First Person
Knitting Season
Anyone who sees me rushing toward the train station with a big, overstuffed tote bag on my shoulder, probably thinks I’m heading to a beach house or some other summer weekend destination. They may even have a private chuckle at the irony of me looking so stressed on my way to go relax.
The truth is that my summer weekend destination is a hospital. My bag is overstuffed not with cute beach clothes, but with vital tools for the meditation that keeps me calm and able to make this trip week after week: my knitting.
Some people say that summer isn’t “knitting season.” Many of the fibers we love to work with are warm, and it’s tough to have the blanket, or even a shawl, you’re working on in your lap in 90 degree weather.
For me, this entire summer will be knitting season, because it’s the way I’ll remain calm through my mother’s health issues and what will be life-altering, even life-saving, surgery.
I’m no spring chicken, and therefore my mother is what we politely refer to an an elder. (She’s from a time when you don’t discuss a lady’s age, weight, or medical specifics, and I’ll honor that here.)
Suffice to say that surgery at her age is risky business. It’s also necessary.
For the past few months, my family and I have been on a medical adventure. We can now tell you about the best hospitals in our area, which ER is the most efficient, the doctors with the best bedside manner, and we know day and night nurses by name.
One day, when the hospital volunteer who gave me my visitor’s pass asked me if I knew how to get to my mother’s room, I gave her such a detailed response that she grasped my hands. “You’ve been here a lot,” she said. “I hope everything goes okay.”
Years ago, a friend (who is also a knitter) introduced me to a mind-changing concept: Everything may not be okay—very far from okay, in fact—but we can be okay, inside. We can feel sadness, anxiety, hope, fear, emotions we’re too stressed to name, and yet our core being, the true self, can stay the course.
Meditation is a way of accessing and bolstering this steady center, but when meditation is difficult, like in that hospital room, I knit.
Knitting is a way of meditating that requires no more effort that picking up my project and making those soothingly repetitive stitches that give my hands something to do, my mind something to focus on. Knitting leads the way within.
Thanks to body memory, knitting brings with it a wave of association with calmer times. This is what I do at home, in familiar surroundings, on days when nothing potentially life-changing is happening.
Knitting reminds me of sitting on the couch, watching TV with my husband, our rescue cats Norman and Sherman on our laps. Even when I knit as the nurse checks Mom’s IV, that feeling of calm comes, sustaining me.
The feeling is so strong that, at times when I’m helping my mother, or too exhausted to move, just looking at my knitting bag says home. Not just the place where I live; knitting as meditation speaks of the home inside myself where I am okay, no matter what’s happening around me.
This summer is definitely knitting season. My mother will have her double surgery tomorrow. After a week in the hospital, she’ll come home, and I’ll learn how to help her change dressings and do whatever else needs to be done.
Within arm’s reach will be a tote bag stuffed not with beach clothes but with several projects I lined up for this summer, which is one unlike other summers. An Emotional Support Chicken for Mom. A cardigan. A shawl or two. And my current project, a linen tank top to throw over a t-shirt. It might look cute on a beach someday.
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Best to you and mom and family.
My husband has just been diagnosed with Parkinson so thanks for the reminder to get back to what helps me stay calm. I crochet so with a very long road ahead, it will help me stay steady for him and myself. God bless you and your mother and thanks fir the reminder.
What a beautifully written piece. I too have sat at a few hospital bedsides over the years for ailing family members( father and brother, both 59) and I know the comfort of which you speak. Lots of hobbies come and go but knitting is my first love and it keeps me calm when my world is spinning. Thank you for sharing and good luck this summer.
Thinking of you and your mum.
Knitting is my happy, calming place, even in strange environments.
What a great column! And a testament to knitting …and a reason to learn to knit. Just having something to do with your hands. Just to be able to see progress “ somewhere”! Knitting is a gift. Thank you for reminding us.
The best to you and your Mom. You put into words what I’ve been feeling and didn’t know how to express it. I also have spent a week in a hospital with a family member and this time I brought my knitting, the best decision, it gives me a comfort I can’t describe.
I love knitting, also learning to crochet.
I knitted an Emotional Support Chicken in purple wool….cos that is me.
I pray all goes well for Mum.
Love and Blessings
Well, I’d certainly like to knit an emotional support chicken for a good friend. It’s a great idea. Will you please share where you got the pattern? Thanks very much.
What does an emotional support chicken look like? I’ve read several posts referring to this ” chicken”. Anyone have a photo to post?
I have not made one, but you can look up “Emotional Support Chicken” on Ravelry or Facebook to find many pictures.
Knitting has been my go to carry along the past year. My bag that says “good vibes” has gone with me to several hospitals, numerous waiting rooms and more hospital rooms than I care to count. The bag was purchased before this all started. But gives me additional comfort. As my mom is on the last leg of her journey, I about cried the day she asked me to get out needles and yarn. She ended up with a dishcloth. I’ve been whipping out hats and mittens to donate.
I will think of you and your mom as I sit with my mom and knit
Six years ago, I did the same. Knitting kept me calm when all I could do for my mom was keep the tv volume high and listen to her when the tv was off. I made a lot of socks! Sending you hugs and good wishes and soft yarny thoughts. ♥️
Sending warm and healing wishes your way. And thank you for sharing this. I think it will resonate with many of us, either now or in the future.
All of us with “elderly” moms sympathize with you. Mine even helped me with my knitting when she could no longer see the stitches very well. She was, in fact, the one who taught me – decades earlier – in the first place. So glad you have knitting to help you through this difficult time. I strongly hope the outcome is a good one.
First, I wish you and your mom a healthy, swift recovery.
I, too, have felt the calming sense knitting brings while sitting through emotional, fear-filled waiting and observing in a hospital. I brought complicated lace work to distract my scared Mommy brain while my then one and a half year-old son had open-heart surgery to correct a congenital heart defect. Then less than 3 years later, I brought a repetitive stitch pattern to knit on while sitting in the ICU with my Mom as she recovered from a big surgery, then days later, a bout of sepsis, respiratory failure, etc. That was a scarf I knit for her, that she would never be able to wear. (I donated it years later for a silent auction to raise funds for my sons’ school.) After that, I picked up a sock project for my sister-in-law’s sister—a project my Mom began but couldn’t finish due to her health. I worked on it to honor and finish her gift, while she was on hospice.
