Winter has a way of slowing things down, doesn’t it? The world outside is blanketed in snow, the air crisp and biting. It’s the perfect time to cozy up, reflect, and, in my case, pick up where I left off. It’s been a while since I’ve shared anything here—writing Threads of Passage has completely consumed me in the best possible way. But now, as the quiet of winter settles in, I’m feeling the pull to return to painting, creating, and connecting with you all again.
Threads of Passage has been a labor of love, weaving together the spirit of community, creativity, and resilience—values that resonate deeply with me. One of my favorite parts of the book is the Knit and Purl, a yarn shop in Passage, Ireland, run by the indomitable Nora Dunne and her group of older knitters. Their story, and the work they do, was directly inspired by the incredible Knit and Purl Club at the Longmont Senior Center.
These women embody everything I hoped to capture in Threads of Passage: their generosity, skill, and sense of purpose are nothing short of inspiring. The Longmont group knits for causes that touch so many lives—providing warmth and care through their handmade hats, scarves, and blankets. If you’re curious about their work, you can read more about it here.
I couldn’t resist weaving this beautiful spirit of giving into the story. Here’s a little excerpt from Threads of Passage where Nora Dunne and her friends are hard at work, knitting for their community:
“Every Wednesday, the ladies of the Knit and Purl Club gathered in Nora Dunne’s parlor. The needles clicked steadily, a soothing rhythm punctuated by laughter and stories. Together, they created more than just sweaters and hats—they wove hope into every stitch. Hats for the newborns at Galway hospital, scarves for the tree at the community center, and lap blankets for the elder care home, all made with love. As Maeve listened to their stories, she realized these women weren’t just knitting—they were stitching together the fabric of Passage itself.”
Just as Nora’s Knit and Purl brought joy and connection to the people of Passage, the Knit and Purl Club in Longmont has done the same for their community. It’s amazing how creativity—whether through knitting, painting, writing, or any other form—has the power to bring us together, even on the coldest of winter days.
So, as I sit here staring at a blank canvas, ready to dive back into my art, I want to leave you with this: creativity is never just about the end product. It’s about the process, the connections we make along the way, and the joy of sharing what we create with others. Whether it’s a novel, a painting, or a scarf knit with care, every piece holds a story worth sharing.
Thanks for sticking with me, even while I was lost in the world of Threads of Passage. I’m excited to be back, to share more stories, and to continue this creative journey with you. Let’s make something beautiful this winter.
