There’s something oddly grounding about knitting in a waiting room. The soft murmur of conversations, the steady hum of hospital air conditioning, and the click-clack of needles — it all weaves together into a kind of calm.

Today’s project: a basic chemotherapy hat in the most deliciously soft Dachshund Daddy Knits DK Alpaca yarn. It’s the perfect mix of cozy and breathable, with just enough halo to feel like a gentle hug on the head (and trust me, at this point, my head appreciates a good hug).

Keeping My Fingers Nimble

I like to think of this as multitasking for wellness: while the doctors and nurses work their magic, I’m keeping my fingers nimble and my needles flexible. There’s a quiet satisfaction in watching the rounds add up — one more inch of fabric, one more moment passed peacefully.

The simple ribbed brim is meditative, the smooth stockinette above it rhythmic. It’s the kind of knitting that doesn’t demand attention, just gentle companionship. Perfect for a day when you’ve got enough on your mind already.

Soft alpaca yarn, flexible needles, and a little quiet courage — today’s waiting-room project.

The Yarn That Cuddles Back

Let’s talk about this yarn for a second. Dachshund Daddy Knits DK Alpaca is pure comfort — soft, slightly fuzzy, and with a subtle sheen that makes every stitch look intentional (even the ones that may or may not be). It glides on the needles like butter and feels like it’s rooting for you as you knit.

There’s something beautiful about creating something useful and comforting during treatment — something that will, in a few more rows, be both a hat and a quiet act of care.

A Hat Full of Hope (and Maybe a Few Loose Ends)

By the time the IV is done and the last few stitches come together, I’ll hopefully have a new hat — one that carries every bit of patience, humor, and quiet strength from the process.

Sure, it might not be perfectly symmetrical (who among us is?), but it’ll be warm, handmade, and full of intention. And that’s the best kind of hat there is.

So here’s to soft yarn, sharp needles, and the small comforts that make long days a little shorter. Stitch by stitch, round by round — we keep going.