Phoebe was delivered yesterday by my Sister and Mother who are now in Saratoga Springs. They are there because our FSIL's mother died on Tuesday, after a horrible diagnosis of bile duct cancer that was untreatable.
Ruth, aka Grams, was a strong, smart and accomplished person who had the added bonus of being a crack knitter, spinner and mentor to me. I last saw her when I vended in Saratoga in September of 2010 and I wish I was able to attend her services today.
It is comforting to know that her obit included mention of her knitting:
Ruth was an avid reader, lover of music and she had a gift for turning plain yarn into works of art. As a member of several knitting groups including the interdenominational Prayer Shawl Ministry at Bethesda Episcopal Church, where she worshiped. Ruth's knitting creations were admired and treasured by all. Knitting gave her hours of enjoyment and she developed many close friendships with wonderful women in both Rockland and Saratoga Springs Counties.
and that many of her creations were on display at the wake.
Ruth embraced the practice of knitting in public by always having a sock or a sleeve in her hands, I think that she knit through my wedding Mass and I know that she finished socks at the reception.
Her loss will be so hard for her children and grandchildren, especially my niece and nephew*.
My Mom and Sister will also be traveling north to see my Aunt, who continues to have many health challenges, before swinging by on Sunday to retrieve the beagle. Mom will go back to Michigan again for - I don't know how long - as they are still working on a large project.
I'm knitting a new sweater and will bundle up (it's warmed up to 19 degrees) for beagle walk in a little bit and today will include a few tears.
* Navy Boy is currently on a ship in the Middle East and not reachable.
Condolences to you, and all those who loved her, on the death of Ruth. It sounds like she was an awesome person who lived a full and good life. Sending hugs your way.
Posted by: Marilla | January 18, 2013 at 04:05 PM
I'm so sorry, but what a gift her life was and will continue to be through all those she touched. Shed those tears and walk that beagle, Dear. For everything there is a season;-P
Posted by: CindyCindy | January 18, 2013 at 04:14 PM
So sorry for your loss. Phoebe looks right at home. :D I thought you said that if it got warmer it would be a heat wave? /runs
Posted by: Stacey | January 18, 2013 at 05:32 PM
I am so sorry your family's loss.
Now tell the people about the llama lady.
Posted by: Cookie | January 18, 2013 at 09:31 PM
I'm so sorry for your loss. LOVE that Ruth finished a sock during your reception ... just so wonderful, in so many ways.
Phoebe!!
Posted by: Ruth | January 19, 2013 at 08:20 AM
I am sorry to hear of Ruth's passing - yet another wonderful person who took her light to the next plane. I hope Phoebs has been easy on you and your sweater is comforting knitting. xoxo It seems like niece and nephew have a strong support in Aunt Joan and their cousins to help them get through whatever comes their way, though.
Posted by: kitten | January 19, 2013 at 06:52 PM
I am so sorry for your family's loss. What a wonderful obituary for a woman who touched others' lives through her knitting.
Phoebe looks ready for mischief!
xo
Posted by: Karen | January 19, 2013 at 06:59 PM
Sorry to hear of your loss. Good luck coping with the icky coldness heading our way.
Posted by: Natalie | January 19, 2013 at 07:15 PM
Do you need to reach the nice navy man.? The red cross can help if you do. They contacted my guy when his grandmother died.
Posted by: Lori | January 31, 2013 at 12:46 AM