Andrew’s Story

Andrew is one of the greatest gifts of my life. A truly unique man with a big and open heart. He spends much of his time sharing his gifts with others. He is a master chef and gardener, and often prepares scrummy meals to take to those in need in his town. He creates costumes and clothing for friends, and shares his home, his passions, and his heart with those he cherishes most. Andrew has strengthened my own ability to be kind, generous, and unconditionally loving toward others. He has enriched my heart in ways he’ll never know. How do you give back to someone like that? A measly sweater couldn’t possibly show the depth of my gratitude. But it’s a start.

So I began, knowing that this project had to be unique. I couldn’t just open a book or browse Ravelry and say “oh that one’s cute, let’s do that.” It needed to be something with meaning and value, of great depth and design. 

I took my time, caring deeply about what I was embarking on. It took me quite a while to find the right pattern, yarn, and gauge. I wasn’t just knitting a sweater, I was offering knitted love and gratitude to a man that holds immense value in my heart. I was giving to Andrew in the way that he’s given to me and to so many others. 

And what a joyous knit it was. I experienced such pleasure dancing with the needles and yarn, reflecting on my time with Andrew. It was very peaceful and soothing. I loved everything about it. Even the silly parts like weaving in the ends and sewing up the armholes. 

Because of this project, Andrew’s love and generosity has reflected back to me once more. This sweater has taught me to trust my creative instincts, and given me confidence in my ability to create a garment that is professional and skillfully crafted. It has inspired me to reach beyond my knitting comfort zone and to boldly begin creating designs of my own. It helped me realize that I’m not just an amateur knitter, I am a talented artist that has been blessed with the gift of channeling knitted love and joy into a world that truly needs it. 

My hope for Andrew is that this sweater be a symbol of how much he is loved and appreciated by others. I hope he feels safe, held, and warm when he wears it. I hope it’s presence soothes his weary heart on challenging days, reminding him that he is truly one in a million, a man well worth the time and effort of creating each and every stitch. 

I love you Andrew. Thank you for all that you are.