Saturday, December 15, 2007

New directions for the new year

I guess I do not need to remind you that it is only nine more days to the celebration. And in less than that the light starts to come back gradually.

Another year is coming to an end. I am looking back at the year and the various things that I made during it. I have been looking even further back at my work from the past years and wondering what is it that I’d like to do next year…

I quilted a lot few years ago. I have done some embroidery, always been interested in felting and done some. Spinning wheel has been sleeping for months without one single turn of the wheel. I have a little bead stash. Sewing cloths for the kids and myself was at the top of my list for a long time. There are toys, sewn and felted, dolls, cloth and porcelain, along the path. All the pictures from the girls early years are waiting to be organized and put into the albums and as long as I can remember some bits of those years I would need to write them down, I have diaries to help me with the parts that have escaped my memory. I keep looking at my loom longingly. Piles of paper and boxes of drawing pens are calling me. I have a pillow for bobbin lace, but have never done any. I have been collecting books to be read. I haven't touched the piano for ages. Maybe there is something totally new for me to discover yet. And only this one life for all of this - luckily in a few weeks there starts another new year!

I started knitblogging in 2005 and limited myself into knitting. I was a lot on the go so knitting was a perfect way to pass time while waiting and I’m quite happy for the things I accomplished and I did learn a lot. At the moment I don’t need to drive and wait. I would like to broaden my horizons and give myself an opportunity to do other crafty things as well. This realization is causing me a slight problem. My blog is a knitting blog and if I won’t knit that much now, there will be nothing to blog about. But even so, I want to be free from the limitations that no-one but me set to myself. For a while I thought that I would start year 2008 blogless because I must confess, I have been little tired of blogging for the most of the year and have tried to find the joy I had in the beginning, but so far have not managed and this I think must be due to the fact that knitting is not the only craft I want to spend my days with.

No, no, I am not saying that I will stop knitting completely and I suspect I will find the joy of it again when I set my spirit free but if I don’t feel the desire to knit, then I will do something else. And the knitting basket could end up collecting dust for months…What I am really trying to say here is that this blog is not a knitting blog any more. I will not put any label on it, I will do whatever I want to and next year I will write about something maybe once a week, or at least I try it for a while.

I know many of you come for the knitting and maybe now feel that there is not anything to see anymore. I thank you for coming here until today but totally understand if you leave now. I might feel that way myself too, because if you love something very dearly, you want to nurture the love and other things just might not touch your soul and since time is limited one can only spend that much time looking at the screen. And for those of you who want to come by and see what I’m up to, you are very welcome.

There is time for everything and once in a while life changes. This is nothing big, but I wanted to make this clear to you – and clear to me. This has been on my mind for a long time; I feel relieved and am very happy that I finally wrote this out.

84 comments:

  1. Lene,
    Your knitting has always left me in awe, but I come to read your blog because of you, yourself. Your posts give a peek into a different life than the one I live, and I would miss you if you left!
    Linda

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  2. I think very few of us have only one craft (I knit, crochet, cross-stitch, and embroider), so not wanting to limit yourself to the one thing is very understandable. I'll be interested to see whatever crafty things you're up to, Lene! :)

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  3. Your knitting is gorgeous and creative. I admit though that I've always read your blog because you have such wonderful human insights. I regret that I cannot be a neighbor of yours, and really get to know you. I also have many directions that I want to spend time in, and it's quite frustrating having to pick only a few to pursue at a time. You definitely should go after what feels right. Have fun!

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  4. You may have thought of your blog as a knitblog only, but I have always thought of it having a much wider base. From the very first day you posted, I have been enjoying every bit of it. Yes, I love to see what you're knitting, but I equally enjoy seeing you dabble in other forms of creative expression and share glimpses into life in your part of the world. You can't please all the people all the time and a blog that has become a chore isn't fun for anyone, so please do explore to your heart's desire and share at whatever frequency suits you best!

