I’m Going To Meet My Friends For the First Time

(In person.)

I grew up in a time when online dating was generally seen as a last resort.  It was common knowledge that meeting—in person—the people you connected with online was a major “risk.” 

By the time online sites were incorporated into the fabric of modern dating, I was out of the dating game.  I’m still not sure if “swiping left” means you like or dislike the other person.  Regardless, I’m not against the concept in theory—I have friends who have found significant others through dating sites!

But what do you do when you are a knitter in search of fellow knitters?  It’s hard to find knitting buddies out in the wild, especially if you have no nearby LYS (Local Yarn Shop).

I was fortunate that Covid happened.

Ok, let me rephrase.  (I can hear your gasps and grunts of disapproval from here.)

The Covid Pandemic storm cloud offered me a few silver linings. (Better?)

The fact that life started happening more online than in person is not one that I celebrate.  HOWEVER, some of us isolated knitters were more easily able to venture online and find a few fellow forlorn fiber friends.  (Phew!)

Early in the pandemic, I was fortunate to join a Discord group that was, in essence, a lolodidit yarn fan club.  There I found a small yet mighty tribe that welcomed me with open needles.  I also learned what a “Zoom” was.

Over the past three years, our mighty few have swelled to many.  Today, though, I get to meet—for the first time in person—eighteen of those knitters with whom I shared the highs and lows of the pandemic.  Through those years, we focused on the highs, but compassionately acknowledged the lows.

And I have a secret to share with you—I have never been in a room with that many knitters gathered at one time!  I believe my highest number to date is eight.   

I cannot wait to see what this yarntastic energy generates.  (I’m picturing a yarn-bombed Frankenstein’s creature rising from a recliner.)  Can you envision our creation, too?  It’s gorgeous!  (And very much alive…)

Regardless of what beautiful being might leave the hotel with us at the end of the weekend, I expect some lovely memories will float along home with me as well.

Knitting friends really are the best friends.

I wish you a wonderful weekend filled with amazing people, delightful experiences, and warm memories to fill your yarn-loving heart.

(And, of course, if you’re looking for a new project to cast on this weekend, don’t forget to check out my new Fairlea Hat and my Fade Into Neverland Socks patterns on Etsy and Ravelry!❤️)

Slàinte mhath, and happy knitting!