In the world of retail, most stores do not shut their doors for New Year’s Day.  This includes the place my husband works.  What this means for me is one final day to myself before returning to my own office work. 

I have spent the day quietly - drinking tea and knitting.  There is no noise from the tv or the radio, only the sound of Cleopatra and Ceasar occasionally racing from one end of the house to the other. 

 

Last year was most definitely the year of the swatch.   I have begun this year much the same.  After much time spent with pencil and paper, today I began my final swatch (as I cross my fingers, knock on wood, and toss salt over my shoulder that this statement is indeed true) for the peacock shawl.  While the actual knitting of this piece has been long neglected, it has been constant on my mind. 

I realized today, that it has been fear that has kept me from the final phase of this work.  A lack of confidence in my abilities and creativity.  We are quick to provide encouragement, and honest praise of others.  Yet, we are often judgemental and critical of ourselves.

I don’t usually create resolutions this time of year.  I figure that if positive change is required of me, the moment of recognition is as good as time as any to start.  Whether that moment is midnight January 1, or mid-day of the third Tuesday in August. 

Today, I recognized that I need to be kinder to my imagination, more generous with my creativity, and have more faith in my talent.  I should display my ideas and celebrate the originality I possess.

 

I hope I didn’t disturb the quiet too much with my hammer and nails.  Ailsa, thanks for planting the seed some time ago.