Sometimes the simplest of events, situations, circumstances, problems … whatever … can provide valuable lessons and my current knitting project is no different.

After a rough end to the work-day, I came home a little fatigued, a little close to tears and all around frustrated.  My newest character building mantra however is to leave negative work experiences at the door once I arrive outside my apt building.  I’m working harder to make my living space a peaceful space and that’s one of the things I can do to make it so.  Leave work baggage outside … shucks, it’ll be there when I get to work tomorrow anyway … why bring it home?

Once I got inside, I was a little lost at what to do to de-stress.  Silly me, knitting makes almost everything better so I picked up my needles.  😀  The pattern seemed easy enough but that seemingly simple pattern made me learn two new skills — how to do a provisional cast-on and how to seam with the kitchener stitch.  The pattern is one I bought not too long ago and the end result looked like it would’ve been simple enough to make.  It is … but in it’s simplicity lay two valuable lessons. 

The first (the provisional cast-on) I learned from this very valuable video on http://www.knittinghelp.com.  That site is an absolute resource for newbies like myself and experienced knitters.  Or at least I think so.  😀

Provisional Cast-On Video

While knitting, my work issue crept into my thoughts but rather than get upset I realized that just like my seemingly simple knitting project, there was a lesson to be learned in this.  What I found is that my work problem, when broken down, has a simplified resolution, but a resolution that guarantees that I don’t have to deal with this particular issue again.  Lesson learned — my first response was not my best response and I’m glad I walked away before saying something I couldn’t take back.  Who said knitting doesn’t mimic real life?  With both experiences, I learned new skills.  How about that? 😀

It doesn’t look like much, but here’s my current W.I.P ~ Loopy Loops.  See my provisional cast-on.  I’m loving it!!!!!  😀

The project doesn’t look like much now, but here’s a better view of the stitch pattern:

It’ll be ready on Friday, complete with the kitchener grafting stitch for F.O. Fridays reveal.  In the meantime, head over to Tami’s to see what the other ladies are working on.  They never disappoint. 😀

I bought this pattern from Michelle and can’t wait to try it this weekend. 

I love the difference in the texture and the pattern is super simple.  That’s despite the fact I have to learn how to do a provisional cast-on and the kitchener stitch.

In addition to this, I’ve started the Brisbane scarf for my former supervisor.  Her birthday is next month and despite our track record, finishing that scarf for her is the least I could do.  The pattern can be found on LionBrand’s website.  Although I’m doing it in a lighter weight Knitpicks yarn, the beautiful texture is still evident.  Will post pics soon.

Random Brisbane Scarf (photo credit)