Aran Tree Skirt and Flap-Top Mittens

I'm on the 8th wedge of the Aran Tree Skirt and slogging on to complete it in time for Christmas. Has anyone completed one? It's pretty cool so far, but I'd love some tales of completed glory to inspire me to finish.

I just cast on the Flap-Top Mittens for my 10 year old nephew. The child's size seems too small. Do you think the women's size would work or perhaps a slightly snugger, shorter version of the women's size? Any advice will be greatly appreciated.