On with the Sleeves

So it goes like this... I stall, I make progress, I stall again, then I make a  little more progress.  Honestly I'm a bit embarrassed that I'm once again talking about this cardigan.  Will I ever get it finished?  I suppose if the weather were cooler and I could wear it when it's done I might move a little quicker, but that's questionable. The progress report goes like this: I have reached what I believe to be the desired body length.  I'm unsure so I've left the ball of yarn I used attached just in case I want to add another row or two.  Last night I began sleeve one.  Like my recent foray into socks, this pattern is more of a guide than a step by step and it leaves a bit to interpretation.  Note to self - this is best done before midnight when you're able to think clearly. The instructions told me to attach on the 7th stitch of the under arm, ch 3 (first dc) and work in pattern across.  (But it's really around) Join with a slip stitch, turn and continue to work in pattern to desired length. I tried.  It didn't work.  I ripped. I have encountered patterns in the past (for mittens) that wanted me to work my round by turning.  I'm sure it can be done and there's a reason for it, I just haven't figured out how.  Being the creative problem solver that I am I did this instead: join in 7th stitch, ch 3 and work in pattern across.  When I got to the beginning ch 3 I joined with a slip stitch and then put another slip stitch in the next dc to bring me to the right place to begin the pattern.  I continued working the pattern in the round joining each this way.  So far I've done 6 rounds and it looks great. (Pat on the back here!) It feels good to have encountered a "problem" and created a "solution".  For me this is testimony that my skills are advancing!  Now if I can only stay motivated long enough to finish this thing!

The book that I'm reading today is The Lost Years by Mary Higgins Clark.  I'm a mystery fan, and haven't read a MH Clark in a long time.  This story centers on a the murder of a biblical scholar who may have discovered the only know writings of Jesus Christ.  A letter to Joseph of Arimathea thought to have been stolen from the Vatican in 1474 AD.  Who is responsible for his murder? His wife who's suffering from advanced Alzheimers?  His mistress whom he has just broken things off with? Or maybe one of his colleagues who is intent on possessing the  parchment? Face-paced with plenty of  twists I'm enjoying this interesting bit of fiction - when I'm not working on my sweater of course!

Don't forget to to stop by Tami's Amis and Small Wonders to see all the great projects going on today!

Until next time friends,
Be blessed and stitch & read with love!