Days 29-30

Hi all

The coffee pot is full let's get down to business. 

Day 29

Today I did the unthinkable (well for me anyway), my mum has been trying to instil in me for I don't know how long that I need to declutter my stuff. I literally have over 500 books. Not even jokings, I have clothes in my closet that don't fit me that I've had since I was 7! I have handbags that were given to me that have never been used since I was 9. I have loads of stuff. Like the house is bursting at the seams (pun intended). So it all started with organising my daughter's room we have semi-permanent house guests moving in on Tuesday the 1st 2 adults 2 kids. So we are putting all the kids in the same room (that will be fun), so I've been clearing out the guest room too. Getting my junk out of both rooms.

It started with the bookshelves. I decided my daughter didn't need 200 books (most of which I have passed on to her so I didn't have to part with any). Then I was like well if I am getting rid of some of those books surely I can part with ten of mine? I did, I parted with 79+ books (79 is when I stopped counting but trust me I parted with more). Then my sister came home and cleared out our junk cupboard. It's now an art and craft cupboard yay!

I have grown up with mum teaching me two things:
1. Don't part with it, you never know when it may come in handy!
2. You need to get rid of this junk you don't use!

So as you can see, it confused me a lot growing up. I didn't know what was junk and what was going to come in handy one day... So I've grown up with some minor hoarding issues. It has taken me 22 years to admit this to myself, but now I have I can't stop. I've got 14 boxes of stuff to get rid of so I will be having a garage sale. Because it isn't stuff to throw away, it's stuff I genuinely took really good care of. I don't keep actual rubbish or newspapers, I had two piles, rubbish and garage sale.

REFLECTIONS:
- Reflect on an experience that challenged you this month, but also helped you grow.

Those socks, man those were a definite challenge but I did learn plenty of techniques with it.

- What is one accomplishment that you are particularly proud of this month?

I'm still glowing from my decluttering spree! But that's not knitting related. Knitting wise I am proud that I got so much done! 

- Reflect on how committing to a 30-day challenge has been good for you

I got my bum into gear and finished off some W.I.Ps, I made Christmas presents which I was going to put off for another month or two. I've learnt plenty of new techniques, I've had so much fun.

Day 30

So the 30th of July was the last day of Commit-To-Knit #KnitOm. I am disappointed that it is completed but I am not disappointed for what I have achieved. I've learnt new techniques, I've had a few failures and many successes. Plus I got this blog started. So hey all in and all it has been a wonderful experience!

I have had wonderful communication with Becky, the organizer of challenge and whom also runs the blog and Facebook page of #KnitOm. There will be another live challenge in October, I look forward to that.

A little summary:

I've knitted 2 hats, started a third, knit one scarf, started a second, learnt some new knitting techniques, had a failure of a sock, wrote a knitting pattern, finished off a lot of W.I.Ps  now I am down to only 2! I started an Instagram. I think that's about it.

FINISHED OBJECT:

Logan's scarf. Although it's too thin so I will just start again, I will keep this one but I'll knit him a new one :) with a different pattern this time. 

CURRENT PROJECT:

I've decided to knit a shawlette instead of another cowl in this colour. I've started this one to check off my list so, this one is knitting up fast too I am really enjoying it, so much so that I am thinking I will exclusively knit this!

                                                        ~~~~~~Happy Knitting ~~~~~~~~

Day 28

Day 28

I am casting off Logan's scarf! Whoo! I am so happy that is over with.

Today is the last day of #Sockstar challenge and it has me stumped. The toe is too wide, the foot is too short. I don't know what I did wrong, but I've asked for help on the page. While I wait for the answer I am going to finish casting-off the scarf.

Okay, that's it! I swear. I am being made fun of by the knitting goddess. I've angered her somehow. Here's the story of the failed sock. 

Story Time

Once upon a time in a far away land, a young knitter tried to be ambitious. It started off with her being lulled into a false sense of security. She measured her foot the way she was supposed. Timed it by .09. Got the measurements she was supposed to follow. This girl even went one step further by underlining the parts of the pattern she had to follow as determined by the pattern.

The first task was to use Judy's Magic Cast-On, that was a difficult technique. But the young knitter was determined. She watched tutorials on repeat until she understood it. This was the first step in knitting the toe-up sock, it was also the first step to her demise.

The second task was to knit in the round and work on the toe. The young knitter has only ever knitted in the round once, it was a cup-cake hat, which made her cry and was so painful but she stuck that hat out.* Getting back to the sock: working the toe seemed very easy to the young knitter, yes she had to work on a long circular knitting needle, but working with a few stitches on a long needle was frustrating it was over as quickly as it began.

