Progress – Knitting a One-of-a-Kind Sweater

Have you ever had someone create something for you by hand? How do you feel about receiving something that has been made – usually over several hours or even months – by someone who loves you and cares for you?

How do you show appreciation for a homemade gift?
1. Use it or wear it – especially if you are meeting up with the person who made it.
2. Display it or use it – let the person know how you are using or enjoying the item.
3. Send a hand-written note – not a text or email, but something that shows you took some time to reflect on the gift.
4. If you are asked about the item, share the story of the friendship that brought about the gift.
5. Take a photo with it and text it to the person who made it.
6. Make a reciprocal gesture – drop off some homemade cookies, or flowers or something that shows your depth of appreciate for their time.
7. Take the time to praise and appreciate their specific skill. It has taken time and effort (and money) to develop the hobby and then to use it to share with friends and family.
8. Ask about the process. Showing interest in how long, what inspired them and even how they learned and developed their skills.
9. Give them an “upgraded” version of your gift – return the baking container with some special flour or give them a tool that they can use for their hobby.
10. Acknowledge the effort with words that reflect the heart and work that went into the creation.

I love creating things for those in my circle. I have learned not to expect too much in return, but I thought these points were interesting to consider. I have been thinking a lot about how we care for each other. Simply showing gratitude and appreciation can really make all the difference in any situation. My new philosophy is that I will never hesitate to tell someone how much I appreciate them. If I think it or feel it, I am going to say it – in any way I can. Life is WAY TOO SHORT to hold back.

This beautiful, red sweater has been a work of love since February. The pattern is an original design by Charles so, there has been some extra ripping out and re-designing but, it is absolutely gorgeous and I am so proud of it. I will definitely update you on the finished product. This beautiful sweater is going to our future daughter-in-law, Angel.