Wednesday, November 02, 2005

The Lopi

With the onset of autumn comes that chill in the air; too warm for a coat, yet too cool for shirt sleeves. Finding the morning a bit brisk today, I went to my closet and came across my Lopi.

Lopi wool comes from a long-haired sheep in Iceland, but my Lopi sweater came from my mother. Back in the late 1970's her knitting needles worked continuously on patterned sweaters with roomy hoods and flowered pockets.


My next door neighbor and good friend, Angie, fell in love with my Lopi and soon became the recipient of her own as Mom usually knit in quantities, never wanting to leave anyone out.

Being a sweater-jacket and fitting loose on the body, it wasn't worn for style as much as for warmth. It allowed us to sit outside on chilly days, leisurely reading in the porch swing or sitting on the front steps. Though somewhat scratchy at first, our bodies would soon acclimate to its texture and dissolve into warmth amidst its comforting embrace.


My mother's hands have made so many beautiful things for us throughout the years, and thankfully I've had sense enough to hold onto most of them. They are a constant reminder of her love for art, and her love for us.

I could travel the world over and probably find stylish designs made of rich yarns and fabrics with fancy price tags. But I'd rather wrap myself up in memories with a warmth that transcends the body and touches the heart. Everyone should feel that kind of love. Everyone should have a "Lopi".


8 comments:

Cheryl said...

I want one. :-)

Martie said...

I'm with Clew ! I want one too! ;-)
How wonderful for you to have something that your Mom made "with love!"

srp said...

My grandmother crocheted afghans and handmade quilts. Mom knits sweaters, socks and scarves. They are priceless to me.

Michelle said...

My Lopi can be sent to PO BOX blah, blah, blah. :)

Better yet, I'll put on some fun coffee and you can deliver one!

Martie said...

I meant cheryl and said clew! oops, sorry!

clew said...

That's okay Martie, cause I want one too :)

Home made lopis and scarves and things are much like homemade noodles and other treats. They have that special something - which I'm sure is love - worked in which makes them so much better than anything you can buy.

Lori said...

Makes me wish I had everyone's address!

Sending you all a hug. Consider yourselves "lopied"!

J. Andrew Lockhart said...

I was passing by and looked at your web --- it looks like you have a wonderful family --- good luck with all!
JAL