Saturday Sampler: January Blahs

Go away snow, we're ready for spring!

Some people say February is the worst month, but I have to go with January. For starters, it's longer than February. It's also the holiday letdown period--Christmas is over, and there's nothing to look forward to. February has Valentine's Day, which some people enjoy celebrating--and even if you don't, I'm sure you enjoy eating chocolate. Plus, February brings us that much closer to March, and the start of spring. And of course, on a personal note, February is when my little booger was born, so now we have something very special to celebrate every year.

But January. Ugh. Worst month. So here are a few ideas to cheer you up.

1. Selfish knitting.

It's still sweater weather, so cast on a cozy sweater project for yourself, now that holiday knitting is done. Maybe something in worsted weight, that will knit up quickly. Like Tanis Lavallee's I Heart Aran:

Photo courtesy of Tanis Lavallee

2. Warm weather knitting.

Start a project now, have it done by the time the warm weather arrives. Maybe the Penny Vest, from yours truly?

3. Mend and Repair

If you're feeling too blah for new projects, why not fix up some old ones. Patch up those socks using this tutorial from Jackie Erickson-Schweitzer.

Photo courtesy of Jackie Erickson-Schweitzer

Jackie Erickson-Schweitzer

Or if your socks are beyond repair, like most of mine are, join the Knitmore Girls' Operation Sock Drawer and get working on some new ones--socks are great projects for every season! (It all starts in Episode 247.)

4. Baking!

Before you know it, it's going to be TOO DARN HOT to have the oven on. Ever. So get your baking in now. And whatever you make, do a double batch and freeze half. Try wrapping tightly in foil first, then place in a ziplock (squeeze ALL the air out) to prevent freezer burn. Voila--homemade baked goods in June.

Photo courtesy of Berger Cookies

Ever tried a Berger cookie? If you're not near Baltimore and can't get the real thing (too bad!), give this copycat recipe a go.

5. Organize!

A fresh start can lift your spirits and brighten your mood. Check out some of my New Year's organizing ideas from last January. 

And if all else fails, snuggle up on the couch under your favorite blanket for a movie marathon--you can't do that in July!