Still Knitting

Next weekend will be the beginning of summer. Mother Nature is still shaking her featherbeds, I think, because the weather is still cool with clouds and occasional sprinkles of rain. I've been working on a shawl since last fall, and it's almost finished now. I usually work on it for about 40 minutes while watching the 10 o'clock news. I think I'm within a couple of days of finishing the shawl proper; just have to decide whether or not to add a fringe.

A shawl in summer? The truth is, when the delta breeze kicks up in the evening, it gets downright chilly, as in lower 60s. I get cold, sitting still in front of the open windows watching the news. Letting that shawl drape over my knees is just the thing! It's not supposed to be this cool, but I'm not complaining at all!

Prayer Shawl

This is a prayer shawl I began working on before it got cold. Spring is on the way now, though, so it may get finished right about the time we start wearing shorts and sleeveless tops. Prayer shawls are supposed to be made to give away. As you knit or crochet them, you are entwining good thoughts and prayers for the recipient in each stitch. When worn, it's like a hug. I think I'm going to keep this first one, though.

I first heard about prayer shawls in the book "Back on Blossom Street" by Debbie Macomber. Such a shawl seemed like it would make a really good gift for someone who might be experiencing stress, hard times, or a difficult situation. When I came across a pattern on the Lion Brand web site, I decided to make one. I repurposed yarn from a project I had aborted, and the shawl is now more than half finished. It will be soft, warm, and subtly striped, and I certainly plan to enjoy it next year, when the temperture drops again.

Knitting for Those in Need

Here's an idea for the holidays: The folks at Central Library and the branches of Sacramento Public Library are participating in a project to create and distribute knitted and crocheted blankets and afghans to families in need this winter. This is perfect! The pieces are small, great for bus or train busywork, and work up quickly so you can't get bored or stuck, like you can when you begin a bigger project. Here's Central's blog post, which contains a link to the Warm Up America Foundation and instructions for the piecework. I'm starting mine tomorrow!