The third task knit the foot. The young knitter was very happy to do this. At last something easy to knit! Or so she thought, little did she know this is when the knitting goddess decided to toy with the girl. 2 inches worked on the foot, the young knitter saw the sock starting to take shape, this is when it dawned on the young knitter something was wrong. The toe was very wide. She shrugged it off, she knew someone with wide feet she could gift the socks too. At least she was making progress. 

The fourth task knit the heel. This is where things get really weird. The heel so soon? The young knitter pondered. This is where she asked for guidance from the great Facebook Lord. Why so soon. Turned out the young knitter read an instruction wrong, time to backtrack. This is when the young knitter's frustration was the most apparent. The sock fit over both of her feet.

What fate lays in store for the sock? Time for it to be unpicked.

* A hat which is now enjoyed by a 4-year-old despite the mistakes! 

 All-in-all I've enjoyed knitting this sock... But I think it's time to unpick the sock and start a new project in the mean time. When I have a clear brain I will re-tackle this sock. Becuase I really want a pair of socks out of this yarn.

Day 27

Hi

I've been really enjoying my socks. I love knitting them so much! 

 LOOK, here's what I've done so far and my gauge! Proof that they have been made.

I am on my last repeat of the scarf I am knitting for Logan. I can finally see the end with the stupid thing. I am looking forward to it being finished. I have even had a cup of coffee just so I can stay awake and hopefully,/ finish knitting it tonight. 

Day 27 Reflections

I know I haven't been doing the reflections every day but at least if I do them every now and again I don't feel so bad! :) 

REFLECTIONS:

- What are you grateful for today?

I am grateful that the scarf is almost finished and that I learnt Judy's Magic cast-on! 
- Think about a difficult situation from your past. With hindsight, are you now able to see the good that came from that situation?

No, I guess that's why my family joke around and call me "pessimistic". But I've never really tried looking for the good in the bad... Maybe I should start? 
- Are you experience a real challenge right now? Look for the blessing in it. Can you find it?

No I am not, for the first time in a while I am happy and life is still and I am loving every moment.

Short and sweet blog for day 27! 

Day 26

                                                                        Greetings

             A Wee Rant

Ok, first a little rant. I am really hating the issues I am having with my phone. I think that the battery is dying as now it won't charge at all. There goes photos for a while. Sorry guys. Which really sucks, because I would love to show you the progress on the sock I am knitting!

Also, I was really getting into my Instagram! Now that's on hold again.

I am just really over not having any consistency with photos and the blog I really do apologize to those who actually read this blog. 
Okay, rant over.

                                                                     W.I.PS

So I am working on my first ever sock, working toe-up. To me, I never started to try socks because circular needles intimidated me, also knitting the toe and heel also intimidated me, but now I am like what was I so intimidated about. I am loving this tutorial from Dana, honestly, if you have never knit socks before check out #SockVirgin on Facebook. Here is the sign-up link. I wish I could show you my gauge as well for the socks, my gauge was perfect! I even washed and blocked said gauge and even though I thought I had made a mistake by throwing it in the drier (whoops!) it was luckily still in the delicate-bag so it didn't felt. In fact it came out looking exactly the same as when it went in the washer. It does feel a bit weird though throwing a small swatch/gauge into the washing machine.

Still working away on Logan's scarf. I think I am almost done with it. Well I am kind of hopeful that it's almost finished. I'd love nothing more than to be done with it already, I am honestly not feeling the love. But I am letting it guilt me, I haven't put it in the W.I.P bin it's sitting on my chair. Ready and waiting. Stupid thing.

                                                       On Other News

I've started filming my first Vlog, which I will upload to Youtube. I will keep you posted on when it's released. Well it's in the process of being filmed. It's not going to be a long one, I aim on doing a 15 minute introduction video.  

                                            Socks, Socks, Socks

So as I have been sitting here, working round after round on my socks. Which just look beautiful by the way, that yarn I purchased is just like a little piece of heaven to me. I've been wondering, how many socks can I knit in a month? Don't worry I am not setting a challenge for August, because I want to finish off my knitting goal first. But come Socktember September or Socktober October I will set a mini challenge for myself I think.  You know what that means?? Oh no, I will have to toddle off to the yarn shop over the hill and buy more yarn! What a catastrophe. I have to be careful though, I don't want to be over-zealous and catch second-sock-itis, that's a real thing you know. I wonder if I can convert my best-friend-who-happens-to-be-a-knitter-too to knit socks? I mean when you first learn things it can be very daunting. But I can't say I see whats to be feared of these socks anymore. I even want to rent out the sock a-la-carte book out and actually use it!

