the meantime all the better🎉

@therepublicofme

5 ай бұрын

❤️❤️❤️ thank you

Thank you Ivana - and so unnecessary to apologize when you have a longer gap in between recording than usual. January and February really are months of hibernation for me as well, meaning production levels and not just for knitting/making, but socializing and planning, are lower than usual. I live in Canada and find dwindling light levels mean the same for energy levels - giving oneself permission, however, for the ebbs and flow always seems to require a strong commitment. Gardening photos from your lovely part of the world are always a treat!

@therepublicofme

5 ай бұрын

Thank you very much dear Edythe ❤️

I’m glad you are back Ivana and you took the time to feel when the time was right Loved the beautiful gifts you Mom made for you and as always my favorite part is watching you harvest the bounty from the garden which Is always so neat as well as productive Thank you for taking the time!

@therepublicofme

5 ай бұрын

Thank you so much ❤️

Hi Ivana, hello from Canada (where we CAN only grow tomatoes in July and August, lol)...thank you for showing up so authentically and in that way inspiring us to do the same. I'm glad you're taking care of yourself and listening to your inner longings to be still and rest when needed. I'm always inspired by your craft whether it's painting, fibre or plant...thank you for your thoughts. - Amy

@therepublicofme

5 ай бұрын

Thank you very much Amy ❤️

It has to be what makes us happy not anyone else! Sounds like an interesting year ahead with different videos Ivana. You always produce something different and full of variety. Much more interesting. Thank you for taking the time and take good care of yourself 😃

@therepublicofme

5 ай бұрын

Thank you so much ❤️

Thank you so much for this, Ivana! I started my new year off by being admitted to the hospital on new year's eve for 5 days, with gut issues. Im finally feeling more like myself again, and your calm voice and demeanor is just what I needed...like icing on the cake. You reminded me that it's ok to do whatever i need to do to take care of myself. Like Mario, my husband is so assuring and tells me all the time my only job is to sit on the sofa and look pretty. Hahaha We are very fortunate to have such sweet men in our lives. I don’t take my responsibilities for granted though, as I do realize the importance of maintaining our home. But if I choose to take time off for myself, it's nice to know I'm not alone in feeling like it's ok. Im so happy to see you again, and love the idea of uploading a video whenever you choose..you are so inspirational! ❤ ❤

@therepublicofme

5 ай бұрын

Thank you very much. It felt freeing. I hope you continue to feel better and listen to your husband while sitting on the sofa and looking pretty :) Yes, we are very fortunate. Take care. Ivana ❤️

You are so soothing and your mother is so talented also. Love the little cabin,I can see where you get your creativity.

@therepublicofme

5 ай бұрын

Thank you so much ❤️

Hi Ivana! Thank you for another lovely episode. I’m glad that you indulged in a little “hygge” this January. It’s become a favorite practice of mine and one that I actually look forward to in the midst of holiday bustle. I applaud your decision to listen to your inner voice and see where it leads. After all, if we can’t do that in our creative/making lives, what is the point??? Your mother’s cabins are cozy works of art -thank you for sharing them with us. It’s so special that you and your mom share an artistic gene and that you gift each other the fruits of your talent. Speaking of fruits (and vegetables), wow - what are fabulous working garden you have! Take good care and we’ll find you whenever you post your next episode! ❤

@therepublicofme

5 ай бұрын

thank you very much ❤️

Do what you have to do. ❤😊

@therepublicofme

5 ай бұрын

❤️

I'm glad you're taking care of yourself! I've missed you, and I was worried. I appreciate you.

@therepublicofme

5 ай бұрын

Thank you very much... all is well ❤️

Lovely podcast as usual. The cabin your mom made looks so lovely and realistic. You do you! We will love it when we see you!

@therepublicofme

5 ай бұрын

Thank you very much Susan ❤️

Welcome back, your episode was just the tonic I needed as I’m having the same issues. Having textile friends is so invaluable and heartening. Do love to see what exotic fruits you can grow, and am inspired by your work . Thank you for your time and effort. ❤

@therepublicofme

5 ай бұрын

Thank you very much Jackie. Take it easy and I'm sending you good thoughts. ❤️

So good to see you again, what you say really resonates with me. Apart from time at work, I spent January not pressuring myself and allowing myself to be in semi hibernation. I’m also trying to let go of unnecessary pressures I put on myself this year and embrace more self care habits. Looking forward to seeing more videos from you however long and whatever the frequency, always a joy to watch. Take care 😊❤

@therepublicofme

5 ай бұрын

It so funny you mentioned hibernation, as Mario told me I'm like a bear in the winter :) Take it easy and enjoy this time of the year that is somehow made for slowing down. ❤️

this was lovely to watch while resting and knitting. i think your plan to film daily and release videos when they are done is a good one :) your subscribers will see them whenever they go up anyway.

@therepublicofme

5 ай бұрын

Thank you very much ❤️

Dear Ivana! Do whatever feels good for you. 🩷 (I will watch every little bit.) All my best wishes for you and your family! Love, Christina.

@therepublicofme

4 ай бұрын

Thank you very much Christina. All the best wished to you too. Ivana ❤️