Seventies Sofa Sweater

[@belindagritter1572]

Pausing this video almost right away to tell you that you are experiencing what you are supposed to be experiencing and I'm happy that you acknowledge that. This is an excellent place to share that. I've had that same feeling this morning attached to nostalgia for the old days as I am 6 months into widowhood after a 57 year marriage. It sucks!! Don't let anyone tell you it doesn't. However, I am serious about resetting my life to reflect those changes and not run from them. Along with that comes accepting the challenges of what I can no longer do and coming to grips with the fact that my entire life looks different from here on out. We'll just sit in this together and support each other, OK? btw, I think you are a Capital M mom. You may not want to admit it but anyone who draws a heart in the center of their child's hand when she goes to her first day of school so she won't feel lonely, is a Capital M mom! Consider that an honor. It means you took your job seriously and considered your child through every part of your life. Being a good mom means to raise your child to leave you and survive in the world without you. It's the suckiest job "perk" ever! Breaks your heart. I've been maudelin this morning wishing I could return to the Christmases when I had my wonderful grandma and aunts and parents (not to even mention husband) and when we enjoyed big family Christmases. I'm going to snap out of it as my son and family are flying in to spend a week with me over Christmas. They arrive tonight at midnight. But I think it's ok to visit those past memories as long as we don't linger too long there. I have not boo-hooed since my husband passed not that I've tried not to, but it just hasn't come. This Christmas it may all just break loose. And if it does, it's OK! It's OK for you too.

[@melaniemurphy7045]

You are NOT alone in feeling melancholy. Be it age or our current experiences, this season can bring on the feels. I want to sit in my “mourning” past experience, so I can make new memories going forward. My mom ( I was her primary caregiver)passed away last year, my kids have launched into the world and I am navigating what that all feels & means. Thank you for voicing this important and validating message…… it is okay to not BE okay during a “joyous “ holiday. It’s okay to sit with the sadness for a short bit. I’m sure there are new exciting things on the way. Knit on fellow yarny goblin!

[@supur1345]

I am so grateful for your words about Winter Solstice. It feels so good to know that there are others out there in the world that lament the loss of darkness. I find that our world can be overstimulating too fast too loud a lot of the time. I find the darkness of this time of year like a big warm hug what fills me with comfort and peace. Ah………… that peace is what I wish for you right now and always…!

[@ashleystahl2733]

You’re the first person I’ve heard talking about having a hard time after the solstice..and man, you explained how I feel perfectly! Like I want a little bit longer of being cozy and wrapped up inside, having our own light and life and not needing to go out 😂. And yeah, grief is a good word. Our older 3 are teens now, they don’t want to decorate cookies, or a tree, they don’t care. I looked forward to it…but now I miss it.

[@KateColors]

Oh, Amy Beth. I'm there, too, only I just need to be alone for a while. I told my family I'm not coming up this Christmas but that they are more than welcome to come here. I'm always the one who travels to them. I was sick at the beginning of December and I think I went back to work too soon; so, I decided I need to rest. I hope you have a nice holiday and a happy new year. Take care. Transition takes time. ❤

[@deborahcoyle7612]

Got my knitting in one of your beautiful bags and, oh boy, I’m crying right along with you. First time in a couple years that our two grown kids are home for Christmas. I’ve been having bursts of gratitude and melancholy, knowing how precious and fleeting these times are. Here’s to a 2025 filled to the brim with good things for you, Amy Beth. 🎉❤

[@thejasperpatch]

Thank you for sharing your melancholia Amy Beth, I suspect it's something many of us feel, for many different reasons. But we don't always feel able to share with those closest to us, especially at this time of year for fear of 'ruining the mood' etc. I'm having a very low key Christmas at my parents, due to a health emergency that has thankfully turned out much better than it looked a couple of weeks ago. So trying to take comfort in that, and will have my own (still low-key, but different) celebrations when I get back home. Sending love to everyone, whether this is your festive season or not, and and added sprinkle to those who recognize the melancholy. X

[@fatsquirrelfibers]

I am so glad to hear the emergency was downgraded. Many wishes for great comfort in your low key celebrations.

[@jeanathey767]

Amy Beth, let me just say that you cry beautifully. Your eyes well up, you can still speak, etc. So from those of us who sob, can't get words out, feel ugly crying, you should be enjoying that small blessing, girl. I wanted to wrap you in my arms until you felt better. Unless or until your kid actively pushes you away, pretend you are the center of her holidays because she may be hoping you still are! Merry Christmas to you and yours.

[@aileenxtl]

I feel very sad for your sadness. Thank you for being so vulnerable and real on this very public platform. Hopefully it helps you as much as it helps so many of us who watch your channel.

