But First, the Octopus

I want to write a post about the terrific time I had at the Rainforest Writer’s Retreat last week–and I will. I promise!

But first, the Octopus.

So, when Patrick Swenson invited me to the Rainforest Writer’s Retreat, my email was added to the group’s loop. A few people started talking about the mysterious–and endangered–Pacific Northwest Tree Octopus whose major predator is Sasquatch. At the same time, I was asked if I might want to donate a prize to the raffle.

Right then and there, I knew I’d have to knit a Pacific Northwest Tree Octopus as a giveaway prize. But how to do it? I’d never knitted one of the rare beasties before, and they are notoriously shy creatures.

Luckily, I found this adorable Knitting Octopus pattern by Max Alexander.  I was tempted to give him a fancy top hat, but this was an Octopus from the forests of the Pacific Northwest. He needed a beanie and a big cup of coffee. Since he was going to be found at a writer’s retreat, I thought he might also have his laptop and editing pencil handy.

Thus began the knitting. Our friendly little octopus wasn’t always so friendly looking. Brace yourself for some disturbing photos:

Here is his eye, strung out between metal needles!

eyeball on needles

Here is his boneless body, hanging out with the tiny anarchy chicken with a sword. Spooky, right? But I knew I could knit the spook out of him.

Octopus 1

I knitted some accessories.  First, a pencil:

knit pencil 1

Then a wee little laptop:

knit laptop1

Then a cup of coffee:

knit cup 1

After a hat, some eyes, and some TLC, he finally came together. And here he is, Gallelego Pete, the first Pacific Northwest Tree Octopus in captivity:

knit Gallelego Pete 1

knit Gallelego Pete 2

knit Gallelego Pete 3

He has fully poseable tentacles and all of his accessories can be removed. He lived on my cabin mantel at the retreat, waiting for someone to pick him as their prize.

octopus 2

I am SO pleased to say he was snatched up by fellow writer Maggie Croft, who also wrote more words than any of the rest of us during our session. I have been assured he will be in good company with other writerly-crafted creatures that currently abide in her home.

Happily ever after.

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