I posted this on a Scheepjeswol page June 18th. I checked daily hoping to see if she "liked" it. I wish she had seen it. My son is only a year younger than she was. She taught me so much. Heartbroken.

Dear Marinke Slump,

I have been crocheting for 42 years. I would leave it and come back, forever stuck in giant hook and ripple-land. I didn't know what a CAL was. Had never participated in one, until I found you. This was my first CAL. I was in group 1. Since I finished my blanket for my daughter, I have participated in a number of CALs and i am thoroughly enjoying them. I have more cotton 8 and am working on a Marinke blanket for myself now. To remind me of what you have taught me.

I think of you with every section, block or row. Why? Because you taught me SO much! Yep, after 42 years of crocheting there was a huge amount I didn't know. Because of you I learned the magic ring, the standing stitch to start rounds, how beautiful round things can become squares, how wonderful a well written pattern is, the value of a gorgeous yarn even if I have to order it from another country, how to properly weave in my ends, but most of all, you taught me to LOVE and adore crocheting again!

It's not just a novelty anymore. It's a source of pride and relaxation. I know stuff now!

Times are tough in life. It's not easy and some of us get more than our fair share of the hard stuff. I just want you to know that you made a huge difference in mine. I adore you, your work, your blog. You will always be my absolute favorite.

From the bottom of my heart, I thank you.

<3