Oh I also need to order a sock blocker online. They don't sell them in any yarn store I've ever been in.  Or I can make one using wire. I think I will do that using this tutorial. Don't you just love the internet? It has almost anything on it.

New Techniques (to me) & Day 25

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~Hi All~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

New Techniques To Me

A list of new techniques I have never, ever done before as a knitter:

1. Swatch & Gauge
2. Block
3. Knit Socks
4. Buy expensive a** yarn
5. Knit in the round
6. Work with needles smaller than 3.75mm

So, here's a little today on swatches and gauges, some knitters love them, some knitters loathe them. I understand their purpose, and today I've created two, I'll tell you the first one came out perfect. Perfect tension, perfect gauge. Although I've never knitted a gauge before for reasons I will go into soon. Perfect or so I thought. I read the e-mail from Dana:

"The gauge for our Sock pattern is 8 stitches and 12 rows per 1 inch/2.5 centimeters using 2.25mm (US 1 ) needles in stockinette stitch.  That is my gauge."

OK so I C/O 8 sts knit for 12 rows. It measures EXACTLY as written. BUT then I read this:

"Knitting in the round is different than knitting flat because there are no wrong side rows, so we will work our gauge swatch without wrong side rows (no purls).   However to make swatching quick, and consume as little yarn as possible,  there is an easy way to work a gauge swatch in the round but flat." 

I watch the video and I am like, shaking my head, palm on face. This is an utter nightmare! So I C/O as video instructed. So I am knitting away I get to Row 23 and I stuff up! Now my pattern is in GARTER stitch which won't help with my gauge. I feel like I am wasting my pretty 100 grams of yarn on gauges. Anyway now I am washing it and I will block it when it's dry tomorrow. The instructions say wash as you intend to (cold machine wash), so that's where it currently is at the moment. I intend to block it to. Which I find hilarious because this is the first pattern where I've actually gone and made a gauge, washed & blocked something.

I'll have to take and upload photos as proof.
Once I've blocked my swatch and measured it I can actually Cast-On the sock dun-dun-dun.

Day 25

Well, I am sorry to say that I have only knitted on the gauge swatch today. It took some time as well, my daughter and I are both still unwell. I am NOT going to make my goal for this challenge, but I am NOT going to let that get me down, I still have EVERY intention to knit my goal even if it takes 2 months and not 1.

I am definitely enjoying this music as I knit though. It has taken me almost a full month to work through this 3 hour relaxing music from youtube.

Day 24

 Hi All

Warning: This blog post contains a lot of photos.

Crafting Time: My First Knitting Journal

Time to back into my daily journaling for this challenge (hopefully), I think I've managed to kick the worst of this flu.

Yesterday, was quite fun I managed to get a start on a few things that I'd like to share with you all.
I needed to get a knitting journal (and when I say need, I mean wanted but that's the same thing right?) I have lots of crafting stuff at home and have never really sat down and used it. Anyway, I changed the cover of the journal as it was this awful green clear folder cover. 

                    Crafting Time:  Stitch Markers Galore 

I also got started on my Christmas List. In which there are 3 on my list who would like stitch markers for Christmas what better way to fulfil that by making them?? So I got a little carried away I wanted to make 12 stitch markers I ended up making 40 (only 35 pictured don't know why... but trust me there is a gothic set too) 

So I made way too many of them but I love them! They are so cute I want to make more. I specifically love the butterfly set the most. I think they absolutely gorgeous. So now I have the fun thing of deciding who these go to for Christmas BUT what should I do with the rest??

Sock Star Challenge

I just received my first e-mail! Which I will be reading after I've finished composing this blog. The first email I've had a glance over it's about swatches and gauges. 

Challenge On the Horizon?

As we are nearing the end of the 30-Day-Commit-To-Knit I find myself feeling a little upset. I have loved this challenge and while I haven't completed my list (I still have a fair chunk of it to complete), I have enjoyed every minute. The reflections, sharing what I have done, seeing what others have done and the e-mailing. It has just been the best thing I have done for myself in a while. I look forward to taking part of this one again. It won't be until October but I have definitely enjoyed myself. 

