"Almost" weekend...

My weekend begins after a short day on Saturday at 3PM, so Friday is my "almost" weekend. I'm already planning what to pack for my weekend projects and having the realization that I better make final decisions on holiday gifts - yes, I procrastinated horribly... again. I blame the crazy weather this year because it still doesn't feel like Christmas could be anywhere on the horizon with how warm it's been. I'll get everything done. I always do. I haven't cooked much this week, but I did find time to make a delicious meal on Monday - Gremolata & Mushroom Beef Stew. I didn't take any photos because, as delicious as the final product is, visually mine was less than impressive and the photos with the recipe link are awesome for the drool factor. This recipe intrigued me with the curious combination of balsamic vinegar, rosemary and sliced oranges - they are absolutely wonderful together. I cooked it in the crockpot on low for 8 hours instead of the Dutch oven and I added the mushrooms with about 2 hours left, otherwise I followed the recipe exactly. Yum!

I also found some time to dry some apples. Nothing fancy. I just slice them with a mandolin, dunk in lemon water, lay them out and let the dryer do it's thing for a few hours.

This week I did get some knitting underway for the shop and currently the most exciting project is the Churchmouse Mohair Bias Loop sample in our new Kidsilk Haze Glamour. I'm not big on yarn with sparkle or bling, but this one is an exception and had me anxiously waiting for it's arrival since I ordered in July - it was well worth the wait. I've knit a few more inches since this photo and I'm hoping to wrap this up this weekend so I can share the finished project next week. Cross your fingers for me.

I was out for coffee this morning with a friend at our local coffee shop, Blackwaters Coffee. They have amazing coffee and fabulous food (including treats) and I ended up getting some of their Chocolate-Covered Espresso Beans. They are delicious and should help me plow through the weekend knitting!

I hope everyone has a lovely weekend! Cheers!