It’s no secret that as far as knitting is concerned, my favourite projects to work on are socks. A nice small project to take on holidays, great for gift-giving, and a comfort knit that always makes me feel good!
As much as I love knitting socks, Summer Lee’s obsession is unrivalled. If you watch her Youtube channel you will be aware of her recent forays into sweater knitting and sewing, which only confirmed to her that knitting socks is where her true calling is. She surprises me with the variety of designs she creates and the wonderful colour combinations she uses. By the way, her podcast is also very entertaining.
Her first book, The Sock Project, is a complete guide to sock making and includes advice on yarn and needles, as well as patterns suitable for all levels of sock knitters.
Her latest book, The Sock Obsession builds on that, and includes twenty-five sock patterns divided into five sections, Traditional, Modern Art, Everyday, Whimsical, and Summer’s Signature socks.
Her Signature Socks are colourful, fun, textural, with stripes, and colour work, all the fun things you associate with Summer. That section is definitely my favourite.
The book also includes sections on Materials and Tools (yarn, needles) and Tips and Tricks (colourwork, stripes, sizes, measuring your feet, etc.)
What make this book different that the first, is that she introduces each of the twenty-five sock patterns with what inspired the design. Sometimes it’s a place, or activity, or something she’s enjoyed doing. She also includes photos of herself, and her family and shares what started her on this sock making journey.
Really enjoyed everything about this book. It’s inspiring, and informative and I loved reading more about Summer.
Story Telling …
As mentioned, in The Sock Obsession, I enjoyed reading the stories about Summer Lee’s life and influences on her creativity. It made we reflect about how important our stories are. They tell how we became who we are today, what shapes us, motivates us, and what is important to us.
When the Israelites were preparing to enter the land God had promised them, He instructed them to tell their children about their journey from Egypt, the miracles they witnessed, God’s promises, and their deliverance from slavery.
“Only be careful, and watch yourselves closely so that you do not forget the things your eyes have seen or let them fade from your heart as long as you live. Teach them to your children and to their children after them.” (Dt 4:9)
It was important that they remembered where they had come from, the promises God had given them, their inheritance, and their future. It was their story and during the struggles, and victories that were ahead of them, it would give them the strength and encouragement to keep moving forward and reminded them that the glory belongs to the Lord. Their story defined their identity in Him.
As a believer, I have a story too. It started over forty years ago when I chose to surrender my life to Jesus Christ and become one of His followers and recounts how He changed the course of my life leading me from darkness into His light. It’s a testimony of God’s faithfulness, goodness, grace, and unconditional love.
The Bible says that we are to “…encourage one another daily…” (Heb 3:13). Our stories are an important part of that. As we share about what God has done in our lives, it strengthens others to keep moving forward in Him, even during tough times. They remind us of His love and give us Hope for the future.
So, today, remember how far God has brought you, the promises He has given you, and the future He has planned for you, and share your story with someone else.
Until next time,
Lyn
Lyn Briggs Designs 
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