.... since finishing my column with 'Inside Crochet' I have been giving my hooks a rest! Not to say that I haven't been crocheting at all. I have made a cosy pair of wristwarmers for Dante's teacher and I'm adding a few rounds to my circular rug (the one I'm making with the amazing Andean alpaca my brother bought for my birthday last year). To be honest, I am really enjoying not having a deadline to hit and have been playing a little. I shared my first effort with intarsia knitting last month and here is my second, a pair of super snuggly mittens for my boy.....
....I have discovered the perfectly sized circular needle to revolutionise my knitting in the round (still can't do the four needle thing!). At just 20cm long, it's ideal for socks, gloves etc. If you're looking for something similar try Addi Needles.
We've just celebrated our first Christmas here at Oak Lane Cottage and despite the wild weather, it was wonderful. I've been making curtains, potting on the winter bulbs I picked up for a song at Ikea and everything flowered in time for my Christmas day table. Here's the amaryllis looking spectacular with just 3 days to go!
The white hyacinth is looking pretty too. And now for a new year! I love a clean slate, a whole year ahead to plan and fill. It's going to be a busy one. My teacher training starts in April and I have lots of crafty projects to complete before then.... watch this space, I'll be back on a more regular basis. Wishing you all a great 2014 xxx