Leopard print mittens, because I can

My favorite columnist, Mark Steyn, has a bit of advice proffered when speaking to classes of aspiring writers. He tells them, in addition to becoming writers, they should aspire to do something else as well. What doesn't really matter, as long as they do something. It's been a while since I've read the column, but the gist is, it's a more fulfilling and useful life when one is capable of actually doing something beyond thinking about how to write about things being done.

I would agree, capability is a wonderful thing. I've been surrounded by capable people my entire life. Need something built? The boards are in the shed; nails or screws? Need to replace a faulty light switch? I know a guy. Need something turned on a lathe? I know a guy — or three. Have a craving for handcrafted candy? Well, there is a secret family recipe for that. Just stand at the stove for a few hours, stirring to soft-ball stage.

Being surrounded by so many people better at everything can be humbling, to say the least. Sometimes I can't help but wonder if I'm the only nincompoop in the bunch. However, I've unlocked a secret of life. You don't have to be good at everything, you just have to try everything until you find the one thing at which you can excel (or love enough to blind you to your lack of skill).

Which brings us to last week. After a nice birthday lunch, my mom and I headed over to Yarn Harbor, quite possibly the best yarn store ever, where I found… leopard print yarn! I wish I could remember the brand, but all I can tell you is it was awesome and, being 100% alpaca, prohibitively expensive. Staring lovingly at the tiny skein, wishing I could wish the price tag away, realization hit. I knew how it was made! I could spin my own leopard print yarn using something a little less exotic for a fraction of the cost.

After some serious internet recon comparing colors and prices, the order went out today. Some Knit Picks Wool of the Andes in Merlot Heather, Persimmon Heather, and Bare. I can't wait to start spinning for my new mittens — leopard print: because I can!

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