Thanks for Giving

Everyone spends at least a bit of time this holiday thinking about all the things to be thankful for. I am too, and mine aren't particularly interesting. It's not like I'm an organ recipient or anything.

The giving part is worth some thought as well, in words and deeds.

For my new year's resolution, I resolved to make and donate one charity knitted item a month. There are certainly people who do much more than that, and I applaud them, but one item a month seemed workable and realistic for me.

I think I've pretty much met the goal. I may have skipped a month or two, but the next month I did manage to make an extra. I'm trying to do a few bonus goodies at the end of the year, just to cover any unrecalled gaps.

I've got the eponymous red scarf project underway in an interesting broken rib stich I took from the 365 knit stitches perpetual calendar. That's due in January.

I have made 1.75 out of 4 Warm Up America blocks for the December guild luncheon. We only need 2, but I volunteered to make 2 more to cover my friend Margaret who was feeling overwhelmed. I have to say, I am not particularly enjoying having to think enough about gauge to ensure 7" x 9" blocks. They call for 35 stitches on size 7s. I had to do 30 stitches on size 5s. It makes me wonder what is wrong with me.

I just finished 2 preemie caps in leftover sock yarn.

And my next goal is something for Kaitlyn. As many as I can manage.

So think about it; set a modest goal. It's great stash buster and a safe place to experiment with stitches and techniques. Gauge is not a big issue, for a hat will always fit someone.

All in all, charity knitting is a win-win, and for that we can all be thankful.