Wednesday, September 16, 2015

Getting Ready for Winter of 2015-16

Hello, Nesters. Welcome to the 2015-16 season!

It has been CRAZY hot in Maine this month. We have had weeks of pasty, hot, humid days with temps in the 90s, which is really unusual for us. By this time our daytime temperatures should be in the low 70s. We all know this can't continue and that colder temps will be here soon. So, let us prepare by reintroducing ourselves to those baskets of wool and needles sitting patiently in corners. I know. Some of you remain best of friends with your needles and skeins throughout the hottest days. Alas, I am not among you. Thankfully, the air has begun to shift! Crickets are chirping and evening darkness comes earlier. All the right signs for a little quiet knitting here and there.

Last winter was a DOOZY in New England. We had piles and piles and piles of snow. We endured days and nights so cold we thought they would never end. There were plenty of days when being out of doors without appropriate clothing was hazardous.

The number of people who count on our donations CONTINUES to grow. Once again, we will make deliveries to the family shelter and clinic for the homeless, both in Portland. Here are a few lines I wrote last year:

What do we need? We welcome any donations of new, handknit or crocheted clothing or blankets. Hats, mittens, scarves, small blankets, socks, vests, whatever you enjoy making. Hats and mittens will always be at the top of the list, as being out in our climate without them makes the simplest tasks so very unpleasant. We are often asked if clothing made with fiber other than wool is acceptable. Yes! Although wool is warmest, there are people who can't wear it, and people who can't work with it.

As autumn weather arrives, let us remember those in need.

We wish you love and light in this new season. And as always, thank you.

Peace,

Jean