Since I joined the Enchanted Wood shawl KAL,
I’ve dithered and debated about which color or colors to pick,
considering what would flatter my complexion,
go with my wardrobe, or match a particular outfit.
I’ve waffled among bright sunset colors,
cool acquarium shades, and “useful” neutrals.
This morning it suddenly hit me —
It doesn’t matter.
No, I DON’T mean that “it doesn’t matter” because
“It’s not important and life is too short.”
I mean it doesn’t matter because,
no matter how gorgeous the colors, how meticulous the stitching –
I’ll probably never wear it!
This KAL is many things for me –
It’s a fun recreational activity.
It’s a very congenial online social group.
It’s an enjoyable way to learn new knitting skills.
I’ll make an attractive piece of art.
It’s a great way to display and/or show off lace knitting technique.
But, in my actual life, I’m likely to spend about as much time
picturesquely gathering a shawl around my shoulders
as I do in a hula skirt!
It might be fun to be that person who, in classic feline fashion,
tucks her paws/feet under her on the couch,
arranges her curls and tugs her long skirt (or skinny jeans)
over her bare feet (or stiletto heels),
and settles down to sip tea, read a new mystery,
and reflect on the mysteries of life.
But in real life?
I’m always doing something, usually something that requires both hands and might well include spilled tomato sauce, cat scratches, potting soil, dishwater, a dropped cup of coffee, or all of the above.
I hardly ever get cold and often wear tee shirts all winter.
I don’t go to church, attend openings,
pay social calls, or sit on the veranda.
I don’t remember any event ever where I actually thought
“You know what’s missing? A nice beaded lace shawl!”
I find this realization very liberating.
The KAL is fun. It’s a game. It’s a work of art.
It’s led me to resolve to increase my shawl-wearing activities.
More time drinking tea on the couch!
Time to go to a play or concert!
But, I’m going to quit acting like this is Serious Business
as if I’m making a super-practical, never-seen-without-it,
one-to-wash-one-to-wear workhorse for daily chores in the barn.
It can be any colors I feel like playing with,
looking at, or draping on the couch!
Many Happy Returns 