Empty Nest Syndrome

No, Anya did not move away to attend college. There are days when we wish we could pack her off, but they said they wouldn't take a two year old. So until she is ready, she will be living with us.

When I was pregnant, I began knitting primarily for the baby-to-be. And after Anya was born, I began knitting more and more just for her. Then one day, somewhere down the line, the flood gates opened. The million opinions. She decided she hated sweaters and vests. Fortunately, I didnt take it personally. It was not just the handknits--the hatred encompassed all things outerwear.

But there is good news. One, though it might shock you, I still craft. Two, my daughter has suddenly transformed into a sweater (or in her words, "sweata") loving person.

I digress. My point is--my blog has been going through an empty nest syndrome...grieving for the loss of its main protagonist. And though, for the moment, she has decided to make her grand appearance, toddler-hood is a strange thing. The Queen (yes, thats what she is called in these places) might decide that it is not her thing anymore.

Yarny Days might see some major revamping in 2012. And hopefully, restart the blogging. I miss my blog. And all my crafty friends around the world.

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So many people ask me if I have made Bombay Love for Anya. Clearly, it took a while. To make one, and to blog about it. I think Anya likes it. Or she is yet to give her verdict. (Can you tell that having a chatty toddler makes me nervous?)

One specific change I did for this version are the sleeves. I wanted to "tighten" the ends, so with the magenta yarn, I did two tight rounds of single crochet around. This drew in the sleeves, giving it a much more finished look--rather that just "flopping around"...if that makes sense. I think you can see this more clearly in the pictures.

I have been asked several times if I would design the pattern in larger sizes. Unfortunately, no. I had made up the pattern one time, and wrote it to help others make their version. I know some people have made larger sizes. One raveler has even made an adult version. Click here to see more!

Pattern: Bombay Love (pattern free; see sidebar of this blog)
Yarn: Plymouth Yarn Encore Worsted; Cascade Yarns 220 Wool for edging
Size: 1.5 - 2.5 years
Needle: 5.5 mm