Deadlines!

Every year I end up pushing deadlines and scrambling to get packages sent across the country before I end up paying exorbitant postage rates in order to get them to their destinations by Christmas or Hanukkah. Then I tell myself, "Next year I'll start really early and not have to rush!" And then I forget, and end up rushing to get things bought, wrapped, and sent in time. Again. This year is no different.

Here is my biggest deadline problem:

Flames Hat for Nephew

As happens so often, inspiration didn't hit until the clock was ticking. I'm knitting madly so I can get it sent off. Why is it that I don't get inspired much earlier in the year when I have time to hunt for the perfect item, or knit a hat (or scarf, or fingerless gloves, etc.) with weeks or months to spare? Is it the stress of the looming holiday that starts the wheels turning in my head? I'm trying to write down the good ideas that I've come up with for others as well, that I didn't have time to sew or knit or shop for, so I can get a jump on next year. I'll let you know how that worked when I'm fighting deadlines again next year. 

 Of course, I have put myself in this position. Last year we started sending a check to this nephew for his college fund instead of a new toy. He's not lacking for toys and books and general "stuff" so we were feeling that this was good for us and good for him; less fuss, less "stuff" to clutter up his house, and easier to mail. This year though I was thinking about how he's getting old enough that opening a check will be really boring for him. But a big toy wasn't in the budget if we are already  sending a check, and he didn't really need another toy for all of the aforementioned reasons. That's when the idea of this hat came to me. I had enough leftover yarn that I didn't even have to buy anything. And I had already knit the pattern for my son a few years ago in blues. 

First Flames Hat for Son

I really like the flames look. OK, I probably like the flames more than my son does.(He wears the hat so I can't really complain.)

I realize I'm probably spoiling the surprise by putting this up online. I only have one nephew to whom I send Christmas presents (the other nephews get Hanukkah presents) so it's easy to figure out.  Luckily, this nephew is only 4 years old and likely doesn't read my blog. His parents probably don't read my blog either, and even if they did, I am sure they wouldn't say anything to ruin the surprise. (And I KNOW Grandma and Grandpa won't give it away!)

Better get back to my knitting. 

Shelley in CT