Knitting has always been there for me — to celebrate the birth of a baby, to bring peace when my there’s chaos of emotions and thoughts in my head, and to just simply unwind from a stressful workday.
What a lovely article. Yes – knitting as meditation practice
– so long as I’m knitting something where I don’t need to think about it!
And yes to everything Chloe said.
I love to knit ..I knit all year round….at the moment knitting toys for the children in Ukraine all sorts of animals lovely big ones to give the dear souls something to cuddle…..monkeys pandas elephants cats Alligator rabbits and bears.and more. GOD bless you and Mum.xx
Yes, knitting is very calming indeed.
Thanks for sharing your story and comfort and peace to you and your mom. I, too, carry a stuffed knitting backpack this summer with an almost-finished toddler blanket and a smaller project. Keeps me calm.
Thank you. You’ve given us a gift even as you navigate very rough waters. Many of us have made the same journey, but not described it as well. Please note: we came out the other side. And are still knitting.
I could not agree more having traveled this road myself with my Mom. The strand of yarn connected to the ball is a life line one I could not be without. I wish you and your mom a peaceful recovery
Best wishes.
Thanks for sharing your story. I did the same while my husband went through quadruple bypass. Knitting a prayer shawl with prayers in each stitch was very soothing.
Sending prayers and love to you, your mom, your family, and all the hospital workers.
I love this. It is all too familiar for me. Thank you.
As a recipient of my daughter’s many hours of knitting by my hospital bedside, I know how valuable the skill is and also appreciate how much of a joy it is in moments of trial and triumph.
I do so hope your mother is recovering and will have many years to knit beside you in less stressful times!
Suzan, I can’t thank you enough for this. Your timing is perfect. My family is going through “a thing” and I’m pretty sure I’m the only person in North America knitting with Lettlopi right now but it’s bringing me comfort. I’m sending good energy and light to you and your mom.
This is a completely beautiful meditation on knitting and I send you kindness and strength for the days ahead.
Best to your mother and your family. And thank you for this perfect reminder –“Everything may not be okay—very far from okay, in fact—but we can be okay, inside.”
Best wishes to you, your Mom and family from a fellow knitter that’s been there. It’s inspiring to think of how many generations have carried out this practice and I appreciate that you put it into words so well. Take care of you too through the journey.
Beautifully written. I’ve been where you are now, and my knitting was with me also.
When the world is breaking apart, knitting helps bring everything together. I went on a medical mystery tour starting in Feb of this year. My Odyssey shawl came with me to every appointment and scan and procedure. I just washed and blocked it yesterday. Its a beautiful reminder that journeys do eventually end. Best wishes for a positive outcome and wooly reminders of the trip!
Knitting is a perfect way to travel this road. Self care is essential to being able to care for our elders. Praying all goes well.
Thank you for this. I derive great comfort in picking up my needles with a beautiful yarn to create soothing and healing Prayer Shawls. I look forward to continued leading of the Holy Spirit to spread God’s love.
Best wishes for you and your mom. As A caregiver more times than I thought I could be for my once large family, I am here to remind you take care of yourself ❤️
My knitting was always with me when I was in treatment for cancer. When my initial blood pressure reading was too high for treatment to be given, I would sit quietly and knit for a few minutes. The second BP reading was always lower. The power of meditative knitting! All the best to you and your mom.
I’m right there with many of the other commentators on this post having gone through being the primary caregiver for my Mom after my father passed. Doctor’s offices, hospital rooms, physical therapy appointments and just being with her in her apartment, my knitting was my lifeline. People ask me why I knit and I always respond that it is my therapy. It keeps me centered and calm. Keeping you and your mother in my thoughts as you navigate this challenge.
Years before I learned to knit I would cross-stitch during the many hospital stays, ER visits & health episodes that my mom experienced. Amazing how keeping your hands & mind busy by doing something so simple can be so therapeutic.
Sending healing thoughts to you & your mom.
This is a wonderful post, a blessing. Timely. Times all over are tough. I’m certain that I don’t need to spill details here. Life is stressful and quite frankly, a hot mess. This post has been a beacon, a bright light. I’ve been contemplating a cast on. I’m not sure what I’m waiting for. But after reading this… I’m no longer waiting. I could feel the meditative effects of knitting in your words.
I hope things go well with your mom. And I’m thinking about you , and the comfort you will gain from the repetitive movement of one stitch at a time.
Many blessings
Sheila
I’m thinking of you and your Mom, praying all goes well. You are so right about the comfort of knitting as it helped me so much when my elderly Mother was in the hospital last Fall.
Suzan, you always speak to my heart. And my heart will be with you this summer as I medknitate and pray for a healing summer for you and your mom.
Hoping all goes well with your mother. Thank you for these words which so beautifully express what it means to be a knitter.
Sending your mom and you warm healing hugs. I knit all through my husband’s extended hospital stay and open heart surgery 12 years ago. I still have the shawl I made during that time – it was the ocean waves pattern in a beautiful sea green variegated yarn (I think it was Noro) which was so soothing and relaxing.
Adding my best wishes and healing hugs to you and your mom, Suzan. Hoping all goes well for her surgery and recovery.
Knitting is dancing with your fingers. A provide you the concentration when your mind wants to be aflutter, and the repetition of the music circulates through your brain.
My own score of music took flight when my father required medical assistance and my mother and I were there for him. Through knitting my mother and I gained a stronger bond which I carry with me today and share in our community.
Speedy and complete recovery wishes for your mom, and peace for your family during her recovery.
Knitting is the calm within the storm for me, too. In so many places, when fear and anxiety threatened
my sanity, I knit. Sending love and prayers to you, your mother and family.
I know exactly how you are feeling as knitting was the only thing that helped me as my mom was spending her last two weeks of life in a hospital bed..it was the only thing that could comfort me and keep me focussed. My thoughts are with you and your Mom.
Knitting is essential to my mental health. It is centering, creative, and produces useful items. Who can ask for more?
Thank you so much for sharing this Suzan. You have put into words what so many knitters feel but cannot really express. Knitting is that way for me, also. The rhythm
of the knitting, the feel of the yarn and needles are all part of a very contemplative process. Wishing your mother all the best on her surgery and her healing.
