Yesterday was a big day for me — I seamed the kimono baby sweater, and it looks respectable! Let me back up. My internet fiasco (not entirely solved, but I can access the internet from an old laptop here at my casita) led me to a nearby cafe. As I made my way to a table, cup of soup in hand, ready to catch up on the internet and download some work files, I noticed that many of the ladies at the next table were holding yarny things — and they looked friendly! I introduced myself and told them I would join next week, but after 10 minutes of work, I packed up the laptop and pulled the tiger sock out of my bag. I had such a lovely time with them, and I look forward to making this tiny knitting circle at my favorite coffee shop a regular part of my routine.

Anyway, one of the women mentioned that the kimono was her first sweater seaming project, and she encouraged me to go for it. Here are the results:

Also, I began this sweater when the sex of the baby was unknown. Then I learned it would be a boy. This week, I heard that my friends got a second opinion, and it is a girl! That meant that I could use ribbons instead of a more manly button.

Boh is sharing in my joy. With the kimono finished, I am feeling great about my ability to finish things! I completed the pair of Dashing for my brother, and somehow I cast on and bound off a luxe neckwarmer (from Knit 2 Together) today. It is made of Patagonia cotton in a blue semi-solid (first picture captures the color best) and it is for my mom — she can’t wear wool.

This was quick and fun to make. I used a size 11 circular instead of the recommended 10s because I only have dpns in 10s. This made it a bit slouchier, which I think my mom will like.

I just realized that I haven’t yet shared my holiday list — it is ever evolving, but here is what I have in mind right now:

Brother — Dashing (done)

Best Friend — Purl Scarf (done)

Mom — Luxe Neckwarmer (done), something for kitchen?

I’m trying to keep some simple hats on the needles, as I’d like to bring a few extra home for cousins, etc. and I’ve thought about making one for my boss, but if that doesn’t happen, I won’t be heartbroken.

My list is surprisingly realistic — how did that happen?

Also, I started another “My so called scarf” in Malabrigo — on 10s because I have them in metal, and this pattern needs all the slipperyness and sharp points it can get. I can’t tell if the fabric is too tight yet — not enough to go on, but I hope swapping 10s for 11s doesn’t compromise the drape. Pictures of that soon.

I have a few more days off before I am back to work and work-related travel, and I’m planning even more knitting progress. What have you been working on this holiday weekend?