And what a lovely New Year it is shaping up to be. Peter, the boys, and I took the past few days as a bit of a vacation. We didn't go anywhere, just stayed at home and enjoyed not having to go anywhere. Ahhhh.... .
The relaxation was interrupted by year-end inventory at the shop. Thanks to Becka and Amanda, it only took us 2 and a half days to count, and one entire night for Peter to input all the data. We are done for yet another year. While inventory may sound tedious (ok, I admit, it is.), a part of me always enjoys the chance to go through all the yarns and patterns. I get to think of what I want to knit next, or perhaps what yarn we should bring in for the winter. Becka and I had a lot of fun discussing a new yarn that will be heading our way soon. We are both planning to immediately knit sweaters with it, as soon as we can tear it out of the box. And no, I'm not going to tell you what it is. Yet.
When you have relaxing at home vacation time, you often get some knitting done. I finished my Central Park Hoodie (no pictures yet, it is still drying from being blocked), and a pinwheel baby blanket for the shop.
I needed a mindless project since everything on my needles involved cables and charts. Once you get this blanket going, you don't need to look at the pattern. You just keep going, increasing every other round, until it is the size you want. Since mine is intended as a baby blanket, I stopped at the receiving blanket size. However, it could have easily been a lap blanket or throw. If you are looking for a comforting winter knit to keep you warm while you work - I highly recommend this one! I used 3 skeins Cascade Sierra - 80% cotton, 20% merino wool. Oh, and the pattern is free. Check it out here.
I wasn't the only one knitting away over the holidays. Madeline finished this gorgeous hat out of Dream in Color Classy and got started on a second while at the shop yesterday. (Madeline, you made the page! hee hee)
Terri finished off a hat right before our eyes and wore it out of the shop. Which was a good thing, since the temperature had dropped since she arrived.
She used Malabrigo. Gorgeous cables!
We had friends visit to share their projects.
I love this example of Noro fashion. Note the hat and scarf.
And Paul and BJ from Red Dragon Toys on Maine Street came to share the first ever pair of gloves that actually fit Paul and keep his hands warm.
BJ used Malabrigo, had Paul trace his hands, and created a custom fit.
Time to go get ready for work. While we're not open on Sundays, a wonderful knitter has reserved us through The Knitting Experience After Hours program (see the classes page for more info) to treat her knitting circle as a special thank you for their friendship. Can you think of a more perfect gift? I'm going to teach them all how to make knockers - it should be a great time!