Thank you,this was just what I needed this morning. Now I’ll go out to my knitting studio and pick up one of the 6 projects there and find my inner peace.
for your mother, her family & medical attendees
I have been knitting in various doctors & hospital waiting rooms this year
It calms my mind!
I am your soul mate. I knit every day. It has gotten me through so much and keeps me grounded and calm.. Love from a fellow knitter.
Thanks, I just spent a week in the hospital with my mom, night and day, after a terrible fall. Knitting was so important, along with some hand sewing/mending. Keeping my hands busy kept my mind from racing. Best of luck with your mom’s surgery!
I will be thinking about you and your mom and wishing you the best through this surgical and healing journey. As an accomplished Nurse and hospital CEO please know you are in good hands but also know you are your mom’s best advocate, never hesitate to speak up for her.
Take care
I did the same thing when my brother had open heart surgery. I knit 3 hats in one week. Take care.
Best wishes to your mother for a good outcome and comfortable recovery. And best wishes to you for your kindness, caring, and thoughtful article.
Yes, Suzan, knitting does help those long hours waiting in a hospital. I would take a book but be unable to concentrate, while knitting was so soothing. I hope all turns out well for your mother.
I too have tried reading and always have a book “in case”, but knitting is more freeing to be in the moment, yet self-soothing.
Thank you for sharing this. You are so right. Knitting is my safe place, my calm place, my home place. Sending healing thoughts to your Mom, and calm, steady, strong thoughts to you.
Yes indeed, I’ve walked a parallel path. For me it was knitting the same thing over and over again: stranded knitted blanket squares, complicated enough to take me out of myself, but familiar enough to be comforting. 3 more squares and I’ll have enough…
Sending all good wishes to you, your mom, and family. You have found a way to stay grounded that resonates with many of us. Knit on!
My best wishes to you and your Mom. Knitting has been my meditative practice for many years now. May your knitting help you through these difficult times.
I am thinking of you and your mom. I am hoping and praying that everything goes well and soon she will be at home on the road to recovery. As you are taking care of her, remember to also take care of you. Get some rest, stay hydrated and don’t forget to always have some knitting.
Thank you so much for this. Wishing you, your mom, your family the smoothest sailing possible through this adventure.
Sending all good things your way. You’ve brilliantly prepared yourself for the expected and unexpected. I hope for you that the privilege to make this journey with your mom is filled with warmth and joy, whatever transpires. Deep blessings.
One more knitter sending comfort to you and your Mom. What a gift our knitting is!
Sending comfort and healing, for everyone. We each have a different journey with our elders, but they have similarities, and it is a difficult road. But home is where the heart is, as the saying goes, so it is indeed within you (wise thought there, thank you) and is in your relationship with your mother. Wishing all the best for her, for you and yours. Give yourself the gift of time… some days you just need to sit and stare blankly into space. Others, you need a good sob, possibly in the shower (why does water running over you help so much?). And ice cream helps. Substitute treat of choice. HUGS, Sarah
I wish you and your mother all the best. Having done this with both my mother and father, my heart goes out to you. You are an amazing daughter. The article was beautiful and so well written.
“Everything may not be okay—very far from okay, in fact—but we can be okay, inside. We can feel sadness, anxiety, hope, fear, emotions we’re too stressed to name, and yet our core being, the true self, can stay the course.” THANK YOU for these words. I’ll keep them in mind as I face world events, as well as sad times in personal circles.
Suzan, I’ve always loved your style of writing and your perspectives. What a lovely brain and attitude you must live in. <3
When my partner was having a heart attack, we grabbed a couple things from the house before getting in the Uber to seek treatment. As he grabbed his devices and a charger, I grabbed my most put-together project bag (and a portable yoga mat). I knew in advance, that the next hours would lead to days at the hospital and I wouldn’t want to be without the comfort and purpose of yarn and needles, and the chance to make a seat and a home.
Loved the article. Sorry about your Mother, hope she is recuperating.
I feel the same way about knitting as going within myself to a calmer , quiet place. When I’m traveling I always take a small project with me ‘just in case’. Sometimes I knit, sometimes I don’t. Knitting on the road takes my focus off the time, distance and crazy drivers.
I do understand the calm that comes with knitting. I also have knitted in ERs , ICUs,
hospital rooms, at the bedside at home, and during Hospice visits for both my mom and my sister. Knitting saved me when I was housebound as the care giver and afterwards as the grief began to lessen I once again picked up my knitting making simple hats to donate to others. We have never met but know each hat you and your mom are in my heart and on my prayer list (which, at my age, is much too long). Take care of yourself and sit by mom’s bed and knit a memory project while you listen to her stories.
Loved this article — so right on point. Knitting helped sustain me through 4 long hospital stays for my dad. Luckily I was retired by then (that’s how old we both were) and I stayed from 8 to 5 every day. Without knitting (and a few carefully selected books) I might have “run mad” as they say. Best wishes for you and your mom.
Prayers for a complete recovery for your Mom. Knitting is the best for being portable and keeping your mind focused on the project at hand. Having several projects keeps the variety going and you’re not “stuck” just working on one project.
Best of health to you and your Mom.
Dear Suzan, I just want to say “same.” May your mother move through this challenge with your clicking needles my her side. And may your meditations bring you peace and calm in the midst of this summer surgery season.
With care,
Linda
So very true. What a soul saver my mother gave me when she taught me to knit.
I enjoy your MDK site. I especially could relate to this article. I am a lifelong knitter and I spent many hours in the hospital with my husband over a ten year period. One particular stay lasted 90 days as he recovered from an internal bleed, bloodclots and open wounds. My knitting was what kept me going. I taught my husband to knit as well because he spent so much time in bed. So we enjoyed knitting together as he slowly healed. My sister spent alot of time there too and we both had what we called our hospital bag, which of course was our knitting! I went to the hospital recently with a friend for cataract surgery and as usual had my “hospital” bag with me. You never mind waiting if you have your knitting and you worry alot less too.
I wish the best for you and your Mom, and your entire family.
As someone who has spent too much time knitting in a hospital room with a loved one, your essay brought it all back to me. Knitting to keep focused on something other than the awful things happening. Knitting to keep calm, to keep my hands busy and my mind occupied.
