I've decided to start with a simple shawl for my Mum. I wanted to knit something for her because she was the one who taught me to knit, and kept me in jumpers and socks for most of my childhood! She's 90 now (still fit, active and knitting, I'm pleased to say) and feels the cold a bit when she's out with friends (her social life is way better than mine) so I thought she might like a shawl and it's difficult to buy nice ones in the shop that don't swamp her as she's a tiny wee person!

Plus, it looks like a straightforward pattern to ease my way back with! I've bought some lovely soft Mirasol yarn in a gorgeous blue - I was amazed at the number of yarns my local shop had to choose from. Last time I went in a wool shop (about a decade ago!) there were only big industrial brands, uniform colours - now there's all these lovely exotic fair traded yarns and some beautiful local ones - it seems Yorkshire has a thriving wool-dyeing industry! Shouldn't be surprised really, there are a LOT of sheep...

As you can tell I'm still very excited about this! One last work project to get through for today and then I'm going to cast on... :)