Everyone has their own coping strategies in times of crisis. For some, a brisk walk clears the mind for others it may be a creative outlet that brings them calm. It is all a matter of distraction and of finding an activity that draws the mind away from negative thoughts. 
For me, it’s knitting. I love to lose myself in the clicking of the needles, the time flies by and my mind becomes calm. Over the course of the last year, I like many others have returned to this hobby. The feel of the yarn between my fingers connects me to the past, to more carefree times.
The only thing I find more soothing than knitting is knitting with purpose. To create a piece that will be of benefit to others, that will bring joy long after the final stitch is cast off. 
We get together often at Kingfisher Court to knit together. It is always a fun occasion with plenty of tea and cake and lots of joyful chatter. It is the perfect way to spend an afternoon, chatting and reminiscing, sharing stories of our lives and making connections.
We love to be able to do our bit for the community and knitting club gives us an opportunity to make a difference. Currently we are knitting tiny cardigans and blankets for the neonatal unit at Kingsmill Hospital. We took great care to choose the perfect yarn and pattern and whiled away the lockdown hours doing something that we not only enjoyed but that we felt could be of benefit to others.
As well as knitting for the hospital I have taken the time to knit for my new great grandson, due any day now. I don’t know when I’ll get to meet him but knitting for him has helped me to feel involved, its has created a bond between us.
Thankfully the lockdown has eased somewhat, and this easing made it possible for us to hand deliver our creations to the hospital in person. Sadly, remaining restrictions meant that we couldn’t visit any of the tiny babies we had knitted for, but a kind nurse took the time to speak to us and thank us in person for our contribution. It was a proud moment and made us feel valued. The nurse did say that next time we may be lucky enough to be able to visit the ward to see the babies who will benefit from our work. Fingers crossed; this will happen in the not-too-distant future.