It’s amazing what our knitting carries with it. All the hope. All the memories. All the love.
Sending good wishes for the surgery. This reminded me of a time when I was visiting my aunt in the hospital and I sat with my knitting. She thanked me and said she couldn’t stand it when people showed up because it was the ‘right thing to do’ and then ‘they stare at you’
Couldnt agree with you more. Knitting is meditative and comforting in the most difficult situations. All the best for your Mom and you.
Thank you so much for your honest and helpful article today. A month ago we received a prognosis of 8 weeks for a family member with a newly diagnosed brain tumor. We’ve been involved in 24 hour care as well as medical, legal and financial matters since. I had just started a lace project when this unfolded. You’ve helped me realize why I return to it each day, at least for a few rows. I don’t even mind the unknitting when I make a mistake. Added another lifeline last night. If it were only that easy for humans.
I wish the best for your mother and her surgery, as well as for you and your family. Thank you for sharing in such a thoughtful way.
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. While it’s hard to see any family member in the hospital it was most difficult when it was my mother. I will think of you and her while I am knitting and send positive images/vibes your way.
Thank you, Suzan, for so beautifully describing what so many of us have felt about having our fiber projects with us, especially during difficult times. I knit and crocheted in my parents’ hospital rooms in their final months; simple hats in the round were the most calming for me, and easy to pick up and put down. As you mentioned, just having a project bag nearby was still comforting. Best wishes for you and your family, and for the best possible outcome for your mother.
Sending warmest hugs and special prayers for you and your Mom.
Thank you. Only last Saturday I sat by my mother’s bedside and we remembered the day my grandmother taught me to knit, I was five years old and struggling to dress a naked doll. I thought what Granny did with a ball of wool, a pair of needles and a crochet hook was magic! I haven’t knitted for a while but I’m going to start something so that my mother sees that I’m ok and at peace, as she is herself.
Wishing you peace, hope and the best outcome possible. I am with you in my thoughts and prayers. Meditation and knitting are what hold me together in my own difficult times. Thank you for your article and care for your mother.
Thanks for sharing. I went through almost exactly the same scenario visiting with my mother in the hospital last summer. Bringing my knitting helped, even when i couldn’t knit because of everything going on.
Sending best wishes for your mother and your family. Knitting is a balm. So glad you have it.
I wish your mom and your family all the best. I know only too well what its like traveling to the hospital to be with loved ones. Six years ago I also made that trek with my knitting in hand as it gave me an opportunity to be distracked to being able to focus on my mom and not her illness. Today I find myself making that trek again with my dad. Thank goodness we have a positive distraction from all the medical beeps and equipment. take care
Lovely piece. I learned to knit as my husband went through cancer treatments. It saved my sanity. Now I am caring for my 94-year-old mother, and the path is sometimes bumpy. Knitting is my comfort. Sending you strength and peace to carry you through this experience. And wishes for a rapid recovery for your mother.
Thank you for this, this reminder to care for ourselves as we care for them. And nothing says care like an emotional support chicken. Sending a hug and prayers for you, your mom, your family. All the best.
I quite agree with you, although for me, my happy place is crochet. It soothes me, particularly this year after an operation. Keep going and warm thoughts to you.
That’s no shawl or blanket, it’s an Emotional Support Chicken on the needles and I highly support your choice in project!
Make sure you catch the video up on YouTube if you need, or us knitters in the Facebook group are here for your support.
I wish you well, and a great recovery for your mom. Knit on
Thanks for putting into words some of what knitting does for me.
You& your mom are lucky to have each other.
Rough times! Healing thoughts coming your way! Aren’t we blessed to be able to carry our calming therapy with us everywhere? By the way, when your Mom is awake and alert the calming rhythm of your needles helps her too! Wishin better days and nights for all of you!
“Knit on with confidence and hope through all crises.”
–Elizabeth Zimmerman
I have been there many times Susan, and my heart goes out to you, your mom, and your family. Sending love and light. And just keep knitting. ❤
May God Bless you and your Mom. Holding you both within his precious grasp.
Wishing all of you the very best.
Your story really hit home. My mother got so sick last year. I had to fly down to Florida and spend5 weeks there while she was in the ICU and then a specialty hospital. The knitting I did while sitting in her room was so therapeutic. I don’t what I would have done if I didn’t have my knitting. Those two shawls I finished mean a lot to me. They represent a horrible time and a good time. I can still remember exactly where I was when I finished one (It was a WIP) and when I started the next one. It is etched in my brain. My mother is doing fine now. She constantly remarks on how I just sat there with a smile on my face. Thank you, knitting.
I hear you. Been there, done that, many times. Love that you have an Emotional Support Chicken in your queue.
What a lovely tribute to knitting and a loving tribute to you! Knitting is a great way to keep calm. I pray for you, your mother and your family and do hope the outcome is good! Be strong, you’ve got this because you have your knitting.
To everyone who posted, I can’t thank you enough for your kind words, your support, and for sharing your own experiences. By telling me about your times of knitting and crocheting in stressful, sometimes scary situations, I connected with each of you. In times like these, that’s everything.
My mother’s surgeries were deemed successful, and now we’ll see what the follow up treatment will be. Whatever it is, I’ll have my knitting by my side, and each and every one of you in my heart.
You are all truly divine lights, my friends.
Suzan
Wonderful news!
This is beautiful. I have also always thought of knitting and crocheting as forms of meditation. When my father was fighting cancer, I crocheted a simple lap blanket to bring him comfort during treatments. He would also take it with him for every hospital stay and surgery, and I would bring yarn and a crochet hook when I visited him and add another stripe. It kept me calm when things were looking dire and gave him a tangible representation of how loved he was. He’s gone now, but the blanket has a place over the couch in my childhood home, and it still brings me comfort.
Dear Suzan,
What lovely article. Sending all good wishes to you and your Mom.
Your message was so true for me. I just feel a calmness and joy in knitting.
Hope your mom is doing well.
My dearly departed mother was so often in hospital during her later years and I would sit with her for hours, just being there, her knowing she wasn’t on her own, and I would knit. This was therapeutic for me and I think for her too.
She was in palliative care for a month before she passed and even though I had been with her for a couple of hours each day, I took a long needed break and she died when I was away.
I don’t regret not being there as she had become too sick to know if she had company or not.