[@SuretteSnyman]

I knit so much sometimes I knit my finger that it split where the needle is pushed back. Now I use the small rubber thimbles for quilting to grip your needle. It fits snug and is soft enough to not really bother you. My children are all married with their own children. My husband passed 12 years ago,so I understand that nostalgia this time of the year. I focus on the new things I am going to do in the new year. Merry Christmas 🎅 🎄 ❤️ ♥️

[@lindachurch5878]

The second day after Christmas! My husband died in September so this is my first thanksgiving and Christmas without him I am so blessed to have had him in my life for almost 58 year , My family has been so wonderful, I have 2 grown sons and 2 wonderful daughters in laws and 2 wonderful granddaughters so I will honor him by continuing on with his love and theirs to hold me up!

[@julielandy9162]

Amy you are spot on! This season for some reason has been hard to get started. It's just....felt of kilter. The want of cozy comfy clothes, a warm fire and the glow of candles speak to me. Thank you for being honest in how you are feeling. I have tovtell you, we went out today, crazy I know. The mass numbers of humanity shopping was eye exploding!! Yes, most people got paid Friday but man it was nuts. So as I was sitting in our car I started quoting Dr. Seuss about all the Whos in Whoville and the noise, noise noise. My husband burst out laughing and said it was perfectly right. So virtual hugs to you and wishes of a blessed Yuletide

[@Roehrtribe]

I am only at the beginning of children moving on. I find it encouraging to see moms walk through this. I have witnessed moms and children do this so well. One I am seeing now her daughter is really kind and understanding of how hard it is on her momma. But doesn't see the sadness as a means of control. (because it isn't, But I have seen children think it is and it makes it so much harder.) Hugs to you and your teen momma!

[@shelleyfry]

Same friend. My first season with my son living somewhere else. There’s a blessing I love, “you always have a place at my table”. And you always have a place - even though I’m at the southern end of the Pacific Ocean. (Your tree does too. I have no tree this year. But fairy lights all year round in two rooms on the dark side of the house.) So happy to see your notification pop up. A treat as ever. Your socks are wonderful, and I’m so impressed that you fixed them.

[@remmary100]

I remember it well. When my daughter went away to college, it was her empty chair at the dinner table that always broke me. A physical representation of her absence. Your emotions are palpable and beautiful in their rawness.

[@karmakauffman7445]

This time of year is always a little bit hard for me, as it is for many. We don’t have children and Christmas is so much about children and family. My siblings have their kids (and grandkids) home for Christmas and their homes always seem so busy and bright, loud with laughter and conversations, while mine often seems quiet and empty. We often spend a few days around the holidays with my sister and her family, for which I am so grateful! They always make us feel so wanted and loved, bless them! At the same time, I’m so aware that I can’t have that experience with children of my own. So, I’m right there with you feeling melancholy, feeling a bit hollow, and feeling that my home is more empty than it should be. Thanks for sharing your feelings with us. It helped me recognize some of my own feelings of melancholy and helped me know I wasn’t alone in feeling a bit sad these days. Sending hugs and hopes that the season’s twinkling lights bring you comfort.

[@annh.8290]

YES, OMG I am so glad to hear someone else is in that strange melancholy place. Thank you for being that light shining on reality. I do love good puzzles.

[@annmoore6562]

Solstice should be an entire season in and of itself. Your vest is utterly splendid - not unlike yourself. Thanks for sharing. 🍊

[@fatsquirrelfibers]

Perhaps next year I should approach solstice a bit more intentionally. I’m going to set reminders to prepare some sort of daily ritual/journal prompt/art exercise.

[@mollywelsh8751]

Ah! the “empty nest” syndrome; oh it is real my dear & then you go through it with grands & even G-grands in a different way, too. But we get through it. But, oh, I’m so glad to see the solstice-I DO NOT do well with the lack of daylight. FEELINGS , they’re completely real and we need them. Love you beautiful one & absolutely enjoy your talks.

[@knitalittlebit]

Empty nest can be excruciating; no wonder you're feeling melancholy. I hope your knitting and crafting bring you comfort. ❤

[@maryannw5289]

Always good to see you. I have certainly had a mix of emotions as I’ve watched my children become more and more independent. Hugs!

[@remembrancespottery8222]

I'm reading The Serviceberry right now and thoroughly enjoying it. I will be suggesting it to everybody in my life. The concept of the gift econimy as a radical act is 👌👌👌 right up my alley.