                                     Current W.I.PS
I couldn't be bothered taking photos of these but trust me they are coming along. Logan's scarf I've just finished the second repeat. The girl's child-sized hat is coming along slowly but surely.

Days 17-23

Hi guys,

So I've been pretty sick with the flu and asthma so not much knitting has been done. Even my knitting needles have barely been touched.

I've made some small yet significant progress on the scarf. It's taken awhile but it will certainly be worth it once it's done. I managed 4 rows on day 17

REFLECTIONS:

- How does it feel to be unconscious? How does it feel to NOT know what you are doing moment to moment?
This question is in reflection to the task assigned for the day a mindfulness exercise. Termed like this pretty bad and displaced.
- What challenges did you face when you tried this exercise? What did you find hard?
Keeping an eye on what I was doing and not actually multitasking like I usually do. Although I probably got more knitting done in that ten minutes than I have all month. Although this scarf is taking forever.- What distractions keep you from living a more conscious life? How can you minimise them?
My never ending to-do list for the day, so much to do in such little time and energy. 

Day 18: No knitting was done. But I don't feel guilty about that, the flu is going around the house & sleep was far too important and vital for my health.

Day 19: 4 rows of a child's hat were cast on. I am using a grey and purple. I love this colour combo. Yes, I started another W.I.P but it's day 19! Guys! C'mon that scarf is sucking up my time. Yes it's important no it won't be abandoned but I really, really don't like knitting scarves. That's ok though I will do it for those who ask very nicely.

Day 20 was spent in the hospital. No knitting was done, everything is well.

Day 21-23 No knitting was done. Been taking care of my one-year-old and myself who both are still sick with the flu it's awful.

Will get back to knitting and blogging like normal when the household is better.

Day 16 & Sew it Sunday

                                                                 ~~Greetings~~

Self-Improvement

I've decided I have way too many W.I.Ps in my bin, I didn't think to take a photo of it before I started on it. But I think there were about 10 projects in there.
A sweater for my daughter
A dishcloth
2 small blankets
A glove
A bootie
A prem Hat
A 1-year-old
1 cowl
2 scarfs

A lot of these projects just needed sewing up and ends weaving in. So today for me is what I do every now and again "Sew it Sunday". Where my main priority is sewing up finished projects and weaving ends in.

All that's left in my W.I.P bin now is 2 scarves (that need finishing), the glove, the baby sweater and the bootie. 

   My Daughter sporting the slouchy beanie I created (she didn't want to keep on long enough to take better photos)

Day 15 Reflections:

- Write about a time you accomplished something that seemed impossible (or very difficult at the time)

When I was 15-16, I was writing a lot. I joined in challenges like 30-day-script (April - no longer available) challenge NaNoWriMo (Novemeber - Which I still do). That year I had no inspiration at all in April other than the last 3 days, in which I managed to write 106 pages of a script. My goal was 90 pages, the challenge was 100 pages. I was very happy with it. In November ( the main goal is 50,000 words, mine was 25,000) I completed 25,642 words (I can't believe I still remember that) anyway that novel got published. So I was very happy.

- What are some small actions that, if you made them part of your daily routine, would make a positive difference?

Implementing a system with knitting & writing. Something more than just sitting and doing it. I am trying to get my W.I.Ps down so I don't have more than one project on the go. It's not something I want. I want to work on one thing at a time. Not many.  I want to see progress, not feeling like I am sitting in the same place.

- Make a list of all your small wins this week.

1) I finally sewed up all the old projects that were sitting in my W.I.P bin
2) I bought some items to repurpose and have almost finished repurposing one project.
3) Brought the needles and Yarn I needed for SPECIFIC projects
4) I am 20 points away on Lincraft to get a $10 voucher
5) I've reorganised my wool again (trust me it needed it)

Day 16

I am trying my best not to start another project, the scarf I am knitting for Logan is slow going I am on the first repeat of 4. Row 3. I am really really banging my head against a brick wall. I can't wait for this to be finished. It needs to be finished as soon as possible. My goal is to have it finished next Sunday. 

Had to share this photo from the commit to Knit 30-Day Challenge Facebook page

Improvements to come & Day 15

        ~~ Greetings readers! ~~

First all I'd just like to apologise for not updating my blog daily. This was my goal for July's challenge #KnitOm but alas life got in the way.

Improvement Suggestions

It's been pointed out to me by a relative who reads my blog needs improvements and here are some things I SHOULD improve on:

- Blog is too short
- Blog is a mess
- No greetings
- Not consistent
- No subject matter


First of all, as I pointed out to said relative, the subject matter is KNITTING & this is a journal for me, mainly to keep track of my projects on #KnitOm & other challenges. Personal growth and all that jazz.

