Like many during this pandemic, I have discovered knitting. I’ve now finished 3 hats and completed the baby blanket that you see above. (Oh, and I’ve learned to make pompoms too, which are the best part of making hats!!) I have a thick purple scarf in progress, one pink cable baby blanket underway and a red narrow scarf is just at the starting gate. I never realized that knitting can be a wonderful social activity as well as a practical skill.

It’s been incredible learning a new skill and starting something that keeps my brain active and my hands busy. I am blessed with some very experienced knitting ladies at work. One of my residents had a job working in a knitting shop many decades ago. She’s a perfectionist and a patient teacher for me and others. For any senior, passing along a well-honed skill to the next generation is always a bonus. But now?? During this scary pandemic, it’s even more valuable for seniors to have a sense of purpose. Many of our residents, and two of my colleagues are knitting with me. We constantly have “knit and sit” programs at work. We giggle and compare notes while making scarves and shawls for family members or for charity. Knitting has been a breath of fresh air for us all!

I’ve gone online to look at knitting videos and tutorials as well. One site that has been particularly helpful is bhookedcrochet.com, which inspired this blanket design. I am learning a great deal, but I’m still just a “newbie.” If you want to learn to knit, I recommend finding a great teacher and then using online sources to push you along.

I feel new energy, which may well be fleeting but I’m embracing it while it lasts. It’s the little things in life right now that we must celebrate! This week I also had the opportunity to try plantains at our staff-appreciation barbecue. While trying a new food isn’t a huge deal, it is special. I’ve always wanted to try plantains, so it was exciting to finally taste them. They are a big part of many different cultures, and often have separate names. I don’t think you’ll find me making them, but it was nice to step out of my comfort zone for a change. During this pandemic and stressful political climate, trying new things has been a saving grace for many people. I would agree that we all need to keep putting one foot in front of the other to taste new foods, try a new craft, or just keep an open mind that things will get better.

linking up to:

Main Crush Monday, Hookin on Hump day,