[@Morganroadknits]

Amy Beth, I live in Cincinnati and have an only, as well. I went through every emotion you are feeling. I’m 16 years removed from that time and my daughter is happy and lives in San Francisco. We could not wish for her a better life. I had to relearn who I was, what my role is moving forward and what my marriage was going to look like in this new life. We are human and humans don’t do change well, but we adjust. It takes time. Cry those tears when you need to but trust me, it will get easier.

[@fatsquirrelfibers]

I'm so glad to hear you found your way through. It's good to know that there's light at the end of the tunnel!

[@feltaria9177]

Nothing wrong with looking like a 70s sofa. Those colours all suit you so well. Merry Yule

[@mindykannon4650]

Awe - I totally get it! I love the long dark nights and the closing down the house as it gets dark early. I hate when we swing the other way. Christmas changes as the kids get older. Mine are much older than yours and the grandkids are fun but do not live close so Christmas feels like just any other day which can be sad. Also the steam/smoke blowing out behind you had me rather alarmed but maybe it is a humidifier. Thought maybe your teapot was going to go dry…8-). Enjoy the peace!

[@nicolekerslake5533]

I felt all the same feelings when my son left home. You express the experience so well. I looked up Chad and I just love the sound too.

[@cottagekeeper1044]

Thanks so much for being my best knitting friend. I’m here in the Golden girls music in my head😂 ❤🎄Merry Christmas

[@JDLKnits]

The transitions that come with adult children is hard. Somehow you find a way to get through it. Thank goodness for our creative outlets. Christmas happiness is wished for you, in whatever form it takes. 🎄

[@fatsquirrelfibers]

It's definitely a journey. I hope you find lots of joy this holiday season!

[@theyarngoeson]

I've used Thimble-its for finger stabbing issues, I've cut them in half or in other needed shapes to help. They stay put really well and will stay on through hand washing. I've found them on Amazon but also in craft stores in the sewing area for notions. A pack lasts for several years.

[@lalaleelou1]

Thank you so much for sharing your heart. I’m struggling this year too and Christmas has always been my favorite. It’s just not the same this year and I’ve been very sad. I think you nailed it about the change in being a mom to adults. Sending love. We will persevere and adjust.

[@ruthmaclure33]

Can I recommend Joep Beving's first album Solipsism? He is a pianist and this recording is very much like the music you describe. Beautiful!

[@fatsquirrelfibers]

Thank you for the recommendation!

[@calebaustin8343]

I know exactly what you're talking about when it comes to the piano. It has to do with how the keys are weighted in regard to the mechanism that lifts the hammers that then strike the strings. It also could do with the amount of felt on the hammers; older pianos are typically very well weighted and have some really beefy hammers.

[@Craftynumbernerd]

I absolutely love that vest! It turned out amazing and you are awesome

[@pamelamcculloch3667]

Sometimes I feel you are my actual soul outside my body. Sending you hugs and calm - I am feeling the same this holiday. Thank you for helping me sit with all the feelings. Also - a bandaid is on my sock knitting finger 😅

[@patsycoats4061]

Merry Christmas from Alabama. I love your vest. I’m a 70’s gal, so those are my colors.

[@marsheilabetthauser9790]

Empty nest is so hard!! When I went through it, I thought I was the only one. I cried every morning because I missed my daughter so much and things weren’t the same anymore. I totally understand your feelings right now and thank you so much for talking about them.

[@jillybeandean]

Untethered. Yes, that is exactly how I’ve been feeling for quite awhile. I have four kids, my oldest and youngest moved about 4.5 hours driving away over the last three years. I’m quite close to both of them and not the same levels with the middle two, who both still live near me. I think after so many years of considering your kids’s feelings and needs, it’s weirdly freeing to not have them to consider at least in the same way. Not sure what to do with the freedom and how to just consider what I want. Weird. I have dived deeply into knitting which might be a little escapism while I ponder the next chapters. ❤ hugs. I hope you are able to find lots of twinkle lights while we are here in the dark. And to find lovely things to enjoy as the light returns. ❤. Thanks for your vulnerability. It was quite moving and a little revealing for me. Bandaid- I use medical tape to wrap around my finger. Although I stab my pointer finger pad when I’m knitting certain things. I find that I like how well it stays on and really protects my finger pad, not as cute as the bandaid, though. 😂 Well lol😂 I’m just editing and adding comments as I make my way through the podcast. Haha. I also Hate (with a capital H) my toes restricted. Eeeh! A too short sock would be no good, no good indeed! I’m that person who yanks the bottom of my bedding out so my feet stay happy. lol

[@sandiemable]

I'm sending you a huge squishy hug. I felt better after I sat down with my son and told him how much I loved him, how proud I was, and that I would always be here for him no matter what. I got the, oh mom! I then told him, like it or not, I would miss him. This conversation did both of us a world of good. I had to say it out loud, and he needed to hear it even though he didn't like the fact that he did. Have a nice one-on-one with the teen; your heart is aching, let it out.🤗

[@rebeccaknudsen6190]

I just recently learned that when you become a mother, the childs dna stays in you for the rest of your life. It's no wonder that it feels so bittersweet when things change and evolve. I believe it's because you're a capitol M kind of Mom!

