Giving away your work

Ever have a project you're working on start speaking to you?  "You know, I'd be perfect for Such-and-Such," but you really planned on keeping it for yourself. 

Have you ever given something to a family member or friend and have them not react enthusiastically?  "Oh ... thanks for the tea cozy, even though I don't drink tea and don't like this colour ..." 

My scarf has been asking me to give it to a co-worker who has been admiring it.  She loves purple and used to knit.  Problem is, we only see each other at work; we're not friends per se.  But my scarf, which should be completed this weekend, won't shut up.  "D. would love me, you know it.  She'd probably wear me in summer, she'd be that smitten with me."  I thought I was knitting it for myself, but the scarf has other plans.

So I'd like to know if you've ever had a project dictate who its ultimate owner would be.  Knit/crochet/sew something for your mother only to give it to someone else or keep it for yourself?  Make something to sell but found yourself handing it over as a Christmas gift?  And have you ever completely miscalculated and have a recipient give a half-smile and a bland "Thanks" for all your hard work? 

Comments will help me decide who my talking scarf belongs to - me or my purple-loving, former-knitter co-worker.