I guess the self-improvement thing would be good if I improve the blog. Maybe organise my thoughts more. I've probably talked about this before although, it is so hard to remember.

Day 14 Reflections:

- If you are completely honest with yourself, what beliefs or assumptions hold you back? Make a determined effort to release them.

Forgiveness is a hard concept for me, but I am working on it.

- What are 3 negative thoughts you don’t want to have any more? What can you do to let go?

Mainly self-deprecating thoughts. I've been going through a rough-patch of depression, I go through highs and lows of it, but I would really love to be healed from this. There is also not being able to forgive. Forgiveness has been hard for me, but that is something that I plan on fighting through and something I have been fighting through this year.

I am working my way through a 12-Step progress on forgiveness, and I have gotten help with my depression. So I know I am on my way. 

- What do you need to let go of in order to freely move forward in your life?

There's a few things to say the least that I need to let go of, I am aware of that. It's just 'lettting' go is not as easily done as said. 

On a less SOMBRE note
Photos are back!

Look below for current photos of W.I.PS! I have a phone again! We went out for a trip to Lincraft and the dollar store and I got myself 2 phone chargers. So I never, ever, have to live without my phone again. 

Current W.I.P:

Recipient: Logan
Item: Scarf
Pattern Link: Professors Scarf



Luna's Dreamer

So far there has been no new additions to the dreamer pattern, but I will upload it. I love it so darned much though. I have brilliant dreams of slipping stitches, purling & knitting. Ahh, bliss! 

Projects to CAST ON

I have dreamed a plenty, knitting is the main one on my mind! I have found glorious numerous amounts of patterns on Ravelry & AllFreeKnitting. I have two projects I so desperately want to knit for myself. I know for me! It's shocking and unbelievable I think I've only ever knitted one thing in my life for myself! I usually gift my knitted items away. I've knitted a cowl before I knew what a cowl was. It wasn't very good, it was thrown away a couple of years ago. I wish I had documented it before I had thrown it away. I can't believe I threw it away. I would never THROW projects away now, I'd frog it, knit something new. 
Sky Scarf Pattern Link - Free

