You may have noticed that my knitting progress has significantly decreased lately. I have mentioned a few times that I have been experiencing painful cracks in my thumbs that make it very difficult to knit. Since Thanksgiving I’ve been knitting with finger cots to help protect my thumbs. It didn’t help much.

The cracks have gotten significantly worse over the past few weeks. What used to be one crack at a time has increased to seven cracks at a time. It hurts a lot. I can’t do the things I love – like knitting or writing – without pain. I also can’t do things that are part of my everyday life without pain – like washing dishes, unlatching car seats, washing hands, laundry…..well you get the idea. It finally got to the point where I decided that I should go see the dermatologist.

I was able to get in quickly, which I am thankful for. I got a steroid shot and a prescription for a steroid ointment. That should heal my thumbs and protect me from more cracking. I can get another shot in a month if I need it.

My doctor said that I should notice improvement by Monday. I’m not planning on being able to knit until then. I am fidgetey without knitting. It doesn’t feel natural to let my hands be still. So the next few days are going to drag.

Once my thumbs are better projects are going to start flying off my needles. I can’t wait. I’m even going to teach my friend’s daughter to knit (I fear it will just be me taking the needles and saying “Just let me do it.”). I have big yarn dreams, and only a few days to wait until I can pursue them pain free.

I hope you are doing well and staying warm this winter!