The knitting or crocheting was both a comfort and pleasure during those times and continues to be my form of mind peace now that I am getting towards my expiry date.
So happy to. Be able to continue doing what I love and what reminds me of my mother.
I am in the process of getting a cancer diagnosis (strange thing to be part way through) and the first thing I did after telling my loved ones was plan the knitting project that is going to get me through this.
Best of luck to you and your family. And thank you for this article that beautifully articulates how great knitting is at being there for us through the best and worst times.
Active meditation!!
Morning im knitting all the time and are 70 already
I chuckled with your description of the overstuffed tote… it was very recognizable. As a child I hated knitting but things changed (differentvneedles, method…) and since then, I’ve been grateful for the distraction it can give. My dad had a health scare recently and knitting helped. It helped with the endless waiting, traveling to and fro. It helped calm me down when anxiety prevented sleep. I did not think of it at the time, but yes, knitting spelled home and all it entails: safety, warmth, love.
I hope your mom gets better. My dad did, back to living as if he is invincible…
Thank you. ❤❤ your article. I crochet and sometimes knit.
The best to you and mom. I crochet blankets and sometimes knit.
So very sad to hear about your mom. Been there, done it. Knitting & crocheting is definitely a “mind” saver!
Hope your mom recovers well
Only a knitter can understand what a calming effect comes over you. Sending prayers for you’re mom’s recovery! Blessings
I’m in your camp, I’ve been knitting, crocheting and sewing since age 7. I have to be doing something. My kitchen is also my happy place, together with music. A particular person said to me one day “I can’t believe how calm you are”.
This is exactly how I feel. I get this huge feeling of pride when I see someone use or wear any of my knitting. I love it. A lot of anxiety just melts away and I am sat thinking of all sorts of mundane rubbish. Who needs pills?
Thank you for this beautiful writing. I’m a knitter and a meditator and this rings so many bells for me.
Sending you love and wishing you and your mother well.
Well said Suzan. I absolutely agree with you. I look for to reach home everyday after work and do my knitting specially when I have stress full day. This is purely a mediation zone. Thanks for sharing your story. Hope your Mom feel better soon
What a lovely article ,and so true. Knitting is so much more than a hobby, it’s a lifeline to many and a purpose fulfilled.
I absolutely agree with you,knitting is my passion it keeps me sane,and is a wonderful way to keep calm and distress,it has certainly helped me while experiencing bereavement,keep clicking
I’m chronically ill, and knitting is sanity. Unfortunately w a herniated disc it’s currently off the table so I’m attempting to switch to a new craft that doesn’t hurt my hands as much.
I’ve been in the hospital very often through my young adulthood and it seems everyone has their “thing” to keep them grounded. Whether it’s a litany of repetitive prayer, knitting, painting rocks in a healing garden, or something else, sanity sure is hard to come by either as a patient or a loved one accompanying them.
I send love to you, your mom, your family, and everyone you all encounter along the way.
– Q
I totally agree, knitting are also my therapy. Busy hands calms my mind.
Very nice
Thank you for sharing – I’ve had a similar/dissimilar beginning to my summer. The outcome is as it is supposed to be with more long trips home. All the best to you and your mom and family.
Totally agree that knitting and crocheting are soothing and meditative! In Dallas we have a volunteer program for families at The Ronald McDonald House to teach knitting and crocheting through Knit Dallas
Totally agree and wish you both well
From a compulsive Knitter
Hi I enjoyed your article very much thank you I to am a knitter & this story is a great help to me thank you
God bless you
I totally agree with you on knitting. It’s the only thing along with music that keeps me sane. I can’t sit down and do nothing, I have to have the needles in hand. There is always some project on the go. I wish your Mum the very best with her surgery and am sending loving hugs to you both. Keep KNITTING.
What a lovely thought of being totally relax and happy human being!! Such passion for any hobby is fulfilling but any passion which produces such useful article is extremely rewarding!!Good wishes to you and speedy recovery to your mum!
You have just described my life – getting through my hysband’s medical traumas. I swear I wouldn’t have been able to do it without my knitting.
Thank you so much for this motivation…I am an avid knitter and crochet fundi.
I love to hear how this also relaxes and helps you through those tough moments. I was in hospital for both TB and a broken hip and without my knitting I would have gone insane
My sympathies with you and your family go through this rough time. I too, am going through rough times with my nonagenarian parents. I too, knit while waiting at the doctor’s office, or while sitting with them. It is a great way to center ourselves while mayhem and heartbreak are going on around us. Thank you for your insight.
Thank you for sharing/writing this. Knitting was my solace nine years ago during my sister’s journey home by way of pancreatic cancer. Love and prayers were in each stitch. Knitting has become my comfort again as I journey through my husband’s path through dementia. Bless you in your own journey caring for your mother!
Sending prayers for your mom and family during this stressful time.
I had my project bag with me at the hospital when we knew my great aunt was very near the end. Most of the family was able to spend her last week together in her hospital room. I crocheted what was intended as a wrap, but turned out to be 9 feet long because it was the only project I had with me and I needed to crochet to keep me calm. It was a blessing to be able to spend her last few days together as a family, singing hymns and reminiscing, but I still can’t wear that wrap without remembering that time. I also can’t give it up. And I have knit many prayer shawls, both when I was going through difficult times and when friends or family were. Stitching our way through sadness and hardship is the best meditation, imho.
Strongs to you and your mom. Look after yourself. My mom use to say pray for the one nextoo the sick bed,they also need prayer.
I also knit to relax and it has such an calming effect on the soul.
I sincerely hope your mum gets well.
My Grandmother, mom and I all knit. My mom stopped knitting at age 97. I have cerebral palsy knit with one hand without looking at my project if it’s a simple pattern.
I am 90 years old and I find knitting an excellent therapy .
It is calming relaxing and above all meditative !
It helps me to concentrate and remain focused.
I have enjoyed knitting for my children and grandchildren .
I have what I call my “hospital sweater” that I made during my husband’s 2½ year fight with leukemia. I had my yarn and needles with me for every hospital stay or chemo treatment. One chemo session which turned into a long day, I had forgotten my knitting. I posted on Facebook about it and within 30 minutes a friend (a knitter) brought me some yarn and needles.
