First, let me express my sincerest gratitude for all the meaningful comments following my last post. The loss of a loved one is something that connects all of us however it's odd how suppressed this conversation is. I suppose that's a whole other topic for another day. For now, please know that I was extremely comforted by your messages and again, it reaffirms all the goodness that exists in this world. I know that with time (and that includes walking and knitting time), my sadness will lessen it's grip but for now it just seems to have a stronghold that doesn't want to let go. So, I knit and breathe, and knit and walk trusting that I'll work my way back to a new normal.
Officially, spring is here but only the part that is the left-over portion of winter... snow, ice and wind. Despite this, there is evidence that the burst of new life that spring brings is just around the corner. That can only mean one thing in the world of healthy knitting... it's time for our annual April mystery knit-along and walk-along.
What does this mean? I have created a pattern called Brudarach that you decide to knit without knowing what the product looks like. I can only tell you that I LOVE IT. Ok, I'll share that it is a delicate yet sophisticated wrap (kinda a scarf but that never sounds sophisticated to me) that is perfect for wearing on a walk to ward off that spring time chill or fancy enough to wear into town for an afternoon coffee date. It's a lace project but it's simple lace making it a project that isn't too challenging yet still requires your attention.
My inspiration for this project truly began as the desire to create a functional item. Often when I travel, I pack one of two crocheted lace scarves that I made several years ago. I love these scarves as I can wrap them around my neck several times, they pack down small and they have a bit of a vintage look to them. It's no secret in my house; when I travel, I pack frugally. So, these scarves are perfect... except they are crocheted so when I attend knitting-related events I feel like an outsider. My solution... this project.
And what does "brudarach" mean? I'll share the meaning of the word at the end of April during the final wrap-up. I think you'll love the definition and how it connects with the product. No peaking.
I selected Shibui Birch for this project. I fell in love with it the moment I saw it on the shelf. And then, I read the description on the label "In a silent grove passing finches welcome the changing leaves." And that pretty much sums up the feeling I wanted to convey with this accessory.
As for the walk-along, I'll provide a calendar with each of the clue releases. So, on April 1, 10, and 20, you'll receive a clue for the project along with a calendar filled with 10 days of walking inspiration. The goal isn't to walk an insane amount of miles during the month but rather to inspire you to get outside and walk more than you have been. No big commitments just more movement. Think of this as an investment in you... and where else can you get some motivation and be a member of a community filled with like-minded knitters for $6.50.
Oh, and there's a coupon code just in case you needed any additional incentive to say YES. Even if you don't want to begin another project this April or you feel the need to wait until you see the final product, consider purchasing the pattern on Ravelry for the walking inspiration alone. Use the coupon code at checkout "BRUDARACHWAL" and receive 20% of the pattern price. This coupon code will expire at the end of the day, central time on April 1. Right now, when you purchase the pattern, you'll receive a document with pattern details. The first clue will be uploaded and published on Ravelry by 7 a.m. (central time) on April 1.
Please join me this April as we put on our walking shoes and take some time to create health and peace in our day. I'm super excited about this project and the motivation to get moving again. It's been a long winter. Please join me.
There are so many steps to publishing a pattern. It's quite possible I've forgotten something so if you find I've neglected to activate something along the way, please let me know. If you have any questions, please leave a comment or contact me via email: thehealthyknitter@gmail.com