My friend Suzie is a prolific knitter. She added socks to her repertoire of skills years ago – which I found inspiring. Socks intimidated me, but I knew that one day I’d be making them as well.
We got to talking one night – after seeing and hearing His Holiness the Dalai Lama in April 2007. The conversation swirled around life, living and even covered knitting too. Suzie knew of and supported my creativity and love of designing accessories. She suggested I create a small knitting bag – one that would provide good, quick access to a project and notions. I loved the idea of being able to take a project with me – on the bus, to the movies, anywhere.
That talk – and all of it’s elements – stayed with me.
And life continued to happen. Every few months, I’d think about the possibility of a little bag. I’d pick up a design, I’d try a prototype…they weren’t right. I still wasn’t knitting socks either.
I began with gloves and handwarmers instead…and continue to create those regularly. I quit my job and chose this path of creativity: full time. The scariest thing I’ve ever done.
All of a sudden, I was in front of the public with my work -several times each week. And though it was encouraged and admired, not much of it was purchased. Many here in the Pacific NW know how to knit or know people who do. I needed a new product for my customers…and the conversation I’d had with Suzie years ago came back to me.
Then the bag design came to me. It was time. And I obeyed the creative process! YAY~
A reversible, machine washable bag to knit, crochet or drop spindle wind from. This is the first.
Encouragement and orders for “Chicken fabrics” out of San Diego, CA came next – Thanks to Cooky from Shepherdess.
These are a delight to make and use. And now appear on my table at Pike Place Market.
I’m knitting socks now too, by the way….
More is on the way….and all is right on time…How did I get to be so blessed? With friends, conversation, creativity….and this gorgeous path of life? How? Really grateful for all of it.
High five!
w
www.friendywendy.etsy.com – for your own Sock It, Suzie Wrister. Thanks y’all!
from March 24, 2010
All in favor of the PuuPuu Platter!
Smatterings. Tidbits. Small Bites. These words may initially be considered food-related descriptors - I believe they are also life related. I like to eat this way, and I like to live and work this way, too.
Lemme s’plain: Consider that variety of experience is absolutely key to rounding, forming and living a full life….an INFORMED full life. The experience is what shapes my perspective; and exposure, in small ways (or tiny bites) gives me clues and inspiration as to how much further IN to an experience I’m going to go. Helps me feel safe… prepared…and far from the Cliffs of Overwhelm.
Actively choosing variety keeps me in touch with many people who each have their own ways of life and living…helps me keep my own perspective while gently reminding me that my way is not the only way, nor the right way for anyone else…
What does “choosing variety” look like? For me, lately it’s been working a part-time VERY SOCIAL service job; designing buttons, accessories and bags; go-go dancing; volunteering; and getting to know new friends.
Other times it’s been when I’ve been scared of doing something new – that’s when I know I have to attempt it – the Go-Go Gig was that way.
Lots to choose from. Experiences. People. Perspectives. Exposure. I’m shooting for a full and satisfying life – with a soft, flexible, wide perspective and very little judgement of others. The only way I’m gonna get that life… to feel alive… like I am participating… is by living it – now. Here and now. With people. That includes you.
So, dear readers…I dare you to spoon up some new experiences….just test drive one or two…discover some similarities, some new ways, tastes, textures in life….it’s beautiful….and we get to share all of it!
There’s plenty. Just sayin’. xow