The Prayer Shawl

6 1/2 years ago, I was lying in a hospital bed with a broken leg and the baby on the way.  We knew that somewhere, there were people lifting us up, placing us in God's hand from the time of impact and every minute that followed.

Days after the accident, our director of pastoral care entered my room holding a simple piece crafted out of a faint blue fibre. She explained to me that this was a prayer shawl, created by one of our congregation.  It had been knit with love and prayer, and as I wrapped it around me it was a physical representation of God's loving arms, holding me tight. 

* * * *

Three years ago, our family lost one of the best men I have ever known and loved, my Pappy. While we all grieved this loss, no one felt it as deeply as my mother. 

As a daughter, I knew there was nothing I could do to take this grief off of her shoulders, but the desire to bring her comfort was so incredibly strong. It was then that I recalled the comfort that I had experienced in the form of my own prayer shawl, so I resolved to create one for her that I hoped would bring her the same feeling of peace when wrapped around her heavy shoulders that mine had brought me. 

* * * * 

In this time of thanks and joy, it is important to remember that there are many out there grieving, grappling with pain and seeking peace. 

I would encourage my fellow yarnies, from novice to master, to consider the prayer shawl ministry. You may contact your local church, synagogue or temple to inquire about their participation in this ministry and how you can take part. 

Your shawl does not need to be fancy. It does not need to be intricate. It just needs be crafted with love and prayer. 

For more information on how you can participate in the prayer shawl ministry, visit The Shawl Ministry website or contact your own place of worship. 

6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Phil. 4:6-7. 

Urban Vintage + Napping Hook = Holiday Bliss!

As many of you are aware via TNH Facebook site, I am officially featuring pieces at the swanky, new uptown location of Urban Vintage Hair Studio!  I am incredibly jazzed about this opportunity...walking into the new studio I knew that it was the perfect locale to feature some of my newest items.  I have already dropped off several caps and cowls and am excited to be taking more up in the coming week.  I've already caught wind that the items are well received and SELLING!  So if you're interested in a quick gift (for you or someone else...no judgement!), be sure to stop out.  Urban Vintage is located in the new Philips Building in Uptown Marion on the second floor.

In addition to the pieces you can find at Urban Vintage, I am still currently taking a few custom orders for delivery by the holidays.  As of now, with 33 days left until Christmas, I can take up to five orders for delivery by Christmas.  Just remember to visit the shop to place an order or request your item!  And don't forget to check out the clearance items still available!

Caring for your Item

As a busy mom with endless amounts of laundry, one of the biggest dilemmas is how to care for my crocheted pieces.  I want something that is going to be easy to care for (wash, dry, wear!), but that will also maintain it's initial sheen and drape.

A vast majority of the products I make are created with 100%, vegan-friendly acrylic yarn; these pieces will not shrink and could technically be washed, dried and worn over and over again.  However, there are a few of my 'chunkier' pieces that are crafted with a wool/acrylic blend and require a bit more care.  Ultimately, I wanted to create a care plan that could apply to every piece you purchase from the shop.

The best method for washing any piece bought from The Napping Hook is to hand wash items.  If this is not feasible, washing materials on a gentle (or "hand wash") cycle on your machine will suffice.

A mild detergent should be used; baby detergent such as Dreft, is ideal.  If you are handwashing the item, you may even use a baby shampoo.  Again, regular laundry detergent can be used, but over time, this will take it's toll on the sheen of your piece.  All pieces should be washed in cold water, regardless of method.

Pieces made with acrylic yarn can be dried in a conventional dryer; for some pieces this may soften and loosen the piece.  I typically like to dry my daughters' hats and blankets a few times because it tends to give them a loving 'swing'.  For adult pieces, acrylic, wool or blended, items should be laid flat to dry.  You may choose to blot dry with a towel first to remove excess moisture.

So just to recap:

• Hand wash/gentle cycle
• Mild detergent/cold water
• Blot dry/lay flat
• Wear/love/cherish!

Maui on my mind...

It's been a bit chilly 'round these parts. As in -20s and then some with the wind chill. I may never thaw. 

And with these cold temperatures, my mind wanders to Maui. To salty skin, sunkissed cheeks, vibrant sunsets and chrystaline waters. 

So it only seemed fitting, in the spirit of aloha, to do a freebie. 

Head over to my Facebook page and "like" the shop, leave your mark on the photo and this bad hair (beanie) in pacific blue could be yours!

https://www.facebook.com/TheNappingHook

I'll draw a winner from this very hat Sunday evening!

Happy New Year!

Sometimes life resembles art. 

In my case, this past year very much resembled the box of scrap yarn I keep tucked away in a dark corner of our basement; colorful, messy, tangled and full of possibility. 

I am very excited to to begin devoting more time and energy to the Hook, as well as to all areas of my life. I can't wait to stitch something beautiful out of 2014!  

Open for Business!

The Napping Hook is officially open for business!  Check it out at:

http://www.etsy.com/shop/TheNappingHook

And don't forget to like The Napping Hook on Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/TheNappingHook

Stay tuned!