Ties That Bind

The past few days have been interesting to say the least. Halloween was good. I had a great time passing out candy to the kids. I was also happily surprised to realize that my DVR was recording the Ghost Hunters marathon. I'm new to DVR and hadn't expected this. Unfortunately, it didn't associate Ghost Hunters Live with Ghost Hunters so I missed the first hour of the 7pm-2am special. I spent Saturday watching the episodes and knitting.

Saturday had it's share of bad news. My cousin was in a horrible car accident involving a deer and was apparently in a coma. I agreed to dog sit my parent's dog so that my dad could go with my mom. I would have gone with my mom but I know how much my cousin loves my dad and how much his ability to make her laugh could help her at this time of need. But they were told that since my cousin was still in a coma she couldn't have any visitors except immediate family.

Sunday brought better news. She had woken up and was responding more appropriately. She was moved to a unit where she could receive visitors. So I headed over to the folks so they could make the trip to see my cousin. She's in tough shape but she squeezed my dad's hand, which let him know that she was aware he was there.

Last night was Monday Night Craft Night. I actually cooked the meal for the group. This was a feat for me. I don't really cook, especially now when it's just me. But I've really never cooked for a group. I am happy to say that my Chicken Pesto Penne pasta was enough for seconds for some, and was all eaten by the time I left. Considering that I can't smell - my nose does not have this ability - my insecurities about burning food and fear that this inability also impacts my perception of taste (even though I don't really believe so) has prevented me from trying to cook for others. I believe it's ok for me to make something for myself that sucks, but a sense of paranoia grows in me when thinking about how others might hate my cooking. So I'm so relieved it turned out ok.

Another big accomplishment last night came by way of my first scarf. I came prepared to finish it off. It is a 75 inch knit/purl standard - no frills for this beginner. Like a little girl showing her straight A report card to her mom, I jumped at the chance to show my prize to my craft night buddies.

Rose is a skilled knitter who has been doing it since she was a child, and has been a great friend for the past 12 - 13 years. I beamed with pride and excitement as she showed me how to bind off and finish my scarf. Two stitches come together then one envelopes the other.

Two come together, then they become one. There is a thread that pulls us together.