Your article took me back to those years and the reason I could stay calm through such a difficult time. Thank you!
All the best for your Mum and your family. Knitting is also my calm in storm, my mindfulness, my joy and relaxation. I hope everything goes well.
Just what I need
Thank you for this. I will look out my knitting needles and give it a go. I
haven’t knit for many years
But I will look forward to knitting again.
Good luck to you , your mom and your family for the double surgery. Put all in God’s hands and He’ll carry the burden for you as you go about with your lined up knitting projects.
Much love
Bless you, I love knitting too, I’m looking after my grandchildren at the moment and forgot mine I feel absolutely lost good luck to your mother ❤️
Wishing your Mother and a speedy recovery. I took up knitting again during covid after a lapse of many year’s. I love going wool shopping and spend ages matching buttons to my finished products. My family love my cotton dishcloths and my Irish moss stitch facecloths which because of their texture is like giving your skin a mild exfoliation Regards from Ireland
Oh those words I so found them interesting to read ,but I do love knitting and or crochet, it is 24 here in London while sit out on my patio with our cat
Love this article. I can relate! Thank you! Best wishes!
My mom is also politely referred to as an elder. And I’m at that age when I wonder how long before I myself am an elder. I think I might be there already.
I recently knitted myself an emotional support chicken in advance of gallbladder removal surgery. I packed a thick book and knitting. But all I wanted to do post surgery was sit in a chair and clutch that chicken and sleep, until I was well enough to leave the hospital.
My best to you and your mom.
I also knit and crochet for stress relief and meditation. My husband is suffering from serious health issues as well, so I understand a bit of how you feel. Best of luck on the challenges you and your mother face.
Hope all goes well with your Mum. I am an elder, I always have knitting and crochet near by me. I knit Mother Theresa’s vests for babies and little caps, very soothing, done it for a very long time
I can relate to what she does and yes it’s a way of staying calm and keeping your mind busy with the knitting project or projects in the bag. Prayers for hr Mom and her.
Love this story.
I knitted and crocheted while in hospital and home and did indeed find it comforting.
What a lovely piece, Suzan! I know exactly what you mean about the healing and calming that knitting brings—both in “normal “ and extra stressful times. It definitely helped me navigate the final years of each of my parents lives, four and five years ago. Blessings on your mother’s odyssey, and on yours. Knitting is definitely self care for you as you accompany your mom.
Love it. I am not a very adventurous knitter but it’s my calm time. Keep knitting
Thank you! I’m 82 and knitting is an important part of every day for the reasons you have stated. It grounds me.
I totally understand. Knitting and sewing and my calming activities.
My heart goes out to you, and your precious mother, as you both enter this new stage of your journeys.
When my mother was in hospital, I could not sleep until I had rung to see how she was getting on.
One nurse didn’t understand and complained. That was so devastating.
Look forward to seeing your support Chicken photos
Thoughts to you both, as you negotiate this new, challenging stage of your journeys.
When my mother was in hospital, was finding that I couldn’t sleep, unless I had rung to check up. Sometimes these calls were 1, 2 and 3am.
Look forward to seeing photos of support chicken
This was beautiful. This is exactly how I feel about knitting. You put it into words how I feel.
Thank you
Enjoyed this article, would love some patterns
That is great therapy…. Sitting and knitting. I sat with my mom and helped her after a hip replacement….knitting was good Therapy
Knitting season started on 8-4-23, the day I was triple negative breast cancer. I was 41. I knitted while waiting for answers. I knitted when it hurt yo get up to do anything else. I don’t know when remission will come, but until then, it will be knitting season.
Knitting has always been a meditative process for myself, especially through cancer treatments and surviving as well as later on taking care of elder parents and now as I live alone, I always have something in my hands that’s being created without even thinking thank you very much for your article
Sending best wishes to you and your mum .I find knitting relaxing and took it up again after my mumpassed away last year 93yrs .She was a knitter i have all her wool and am making prem baby hats for local unit .In her memory ❤️
Hoping the surgery and recovery go smoothly.
Susan I understand you so well. I still remeber the time when knitting saved my
sanity during my mom’s cancer battle. Best wishes for you and your mom.
All the best to you and your mother, knitting is my therapy
Sending you all the love and good wishes during this difficult time.
I too find knitting a meditative past time and have for years, without realising that it was at that time. I wish you and your mum all the best.
I read your post today after testing positive for covid while my husband is recovering from knee surgery and Covid. Being present with your mom is a gift for you both and I pray for her quick recovery. Hugs
When my daughter was eight years old, she was diagnosed with leukemia. I was an RN married to a pediatrician and we both knew just enough to be dangerous. She endured two years of chemotherapy and I won’t go into the torture she endured. She had eleven hour infusion days once every other month and spinal tap’s on the alternating months. And I always had my knitting which kept me from losing my mind. She is now 40 years old and the mother of twins. I don’t think that I will ever get over almost losing her. I have NO IDEA what I knit during that time because I think I gave it all away, but it saved my life as the mother of a child with a life threatening illness. I do understand your post today.
Sending prayers and good thoughts for your mother and all your family and support group.
When my parents were slipping away …I found great relief and peace when knitting. So happy
to see that others feel that way, also. Thank you!
I began knitting 55 years ago when I was pregnant.
I love knitting especially aran patterns.
I find knitting relaxing but would love to here more about knitting meditation
Thank you for this. I derive great comfort in picking up my needles with a beautiful yarn to create soothing and healing Prayer Shawls. I look forward to continued leading of the Holy Spirit to spread God’s love.
Keeping you and your family in my thoughts and prayers.
Hope all goes well for mam. I’m 62 and I swap and change knitting crochet. Learning Tunisian. But I do in all weather’s deck chair in the sun can’t read so yes Knit or crochet. Good luck health and happiness to you and mam x
I hope your mother is healing well. My sister’s cancer treatments were many years long, and she was too far away for me to be there. We had a family gathering just after her cancer stopped responding to treatment. I bought the softest yarn I could find and cast on a simple garter stitch shawl. The entire weekend, someone was knitting it – those who knew how would take it for a hour, but even those who had never held needles in their life would add a few stitches. It made us all feel like we were doing something to help in impossible circumstances, and the finished shawl went home with her after that long weekend.
