The Countdown Begins

Happy Monday everybody and now we are getting down to the wire for last minute Christmas gift crafting! I am sad to report that the afghan I am crocheting for my great-niece Riley for Christmas probably won't be completed in time for Christmas. I put a picture of it on my blog back in the summer with the confidence that it would be completed. I didn't exactly forget about it, but I underestimated how long it would take me. Here is a picture of it now. I have come a long way but not long enough! I will give it to her when I get it finished(which will hopefully be soon) but in the meantime, I made this bunting from One Yard Wonders. I am still loving that book with all its super ideas! The fabric is perfect for her with the cherries and dots all in pinks, red and green. I chose a pink tie-dye fabric for the lettering. I was pleased with how it turned out. I also bought her a cute pocket-sized doll. Having had 2 boys, it is fun to think about gifts for girls.

The teacher who I work with and I exchange gifts at Christmas. Having been to her house, I know she loves the primitive look and she favors cranberry and blue things for her home. I made her this book holder complete with painted Mary Janes and a homespun skirt. My husband cut it out and I painted it. We make a good team! She liked it so it was a success. I knitted my son's girlfriend a scarf but it is already wrapped so I will try to get a picture of her wearing it when she opens it.

I hope everyone is enjoying this holiday season. I am trying to squeeze several gift exchanges with friends in this week now that jury duty is over. Stay stress-free(as much as possible!) and take care. Nancy

Gift Exchange and Exciting Remodel Reveal

Happy Monday everyone! Can you believe how fast this month is going? I hope I can get everything done. Jury duty is presenting a mild disruption to my progress but after it is over at the end of December, they can't bother me for 8 years!

I joined the gift exchange at Craftaholics Anonymous and it was a great experience. I think I will be doing it for Christmas in July as well! Here is what I made my exchange partner:

The scarf is knit by using a strand of eyelash and a strand of Vanna White yarn. I cast on 16 and just knit each row until I was happy with the length. Right now I am knitting a scarf for my son's girlfriend the same way with different yarn. I will let you see that soon.

The apron is from a pattern and it turned out cute. My partner has two little ones and the fabric has Christmas mice on it. I can picture her wearing it to make Christmas cookies with her girls.

I also wanted to show off pictures of my living room makeover after my husband made the custom built-ins for either side of the fireplace. They are beautiful!

Here is before:

Here is after:


I am so happy with it all. It feels so good to have my house back together!

Everyone have a good week and take care. Nancy