Because we knit together. Because we share our stories of baby-meltdowns, mommy-meltdowns, and husband-meltdowns together. Because we LOVE wine together. Because we indulge in delectable chocolate and delicious cheese together. Because we laugh together. Because we cry together. Because we helped bury a husband together. Because we helped bury a Dad together. Because we helped adopt three kids together. Because we battled HUGE sickness through prayer together. Because we are sending one of us off to a 2nd beginning together. Because we are MORE than a knitting group.

We’ve been together for over FIVE years (which seems like an eternity since many of were in a completely different stage of life without kids that long ago). It’s been a mini-lifetime of stories, joys, griefs, celebrations and unexpected circumstances together. And we’ve been TOGETHER through it all. We meet every other Thursday without fail to share our lives, our latest knitting projects and a glass of wine (or two); it’s a bit of sanity through our weeks. You see, knitting is our common bond, but life is what keeps us together. We need each other. We grow together, we hold each other accountable, we love one another, we pick each other up and MORE importantly, we are there. Without fail.

It’s proven that community is where people feel safe and where LIFE happens. Where change is initiated and where meltdowns are reality. Where love is encouraged and loss is lifted up. People thrive in community. We were made for relationships and for hugging each other when times are hard and when times are super amazing. Community works. And everyone NEEDS to belong to one! Community has changed me. The KNITCH has changed me. Being an only child with the tendencies to do things on my own isn’t what is best and I’ve learned that over the years….I can’t always solve my own problems or understand life ONLY through my lens. Perspective and advice and accountability…though hard, are necessary for growth. Necessary for MY GROWTH! :) In grief, I need my friends. In joy, I need my friends. In celebration, I need my friend. In tears, I need my friends. Simply put, I NEED MY FRIENDS! :) I need the KNITCH! :)

So, thank you LORD for an amazing group of friends that make me feel safe and help me cultivate what is important to me! :) And a double hooray for our 5th annual knitting weekend away in October at the AMAZING Pond View Lodge! :) YAY! :)