We had a miracle and an experimental treatment worked. I had another visit with my sister a few months later, and she said how much the shawl meant to her. She kept it on her bedside table, and it was a tangible reminder of our love that she could wrap around her shoulders when she woke up in the night.
Unfortunately our reprieve didn’t last and that was the last time I saw her. Knitting got me through the funeral. A friend had requested a cowl. Making it brought me comfort through those terrible days, but I would never be able to enjoy something that brought memories of the worst days and so I was happy to gift it.
I love the idea of letting everyone in on the making. I’m so sorry for your loss. Sending you hugs.
Sending you and your mom healing, positive vibes. I don’t doubt that your knitting while in the hospital room will be/is a calming experience for your mom as well as yourself. I hope all goes well and your mom has a swift recovery.
Suzan, I totally understand where you are right now, just like so many others. When my parents were going to what seemed like all the hospitals in NE England, UK, I would take a bag with a big flask of tea, some snacks and a zippy bag with either knitted socks or granny squares equipment. I also put my phone onto record and talked to each of them about their childhood, and I now have a digital record of them chatting with me to keep, saved in various places. I learned so much that I never knew, all while just sitting and knitting and chatting in amongst the most awful circumstances. God knew when He would take them and gave me the opportunity to care for them, to honour my father and my mother, as it says in the 10 commandments.
I hope you and your mom will have many days, months or years together and be assured we will all be thinking and praying for you both. God bless xx
Oh lordy, I get this! Last summer, my husband was in and out of hospitals for weeks at a time. This summer, I’m under the scopes, being driven to all kinds of tests. If I didn’t have my knitting, I don’t know what I’d do. Sending you hugs & wishes for yarn that never tangles.
Prayers for you, your Mom and your family!
When my parents were at the end of their days, knitting socks by their bedsides git me through that time. Sock after sock, hour after hour, day after day. My Mom would ask “What color is that sock?” and I would respond, “blue.” We had that same, simple conversation many times a day. What a gift that was.
Thank you for a lovely reminder. Blessings and all good to you and your mother. I hope her recovery is uneventful. Time to get out my knitting. These are anxiety producing times!
Knitting helped get me though chemo and radiation. The finished projects were a bit off kilter but they were there though the tough treatment days and into the recovery phase. Focusing on a creative project felt real and more normal than everyday life at that point. I hope you find peace and balance with your knitting throughout this difficult time.
What a difficult period of time. I hope the surgery goes well and that your mother improves. Also, it’s such a good idea to knit through all of this. Wishing you peace and steadiness. Joan
An emotional support chicken went to a dear friend going through chemo. Knitting helped me through the last months with my aunt’s mental decline (at the end of every row she’d ask if it was done) and I’m still working on the blanket I started 7 years ago when my mom was dying. It’s been very cathartic for me.
Very inspiring words and so true. Knitting sustains me also. It keeps my blood pressure low and when I am racked with stiffness and pain at least I can sit and knit and feel like I am accomplishing something when I am unable to do the chores I used to do.
I hope and pray for your mom’s recovering!
Prayers for you and your Mom. I crochet rather than knit and have also found it to be meditative it’s gotten thru many a hospital vigil’s and recovery periods. Good luck and keep meditating.
You nailed it. I started packing to evacuate should a wildfire come through. My car is full of yarn and all my knitting needles. No room for anything else. . Rethinking it today. Will pack my family treasures, art work my sister and husband created. May they RIP. Take all to a safe place to store until wildfire season is over. I will then pack the car with yarn and needles. Life in the fire zone.
Prayers for you and your mother.
I love to knit whenever I feel like it, I like making squares and my version of a scarf. I’m not that good but people like what I do
God bless.its not easy hope your mo. Is well
I would like to congratulate Ann and Kay on having the most interesting and helpful newsletter in the knitting world. Today’s was a perfect example. I have no idea how many hours I have spent in the last thirty years knitting, crocheting, sewing and reading etc. while sitting in a hospital, Hospice, or other place waiting for the known or unknown to happen. I felt very alone during those days and nights but now I can think of all the many ladies who are doing the same thing. We share a bond as sisters taking care of a loved one and trying to maintain our sanity during a time of stress and misery. I am so thankful that I have my knitting and can share with others some of my thoughts and feeling. Ann/Kay please keep up the good work and have more articles like this one. It was interesting and helpful. Thank you.
Hope everything goes well with your and and family
When my father was in the end stages and at the same time my son was going through a complicated surgery mother and I carried zip lock bags with hand stitching English paper piecing that made a beautiful grandmother’s flower garden quilt. When mother was in her last stages I knit, when my husband had surgeries I knit, when my son has continued to have multiple serious spinal surgeries I knit. Not only does it keep my mind occupied and a bit calm it is a conversation starter. Nurses ask, other visitors ask, have even had doctors ask. Gives me a normal moment in these stressful situations when I feel so alone.
Knitting is my refuge and peace. Where can I get pattern for chicken …I saw one recently.
Wishing you and especially your mom all the best for a full recovery. And sincere gratitude for the reminder of the benefits of hand craft.
The Emotional Support Chicken pattern designed by Annette Corsino is available for purchase on ravelry and includes a video tutorial. There are over 5800 out there supporting people in one way or another, near and far. It looks to be good medicine to me!
I enjoyed this article very much. It reflects how I feel when I pick up my knitting needles
I hope all goes well for you Mom and your family, at 71 I am also ” and elder” and have been knitting since I was 17. I begin crochet in 2000, whilst on a student exchange to America as a mature student. I currently have a broken right arm (I’m right handed)and my stress levels rose so I am crocheting left handed, very slowly and knitting with needles tucked under my arm …. It makes me feel that I will be ok. I am also completing a 1,000 piece jigsaw. I understand completely your need to knit and am sending love and hugs to you and your Mom xxxx ❤️❤️❤️❤️
Thanks for the article. Knitting helped me get through my husband’s 3 year experience of pancreatic cancer. He wore a lot of the project those years and having something kind of mindless and meditative helped me though the endless waiting.