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  5. Anonymous17:49

    Dear Lene

    I come here because your blog, on any subject, is interesting and inspirational. You are clearly a gifted crafter so no one can blame you for wanting to branch out. If you are able to share the results with us during the coming months I know I'll be excited to see them.

    Sarah in Mtn View

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  6. Adding my 2cents to everybody else's. I don't limit myself to one medium of expression; why should you? I believe wholeheartedly in letting the Spirit inform one's creativity. It might be knitting one day, blogging the next, weaving, bobbin lace, tatting, or rock-climbing.

    Wouldn't it be sad if God had said, "OK, I've made the squirrels. That will help to keep the trees and the people in balance. I don't think we really need the woodpeckers."

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  7. I too love reading your blog for you and whatever you choose to talk about. As another who does multiple crafts, I'm sure any craft you wish to discuss will continue to inspire!

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  8. I will read your blog no matter what you are doing. It gives me pleasure and inspiration, no matter how you choose to express your creative self.

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  9. Anonymous18:10

    It's the way you write, the glimpses into daily life somewhere I will never be able to go, and the photographs of just about anything are so enjoyable ans will keep me reading your blog. Wishing you and yours joy throughout the holiday season.

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  10. But if it's YOU that we love, and the knitting is just an extra bonus, you'll keep writing for us, right? (Besides, I know very few people who are limited only to knitting. I myself love many crafts and wish I had more time to learn new ones. Maybe you will uncover my next obsession for me. :-)

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  11. You are so full of the creative spirit, I would hate to see you squash that. I come here because I love hearing about you and learning your perspective on life. I'm looking forward to seeing all your crafty endeavours this year and I'm glad you're not going blogless!

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  12. While your knitting is spectacular, I often find I am inspired by your other crafting pursuits - you've single-handedly gotten me interested in embroidery, for example.
    I'm certain no one will mind if you move your creative spirit from knitting to another form of expression - but you'd better still blog about it!

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  13. We come here for you and what you have to say regardless of craft. I'll visit no matter what you choose to share. Thank you for taking time to blog.

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  14. Anonymous18:44

    Lene, like others have already said, your blog gives us insight into another creative soul and a peak at life in the Arctic Circle. The knitting is just what brought us to you in the first place. I have enjoyed hearing about your weaving, your family, the color of the leaves on a cloudy day, etc... Please keep writing, no matter what the subject may be!

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  15. Anonymous18:48

    None of us does only one thing. That would be boring. I have come to know and love YOU and yours through your blog and that is enough for me.

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  16. Anonymous18:53

    Make what you want to make: that's what imbues it with soul. Write about that portion of it you choose to write about, because that's how your writing gains a soul as well.

    I enjoy reading your blog, and I don't feel it in any way needs to be a knitting-only blog.

    Whatever Works

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  17. Anonymous19:00

    It is the creativity that I enjoy, so it doesn't matter to me what the medium. I also love your thoughtful insights and I like to read about a portion of the world I know little about.

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  18. I found you through knitting but I love your photography and your creative spirit. I love that you share it all with us. Thank you for that. I'll keep checking in. You enjoy your days.

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  19. I enjoy reading your blog, period. Knitting and other crafts too. I'll continue to read you and hope to see more of your new crafts too.

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  20. I am one more voice saying the same as others have said so well before me.
    Write about what it pleases you to write about.
    You are the reason for the blog... not just the knitting.

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  21. Anonymous20:06

    Lene,
    I read your blog to hear your voice, to see the seasons change on your lake, to hear another woman talk with such thoughtfulness about her life and share her beautiful and creative work.
    The knitting in your blog is amazing, and I know all your readers appreciate it, but your blog isn't about knitting: it's about you - and that's why it's wonderful.

    Have a very happy Christmas and a New Year full of wonderful surprises.

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  22. Inspiration, creativity, insight, photography, drawings, finnish lessons, life in the far north, cat, dogs and everything else you share...oh yes and the knitting too... this is why I love your blog
    I also have too many siren songs luring me in every direction...it is what renews the soul
    and makes life interesting

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  23. My dear,

    We come to the blog to visit you. Whether you knit or not, quilt or not, make dolls or not, it doesn't matter. We're here to visit with *you* and to hear about your life and thoughts.

