Secret Santa

I have been working hard this winter, trying to complete both Christmas Gifts and commissioned projects. Needless to say, I have been falling behind. My work days are long and stressful. I have found myself too tired to crochet when I get home. It's a shame because crochet has been my stress relief. My colleague revealed that she is trying out old-fashioned coloring, in order to relieve stress. I can't wait until this quarter of the year (work-wise) is over!!

One project was for a secret santa at work. My manger has been away on maternity leave (you would never know by how thin she is!) and thoughtfully wrote down one of my scarves on her wishlist.

This is her modeling the finished project. Doesn't it look great!? I am so relieved to have finished it on time for our Secret Santa exchange yesterday. It had taken me far too long to make, considering that it should have only taken me a couple of evenings.

Although I experienced some obsticles finishing it, such as Henry at home (above) and training out of town (below). Yes, that is me crocheting in a hotel room. No, it did not last long once I heard a knock on my door asking to go for drinks 😉

I finally had the finished project last weekend. I am super proud of it. It has a boho-chic vibe to it. Super chunky and warm. In fact, she reached-out to me soon thereafter for another one! I guess I better get on it 😃

Autumn Awakenings

Although I have been very busy entertaining guests from abroad and making gifts, I was able to knock-out a couple of neck-warmer infinity scarves and headbands. I have been heavily involved in the neck-warmer style. Mostly due because they are fast to make, but also because I genuinely believe that they are cozy and chic.

My colleague, Amanda, made a beautiful model!

Giving the people what they want!

Everyone always asks for infinity scarves. More scarves! They take longer to make than mug cozies, but I feel like I have hit a decent stride. My model Jale did a great job with the charcoal grey cowl, and the granny square adjustable handkerchief scarf. Both are available to purchase here.

West Virginia

I have always been curious to explore all of the States, and evidently, so has my Scottish husband. For his birthday, we agreed to explore West Virginia. It was a first for us both.

We went to Orr Farm. We bought apples, fresh veg, candy, apple cider donuts, and home-spun yarn.

We then went on a hay ride and walked through a corn maze. Two events that Ally never expected to partake in, while living in the US. This was 'balling on a budget.' Happy 35th birthday, Alasdair! 

Cowl Neck Scarves

I made two of these beauts, and one already sold within 10 minutes of arriving to work. I love them.

They can be worn in numerous ways. I crocheted in a pattern that would allow the buttons to fit in multifunctional ways best, suited for you.

Below, I have one modeled by the exotic Jale, my Friday Happy Hour drinking partner / colleague in the mortgage biz. These are not yet posted on etsy, but I definitely know they will be a slam dunk.

Fall Days, Crafty Nights

As I sit here on the kitchen counter, with a cup of black coffee and Harry Potter in the background, my head spins with all the the endless crochet possibilities. I have been having a hard time managing my time. Between the heavy work load in the office, and a 11 week old kitten, I have been struggling to focus on my craft. Either I'm exhausted, or I am hunched over in the kitchen, moving my yarn in unreachable heights for wee paws. Look at this cheeky monkey:

"Paint me like one of your French girls"

Who could ever be upset with that sweet siamese face? He is for sure, the best thing to come out of my move to Fairfax.

Last week, I did have a bit of success when my sister came by with her friend Dana. Dana graciously modeled some of my etsy items. My headbands haven't been selling as fast this year, as they did last year. I do understand that it is early in the season, but I am also hoping that Dana's beauty helps sell them. She is gorgeous! 

My flower necklaces also haven't been given the attention that they deserve. I made one for myself, but my mom ended-up keeping it. She always receives compliments on it. The necklaces adds a bit of texture to an outfit, and can be worn all year round. Dana modeled them as well, and she knocked it out of the park.

 My next projects are going to be a shawl for a colleague and a couple of cowl neck scarves, that will be up for sale soon. Stay posted!

Baby Blanket

My operations manager is having her first baby, so I made her a one-of-a-kind baby blanket. I crocheted  an exaggerated shell pattern. I absolutely love it. She is having a baby girl, and I thought that a bright sunny yellow would stand out amongst the sea of pink. I can't wait to see her baby all wrapped-up, snug as a bug!

Autumn has Arrived!

The air is getting cooler, I have pumpkin spice candles burning, and I am drinking warm tea while watching my kitten play. Life is good. I have been crocheting a couple of limited edition fall items. I am loving working with burnt oranges and mustard yellows. I have so many great ideas in mind! Here is a sneak peak:

Meet Henry!

Meet the newest member of our family!