Hello!
March is giving us many gloriously sunshiny days this year. The weather seems very much at odds with the world news. But the sun will shine, regardless of what we’re up to down here on Planet Earth.
I’ve used some of these sunny days to wash baby things. I’ve given most of our daughter’s clothes and other stuff away, but kept some, too. After nearly three decades in the attic they’d become rather musty. Now, after a wash and a day in the sun and the wind, all sweet-smelling and neatly folded, they are ready and waiting for her baby.
I’ve been busy knitting, as well. When I first thought of publishing some of my designs on Ravelry, I had a conversation with myself that went something like this:
‘But if I become a Ravelry designer, does that mean that I can never knit from a pattern anymore? In that case, I’d rather not.’ ‘Don’t be silly. Of course you can continue knitting from patterns!’ ‘Oh, that’s a relief! Because, you know, there are so many beautiful designs around. And it’s just so nice when someone else does all the thinking, swatching and maths for you.’
At the moment, I’m knitting from this booklet – Bloom at Rowan:
It contains 11 designs by Erika Knight – baby things, garments for mums-to-be, a crochet blanket and a simple shawl. I’m knitting a cardigan called Little Lamb, and have even chosen the same yarn and colour used in the pattern.
Terribly uncreative, but so very nice and relaxing. I’m going to knit the matching hat (with ears!) and bootees as well.
Meanwhile I’m also working on a baby design of my own. Here is a peek. More about it when it’s finished (which may take a while.)
While I’m knitting for our first grandchild, I’m beset with worries. No need to spell them out, I think.
A group of Ukrainian refugees is now staying in a holiday accommodation near us. (Interestingly, the same accommodation housed a group of Russian refugees from 1945-1947.) There is a special fund to provide them with everything they need, and we are asked to contribute by buying some of these ‘drops’:
A donation often feels like a drop in the ocean, but in this case I know it really helps. I hope these people will feel safe and welcome here. More information about this small initiative here.
Speaking of hope – I’m reading this:
The Book of Hope: A Survival Guide for Trying Times by Jane Goodall and Douglas Abrams. (NL titel: Het boek van hoop: levenslessen voor een mooiere toekomst)
I haven’t finished reading it, so can’t write review, but here are a few quotes:
- ‘Hope is often misunderstood. People tend to think that it is simply passive wishful thinking: I hope something will happen but I’m not going to do anything about it. This is indeed the opposite of real hope, which requires action and engagement.’
- ‘Hope is contagious. Your actions will inspire others.’
- ‘…millions of drops actually make the ocean.’
Hope to see you again next week!
Thank you, Marijke. The little drops add up, and that gives me hope. ?
It’s something to keep in mind when we’re feeling powerless.
Thank you for those quotes, Marijke. Just reading them makes a difference.
I’m glad to hear that. Writing this post, I thought what helps me may help others too.
Lovely baby things! And yes. Hope, what a wonderful thing, a necessary thing. May all the hopes you have for that new little one spread throughout the world.
Thank you for your thoughtful message.