[@demiefraggle]

It has been a feeling time for me lately... thinking about my mom and relationship changes... definitely in my thoughts. Thank you for providing comfortable watches....and cardinals just get me lately... maybe my mom watching over lol.

[@7autumn5]

Thank you for keeping me company in the car as I drive home tonight. Also, I am also in a transition. In the same way that you are with my own teen who is having friends groups for Christmas and we had Christmas early this year so that his girlfriend could come to Christmas with us and so he is traveling to her grandparents in another state and getting his own hotel room so that he can spend Christmas with her grandparents and with her family. So that’s the first for us! Him traveling, staying in a hotel room by himself and going to another Christmas on Christmas. It’s wild for sure

[@fatsquirrelfibers]

Eeeep! He has grown up so fast! Sending bib momma hugs south for you along with wishes for a restorative holiday.

[@MargotM]

Omg I have knitting stab wounds too! And get them pushing the needle when moving the stitches - like you describe. Thank goodness for plasters 😂

[@susanrine9562]

Hugs my friend!! Enjoy your journey. 😘🤗🤗

[@MsKarenMR]

Wishing you nothing but the Best this coming New Year !! ❤

[@Vanquished24]

Oh Amy Beth, Yes, we are with you. So many of us need this permission to have the feels, to think of the feels and where they come from and to know it’s ok.

[@beebeemcv]

Not having one of your most loved people around would give you sadness. I've certainly had lonely celebrationtimes before. Thank you for sharing ❤ And know you are deeply appreciated as well. Beautiful sleighs (sleighing!). Your afghan crochet vest is the most beautiful colours ❤ Love your hobbit christmas socks as well! I know what you mean about the sound of the piano keys! I wonder if there's a cross stitch of the cabbage person from the garlic book?!

[@fatsquirrelfibers]

Thank you so much! An embroidery/cross stitch of the little cabbage lady would be magnificent! Or even a little knitted one. Maybe that should be my goal for the new year!

[@lindachurch5878]

I have to say, it has been a while since I have comented and you look fabulous! I love your hair, and the length. You are so much fun to listen to you, and see your makes,

[@kristalburns3490]

Welcome to empty nest and congratulations you have raised sucessful humans. You and anyone else going through this is allowed to mourn what was, just remember to celebrate the now and what is in the future.

[@ShadowTail-wispofsmoke1313]

Totally agree with you on Patagonia brand sizing. I live in the mountains and even have one of their outlet stores near me. But if you’re a gal with boobs or a butt forget fitting in their clothes they only recognize one female body type and it apparently ain’t mine or yours. I think your vest is way cooler than anything produced by them. Love the color way. Btw, I too mourn the return of the light at solstice, loving the darkness for its gift of peace from the dying world. Your hobbit socks are spectacular !

[@fatsquirrelfibers]

Awww, thank you for the compliments!

[@carolmorrison5173]

Love your vest.

[@celestedouville2529]

same re footless tights. I was gifted 4 pairs of snag tights this advent, and am going to cut an zigzag the cut to make them footless!

[@midtownfiber]

I appreciate you. Much love, and boy do I feel you on this.

[@celestedouville2529]

Bless you, same regarding the feelings! Also I do the same thing with knitting needles when knitting socks - I use size 0, which also HURT so much stabbing under the nail repeatedly... This was puzzle year under the tree - so many puzzles to make during betwixmas...

[@louisegolder3276]

Happy Christmas xxx

[@budaknit]

same, friend ✨💚✨

[@traceyturra2192]

I love how much you share your emotions. I think not enough people do. We are told to be tough. I do find not putting to much importance on one day and enjoying moments helps me. Take care internet friend.

[@ApplesandPeanutButter]

I like the "traditional" puzzle shapes better than the crazy shapes too. I shouldn't have to wonder if that is an edge piece or just has a straight side. You had a tough year between losing your precious pet and your teen going off to college. Having adult children is HARD. I am not feeling very festive either. My grandchildren will come to our house for their Christmas with Mimi and Poopy over the weekend. I am trying really hard to at least jolly myself up enough to make the kids' Christmas special. The Libby hold guilt, YES! If I know someone is waiting, I feel pressure to hurry through the book so the next person can have their turn. I also get annoyed when I am next in line for a 6 hour audiobook and the person in front of me keeps the loan the entire time. Sure, it is their right to keep the loan until the due date, but come on. It's a 6 hour book!!

