This is our charming little tree. Isn't she just a peach? We discovered her on Craig's List. A local farmer was offering up some free trees, and well, this being a recession.....we figured we'd welcome her into our home with open arms. I think she's just lovely, and a great source of comedy in our house.
This was my parent's beautiful tree. I really don't see THAT much of a difference, do you?
This marked my first Christmas in Oregon in 3 or 4 years! I was always prohibited to leave my job in New York during the holidays because of the chaos that came along with the season. That's the curse of being a professional baker, I suppose, working longer, harder hours during this already busy time of year. But this time I had a few days off, and drove out westward to celebrate my coastal Christmas with family.
Here I was, on Christmas day, basking in the glow of the afternoon sun. Gorgeous, is it not?
I spent a couple of lazy days working as little as possible. I parked my tush right in front of the tv (we don't have one of those fancy picture boxes at my house), watched such classics as "National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation," and "A Christmas Story." There, I continued my holiday gift knitting. Yes, I'm STILL crafting up a fiber storm. The end is in sight, however, and there is a light at the end of the tunnel. I cannot wait to start knitting something for myself again. Hello January, you are a welcome presence.
So, now begins le documentation of knitted gifts. I haven't taken pictures of everything yet. A little at a time. I wouldn't want to overwhelm you.
Crofter's Cowl: (free ravelry download)
http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/crofters-cowl
I used Malabrigo Worsted, which I can't seem to get enough of..... erm, you'll see.
I was unable to get a clear picture of it around my neck, the lighting was being rather uncooperative. This cowl was a secret Santa gift. I hope she likes it. I admit it seems a bit small. But I think the colorway is beautiful. Fingers crossed.
My mom wished for a blue scarf. I came upon this pattern and fell in love with it immediately. Delicate and feminine, but thick enough to provide a lot of warmth.
Column of Leaves Scarf
Once again, I used Malabrigo Worsted.
I followed pattern to a T. It was a little hard to get used to at first, but once I'd memorized the chart, it flew right along. I probably spent the most amount of time working on this project. But Mum's worth it!
I knit something for my Dad for the first time ever! He didn't ask for a scarf. Infact, I'm not sure I've ever seen him wear one.
But he's a huge fan of the Oregon Ducks, and I know football games can get chilly. Most importantly, my dad and his pal are driving down to the Rose Bowl today. By tomorrow morning, they'll be cheering alongside thousands of other screaming sports fanatics. And how stylish will dad look with his hand knit scarf in yellow and green?! The envy of all testosterone driven, beer slammin, hot dog eatin, football geeks!
I don't have a pattern for this, it was a purchase from awhile ago. I know there are similar scarves on ravelry.
Oh, and yes, I used Malabrigo Worsted.
75 Yard Malabrigo Mitts
Can you guess what kind of yarn I used for these?
I knit these for a friend of mine. I'm not sure if he's received them yet, so I'm going to keep his identity a secret. Shhh.
These mitts were so super easy and quick. I think I'll make them my go-to project when I need something last minute. I do happen to have a lot of leftover Malabrigo lying around. What? I hope he likes them as much as I do. Just look at the variation in color. So gorgeous.
Ok. I think that's all I can muster right now. Phew. I promise to report on the rest later. And along with that, I'll throw down some of my goals for the New Year!
Have a wonderful and safe New Year's Eve! Tweet
