The past three months have brought many new people into my life, primarily through this blog. I found Mossy Cottage and met Ryan and TMK, two women boldly navigating the world on their terms. The burgeoning friendship BLING and I share with them is a gift, one we intend to nurture.
Through Ryan’s work on Dulaan we also met Linda K: a spinner, knitter, and currently a world traveler. Her quiet observations of the new world around her are expanding my own horizons. I am looking forward to her return, to enjoy her company in person again.
Also through Ryan, this time her blog, I found Libby – a quick-witted woman with a true sense of the absurd, and she is as sharp as a razor. Through her posts it is clear she is a woman on a journey of self-discovery, testing boundaries – often her own.
Following links on Libby’s blog I found Carry’s blog. Carry and I have yet to meet, outside of comments on each others blogs – but I think the new year will help remedy this. Village Yarn and Tea some Saturday?
In addition to all the wonderful knitters I have been meeting (or at least lurking on their blogs – Rabbitch, Norma, Margene, Lisa, and a few others) I met two special women through Secret Pal 6.
Recently (and I am late in posting this, for which I offer my apologies) my SP6 gifter revealed herself to me. Her name is Gwen and she lives in San Jose. Gwen is a graduate student in Educational Technology – a very interesting sounding track. She also takes care of her mother. After 14 years of taking care of my Dad, I have a warm spot in my heart for anybody who can step up to the challenge. Gwen was a great spoiler, sending me lots of yarn and treats; I also got a couple of great patterns from her! This picture is of the final SP6 package where she sent hanks of a yarn I haven seen before “Beez Yarn” and some lovely brown DK – which will be made into the felted bears she sent a pattern for. She included snowmen goodies and needle holders. The Christmas 1976 CD is a compilation of great Christmas hits from that year – Gwen is that your family on the cover? Thank you so much for spoiling me during SP6, you have perfect timing with your gifts. (Side note, Gwen did not send the cat – Simon wanted to play Vanna White and could not be dissuaded from the table long enough to take a picture.)
Lastly, but by no means least(ly), Kim – my SP6 giftee – sent me a gift! 
I was so surprised to receive a gift from her (and on Christmas Eve to boot!) This box was full of treasures, 4 balls of Rowan Linen Drape, a copy of the Mary Frances Knitting and Crocheting Book, note cards, candle, magnet – and the most amazing teacup and saucer! I have been developing a taste for tea (thanks to my local LYS which specializes in both goodies), but I did not have a teacup! Thanks Kim, I have enjoyed getting to know you – you have many unexpected facets.
Last New Years I was happy to have survived the year, and just ready for it to be over and have a fresh start. This year has brought peace to my life, and more recently brought wonderful people to share it with. I find myself starting the New Year renewed and excited about what the next 12 months will bring.
Cyber hugs to all you wonderful knit-bloggers, including the ones I haven’t met yet.
Need TMK and I say your post made our day?
Happy New Year to you and Ms. Bling, and we're going to hold you to your promise to have high tea with us at Village Yarns and Tea!
Posted by: Ryan & TMK | January 02, 2006 at 01:18 PM
Lovely to "meet" you, likewise.
I believe you're just a little south of here. If you're not a-feared of us Northeners (many of us even have cars instead of sled dogs) then perhaps when I make my next trek to the Deep South (Gig Harbour) there could be a side trip for tea and socks? SOCKS. I don't proposition women I've never met and who are married anyhow. *g*
Posted by: Rabbitch | January 02, 2006 at 09:54 PM
Village Yarn and Tea some Saturday sounds lovely! I'm glad you found my blog, have been having fun checking in on yours too. :)
Happy New Year!!!
Posted by: Carry | January 03, 2006 at 08:54 AM
I've greatly enjoyed the friendships I've made via the knit blog community. I may not comment every post, but I check every day...uh, who am I kidding? I check compulsively several times a day....
at any rate...I greatly enjoy your blog Ms Elaine, your knitting, your humor. The fact that you and Bling are a couple is an added pleasing feature, but I'd read you anyway.
:) Lisa in Oregon
Posted by: Lisa in Oregonl | January 03, 2006 at 10:13 AM
I'm so glad you liked what I sent. It was fun to spoil you! Happy New Year!
Posted by: gwen | January 04, 2006 at 01:38 PM
AWWWWWW!!! Miss Elaine, I'm bawlin' over here! You are too adorable. I'm going to go sniffle in the corner.
Want to hit Village Y&T sometime soon? I got a GC for Krissmuss. :)
Posted by: Libby | January 09, 2006 at 01:11 PM