Bet you never thought you'd see the day

Satchel is finished and photgraphed. I started it in September and today, February 28, it's on the blog. One day before Red Todd Kidd's and my anniversary. Oh yeah, I'm good. I do like this pattern because it lends itself well to adaptation. YOu see I added and I-cord edging to the strap (pain in my ass! had to do it TWICE!) because it just didn't look finished without it. I also added that skull and cross bones intarsia to the pocket. My first intarsia and oh, does it show. Things I like about this pattern: -very simple -no side seams -looks finished and nice can be adapted easily Things I don't like about this pattern: -knitting from two balls of yarn at the same time is annoying especially if you have kids and have to get up frequently -the strap didn't look right with the rest of the design Changes I'd make if I did this again include: -an adjustable strap involving a belt buckle or something -sewing machine finishing, none of this hand sewing business -longer flap closure so the pockets don't show -a yarn that's not so hairy (I used Cascade 220 for the grey same as the pattern called for and Cascade Eco Wool for the black trim), I don't know whether to put books in this thing or stuff it and give it to the kids to hug (The last photo has the most correct color)