Never too late... by Liz Pacey

 

Hello, my name is Liz, and I’m a Knitwit. That is the way I have been introducing myself for the last fifteen or so years. Even my email address announces me as Knitwitliz. The Crochet group I belong to is known as the Croqueteers (after a blooper description of us in the local press). I love quirky words and, if you hadn’t guessed I love knitting and crochet.

Breaking news now. At the ripe old age of 71 I have moved on, and finally have the confidence to call myself a writer. 

Now, don’t get me wrong, I have written in many shapes and forms since I was ten. I write (and have had published) Bible study notes, prayers and articles. I’ve written essays and sermons, newsletters and church magazine stuff. And letters in abundance. 

Attending the Writers’ Summer School at Swanwick for the first time last year has been a life changer for me. It introduced me to writers – I was going to say in all shapes and sizes, but perhaps in all forms and genres is more politically correct. And safer… I don’t want to end up murdered in any of their books. 

My self-confidence was boosted. I AM a writer, and I’m raring to get on with the book that has been bubbling up inside me since my training to be a Reader (Licensed Lay Minister as we are now known) in the Church of England. 

One of the assignments in my degree in ministry and theology was to produce and deliver a course. At the time I was becoming interested in the connections between knitting / crochet and spirituality, and the seeds of Knitspiration, more than just a good yarn (working title for my work in progress) were sown. I’m not much of a gardener and they’ve lain dormant for quite a while, but God has kept an eye on them for me. 

Life got in the way. And… come on, we all know the myriad reasons not to get words on paper. But, as I wrote those tiny words ‘life got in the way’ I realised that is not strictly true. Life is a big gift to us writers. It does not get in the way. We need to embrace its pitfalls, and in the fullness of time it will be right to share what God has given us. And hopefully inspire others. I am now confident that the time is right for my seeds to bloom. 

Hello, my name is Liz, and I’m a Knitspired writer. I look forward to sharing my thoughts with you and getting to know you.   

You will rarely find Liz without a crochet hook, a pen and notebook, knitting needles or squeaky dog toy in her hands. Sometimes more than one of these at a time. English literature,  Theology and Ministry graduate. Former nurse, midwife and home visitor for the visually impaired. For many years a regular speaker at clubs, churches and groups, Covid and personal circumstances led to a break.  But…. She is back.