August 10

As has happened for the past few years, I took some of my recently crocheted pieces back east for my mom to enter for me in the county fair. (And then sent her a small box containing the rest last week, since I had a few that weren't quite finished when we visited last month.) And this morning, I got the results of the judging.

For the 13 items I entered, I came away with 10 blues, two reds, and one unknown (because mom couldn't find it; I'm not worried because I'm sure it was just hidden somewhere). And (drumroll, please) I also earned the Betty O'Neal award for the best crocheted shawl. 

I've won a few champions over the years, but this one is particularly meaningful to me because of my connection with the prayer shawl ministry. It's my first big win in this particular category, and since I make (and truly enjoy making) a lot of shawls, it's really nice to be recognized for the quality of my work. 

I don't need recognition, of course; I'd make pieces to donate regardless of whether or not someone else tells me I crochet well. But I'm grateful for the confidence boost that receiving this particular award gives me, because it motivates me to continue with my work. And hopefully, prayerfully, that work will eventually serve as blessings to others.