A Homemade Christmas

Wow... I knew I'd been crocheting a lot this year but I didn't realize how much until I got all my scarves out & counted them.  I've made over 50 scarves this year!  I think all of these are still available in my Etsy shop, which means if they haven't been sold by Christmas they might be someone's gift!  So if you see one you really like let me know... hint, hint...  I'm trying to make a scarf for all the ladies at work which is one reason I have so many.  Most are really easy patterns and don't take much thinking so I can do them while watching TV, waiting to pick up Jo, talking with someone, or riding in the car.

I've always enjoyed making things for other people and even more so in the last few years.  As most of you know a large part of our "Christmas gift" is the plane trip to Texas.  I think I enjoy spending time with the family & visiting more than the gifts.  Although I have to say the process of opening the gifts is a lot of fun at the traditional Pipes' Christmas! lol....  (I don't know if those marrying into the family think the same thing or not.)
I like planning out what to give people even though we don't spend a lot of money.  Which is another reason I don't think drawing names would work.  I think I'd draw a name and then throughout the year think, "Oh, but so-and-so would like this," or "I can make this for them, too."  And I'd end up still giving something to everyone in the family.
I also like the idea of reusing and recycling things.  Some of the yarns I'm STILL using are from Great's stash and I need to get more while I'm back in Texas, too.  Plus, a couple of you on my list are getting "antiques" -- Lynne, it's a good thing your friend isn't in our family... I'd give her something that she'd consider "used" instead of "antique"!

So, who else is making presents this year?  If you're not making presents, buy handmade things from someone else.  You'll be supporting local people and still getting unique gifts.  Go to a local craft mall or buy on Etsy!  I love Etsy!  I may share some of my favorite sellers there in a few days.