Cupcake

I am back from a conference related trip to Cincinnati. Just three days but it felt like a long time. I am not complaining--I attended one of the best keynotes ever (she also signed a copy of her book. I felt like a star-struck, rock star fan) and met some wonderful people on my panel. But I find all kinds of travel exhausting--the packing, locating, relocating, unpacking.

I got back and guess who had received mail. I am currently thinking of an engagement gift idea for my younger brother (Rayan) and his long time girlfriend (Vaishali) of eight years (pictures here). Mazhalai got wind of my idea search through a ravelry group and she offered to send me these banana leaf (!) place mats for inspiration. If you have eaten off a banana leaf before, I am sure you are part of my excitement of receiving this package. For some South Indian banana leaf trivia, read this. Many thanks to Mazhalai for the "leaves", chocolate, and note.




PS: Rayan and Vaish do not live together and Vaishali will soon be leaving for England for a year long masters course. So I want to make something that is separate (a minimum of two pieces) and yet connected. I have had suggestions, on Ravelry, of making place mats, socks, scarfs, vest plus shawl. Someone at Ravelry also suggested making twin afghans and seaming them together once Rayan and Vaish have a place together. I am warming up to several of these ideas--any other suggestions are very welcome.

More. Suketu's birthday was this weekend. He loves cupcakes. He worships cupcakes. I am sure he also dreams in cupcake language. This was a perfect whimsical thing to make. He totally freaked out when he saw it. He thinks it is the coolest thing....especially the "sprinkles" aka glass head pins. I think it makes a really cute gift for anyone who fancies baked goods.






Pattern: Quick Cupcake
Yarn: Sugar N Cream
Crochet Hook: 5mm