Hitch Hiker Pattern Link - $4.62** NZD



** Changes in price may occur due to foreign exchange rates

Well, hows this for improvements on the blog? 

~~~Happy Knitting ~~~

Day 15 one row of Logans Scarf completed. 260 Sts across why did I think that it was going to knit up in a few days? Jokes on me.

Today I went thrift store shopping came home with numerous amounts of needles which have been placed in assorted buckets (my sisters and my needle buckets), so trying to find which ones I bought would be a mission and a half. But trust me... I bought heaps.

I also purchased a few patterns ten cents each whoop whoop!

A scarf and two Jerseys I plan on repurposing because I saw this really awesome video on Facebook about repurposing old sweaters and I thought well I'd practise on a scarf first and MAN there is a lot of white wool. Which is good because I need some more white wool. The jerseys are a light blue and a navy blue.

Then my sister decided she just needed to go over the hill to Lincraft to buy some wool. So obviously I tagged along because I needed some wool for the sock challenge and needles too.
I almost got a completely different colouring to the yarn because they had more in store than listed on their site! How does that happen??

Then as I've stated in this blog post I wanted to knit a hitch hiker, so I got some wool for that. Also some cotton yarn for dishcloths for Christmas gifts because who doesn't want a dishcloth for Christmas??

The email from Becky on #KnitOm is just amazing on day 15.
Here's a quote of it I would like to share with you, and this I find rings true to me. 

Over these past 15 days, you’ve come a long way. You have completed (or are well on your way to completing) your knitting project(s). And you got there by working on it a little bit, every day.

"One stitch at a time.

And although it is satisfying to see the results of our efforts - to see actual progress on our knitting - let’s not overlook the significance of making a commitment to do something, to start a new habit, and doing it every day!

It’s so easy for other people’s needs, wants and wishes to get prioritized over our own. It’s hard to find the time to do what really fulfills us, restores us, connects us."

Being a mum of a young toddler, of course, everything she needs or wants get prioritise over mine. She relies on me and the rest of her family to help her with little things. Yes, I am teaching her independence as she grows there are things she needed my help with last year that she doesn't need my help with now. But, she still needs me.

Also, Becky made a mention on the wow brain and the ow brain. I will probably go more into this later. But I do find it quite interesting. If you are interested in what this is I have skimmed over this article here. 

Day 13 & 14

Hi All I've been a bit slow on the challenge and blogging sorry about that some personal stuff happened and it's taken a toll on us. But that's ok.

I've still managed to knit everyday just not as speedily as I would have liked I am still working on the scarf for Logan, but after I've finished his scarf I look forward to starting and completing my goals list.

REFLECTIONS FOR DAY 13:

- What are you grateful for today?

I am grateful that I managed to find and resolve the issue that my family and I went through as quickly and as un-panicky as possible.
Sorry guys this is all about I have the time for x
                                                                       ~~~ Happy Knitting!~~~


- I'm grateful I'm able to... give my family the comfort they need.

Day 12

Day 11 Reflections

- Take a look at your own style and notice each movement you make as you create a stitch.

I think the correct term for my style is English Style. It's was the first one I've learned and I probably won't learn continental for a while.

continental vs. english

- How could you make your movements smaller?

I could hold my yarn closer to the knitting. 

- In what way is your current style inefficient? What small tweak would improve that inefficiency?

I admit that my knitting style may be slow, but it works for me. The most inefficient thing about my knitting is, probably, my focus. If I could focus more then I'd probably get more things done and stop dividing my time between projects.

Day 12

I've gotten a quarter of the way through the scarf. I'd like to finish it by tonight, but seeing as I couldn't sleep until 2.30am this morning I highly doubt I will, but I am enjoying knitting it. Good practice for noticing slips in stitches.

Day 11

Note to my readers

I am still working on a way to format my blogs, I want to be able to take my blogs down to one post a day. With the exemption of patterns.

Current W.I.P(s):

Scarf for Logan, A dishcloth for inspiration (rather for thinking).

Knit Om Challenge Update:

I'm into day 11/30 of the commit-to-knit
My goal
3 Sets of Child-Sized Hats & Mittens
2 Pairs of Adult-Sized Gloves,
1 Adult Scarf/Cowl
1 Adult Sized Hat

So far, I've made a Adult Hat, Child Hat, Child Mittens, Adult Cowl. However these have all been given to others. Which means I haven't actually made a start on this list at all. So I know what I will be doing tomorrow. I will make matching mittens to go with the hat pattern I made although probably not my own pattern. I will most likely make 2 more hats with the same pattern but different colors. I already know the hat and cowl pattern I will use and will most likely make a matching pair as well as a secondary pair. 

It really helps to mind-map what I am wanting to do so I can keep on track so far I am not. But that's OK, as I am learning as this challenge goes on is to knit with a realistic expectation and use the knitting as a form of relaxation: Knitasana (Knitting as a form of meditation). It's good to have a goal but you also shouldn't stress yourself out trying to achieve this goal.

