Yesterday i was once again reminded of how Cottage Knits has become so much more than a retail yarn shop. It is a place of refuge to those who grieve, to those who have concerns over health, families and friends. It is a place to celebrate victories and blessings.
Harry Wilson, the husband of Inge passed yesterday morning after suffering a massive heart attack. Harry and Inge were on a weekend trip to Kentucky.
I noticed that many of Inge’s friends gathered here yesterday…to comfort each other and to stand in wait for what might be done to help her and the kids. As one of her buddies said “I just had to come…I’m so sad.” I also took note that it was a day of tribute to Harry and Inge. Those who knew Harry know what a hard working man he was. He had a easy smile and a zest for life. Harry and Inge Wilson were a great team. They raised three terrific kids, owned a successful business, were proud grandparents, and built a good life together.
Inge’s faith and friends will bring her through the coming days, weeks and months ahead. She will find comfort in knowing that she can count on her knitting buddies to be there for her.
It’s been nearly four years since the doors to Cottage Knits opened for business. I remember that day fondly. I anticipated sharing my love of the craft with others…and while i knew relationships and trust are a foundation for building a business i underestimated the sense of family that would develop.
So as we continue on this journey…sales will be made, bills and taxes will be paid, losses will be mourned and life will go on.
We celebrate with Janet Poe and family at the birth of Zoe…after a very complicated and often seemingly hopeless pregnancy, Janet’s daughter Carla delivered Zoe early August. Even when things looked dim, we watched Janet diligently working on a blanket she was knitting for her first grandchild. It was her prayer blanket for Zoe…finished just in time…for a tiny little girl who came into this world to be cherished and loved.
Full circle and knitted together…and stronger together than we could ever be by ourselves.
