Finally

This has been the longest project - started June 2008. Now it is in the finishing process. This is before felting...you'll have to wait for the after. I finally figured out how to make my washer use all hot water - switch the hoses and tell the washer to use cold - fooled it - it's all hot. (Thanks Paul) So now the felting is in process and it's actually working. I'll have more pictures later. I think I'm going to have leather straps put on it - take it to a saddle maker (there are many around here). I'm glad to have this off the WIP list.

I had a great Christmas - lots of heart felt gifts that were really appreciated. My best partner in crime at work (a man no less) even gave me some new yarn - alpaca silk lace weight - Oh I can't wait to get started on a shawl. My boss got me a great Audubon print of a Great Blue Heron (which we have on the Ranch) - it is framed in a wonderful old frame that sets it off perfectly. Both these presents took time and effort - I was really surprised and really honored by their efforts.

Being with the kids was lots of fun. REI Girls roommate was with us too - what a silly girl - she fit right in! I am a very lucky mom! We did things a little different this year. Traditionally we have our big Christmas dinner on Christmas Eve - but we all worked that day. So instead I made homemade clam chowder. On Christmas day we cooked the big meal together. I've always thought cooking on Christmas day was too stressful - too much going on - but this worked out fine since it was just us.

The drama at work is almost over....decisions are being made. I do know that I'm in for at least three more months - then things may change - but I bet it works out for me anyway! So am really looking forward to a positive New Year. Cleaning up my WIP list and starting a new shawl - maybe this one - Ene's Scarf - I think it's more shawl like...we'll have to see when I get at least one more WIP out of the basket!

Hope everyone's Holiday was merry and best wishes for the best New Year!!