Project Update

"Heart-breakingly beautiful baby sweater"?  Oh yeah.

I sewed this up and sewed on the ribbons on the plane Monday morning but had to wait until I was in San Franciso for sunshine and a photograph.

I enjoyed the first day of sewing camp; but this is not really a time for knitting.  Sewing and eating tend to be my San Francisco focuses and so I am warning you not to expect a lot of progress here; besides, Mermaid, the only project I brought with me, is not a speedy girl.

Otto will now be thought of in my mind as the "Tabasco sweater".  I mean that in a nice way; a sweater filled with happy memories. I have written before about how a sweater sometimes takes on an association with a place or event at or during which it was knitted.  Tabasco was ill and we had to say goodbye to her on Friday. During the first few weeks when we learned she had pancreatic cancer she decided that Otto which was on the blocking board, and remained there at her request, was the perfect place to spend the days sleeping.  As usual mom's projects were always the best place to be. Even though it has been a couple of weeks she slept on Otto, it has taken me a little time to prepare myself for finishing this particular project.  I realize now that I couldn't put the sweater together until I knew that Tabasco wouldn't be sleeping on it anymore, even though she left the sweater as the cancer got worse.  The sweater and I both needed to wait for the time for closure.     Spending time with Tabasco was a higher priority than knitting and she did not think she needed to share my lap with other activities.  For once, I agreed with her. 

Perhaps when I return from camp, and after our trip to see the impending new grand baby, I will feel like putting Otto together.

Comments

[Patty]

Mardel, I know how hard it is to lose a beloved pet, and I am sorry for your loss.

I also know how cathartic knitting can be. And I'm sure your new grandson will help to keep your spirits up.

[Gina]

Mardel, I am so behind on my blog reading, and I am sorry to hear about Tabasco. How sad! I hope the news of becoming a grandmother slightly balances the sadness. One life does not replace another, but new life does allow us the chance to feel hope again.

[Kathleen C.]

Oh Mardel! I am so sorry to hear of your loss. But I'm glad you were able to spend the good time with her at the end.

I look forward to watching your progress on Mermaid. Ever since Mai posted hers I have had Mermaid envy (the siren call...). But I fear her as well. I am hoping that your experience will ease my fears!

[Liana]

Oh Mardel, what memories Otto will always hold. I know Tabasco was loved right to the end, and she knew it too.

What a precious baby sweater, and wonderful ribbon. I hope you're having a wonderful time at Sewing Camp!