My Christmas Knitting has shifted.  I used to do a lot of gift knitting, but now I find myself called upon to do less.  Historically, I have sewn, embroidered, painted, crocheted, and knit Christmas gifts.  As knitting became a bigger part of my life, it dominated my Christmas projects list.  Exciting and fun, but not very realistic.  Because knitting takes A LOT of time — and, truth be told, not everyone has handknit items on the top of their wish list.

So, now instead of wearing myself out and stressing myself out with a whole lot of knitting during one of the busiest times of the year — and then handing out half-finished gifts “on the needles” on Christmas Day, only to take them back again and drive myself through a month or so of guilt-ridden knitting over the winter — I decide on one or maybe two gifts to knit.  Much more joyful!  And there is no law that says handknits are only to be given at Christmas — I can knit for anyone I want during the course of the year as the need or desire arises.

So Huzzah for Sanity and Joy!

Now, my Christmas Knitting is more about festivity and winter coziness.  And small joyful touches.  Like Gnomes!

And Pine Cones! (Which are actually a crochet project)

And this lovely Tiny Shawls Garland from Quince & Co.!

These projects carry over into January beautifully too — no Christmas deadline!  I find these pieces endearing and enchanting — and their diminutive nature (elfin, one might say) make for light and satisfying knitting (or crocheting).  Just enough Christmas Knitting — and as someone very wise has said “Enough is a Feast!”