    *hugs*

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  24. Anonymous20:47

    Lene,

    I have been reading your work for a while now and to me they are like letters from a friend. Your knitting is inspirational, and I am sure anything you do will inspire us all.

    We admire your work and love to see what its like to live in the very north.

    Thank-you, Merry Christmas, write back soon.

    Tina from Canada

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  25. Well, I'll just add to the comment love here and say I'm happy to spy on any of your creative endeavors. And I love seeing pictures of your winter wonderland...

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  26. Anonymous20:59

    Your creative and artistic ability spans many things that we all love. Your photos are always an inspiration too! I always enjoy your posts, no matter what they are about. My life would be pretty dull if I had to choose one thing to do forever.

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  27. Your blog was one of the first I started reading, and is still one of the first I check every day. I come for the quiet beauty of your world, whether it is snow or flowers, knitting or dolls, Tiina or the sky. I will love your blog because it is your blog, no matter what you blog about.

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  28. When I read a blog, it is more for the writing rather than the particular fiber endeavor. Your writing always calls me back.

    But your thoughts suggest another topic of interest to me: Does one keep a blog for an audience of for oneself? I've always been horrible at keeping journals and diaries in paper form. Growing up the youngest of 5 children, I suffered "Dear Diary Humiliation" in 4th or 5th grade and something deep inside of me made a vow never to allow myself to be put in that position again.

    Blogs seem to be the perfect antidote to that. I can keep a journal of my thoughts,things which inspire me, and accomplishments. However, knowing that it is a very public medium, I am careful about the implications of what I say. So my blog is for myself and if anyone wants to have a peek, or make a comment then more is the blessing.

    However, if I blog to please an audience, then it becomes something else entirely. And that's a place I don't want to go. I think what I'm saying is just a slightly different twist than what you are saying.

    Thanks for sharing your journey through your blog.

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  29. Anonymous21:23

    I just wanted to add my voice to those saying we may have come for the knitting, but we stay for You. We look forward to sharing what the New Year brings!

    Cheers.

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  30. Anonymous21:23

    So, your life changes from time to time; so your craft of focus changes; so the seasons change and so life goes on! Write if you want to, and if you take up abstract-art-steel-welding I am sure that will be interesting to read or write about. You are still my "friend" who likes to make things and lives in the Arctic.

    Thanks for everything you have displayed and shared in the past, and I look forward to whatever comes next, however often or scarce.

    I have never made the Pulla, but I will google the recipe out of you now and make it for our solstice-celebration at church tomorrow afternoon.

    See you next time!

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  31. Anonymous21:27

    Lene,
    I found you through your knitting, but continue to visit because your soul shines through your words, projects and photos. No matter which direction your creativity takes, I'll still drop in from time to time with my morning coffee to see your passion for life. Your blog inspires me.But first, and most importantly, it should give you joy.
    Hauska Joulu ja Iloinen veres ikä!

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  32. Lene;

    I come here to your blog for what feels like a chat by the fire with an old friend, though we've never met. I enjoy hearing you talk about what's important to you. The knitting is a bonus.
    I'll still be here.

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  33. Anonymous22:07

    Everyone else has said it well so I will just add: I will still be here, dear Lene. I have discovered so much through what you share. Thank you.

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  34. Dear Lene
    I love the way you talk about such simple things so lovingly. The thaw amd walking with your dogk and recently the dog playing in the snow. Your knitting is inspiring, but your loving telling of your life is more so. Please don't stop, I look for your blog everytime I manage to get online, and its always a moment of joy to read. hugs and warmest toughts, gem

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  35. Dearest Lene,

    Are you surprised to find that so many come to this blog for you and not just your knitting? Let me add my voice to theirs. If you never knit another stitch (but I know you will) I would still come because I love to hear about all you do and feel and to visit, through your photographs and words, the place where you live.