Picking Sock Yarn

Finding sock yarn in New Zealand seems like mission impossible for me. We don't have the same brands available to us in our stores the way I've seen American's and Canadians on-line do. I've received an email from Dana from the #SockVirgin challenge about picking the best sock yarn although I have to admit I am struggling with the terms: light fingering, sock weight, sport weight etc... I'll have to google the terms and if it means 8ply, 4ply, 2ply etc...
I found something about the different weights.

Ok I've chosen a wool to buy I don't think it's 'sock weight', but it will do for my first socks. 
Photo credit to Lincraft
Isn't it pretty??


I don't think I can convince either my partner nor my sister to go to Lincraft with or for me so it looks like I will have to buy online as my only choice available to get yarn now. I'd prefer to know exactly what I am buying due to the no returns on wool policy they have... But even if it's not right for socks I am sure I can make something else with them. Pretty pretty yarn.

                                                                 ~~ Happy Knitting ~~

Day 10

It's day ten of the challenge, I've got the zing back. The hat I knitted yesterday and the scarf that I started last night. I'm in the 8th row and I made it at 260sts just to give it a little more length. I want to knit it x4. It takes a while to do, but I am enjoying every row. Not sure why I enjoy knitting a scarf width rather than length. I suppose it's because I've tricked my brain into thinking it's a quicker way of knitting a scarf. Or maybe it is a quicker way, I should really time it.


I've just had to unpick the whole scarf. Now I have lost inspiration for it, but I will pick it up again tomorrow. For now, I am going to do a little project, now do I do a small owl or a cupcake pin cushion?

I also am trying to convince my sister that we need to do an early trip to Lincraft and then a bigger trip in the space of two weeks so far no luck.... Maybe I will have to order online...

:)

Day 9 Reflections

What knitting tasks do you find yourself rushing (or skipping altogether), just so that you can get it "done?"

Oh yes, I definitely do, swatches, I've never swatched a day in my life. 

Sewing up finished items.

Patterns that call for circular needles or DPN's I completely skip or I work on straight needles instead. 

What is it about these tasks that you dislike?

Swatching, until recently I didn't know it was important at all.
Sewing I have a day a month that I sew items up, I just always want to get on with the next project.
I still haven't figured out how to work on DPN's, I know how to connect on circular needles but I still get confused when knitting ribbing on circular needles. 

Do you think it is possible to learn to love doing these tasks as much as the knitting itself? What would it take?

I am sure it's entirely possible. I think it would take time and patience, also sitting down with no distractions.

Next project

I've cast on 200 sts so far of this scarf.

Day 9

Day 9 of the 30-day-commit-to-knit-challenge

I think it is going well, although yesterday I did not feel so inspired to knit. In fact I was more inspired to watch T.V and play the sims on my laptop which I haven't done for over a year now, and just relax. I remembered to knit a few rows of my eyelet scarf, which I am still in the process of knitting. Although today I logged 3 hours of knitting working on a toddler hat that I created a pattern for. Which I have uploaded on to my blog. Please enjoy. Although I have already realized a mistake on it, which I will fix as soon as I have finished writing this blog.

Today has been the most relaxing day I've had in a while, although I am strongly missing my child, who is staying another night at Nan's. Okay, deep breathes in and out, while yes this means I will be getting another LONG sleep... It does mean my heart is aching for cuddles with my dear little girl... But they will be home tomorrow YAY! Hopefully there is some sushi in my morning tomorrow, right babe? Haha, most likely not but a girl can dream.

So with the #SockVirgin challenge I will be needing to buy some materials for the challenge (oh no! What ever will I do a trip to a yarn store the Horror!) my poor, poor wallet. I am looking forward to it, although I am hoping I will have the money together in time to start that challenge. The only thing I do need for it is needles, but you know what it's like at a yarn store, you are there for one thing and then BAM! You are walking out with the entire store. JK! Not really.
I am really hoping my phone starts working again soon, so many photos to take and upload for you all. 

Stripey Hat Pattern - FREE PATTERN

Hi Guys,

So I can't upload photos still. But I wanted to share my very first pattern with you as soon as possible so here it goes.

Stripey Hat Pattern

Ages 1-2

Materials Used:

5.00mm Needles/US size 8/UK size 6
50g/1.7 Ounces Blue 8ply
50g/1.7 Ounces Black 8ply
1 Darning needle

CO Main Color 63 Sts

Rows 1-6 Knit

Work In stockinette throughout pattern
Rows 7-9 Blue
Rows 10-14 Black
Rows 15-17 Blue
Rows 18-20 Black
Rows 21-24 Blue
Rows 25-29 Black
Rows 30-32 Blue
Rows 33-35 Black
Rows 36-40 Blue
Rows 40-44 Black
Starting Decrease:
Row 45 Blue: Knit 11, *K2tog, K5* rep to last two sts, K2
Row 46 Blue: Purl across
Row 47 Black: Knit 10, *K2tog, K4* rep to last 1 st, K1
Row 48 Black: Purl
Row 49 Blue: Knit 9, *K2tog, K3* rep to 2 sts, K2
Row 50 Blue: Purl across
Row 51 Blue: Knit 8 *K2tog, K2* rep to last 1 st, K1
Row 52 Blue: Purl across
Row 53 Black: Knit 7 *K2tog, K1* rep to last 2 sts, K2tog
Row 54 Black: Purl across
Row 55 Black: K2tog across

Using Darning needle, thread through the remaining sts and pull, sew up the hat using the method of a blanket stitch.

