Kathreen Ricketson was super cool. When I think about who and what I would be if money/my Type A Personality/Circumstance did not matter, I think her life resembles what I would want mine to be.
She was crafty, funny, wrote incredibly well, and had an outlook that never seemed to lack positivity and cheer. She was awesome.
And no, I never met Kathreen. But I did read her blog, Whip Up, and marvel at how crafty some people are and how I will never be THAT crafty...even if I wish I could be. I also checked out her adventure blog, the aptly titled Action Pack Blog, on which she shared tales from her year long trip around Australia with her beloved partner and two courageous and incredible kids.
Kathreen was really living the dream. And, as I contemplate the tragedy that took her from this world, I am reminded of Edgar Allan Poe's epic Annabel Lee:
The angels, not half so happy in heaven,
Went envying her and me -
Yes! - that was the reason (as all men know, in this kingdown by the sea)
That the wind came out of the cloud by night,
Chilling and killing my Annabel Lee
Her death is a terrible shame and yet a wonderful chance to celebrate the life of someone who really lived. And she died doing something adventurous and imaginative and CREATIVE...just as she lived.
Let her life be an inspiration to us all.
The folks over at Mason-Dixon Knitting, which is one of my very favorite blogs, have encouraged those who were fans of Kathreen and Whip Up to share some of their favorite posts. Well, here are the ones from this year that I have flagged:
From her blatant hint for some socks to the super adorable patterns she picked out, I want to make all of these.
Need I even explain this one?
I get called "grandma" by well meaning people when they see me knitting. They think it is funny. But I challenge them to find any of these matronly. I may knit them all in Kathreen's honor.
And perhaps my personal favorite: Some Thoughts on Slow Living
Someday, I want this experience. I want to wrap myself in nature, love, and contemplation.
So, while I am saddened that Kathreen Ricketson is no longer with us, I am so glad she lived. If she inspired others as much as she inspired me, that's a winning life.
I would be remiss not to mention that she did leave behind two children who could probably use help with their future (education is expensive). So if you would like to contribute, you can head over to PayPal and use the address set up by the family, which is otilijaandorlando@gmail.com.
Have a great Memorial Day Weekend, take some time to remember anyone you lost in service to our Nation and show love to as many people as you can who did come home. I know my veteran will be getting some extra hugs this weekend.
NoM
~EK
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