A Gift for Pierre

I was about to embark on a fascinating comparison between early seventeenth-century lace and garden parterre designs but I think I will postpone that delight until after Christmas.

 I believe most of us are too wrapped up in the frenzy of festive preparations to be able to concentrate on anything else.

Therefore I will keep things short and sweet.

A little boy has arrived in our lives.  After long years of waiting my French cousin and her husband have become parents to a beautiful eighteen-month old child who has winged his way to their mountain home from Manchuria.

 His name is Pierre and he will be spending his first Christmas 'en famille'.

This pullover is my gift to this special boy.

Pattern: Knitbot Sock Yarn Sweater

Yarn: Madelinetosh Sock in Silver Fox.
Details on Ravelry  (under the name Ornamentation).

This week I have felt gratitude. I received my giveaway gifts from Sue from Mr Micawber's Recipe For Happiness.  I was in awe of the generosity and care involved in all the treasures I received and as you will see below there was magic woven into the presents she selected for me.  I was moved to see how it was possible to share common passions and most importantly I feel that the virtual Sue has become more real to me as I hold her presents in my hands and admire them.

 These decorative mittens were created by Sue and if you too have fallen in love with them click on this link to find a crystal clear tutorial on how to make them.

 This tiny little bag, which was crocheted in winter colours,

 contained these fairytale earrings.  

 Be still my heart!  They are exquisite in colour and simplicity!

 Wait!  There is more!  This book is a treasure chest of delightful patterns inspired by Jane Austen and fascinating historical facts about knitting and textiles.  I absolutely adore it and will be packing it into my Christmas holiday suitcase of treasures so that I may take the time to choose a pattern I may make.

 I would like to make this red capelet for Angélique!

And for those who know how much I hanker after gardens in winter...

There is inspiration to be found everywhere!

 Miraculously, the chocolate has not been devoured yet although it is Héloïse's favourite.

Thank you Sue and thank you also to my new followers and ALL the encouraging, heartwarming comments you have written. Coy Mademoiselle Hiver is blushing to learn how pretty you find her and is preparing for the Winter Solstice Ball.

A bientôt,

Stephanie