Bless my woollen socks...

One of the changes I have made in recent years has been to try to do something positive at times like Lent and New Year. Instead of attempting to give up or cut down on things, I endeavour to learn something new, or set myself tasks that require a bit of effort throughout the year and not just for a couple of weeks after Christmas.

In November 2008 I, with the aid of my mum’s instruction, a stitch book and a couple of You Tube videos, taught myself to knit. Despite being left-handed (and male) I managed to create half a dozen mobile phone covers, a hot water bottle cover and a scarf made from Shetland Wool (the same Shetlands I would shear later in 2009). I joined a knitting circle, but have limited my involvement with them after the snobby, slightly unfriendly atmosphere I found at the monthly meeting. Although I still ask for bits of advice, on the whole there are plenty of other sources I find more ‘user friendly’.

All this waffle is leading to my New Year’s resolution for last year, 2009, which was to attempt to knit a pair of socks. Wool and needles were duly bought and no fewer than four attempts were made to get started but I persevered and gradually a sock-shaped creation emerged. Interrupted by gardening commitments throughout most of the summer, one and a half socks sat neglected until recently, when the nights drew in and gave me an opportunity to get back to them. They certainly aren’t perfect, any close inspection will reveal their flaws, but they are made by me. I feel chuffed I was able to manipulate five needles, turn the heel and Kitchener stitch the toe and it has given me confidence and an urge to do more.

These were, of course, supposed to be for Agnieszka but somewhere in the measuring I made a mess and they don’t fit. But I have some more wool from Woolfest to knit her a nicer pair and I have, for me, some Hebridean / Blue-faced Leicester wool for a pair of welly socks to keep my feet warm.

With only a few weeks left before the end of the year, I will have to find something new to try for 2010, but I am sure I will keep up with the knitting.