Striped Crochet Hat

So, the story behind this hat for my brother's birthday is.....

Somebody made a hat like this for my father around 45 years ago, before my parents were married.   Maybe it was one of those boyfriend projects that succumbed to the curse?  I don't remember my Dad ever wearing it.  My brother found it and started wearing it sometime in his 30s.  He either wore it out or lost it in the last year or so. 

My brother is a hat wearer.  He regularly "borrows" my handknit ones, but he loved that old striped crochet one.  It was perfect for him.  He lives in New York City, and I am convinced that he is a city gnome. 

Thus, the idea of replacing it.  It is crocheted in Dale Heilo.  I'll send it off as soon as I get his new address.

Oh, and thank you so much for the great compliments and comments recently.  Things have been a bit hectic around here.  I'm sorry if you haven't heard back.  I'll try to get to at least some of them after the weekend.