...the last of Christmas...

We have been having a blast at Sunriver.  It has been so great being here, relaxing with family and friends.  And we've doing a lot...

a lot of present opening...

a lot of posing for pictures...

and a lot of walking......





...a lot!

We took a family sleigh ride on Christmas day that was really fun.  The only thing that could have made it better was snow.  But we laughed and had a wonderful time even without snow.

The kids have all gone home and we have had the past couple of days to see friends, do a bit more walking and even get some skiing in.  It's been busy, but the best kind of busy!!

...here comes Santa Claus...

Wow, I can not believe that it is already the 26th!  Were did the month go?  We have had the best time this holiday season.  We are spending two weeks at our home in Sunriver.  It's been almost perfect.  The only thing that would make it better is snow.  No snow here, which is unusual for this area at this time of year.  But even without the snow, just being here with our family and celebrating the season has been fantastic.  We've eaten some really great food, played some really fun games and enjoyed each other so much none of us want it to end.

One of the first things the girls did together was have brunch with Santa on Christmas Eve day.  The lodge is decorated so beautifully for the holidays.  Gorgeous Christmas trees and beautiful lights are everywhere.
   

Everything was great until it was time for Paytan to sit on the big guy in the red suits' lap....


Paytan was fine with Santa at a distance.  But anything closer than 15 feet and it was no dice.  It didn't matter that she never really "sat" on Santa's lap.  He still found our house and left her a big bunch of presents!  More on that tomorrow!

Hope your holidays are merry and bright!

...new sweater...

When I was on the east coast in October Marcy passed on some little girl things that she thought Paytan would like.  One of the items was a darling sweater that she had knit.  I took it home and thought it might be a while before Paytan could wear it. She's teeny! 15 months old and just now wearing 6 month clothes.  We like to say she's little, but mighty!

While Erin and Paytan were here visiting I thought we should try the sweater on to see how big it was on her.  Low and behold, it fit!



And of course, she had to have her 'bitty baby' in a picture too.



Well, she loves the sweater and I know she'll be wearing in a lot. Thanks Marcy!!

...The Erin Collection...

I am very proud to offer The Erin Collection!  

~The Erin Collection~

$15.00

               

This collection include Erin's Hat, Erin's Mittens and the recently published Erin's Cowl.  

Erin’s Cowl is a bit of warmth around you neck and is perfect for crisp, autumn days.  It features two beautiful cable panels that finish with smart decreases and buttonholes that are perfect for highlighting those special buttons you have in your button collection.  

Erin’s Cowl is just right for under your winter coat for an extra bit of coziness or as the perfect accessory with your favorite t-shirt. 

Either way, you’ll love how Erin’s Cowl feels around your neck!

Yarn:

Valley Yarns Northfield 

[70% Merino/20% Baby Alpaca/10% Silk, 50gm/124 yds]

2 skeins; colorway:  Chestnut

                     or

Blue Moon Fiber Arts Socks That Rock Heavyweight

[100% Superwash Merino, 198 gm/350 yds], 

1 skein;  colorway:  Tumbleweed

Supplies:

US 6/4mm 16 inch circular needles or needles to obtain gauge.

cable needle, markers, yarn needle, two 7/8" buttons

Gauge:

5 stitches/inch over stockinette stitch

Finished Measurements:

length:  24 inches

width:  6.5 inches

Notes:  Pattern includes both written and charted instructions.

Each pattern is available for sale individually for $6.00 each or the entire collection is available for $15.00.

...holiday tunes...

Every year I buy one new Holiday cd to add to our big collection.  This year I have added 3 and all are sure to become favorites.  The first 2 were given to my by my youngest daughter and I love them.

The first is the new cd by Michael Buble.

We were lucky enough to see him in concert last year and it was great.  One of the tracks on this cd is Silver Bells featuring Naturally 7, who were his opening act at the concert.  The cd is really good.

The second is the The Polar Express Soundtrack.

This cd is filled with holiday favorites and I have been listening to it in my car non-stop.  Every time I listen to it I want to watch the movie.  I think I'll be doing that tomorrow!

The last cd was given to me by my oldest daughter.  It's Joy to the World by Pink Martini. 

Another winner, and it will be playing in my kitchen during my holiday baking.  If you are a Pink Martini fan, go out and get this one.  It's as awesome as all of the rest of their stuff!

Thanks girls, for updating my holiday tunes!  I love all of them!

...caroling...

For your Christmas caroling pleasure, I give you sheep.



You gotta love singing sheep, right?

...gifting...

Are you shopping for a knitter this season?  If you aren't a knitter yourself then you may be a little at odds as to what to give the knitter in your life.  Well, my friend Stephanie has some pretty great ideas.  You can head over here and check out her suggestions.  My favorites are the things from Tilly Flop, especially this...



This is a philosophy that I wholeheartedly support.  So if you're looking for a gift for me, you know what to buy.  pst.....I love cashmere.