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  36. I agree with many others, we come to your blog because of YOU, Lene! I also enjoy your creativity, no matter the craft. I enjoy the photography, the insight into your part of the world and your family - also the four legged members.
    I will follow you, no matter the subject. And perhaps, like you, I will get back to my blog and not just have it be a 'knitting blog'.
    Have a happy holiday with your family!

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  37. Anonymous22:44

    I read your blog, because you're a great writer. I hope you can find the time to write every once in a while. It'd be a shame if you stopped, but I understand.

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  38. Anonymous23:53

    Lene,

    I come to read your blog because of you. Your life, comments and opinions are all interesting to me. Something about the way you write makes me love to read this blog - you are creative and fun, and I will continue to read no matter when the subject matter! You always bring a smile to my face.

    Julie in MN

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  39. Anonymous23:59

    I'm sure many have already said this, but I'll say it anyway. I love seeing your knitting, but really... I come here to read your writing. I enjoy your perspective, maybe it's the northern light ;-)

    I am glad to hear that you will continue to blog now and then. And maybe continue with some pictures of your lovely lake and sky, yes? Thank you for writing on into the new year.
    JoyceP

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  40. Lene,
    I am a long time reader of your blog but have never posted. Please do whatever calls to you this next year, it is delightful to read of any of the interests you have shared. Most of us have many other interests besides knitting. Thank you also for your frequent posts in December, it has been like opening a little gift each time you post. Your blog has been an inspiration for me to start my own journal in 2008, and it too will no doubt take many paths.

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  41. Lene--
    The blogs I like best are the blogs that reflect the blogger's true interests, activities, and passions, whether knitting is central or one of many topics shared. Be true to yourself and your blogging will return to being a joy, and your readers will still love you!
    De-lurking,
    Dana

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  42. Anonymous00:57

    Dear Lene,

    I, too, am one of your loyal readers from the beginnings of your blog. I love to get your insights into a very different life than mine, different surroundings, different views, but with many similarities as well.

    Even though I came for the knitting, all of the other aspects of your blog intrigued me along the way and have kept me here. I'll always be happy to read whatever you have time to share.

    Lyn, in Melbourne, Australia

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  43. Anonymous01:04

    I, too, have enjoyed reading your blog, whatever the topic. I show your pictures to my children so they know something of life in the arctic circle. And your crafts are beautiful. I do hope you keep writing.

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  44. Anonymous01:20

    I think part of reading other people's blogs is getting to know them in a context other than knitting (or whatever the original theme was). If people are just looking for knitting content, there are lots of other resources they can use. I guess what I'm trying to say is that although we've never met, I find your life and interests interesting, and it gives me a glimpse of a part of the world I've never been! Please keep blogging about whatever the heck you want (although if you switch to your native tongue you'll have to include way more pictures.)

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  45. Anonymous02:18

    I may have found you via the knitting, but I stay because I find your posts very thoughtful and intelligent, and I love getting a glimpse into whatever it is that you're working on now. I think a lot of us have other crafty interests besides knitting, and it's neat to see how much you enjoy things I've never even thought about. I love the posts about things Finnish, and enjoy the pictures from so far north. That said, this is your space, and you should do with it what you will. I'm happy to see you posting, but I never *expect* to see people posting on a regular basis. It's a privilege to have these glimpses into peoples lives, not a right. I am thankful for whatever you choose to share with us.

    Happy holidays, and best wishes for a wonderful, joy filled new year!

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  46. Anonymous03:09

    I am only a recent reader but I can tell that, like so many others, I will be staying regardless of what you write. I love the thoughtful and insightful nature of your posts. I hope that you enjoy your new explorations into whatever else awaits, and that blogging becomes fresh for you as a result.

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  47. Lene,

    Your words and your photos are always inspirational whether they are about knitting or not. I am grateful to you for rekindling my love of knitting after its 20 year rest and for introducing me to the blog world.
    Marie N.

