The beauty of ordinary things

Pigeons in the sun

Amidst the clamor of adverts telling me to replace what is not old and fix what is not broken, I need to try even harder to keep out the noise and fix my attention on the beauty of ordinary things.

Steam raising up from a cup of hot tea, a small wooden spoon swirling sweet liquid gold, the warmth of the cup against the chilly air.

A tree decorated with pigeons, bashing in the sweet December sun.

The first squish of a new skein of wool.

A White Amaryllis growing visibly taller every day.

One good stretch.

A nap.

The second serving of a homemade pie.

To notice these treasures, one must be present, one must be looking. There is wonder in the everyday, if you can let yourself see it. And life is so short and so precious, and we have so much of everything.

What I am making

Swatching and pondering

I haven't had a lot of knitting time this week, I knit a few rows on my red Sophie scarf and none on my sweater that is missing half a sleeve. I do have a lot of ideas and want to cast on at least 4 projects, but I will not. Until I have my last sleeve done, at least.

I'm telling myself swatching is allowed. So is pondering on future projects.

Book of the week

The Raven's Nest by Sarah Thomas

The Raven’s Nest is a story about the six-years the author spent in Iceland's Westfjords. The telling stitches together the impact of shifting light, of learning a new language and a new way of being in the world. It shows the author's metamorphosis fueled by her love for the land, her partner and a new place to call home.

It's a story about summers, aglow with endless daylight amidst towering mountains, deep fjords, and volcanic beaches. About winters, draped in extended darkness and snow. A story of contemplation and solitude. About traditions and ghost stories and how you can be happy and rich with things you don't need money for.

May your days be filled with mindful moments. Until next time, be present.

Sky