Giving Thanks

I have been thinking a lot these days about gratitude. I think one of the gifts of growing older is the irresistible urge to stop from time to time, no matter how crazy-busy life gets, to give thanks for life's many blessings. I am blessed with a strong, loving family. I have food and shelter. When I turn on the tap, or flip the switch, there is clean water, light, and heat. If any of those things should suddenly disappear, I have good friends who would offer help. And, I have you. Over the past three years you have sent over 700 items to Nest, providing warmth and comfort to many, many people. I am incredibly grateful for that. We are a tiny group by most standards but our work has made a significant difference to hundreds of people. And that is worth thinking about.

Although I am not able to write to each and every one of you, please know that your work is appreciated. I am the lucky one because I have seen the faces and heard the voices of people who wear the lovely things you create. If you are celebrating Thanksgiving tomorrow, give yourself a little pat on the shoulder. You have made a difference.

As always, the P.O. box is open. Until warm weather arrives, we will continue to deliver any items received to two area shelters. As both shelters serve families, anything goes in terms of patterns and sizes. If you have any questions please contact me. Thank you!

Peace,
Jean

Hats! 100 Hats!

Ah, September. For knitters, such a beautiful word. Especially this summer. Sadly, I put down my needles a few weeks ago. I find it impossible to knit when temperatures are in the upper 90's. Although I don't want to complain, as it has been a spectacular summer, it has been very, very hot. I am ready for cooler days and chilly nights. Perfect knitting weather.

This week we received some very special mail. 100 hats, all knit by Robyn Devine. Hop over to Robyn's blog at www.onehundredhats.typepad.com to see the hats, complete with links to patterns, and read her story. It is very inspiring. Robyn plans to create 10,000 handknits for charity in her lifetime. She also writes another blog I enjoy reading called Minimalist Knitter. It can be found at www.minimalistknitter.com. Thank you, Robyn, for sharing your work, your kindness, and your generosity.


Peace,
Jean

Nest 2010

Welcome to Nest 2010!

Nest was started in the spring of 2008 in response to the sharp increase in the price of home heating oil. Last night I was reminded of that as I sat looking at our oil bill for the upcoming winter season. I thought of the many Mainers who struggle to make ends meet with limited resources. I also thought of the many boxes and packages of handknits we received over the last few years and the joy those contributions brought to so many Mainers.

In 2009 Nest delivered over 200 articles of clothing to communities in northern Maine via our contact in Ft. Kent. We also donated about 100 items to a family shelter in southern Maine where residents range in age from newborn to adult. Contacts from both communities expressed an interest in unisex hats, mittens, socks of all sizes, and small blankets.

As you pack your bags for summer visits and trips, throw in a skein or two for Nest. Who can resist a stashbusting contribution that will make a significant difference to somebody in need? We prefer donations made from natural fiber, as it is warmest. However, there are folks out there who cannot knit with natural fiber and others who cannot wear it. If you are interested in making handknits using synthetic fibers we welcome your contributions.

Donations received before September 15, 2010, will be given to our contact from northern Maine. All donations received after that will be distributed in southern Maine. Do not spend extra money on postage! Your handknits will find a home no matter when they arrive.

Happy Summer to you all!
Peace,
Jean