Why I knit

Even though I'm a beginning knitter, I wanted to stop and think for a moment about why I chose this particular hobby, at this time in my life.

I've always enjoyed creating things. Over the years, I've done photography (that's been my longest hobby, one I still do -- going on 28 years!), I've enjoyed making quilts (would love to do that again), and I'm a writer professionally.

I wanted a hobby that was portable -- in addition to reading -- that created something tangible. Photography is great, but you can't wear a photo. I also like the feeling of the knitting needles and the yarn, and the sound the needles make when I'm working with them.

But why now? Some might say I'm a little late to this game, starting in my late 40s. I don't have any grandchildren, and I doubt I will ever have any (which is fine, by the way). I do, however, have people in my life who might enjoy wearing and using something I made for them. And I want to create things for myself, too.

At this point, my skills are basic but improving all the time. I'm proud of the progress I've made. When you get to a certain age, you really do need to challenge yourself. That's also part of the reason I chose this hobby.

While I wait for my sweater yarn to arrive -- got the shipment notification today, yay -- I'm continuing on a blanket for my niece's toddler and will also pick up that tam again (for some reason, that project intimidates me; maybe it's because I barely have room on the needles for all the stitches and I'm paranoid I will drop them).

Knit and purl, knit and purl ...