I've been feeling so uninspired with my photography over the past week - the weather really doesn't help, nor do the abundance of 'dead' things in my garden - and the light is so difficult to work with; I hate using flash. I managed to produce something I almost like by slamming a texture over it - but I yearn for more light and warmer weather.

I had loads of lovely presents this year - this is the one I especially wanted and there, thanks to the DC, it was, under the tree!! To everyone's amusement, my eldest daughter had an identical looking present, from her Granny. We felt it and squashed it and lifted it and prodded it. E said it couldn't be a sewing basket, she already had 5 from other birthdays and Christmas's from Granny. But, lo and behold!! Granny came up trumps with sewing basket No 6!! And it was identical to mine!! We're still laughing. I told Granny today that E thought it was hilarious that she now had 6 - but she didn't want it changed - she especially loves this one too!!!

Oh, what else did lucky me get???? Some beautiful ribbon from East of India - will be able to use that in little knitted and crocheted gifts next year, silver earrings, the sweetest little pin cushion in the shape of a potted flower, a book I'd wanted, a film, chocolates.... mmm... and the most delicious sheepskin lined boots from Timberland. I have been keeping my feet so toasty when I go out!! I'll try and pics of some of these gifts later this week!!

My finished basket!! Inspired by Attic24, based on a cushion pattern by erika knight and using Attic24's shell edging to finish off. Inside is some of the new wool for the next project!! I used a mixture of Rowan cotton double knit, and a few bits of cotton glace from my stash. So pleased with it - it's rather squashy, but perfect for carting my new project round the house! Which, by the way, I think already, has gone hideously wrong. Something to do with my counting ability... non existent..