This...I am certain

Last fall, Jasmin and Gigi of the Knitmore Girls podcast, had a contest in conjunction with the Podcaster Throwdown, in which chemo hats were knitted, and or crocheted for Halos of Hope. I won't go into the full details of the contests here, but it ended up with me winning the grand prize from the Knitmores. Gigi knitted the Sister Joan shawl, by Sivia Harding, and was offering it up as the grand prize. I am so thankful for her generosity. I have met her a few times and she is such a graciously sweet person! My apologies that I can't remember the yarn she used, but let me tell you, it is the most stunning piece I've ever seen. Folks, this shawl is Beautiful, yes, with a capital B! I was so excited when I received it yesterday, and I couldn't wait to take it to knit night this evening and show all of my knit-sibs. I'm sorry the pictures I got of it don't show how exquisite it is with its gorgeous beads, so I will try to get better photos soon.

 

 

My Vodka Lemonade cardigan is still progressing, but I must confess. I wanted to have an on-the-go project that I didn't have to think too much about. You know, for those times when you're sitting in the pedicure chair and just want to knit and relax? Or those times I'm waiting for grandkids to get out of school on the days I want to spend time with them. Or at my grandson's ball games....yes, those in between moments where idle hands make me crazy! The pattern I chose is so fun to work on, and I had the perfect yarn in my stash! Well, I did make a promise to myself and my knit-sibs that I'm not buying any yarn this year. I have a stash that is almost embarrassing, so until I get it knitted or crocheted back down, I'll be finding projects for all that yarn. The pattern is called Bad Oyster, and it has a really unique construction. It's a shawl/scarf knit in the round, and then steeked, which also creates the fringe. I love the 'boho' style of it, and I'm using Malabrigo Sock in the colorway Stonechat.

 

 

Today, we lost one of the most inspirational, most beautifully poised, most articulate, women of our time. While I wasn't a big fan of her political opinions, I still always respected her as a human being speaking out for equality and peace, her literary accomplishments, and her inspirational speeches. It's been many, many years since I read her first book, I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings, and as I'm reminded of it today, I want to read it again.

 

May your soul rest in peace Ms. Maya Angelou.

 

"Just like suns and like moons, with the certainty of tides, just like hope springing high, still I rise." ~ Dr. Maya Angelou