I have been knitting since I was 20. There are very few things I love doing more than creating items on my needles. During times of economic hardship, it has been reassuring to know that I can always present a friend with a handknit gift and that it will be appreciated. Sometimes I have even managed to make money off my creations. About 2 years ago, I entered a sock design contest. Although the top prizes went to others, it was encouraging that the judges placed my three designs in the top 20.