Monday, June 09, 2008

Drowing in Beige

I married into a great family. It was part of what vaulted Mr S's and my relationship from serious to consideration-of-marriage. As I considered the future of our relationship, I wondered whether I could look forward to holidays with his family, year after year. Could I really eat Thanksgiving Dinner with these people 20 years from now? The answer was an unqualified yes, and remains so. This weekend brought us to Maryland for a family graduation, and we stayed at the home of one of my most favorite in-laws, Mr S's aunt. She is a brilliant and accomplished scientist, a reader, world traveler, insect-o-phile and knitter/crocheter.

Evidence of her handiwork were everywhere. There were full-sized crocheted blankets and an enormous throw slung over the back of the couch. Even the little blanket she offered Rosebud to sleep with was a pretty feather and fan blanket. I aspire to having my handknits all around my home some day.

I also had the chance to present my wonderful Mother-in-Law with a handknit birthday gift. I saw her a few weeks ago, and when she saw the beige wrap I was making, with trademark subtlety she mentioned how a beige wrap would just be perfect for air conditioned restaurants this Summer.

Now, I must really love my mother-in-law, because a knitting long rectangle of beige stockinette is pretty boring. The Sunday Market Shawl is fast, yes, but it is dull. But I do love her and am happy to indulge her knitting requests, so I made a second one for her.

This weekend, she happily modeled her shawl for me.


She was all excited to take pictures of the two of us wearing our matching shawls, but mine needs to be reknit. Somehow, I managed to drop the wrong stitches, so my lovely ladders disappeared into the body of shawl, making a droopy, burlap-esque wrap. I've already frogged it, and plan on knitting a THIRD long rectangle of beige stockinette.

Left, no ladders. Right, ladders.

I would take a break from all the beige, but I really do need this wrap. It's a perfect summer layer. It will go with everything, from casual to dressy. It can be worn like a scarf and over the shoulders like a shawl. The silk is perfect for throwing over one's shoulders in drafty Athenian restaurants and protecting against sea breezes on the Aegean and nighttime walks along Cretan harbors. And since I leave for Greece in two weeks, I'd better get knitting!

12 comments:

Liz said...

Greece! WOW! That's going to be fantastic. It's definitely a must for Greece... knit away, my dear! Your aunt is fabulous... so is her crocheting and knitting. Love it!

Anonymous said...

Lucky you for marrying into an enjoyable family! And lucky them for having you there. Beautiful shawl - even in all the beigeness and having to reknit yours! Have fun in Greece! You are taking my dream vacation!

Kristy said...

It does look like a versatile piece. Beautiful job! I hope the third one goes quickly.

Wow, Greece! I went to Athens when I was in college, and it was a really great trip :)

Bridget said...

How nice to read about someone who so genuinely enjoys her in-laws. ('Cause I don't, but since my husband is not particularly close to his family, it's not a big deal.)

That is such a pretty wrap!

So let me get this straight. Ann is off to Norway, and you are off to Greece? Geez ...

Sarah said...

You must be a saint for knitting that much beige stockinette!

Enjoy Greece -- that sounds like a fabulous trip!

Anonymous said...

if I don't see you before your trip, have a great one!

of course, pix will be required upon your return... ;-)

Anonymous said...

a great knit for a great lady. i can't even tell you how jealous i am of a trip to greece! take lots and lots of pictures.

Lolly said...

This is a beautiful piece! and I really like the neutral :) glad to hear that you had fun in Maryland too!

Wow, Hellas! I studied the ancient language for years, but have not been yet. I do hope you have a wonderful time :)

Sally said...

Moppy looks sensational, as does your knitting. I'm sorry you have to knit yours over again. :o(

Oooh, I am so happy for you! You must take one bajillion pictures in Greece.

nova said...

I hope you have a great time in Greece! I am sure you will finish this shawl in time, it's too perfect not to.

Marissa said...

How outstanding, that such a plain piece can look so lovely. The color is perfect, it looks so soft, and it has great drape. When you said beige, I thought, oh no, really?
But it's understated and elegant and classy...
and now I. Must. Have. One.

And I must know, did your MIL change into an outfit that matched the shawl perfectly, or did that happen by accident? I love that top she had on!

Madge said...

Greece. Wow. Have a fantabulous time frolicking amidst the ruins. And on the beaches. And in the sea. And drinking ouzu and dancing on patios and....