A Handmade Gift

"A gift consists not in what is done or given, 

but in the intention of the giver or doer."  

~Lucius Annaeus Seneca

Yesterday we had a baby shower for my sister.  She is due with her baby boy at the end of January.  I am so freaking excited that my little boy is going to have a cousin so close in age.  It's so awesome that my sister and  are going through this stage of life together!

I wanted to make something special for my new little nephew. So I decided to knit him a baby blanket. Is there a better way to show your love than a nice handmade gift?  I think not.

My sister and I went shopping for the yarn because I wanted to pick colors that she would like.  She picked out some really nice blue and grey yarns.  

I originally thought I would do just a really basic wide stripe knit blanket.  Super simple, no pattern needed and stripes just seem so boy to me.

But then I decided I wanted to add a little more detail.  I thought it would be fun to do something kind of retro.  Do you remember those old granny chevron knit afghans from the 70's and 80's?  I decided a wider stripe and no fringe on the ends would be just the ticket to update this old classic a bit.

I found this great pattern and just modified it a bit, it was a little small so I cast on a few more rounds of the pattern to make a wider blanket.

I'm really happy with how it turned out and am super proud of myself for finishing it in time for my sisters shower!  Not an easy task with a bouncing baby boy of my own!

Dear Baby Boy Nephew,

I don't even know you yet but I already love you!  I feel so blessed that you are a part of my family.  Thank you for choosing my sister to be your Mommy.  You made a good choice, she is going to be awesome!  I hope that this blanket will always remind you of how loved you are!  It was made with love and good thoughts and intentions for you with every stitch. I can't wait to meet you!

Love, 

Aunt Jennefer