a kiss is just a kiss . .

When's the last time you shared a Kiss with someone special?  Is there someone you'd Like to Kiss, but just aren't brave enough . . . yet?  :)  Well, this fun little pattern is one that i really like because it's a nice variation on the theme of ribbing . . and really is something easy to memorize ... can be put down for years on end .. and picked and resumed in a heart beat!  

I found a very affordable cashmere/merino blend for Knitpicks several years ago and ordered 3 skeins to make a scarf for Bubba.  The only problem with this yarn selection is that it will spoil you rather quickly . . once you work with cashmere, and find yourself mesmerized by the decadence of that tiny bit of string as it grows between your needles, as it flows from the skein and through your fingers to form the stitches that drape like succulent grapes hanging from a vine . . on my!  And yet, this was a perfect reflection of a Kiss if you think about it . . . the simple act of closeness that conveys a Multiple of Meanings . . the ability to speak VOLUMES without ever uttering a single sound.

For this scarf i used a size 6 needle.  The yarn band recommendation gives a range of size 5-7 and i wanted something that was not too tightly knit and yet not too loose or lacey, so ... size 6 is was!  This Mistake-Stitch Ribbing pattern calls for a multiple of 4 stitches plus 3 extra. WHAT?  I thought knitting was a mindless and therefore a very viable form of relaxing and yet i'm finding more often than not, that i have to use my MATH skills! ... Who knew!   Good thing for me i did pretty good with my 4's!   Okay ... so i cast on 23 (5 x 4 = 20 + 3 + 23) ... and knit for a few rows to get the pattern established ... Nope!  Too narrow and strippey looking!  Rip out!  Do over, this time with 35 (8 x 4 = 32 + 3 = 35) .... knit again .... so close, but not quite enough ... so ... rip out Again .... and bump it up to 43  (10 x 4 = 40 + 3 = 43) ...   Perfect!!!!  ....  Time to sit and knit and watch this special little pattern work a tantilizing texture all around my hands ... and with the sheen that is worked into this cashmere yarn, the vertical rows of ribbing formed by the knit stitches that pop up like little soldiers standing at attention make this one of my favorite all time scarves ever!   Thus, i call this my KISS scarf . . Keeping It Short & Sweet!

Pattern:  *K2, P2; rep from *, end K2, p1.
Repeat until you are content with the length .... or have to go to work, or do the dishes or do carpool!  Then pick it up and knit some more!  I really like this pattern because because the edges don't roll, and with a solid color yarn your handiwork is highlighted and the visual effect is quite stunning despite the simplicity.

All because of a simple kiss . .

The simplicity of a kiss . . an oxymoron, yes? This seemingly random and easy manuever opens your heart to the blessings of giving AND receiving because we all know, the best part of a kiss is when you get a kiss back!  The giving of a kiss reflects SO much more than just a small act of physical involvement .. the emotions and trust that are contained within . . one only hopes that the "reply" is mutual. And i've learned that it's the little things that mean so much ... just like my relationship with my heavenly Father.  My simple act of Trusting Him has opened my eyes to the Vast expanse of His replies!  I entrusted Him with my heart so many years ago, and He replied with the Kiss of Forgiveness through the gift of His Son!  

Each day i choose simply to seek His face, to cast a glance towards Him - and He replies with promises of Provision and Guidance and Direction with each reflection of Trust i share with Him.  Rather than criticize a situation i find myself in, if i opt to whisper a prayer of Thankfulness it becomes a Kiss of Trust and results in a contented heart rather than a critical one.

I Peter 5:7 calls me to share an obedient kiss of casting all my cares/anxiety on Him  . .
                                               and in turn i receive - because He cares for you!

Ps. 141:8  But my eyes are fixed on you, O Soverign Lord;  in You i take refuge.

Col. 2:6-7  So then,  just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord,
                     Continue to live in Him,
                     Rooted and Built up in Him,
                     Strengthened in the faith as you were taught,
                     and Overflowing with Thankfulness!

You must remember this

A kiss is just a kiss,

a sigh is just a sigh.

The fundamental things apply

As time goes by.








 It's February .... that special month for sharing kisses with those you love!