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  48. Oh my goodness -- poor Lene, to be so worried! Even though it was the magnificent mittens that led me to your blog, near the beginning, now I come just to read what you've written. And to see your pictures, always wonderful no matter what they are. I look forward to being allowed to watch your voyage of discovery.

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  49. Hi Lene, Last weekend I took my girls to see the Golden Compass Movie and was delighted that it reminded me of your blog and your Northen home. To me, you are a story teller that happens to love knitting too! You are so interesting and have so much talent and I am blessed that you share your thoughts on life seasoned by wool...
    Merry Christmas!!

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  50. Anonymous05:02

    I think many of us will continue to read your blog even if you decide to devote your writing to snowmobile repair and Britney Spears. (okay, maybe not Britney) You write eloquently of the creative impulse and you are not alone.

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  51. Anonymous05:05

    Dear Lene,
    You are my only Finnish friend, and I so enjoy reading your blog. You must do what your heart and spirit tell you. Your thoughtful, inspirational words and lovely photographs are a delight and any craft you choose will be of interest to me. I will look forward to an occasional blog from you, knowing that you will be happier and more fulfilled.

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  52. Anonymous07:21

    Just as long as you keep those photos of reindeer coming....that's all I ask!!

    :)

    Jean

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  53. Anonymous07:28

    Lene, I feel privileged to have found your blog first thing after getting my first computer and go on the internet for the first time. I feel as though it was meant to be. The other day my DH and I were in the grocery store, when I spotted a package of cheese from Finland. I got all excited and reminded DH that is where Lene lives!!!! I bought Cardamon at the Health Food Store to make your Pulla. One set of grandparents are from Denmark and Norway...so I remember the good taste of cardamon! All of this chatter is trying to convey to you how much I enjoy your posts about your talents and your family (pets, too) and beautiful country. After the new year, I will begin some quilting, also. Even if you just post your meaningful insights on life and pictures once a week, that is enough for me to come to your blog again and again. Much love to you. Take care. Jeanie in Missoula, Montana USA

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  54. Everyone has said it so well before me, but I just wanted to add my two cents. We read your blog, because it is interesting no matter what you write about. You have tremendous insight and vision that we all love to share.

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  55. Your blog is more than knitting, it is the lovely scenery where you live, and everything that you craft. I came for the knitting but life moves on and it will be great to see what you get up to in the coming year!

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  56. Anonymous12:01

    Awww, honeypie, whatever you want to do, you just do it! You are such a thoughtful writer and introspective photographer--don't stop doing that--it's what you love and what your readers adore. I sometimes imagine that if my closest friend suddenly lived in Finland, this is how she would write letters to me. We love you for who you are, and how you write so eloquently about your own life that we can beam with happiness and understanding. Yes, you are an amazing knitter, but we continue to read you because you are an amazing person and touch each of us in our shared inner life, of which knitting is just a small part.

    Today I took down my American Girl doll (yes, my children are grown up, but my youngest son gave me a doll for Christmas one year), and I said, honey, you have beautiful store-bought clothes, but I'm going to knit you some beautiful stockings, and then sew you you some beautiful underthings, and finally I am going to go through my collection of antique chicken feed sacks that my father gave me many years ago, and I'm going to make you some wonderful dresses, and aprons, and a felted cloak with embroidery on it. And you have Lene to thank for this!

    It is the gifted writer (blogger) that can touch us in ways we haven't thought about before. You are that gifted blogger.

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  57. I'm repeating what others have said, but it's not just the knitting I come here for and I shall keep on coming - no matter what the subject matter is - for as long as you choose to keep on writing, Lene!

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  58. While it was the knitting that caught my eye it was the person behind the wool that kept me coming back again and again and again. Whatever you write about Lene, it brings great pleasure to my day to read it, and I look forward to the other parts of your creativity that you will be sharing with us over the next year. you are an inspiration to all of us who desire to create with our hands and I thank you for sharing it with us.