I, too, use knitting to keep me calm – always carry some sm project with me – learned that yrs ago after an auto accident. – I was fine – car not so much – I was traumatized – I started a blanket – 10 1/2 needles – 2 strands kn worsted, one off-white, the other a color – co 2 st, inc 1st st, k – repeat – 28 st – bo – sew 4 triangles into sq – sqs into blanket – create a border – still have that blanket – many compliments 40 yrs later – got me thru that trauma – more recently brought my knitting with me to visit my mom in nursing home – keeps me sane
Suzan,
Sending you a big hug
So sorry to hear about your mom’s health struggles. Glad you have your knitting! Keeping you and your family in my thoughts.
I use crochet the same Way. I find it very zen.
Healing wishes for your mom and strength to carry on for you…..one row at a time.
I’m a knitter myself……
Beautifully written article that perfectly nails it. Thank you for this! I broke my neck four years ago, I’m lucky to be walking but do struggle with some hand issues as well. I took a brief knitting class about two years ago to help me with this, at least to maintain function and ability. I’ve finished teaching myself online ever since. I can’t do a lot, and I’d love to crochet but my left index and thumb are my biggest issues. But what I can do I’ve capitalized on and feel I’m a fairly decent, if slow, knitter at this point. This has helped me not only physically but emotionally as well. Going through a spinal injury is not easy and this has given me a place to go. I know my fellow crafters get that. I wish the best for you and your mom and I know knitting will get you through the entire experience. Hugs and powerful thoughts.
I agree with you about the calming effect of crocheting and knitting. I have done both since I was in my twenties. My kids survived because I did. They could be in the house. Around me doing normal kid things, including noise. I was ok while I was working on a project for them or myself. Stocking caps. Matching scarves. Vests. Nose mufflers. We always have the mitten gremlin that only eats one mitten. Always replacing one of a pair. Thanks for posting. I still crochet small projects mostly. Throws are too large and time consuming. Western hats for stuffed companions are one of my special projects. And of course hats for myself. Great for bad hair days. Thanks again. Retired 9319.
I also enjoy knitting, everyday! It calms me, when I’m starting to get nervous and go faster with knitting!! Its actually fun & I’m the only person who knows this!!
All the “feels” on this one. Best wishes.
I learned to knit when my mom’s Parkinson’s really started to take her downhill. It helped a lot, and now 15 years later I enjoy it for the meditative qualities. My friends and relatives also enjoy the blankets and assorted items they receive!
A few years ago I followed an ambulance from our small beach town to a hospital 80 miles away. I thought my husband would be coming home in a day or two. Instead I was there for nearly a month. When it quickly became clear he wouldn’t be coming home right away, I found a local craft store and bought yarn and needles. I spent that month sitting at his bedside knitting scarves and hats, just to have something to do while the doctors got him strong enough to have heart surgery. I ended up making several shopping trips in the following weeks
. Before he left the hospital I took him on a wheelchair tour of the ward, and we were able to give each of his nurses and other caregivers a hand-made token of our appreciation.
I have been through a lot over the last few years , and through a friend have started meditation , knitting is part of it .
My knitting and crochet has kept me sane through many life dramas. Nothing fancy just rugs made from op shop or donated wool but they’re my relaxation and focus. I love the finished items and that small feeling of satisfaction at a job done.
I always say knitting is my therapy
Mediation is a good way of relaxation. At retirement, I will be taking up knitting and crocheting.
Thank you
Good luck with everything.
Good morning and yes it does calm you relaxing. I’ve been knitting and crocheting since I was 6yrs old. I watch my mom knitted and I wanted to do that so she said I will teach she made me take out stitches that I drop and do it over and over again until I got it right. I’m know 79 and I’ve made everyone in my family afghans. Thank you for sharing and now I’m working on Christmas gift and I also have a large bag I carry around. Vilena
I’m praying for your mom.also for you and your family. I too find knitting and other needle work very relaxing., calming.
Knitted an afghan while my Dad had a prolonged stay in the hospital and subsequently died back in 2001. I will not part with it —when I look at it , I don’t think of the hospitalization but of all the good memories of him. Well written! Yes, it is my form of meditation also.
I’ve always said knitting was Zen for me.
Dear Ms Suzan,I enjoyed reading your post. I hope you’re mother is doing well. I do the same thing when I have to go to the doctor with my sister I take my knitting and or crochet with me, it eases my mind.
I, too, am a knitter. I don’t make many projects, just when the urge hits. When my late husband was in and out of hospitals due to CHF (Congestive Heart Failure), and nearing the end of his struggle, I always had my knitting bag with me to help me keep my concentration on what was going on. The rhythmic click of the needles certainly did its trick of calming me. And several other people would come by, trying to figure out what I was making. If anyone ever tries to tell you you’re out of your tree for knitting, they don’t know what they’re missing out on; for me, it’s the best therapy around, especially during stressful times…
Knitting for me is a year round affair-a child will need mitten,a homeless person a hat or scarf, a teenager a hat!!!
Hope your Mom’s surgery goes well! Sending healing thoughts!
I am with you all the way with this I find my knitting very distressing hope mum will be OK prayers are with you and family xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
I totally agree, knitting is a life saver, mentally and physically. It helps my concentration, by following patterns. Keeps the arthritis in my wrists at bay. And the satisfaction of a finished item. Luckily my family have always appreciated the work I have put in to provide a constant supply of knits to grandchildren,and now GREAT grandchildren. I can knit while watching TV, pick up and put down as I like. Loving the yarn that knits up like ‘fairisle’.I have far too much yarn stock, but at 87yrs, accept my weakness.
I do the same thing
In the photo what are you knitting
Good luck to your mam and you. But I am the same with my tote bag full with many knitting projects. My mother is in a care home 89years young and I take my knitting when I visit her, you will be surprised how many people come up to chat with us asking what you knitting. Also chatting to my mother. It brightens her day. I wish I could stay with her longer and knit but I have to leave to look after my family. Knitting is so calming. I don’t know where I would be without my wool and needles.
I wish your mother the very best on this journey. I understand all too well your knitting your way through this time. I also knitted, embroidered, or whatever could go with me on Mother’s many health adventures. It kept me somewhat sane and she always loved anything I made. Keep up the wonderful work and the beautiful attitude.
I agree knitting and crocheting are great therapy. I take mine with me shopping because my husband likes to drive so I work on my project on the way . Also there’s been many times I have sat in a hospital knitting or crocheting. I taught myself to do both because I’m left handed and my mom was right handed. I love it