Oof! I really do need to catch up! Brain fog obviously leads to brain freeze, not helpful.

Woke up to a beautiful autumn morning…

You really wouldn’t think I was in the corner of a muddy field in Norfolk, would you?

But despite the tropical feel to the day, I’m actually addressing the C word, whisper it…Christmas! Every year I have the best of intentions and then leave making presents and decorations until far, far too late. And I think this year a lot of us will be think how best to budget for uncertain times while still capturing some seasonal magic and being able to spoil our loved ones in some way.

There’s the whole ‘boring socks and pants’ for men thing but I think I’ve cracked it with socks. My menfolk actually ask to be given hand knitted socks for Christmas. (I’m not going down the knitted underpants route!)

I’ve gone all out with ribbon yarn and have been making sets of little baskets.

These are really useful for all the little odds and ends which accumulate in the bedroom, bathroom or sewing table, and can be filled with goodies to suit the recipient. I can usually make a set in an evening in front of television with a dachshund on my lap, helping!

The yarn is from Hobbii where it is currently half price, and it comes in forty-six different colours. (I wish I hadn’t looked now; I might have to buy some more!) The pattern was from Hobbii too although there is a huge choice of different styles to choose from.

Another pattern I have to hand when it comes to an easy knit for a handmade gift is the Baktus Scarf which I first made several years ago.

Another really quick knit! I can’t find the original pattern I used but Cowgirlblues has a similar one if you are thinking of making it. I’d love to make one in self striping yarn just to see how it turns out, but I must not buy any more yarn until I’ve finished at least one of my WIPs!

So, I’d better get working again, so many socks, so little time…

See you soon…x