I prefer to have my shoes "on".  But feel free to take yours "off".  Andrew is the only one that usually walks around without his shoes.  So when you come in, just be careful not to trip over his.  His 10.5 size shoes end up just about everywhere.
I'm not exactly sure what this stitch is called.  (Does anyone know?)
I made up a little cowl pattern using it.  I'm gonna attach some fringe and then I'll show you.  Hopefully it will be cute and you can make one, too!

Erin is joining me in taking photos "all around" for the month of December.  Feel free to play along!