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I just got back from Austin, TX where my husband  attended the SXSW interactive confrence. I had a really great time down there. It was so nice to get a taste of some springtime weather and bask in the sun a bit. When I say "bask" I really mean sit outside under an umbrella with 70 spf sunscreen, a dos equis, and of course my knitting. By the way, I only managed to get a sunburn on the tops of my hands and on the part of my hair (very proud of that).

While I was there, I was able to sneak in to the conference to see one of the very last speakers, Blake Mycoskie, who is the founder of Toms shoes. He told us all about the story of how he started Toms in a very moving and inspiring speech. His message was powerful and he challenged everyone in the audience to incorporate giving into whatever they do. He suggested that companies could donate more than just money by having a volunteer day for their employees.

My first thought was, "This is an amazing idea and I wish my employer could hear this speech." It seems highly unlikely that this would ever happen in the place I work. My next thought, which now seems surprisingly out of order, was, "Hey, I've got my own tiny business! How can I use my little pattern shop to impact the world? What can I do to help the people in Japan?"

BRAIN FLASH! (as my adorable mother would say) I've been sitting on a new knitting pattern for a cowl / snood thing for a bit. I've been unsure as to whether I should put it up for free, or if I should try to sell it. It's a very simple pattern, but I think it has a great look to it which is worth something. It's the perfect pattern to sell as a fundraiser! So today, even though it may be a bit late, I am posting my pattern for the "Caring Cowl" for sale for $3.00 US here on KnitDarling and on Ravelry.com. In two weeks I will donate all the profits to the Red Cross. Depending on how well this goes over, I'd like to extend the time or switch to a different charity on a rotating basis. I'm open to suggestion on that subject.

I encourage everyone who reads this to please buy a pattern for themselves or as a gift for a friend. The cowl is super hip (all the cool kids are wearing them in Brooklyn), and simple enough for a beginner. Thanks to everyone for their support!