A Day Late

I almost did it. I was so close, but I did not finish Benton's sweater for Christmas. I ran into an issue on the 23rd. I realized that I had to rip out a whole sleeve. The directions were clear, but I misread them. The decreases were to occur every 4 ridges. I did them every 4 rows. Ooops. After that setback, things did not look good. Dave assured me that all would be fine. He reminded me that I was the only one holding myself to the goal of a handmade sweater for each of my children. He reminded me of all the handmade gifts I had made for others and that Benton would still get a sweater even if it was late. He also reminded me that 3 yr olds seldom keep score. I tell you that man is so wise!

After forgiving myself, I was able to finish the sweater on the 26th. Benton loved it when he tried it on, but subsequently deemed it itchy. I have decided to line it with coordinating fabric from my stash. With a good soak in wool wash and the lining, he should be happy. He also requested a zipper. That will require a trip to the fabric store as couple I have are too short. Hopefully it will be completely done by Thursday, and I can show you modeled photos.

Joining Ginny's Yarn Along

After I finish Benton's sweater, I need to alter Eamon's sweater a bit. As I feared the neck is a wee bit snug. He can get it over his head, but it reminds me of his birth. It is a tight fit for sure! I plan to rip out the neck and reduce the number of decreases. This should do the trick. He loves his sweater and is eager to have it back. He even asked for another one next year in Gryffindor colors. (I apologize for the blurry photo - he was strutting his stuff!)

Fortunately Aine's sweater fit beautifully, and she has worn it quite a bit. She loves that her new doll has one to match. I am so glad she likes this one after the last sweater I knit her was never worn. I really like how the sweater looks on her and want to make one for me now.

I am not sure what I will cast on once the sweater issues are resolved. I will be participating in the Through the Loops Mystery Sock project starting January 1. There is also a pair of birthday socks for someone special on my list. Even with the socks to knit, I really want to make myself something. I truly am a selfish knitter at times. I have some Madelinetosh that needs to be used as well as some red Beaverslide. So many decisions!

As far as my reading list, I have been settling in with my new Nook Tablet. I downloaded Stephanie Pearl McPhee's All Wound Up. I love her blog and am enjoying her book. I usually patronize the library for my reading material, but I felt I should purchase this book to pay for all the enjoyment her blog provides me!