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  59. Anonymous15:50

    Lene,
    I visit your blog for your writing & creative spirit. Your gorgeous knitting creations are inspiring, but so are all your other crafts. I also love your photos & accounts of life in the far, far North. Thank you for sharing yourself with us, and have a wonderful holiday!

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  60. Go for it! I'd love to see and read about any type of project that people are working on. And I won't stop reading even if the knitting is gone. Your blog is for you and should make you happy.

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  61. I don't visit your blog just for the knitting so I won't stop if there isn't any! I'm looking forward to see the new inspiration you will bring to your blog. Hyvää Joulua ja Onnellista Uutta Vuotta!

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  62. I just visit because you write so beautifully, so it doesn't really matter to me what you write about :). And besides, I get inspired my all crafts stories and pictures.

    So go ahead, do just as you feel is the best! We'll stick around :).

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  63. Anonymous19:03

    Lene,
    I have found great pleasure in reading your writing. The knitting is wonderful, but my favorite parts are the descriptions of your homeland and your daily life in it, your frustrations about inspiration and creativity, and your artistic vision. I never thought of myself as an artist, but reading your blog has made me realize that I do sometimes see things in that way. Please continue to write - my heart goes out to you every time I visit to read.
    Kathy

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  64. I have come to believe many of us started knitblogging because of our knitting, but it represents, with time, so much more to each of us. Through the blogs, we "meet" each other, sometimes oceans apart, and we come to know each other, not as a function of our craft, but as people with whom we share an interest. That shared interest(s) provides us with the avenue to build friendships and come to know one another.

    I echo the sentiments of others in saying I read your blog not only for your beautiful knitting, but because I enjoy your prose style and your willingness to share your life with us.

    Thank you. And please continue blogging about all your crafts and interests, as well as sharing your life with us.

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  65. Anonymous19:48

    It's you who's interesting, not only your knitting. I will continue do come here and visit everytime I can.

    Luisa in Lisbon, Portugal

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  66. As someone who's own blog has gone through some major changes, I say blog what's in your heart.

    It'll make you happy, and ultimately, it will make your readers happy.

    I'm in your corner no matter what! L, C

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  67. Anonymous22:23

    Just another reader checking in to tell you how much I enjoy and appreciate your blog, regardless of the content. I am very happy that you have freed your spirit and I wish you much joy in your chosen activities.

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  68. Anonymous05:26

    Dear Lene,

    Thanks for a lovely blog; I have been reading it for some time now, but have not posted anything yet. I enjoy very much your adventures in knitting, but read your blog for other reasons, too -- I love to hear about your life up north, the changing seasons and the 'power' of the outdoors, and what your creative mind and hands produce (one of my all-time favourites is the market bag that you knitted, felted and embroidered...) So please keep on writing as long as you find it useful to yourself -- we'll keep coming back for more :-)
    Anette
    (Dane now living in Singapore)

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  69. Goodness Lene, this is your blog. It's a Lene blog, not just a knitting blog. Although I love your knitting, I also love this peek into a very different way of life. Photos of the seasons on the lake. Cleaning rugs in the snow. A weaving project which didn't meet your high expectations. And the sweet traditions that you so carefully explain. Just keep writing when you can, about any and everything you feel like. Hopefully you will find pleasure in it again soon.

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  70. Anonymous10:02

    Lene
    Your blog has never been just about the knitting. It is a place filled with grace, charm and good writing. You delight us with everything you do and you generously offer to take us along with you to share new joys. I am so pleased you are staying with us.
    Hugs,
    Ann

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  71. Anonymous11:51

    Lene - I'll still be delighted to read your blog regardless of the craft (or otherwise) involved for two reasons. I love the way you write and can make everyday obsevations magical, secondly, I would imaging that there are very few of us who restrict ourselves to a single craft. Hope you have a great Christmas and New Year...

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  72. Anonymous16:16

    Lene--
    I will read your blog no matter what--I read it because I value whatever you choose to write about. Your creativity in all areas inspires me, and so often what you write or what you show--your knitting or other crafts, your lake in all the seasons, and more--moves me and helps me to move into my work day with a more peaceful mind. Post when you want, about whatever you want, and I will be grateful for what you share with us.