        If you would like to reproduce this item for selling, donating or personal use PLEASE feel free. 

                        However please do NOT sell my pattern. 

                                     © 2017 'Jasmine'sKnittingBlog.blogspot.co.nz' All Rights Reserved

*If you would like to share this pattern please link the pattern to those you would like to share it with. Do not copy or reproduce my pattern.*
                                       **Protected by the New Zealand copyright laws.**

                                   Any Photos posted with patterns are also © copyright protected.

Day 8

Reflections on Day 7

How do I typically react during times of uncertainty? How could I do better?

I withdraw myself from whatever it is, I could try and not do that... Honestly, I don't know how I could do better. I know the issue...

What do I need to let go of in order to freely move forward in my life? (Make a list and release them during Knitasana)

A lot.

What is preventing me from truly loving and accepting myself as I am right now? (Identify negative thoughts/minds and practice releasing them during Knitasana)

Myself.

Ok, there's a lot on there that I don't want to put into this blog. But they are thoughts that I will keep in mind when knitting.

Day 8 

I have only knitted 10 rows of the child's scarf I've been spending the day cleaning and just enjoying myself. Having time to myself is so blissful. But I am missing my daughter and fiancee I am looking forward to them returning home yesterday.

Tomorrow I plan on knitting something different. Anyway, I am gonna get an early night. I used to take sleep for granted. Not anymore.

Day 6 & 7

So I realised my blog missed day 6, but that's ok I still can't add photos to my blog. My phone charger decided to die... So yay no cell phone, no photos, no Instagram.

I've been working on a children's scarf (yes, again) but this time I am knitting one free-knit. I plan on turning it into a pattern and then I would like to write it up and upload it to my blog. But it will be a while away. I am still working away on writing the pattern for Luna's Dreamer.

I am really loving working with thread and yarn. It makes me feel so happy working with sparkle, pink and purple I feel like my inner child is jumping up and down with glee. I can't wait to share it with you.

 I am learning about blocking projects as well. So I will be doing that on the scarf I am working on.

This weekend is going to be a baby and fiancee-free weekend so after my room is clean I will be knit, knit knitting after work!
 I've noticed on the Facebook pages people are logging how much knitting they have done in the day

Day 7 I logged 2 hours knitting

Commit to Knit Reflections

In the email from Becky, she has 8 tips to help "ROCK this challenge".

So let's get straight into this reflection. 

Tip number 1 she wants us to reflect on our "WHY?"

"Why do you want to develop a daily knitting practice? Why is it important to you? Once you are clear about the answer to this question, you're much more likely to keep doing it."

Knitting for me has helped channel my anxiety and stress into something pleasant as it is something that needs quite a bit of thought and attention. It also helps give me a creative outlet, which I need. Also, it's something I can bond over with my best friend, my mum and other close relatives that also knit. 

Tip Number 2 "BE CONSISTENT" 

Becky suggests choosing a time and putting a timer on, while that may work with someone who has a set schedule every day it doesn't for me. But what does work for me is knitting after dinner on the couch, or knitting on the bus/train, knitting when Violet-Anne is napping, knitting in the morning before everyone gets up. Those are the times I knit. Nothing wrong with being flexible, but I know when I start to lose interest in a hobby that I aimed to do daily. I am sure enthusiasm will wear off (however Becky has said she has something in mind).

Tip Number 3 "DEDICATE A SPACE"

Well, I have that sorted, my dedicated space is in a chair directly in front of the T.V & my yarn stash, patterns & knitting needles are right behind me. 

Tip Number 4 "START SMALL MAKE SUCCESS INVETIABLE"

Whoops, maybe my list is too ambitious... BUT that's ok, I am not really worried if I get everything I want to be knitted down in one month or not, I want to but I am ok if I don't. I have more than a month to do it. But I would like to get a majority of it done.

Tip Number 5 "BE PREPARED"

Before I sit down to knit I usually have a bucket of W.I.P's beside me, but I can spend an hour or two looking at patterns online when I am looking for inspiration for my next project. I am currently knitting a scarf which I will knit when looking for patterns. That way it's two birds one stone. 

Tip Number 6 "ELIMANTE DISTRACTIONS"

Because the focus Becky has around this challenge is knitasana (knitting as a form of meditation) this means no T.V watching, although.......... I have to admit I do have the T.V on but I am not worried about that, T.V helps turn my brain off or I listen to "mindfulness" music on youtube.

Tip Number 7 "SET A TIMER"

Yea, I won't be doing that, I knit for hours if I can. Any time is a good time. I will only set a timer if I have something to do at a certain time, or be somewhere.  

Tip Number 8  "BE FLEXIBLE"
Lucky me. Already am. 

Anyway, my daughter is FINALLY asleep this blog has taken a long time to finish now it's time to relax with my scarf I am knitting.

An update on those pictures: Phone chord is still playing up I am not sure when I will get a chance to upload the photos so UNFORTUNTALY this will have to become a picture-less blog until I can figure something out. Sorry about that. But if you are keen to see pictures feel free to follow my Instagram: Jasminet284