[@fatsquirrelfibers]

I hope you find a bit of delight in your little ones. And many wishes for speedy Libby readers ahead in your queue!

[@melodyanderson3694]

A very big hug, I wish you kindness for your heart. Happy Christmas and God bless

[@monspier]

always more blues as a mom I feel you.... we celebrate their growth yeahh

[@jojojomac]

Welly bandaids DO stay on! Also! There are silicone thimbles that might work for you!

[@vikkizoo1]

Footless tights…woot woot. I have to wear commercial socks inside out. 🌈🌈🦋🦋

[@michellem.4358]

The vest is inspiring. If I were to learn how to do those pockets, what would I search for? Inset pockets? Welt pockets? Side pockets? I've never put pockets in a yarn garment before. I need to learn because pockets make things better.

[@sherirae]

Have an awesome Christmas.🎉

[@fatsquirrelfibers]

You too! 🎄

[@jenniferhopkins9331]

Do you have any cancer placements? I have 5 houses in cancer,,44 and 14 weeks pregnant. Girl, 😢😂. We are feeling all the feels, and not just our own. It's almost a collective grieving. Usually I am very social but winter here in Maine and in my current emotional state have become the hermit. I am sending you so much love and lots of hugs.

[@fatsquirrelfibers]

@@jenniferhopkins9331 oooh, I have sun, Mercury, and Jupiter in Cancer. I haven’t looked at any astrology as of late, but it is good to know I’m not alone in the watery depths! Blessings on all your houses while growing a tiny human!

[@jenniferhopkins9331]

My moon, mercury, Venus & Jupiter in cancer. Lol. It's a lot. I would love to look at you're natal chart. It's rare to have that many placements in one sign. It's actually very beautiful to me. But talk about empath!

[@jenniferhopkins9331]

And thank you so much ❤

[@ronnacasement8235]

I. Appreciate. You.

[@fatsquirrelfibers]

Thank you!

[@marcimakes8936]

Same friend

[@vikkizoo1]

My oldest, 24 WTF, has been going away with friends and having their own celebrations since 17/18…dotting me in. The past couple of years it’s been more like it used to be. I get super sad because it’s not the same. My main role had been mom 2000-2020. I’m not adjusting.😂 I feel in limbo. My youngest hasn’t shifted to ‘outsiders’ being main characters…most of his friends are virtual. The kids live together about 35 minutes from me. Everyone, dogs included, will be here tomorrow. There will be a lot of eating, movie watching, and the youngest wants to make cookies. ❤️

[@fatsquirrelfibers]

I hope you have a very joyous day!

[@vikkizoo1]

@ thank you…you too. ❤️

[@karenbudnick]

Make Christmas for yourself. They do come back. You'll always be home for your child.

[@djh1775]

I'm sending you an online hug.

[@SuziQZ]

❤🤗

[@lydiasobocinski9651]

I did that puzzle. it was hard! LOL. I think it is the size or gauge of the items.

[@fatsquirrelfibers]

I’m so glad I’m not the only one who found it challenging!

[@melodyneal663]

Your vest is beautiful! The Robin socks are so cute! The pattern writer has a book of delightful socks. You can check out the interview on the latest fruity knitting podcast.

[@fatsquirrelfibers]

Thank you for the recommendation! I’m going to add it to my podcast queue.

[@debmeyer3111]

Hugs.

[@Eloise-zt8uq]

Having our children grow away from us is hard. It took my husband and I a hard adjustment period with each other! It is all a real adjustment. You will come through it. We all do. But, man oh man! I’m sorry to see you sad.

[@fatsquirrelfibers]

Thank you for the encouragement❤

[@tamesonob]

The word you were looking for with the puzzle is obfuscation

[@monica737]

❤🥰

[@fieryhun]

Getting old sux!

[@MajorMonkeytoes]

It's very real! It's an end to the life you've known for years, a new step toward independence you want for your child but still an end to something. You just don't know fully what that new phase of your life will look like exactly. There's something about predictability that, once it's taken away, can either invoke anxiety or nostalgia. I think I can safely say we all want nostalgia because it means our children are well-adjusted and capable now. For so many years we are known to so many as "somebody's mom," and it's bittersweet when that floats away.

[@amyknitsthings]

I think a lot of us are aggressively sock knitting these days. Between the State of the World, Holiday stuff, etc.. Let’s all meet up in the bog. 😉❤️🧶