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  73. While knitting might have been how I 'found' your blog, it's truly not the only reason I check it out. I found it totally interesting to read about a part of the world I am not familiar with and don't live in. I've been awed by your 'craftiness' for quite some time. And I look forward to seeing what you are up to....plus heck, please don't deprive us of the 'doggy' pics.
    [wink]

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  74. Anonymous19:19

    Hello, knitting, quilting, doll making, whatever ... I'll be here. I have been wondering if Tina has any new Finnish words for us? She's such a good teacher. Some of the staff at the university where I work do a gingerbread house each year. It's large enough for children to walk in (and I've been tempted!). They cheat a little and use graham crackers for roof shingles, but it's really neat. I hope you have good luck with your bird feeder and a Merry Christmas to you and your family.

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  75. Anonymous20:30

    Lene, we love you whatever you write about. I steal away from work to look at your pictures, it always takes me out of myself and makes me feel better.

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  76. Lene, I love to see all the lovely things you are working on. You are so wonderfully creative I look forward to all of the things you share on your blog--your drawings, embroidery, weaving, dolls, and your knitting. I enjoy reading about your life and seeing your pictures of the beautiful Finnish countryside where you live. I also like to try new crafts, so I understand your yearning for something new. I hope you keep blogging, because I will be here peeking in on whatever your spirit moves you to create. Merry Christmas!

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  77. Lene,

    When i read your blog I feel as though I am looking through a window and I'm able to peek into yours and Tinas world of the Arctic circle.

    I found it for the knitting but stayed for the spirt, inspiration and calmness that is you.

    Thank you for the privilege

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  78. Anonymous23:45

    I just have to chime in, too, although I know what I have to say is very similar to others. I love your blog, it's one of my favorites in the whole blogosphere! And if you don't feel like writing, well, you don't owe anybody anything! You just take care and listen to your own true, quiet voice! That said, I'll happily read any of your writings, on any subjects! Living in Seattle, where we're definitely in the dark time of year, I especially enjoy reading about your experience of the (even more extreme) seasonal light cycles! I love your writing, and your sense of design and beauty and creativity and general good sense!

    Janet in Seattle

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  79. Anonymous23:47

    Your posts give me great joy. The pictures, beautiful. I feel really lucky to have found such a person whose willing to share so much. Write whatever and whenever you can. I'll be checking in to see what's new.

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  80. Anonymous03:25

    Lene, I read your blog for vicarious travel to Finland as much as I do for the crafts. I grew up in a cold, coniferous, snowy climate with lots of lakes(although with more daylight!), and I miss it very much. Seeing your photos is a great pleasure for me!
    -- Allison in Philadelphia

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  81. Anonymous03:53

    I will still be coming no matter what you write about. I love your spirit, your writing, your photos, and your passion for what you are doing. I love to see the world around you, I have always dreamed of living in a very cold place like yours, and yours is very beautiful. I love your knitting, but your animals and dolls are a wonder! Keep blogging please!!

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  82. I think most of us read your blog not only for the knitting content, but for your writing and the way that you share your views and projects with us, no matter the type of craft or topic. I am interested in more than knitting and will gladly follow your blog whereever it takes me :).

    Hyvää Joulua.

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  83. I am a bad blog reader because, while I read your blog regularly, I rarely comment.

    However, I wanted to say that I am fascinated by your incredible creativity and gladly read about whatever current project you're working on! I don't think you need to limit yourself to knitting on the blog.

    You are such an inspiration, please don't stop blogging!

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  84. oh - what lovely photos and beautiful creations I look forward to on your blog. . I too have read for a long time but I don't think I've ever commented and I'm sorry about that. Whatever your creative pleasures I will look forward to continue reading about. I too like to knit, read and do embroidery. Reading blogs like yours helps me to see other possibilities. Thank you so much!

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