Feasting and Fasting

Surprisingly enough, I did wind up with a considerable amount of time to myself on this trip. (When expecting none, some is considerable.) I could have done a lot of things. Part of me wanted, for example, to head in to the city to a bunch of shops that I almost never get to visit. What I chose to do instead was to stay home and quietly work on the projects I had brought with me, inspired by a promise I made to myself to celebrate Lent.

You must understand that my church doesn't follow Lent, but that I find it to be a lovely concept that can be truly beneficial. This year, I was inspired by my faithful commenter, Lecia, and her church's focus on sustainable living for the Lenten season. I took her up on her offer to share their devotional booklet, and - after reading through it - I decided that this year I would Fast from unnecessary and mindless spending and Feast on the blessings of the things I already owned.

Which is why I chose not to waste time, energy, gas and money driving all over Kansas City this week. As lovely as those places all are, and as inspired as I can become by visiting them, I knew I already had amazing materials at my disposal. Honestly, the whole idea of a shopping trip wasn't even as compelling as it used to be. I was satisfied staying at home and playing with the large bag of supplies I had brought with me. I chose beads and prepped my yarn for some beaded socks.

I swatched for a new shawl,

marvelling at how beautiful silk and beads are together. (Even though this is not the actual color of yarn I will be using....) The crispness and shine in the finished swatches was very satisfying - even if I haven't found the correct gauge yet.

I also worked a great deal on two knitting projects - which I will share with you in a few days. Adam Bede, checked out from my local library in MP3 form, kept me company as I sat in the sunshine in my parent's porch and allowed my hands to live their potential. It was peaceful, productive, and quite perfect.