L+D {knitting}

Before Baby MiH was there, Mr MiH and I had a chat of what I would need at the hospital. Mr MiH was adamant that I needed a knitting project to focus on - in case things took longer - 3 days maybe? - for instance. This was one of the most difficult project to choose, I wanted it to be easy but also complicated so that I had to concentrate. Also I wanted it to be something I actually needed and that I would wear - I did not think I would have been able to frog the project afterwards whatever it would look like.

I wanted a cowl to go with my Zara army green jacket that I wear now all the time. I decided it should be knitted in a worsted yarn and in purple - I chose a yarn I had not come across before, Rowan Creative Focus Worsted in True Purple. A simple lace pattern would do the trick. 

I bought the First Book of Modern (first published in 1958) Lace Knitting by Marianne Kinzel ages ago - I am sure at the time there was a specific project I liked. The projects are rather old fashioned for my taste, however the actual patterns remain modern and simple. 

I chose to follow one of the table mats pattern (the 'Celandine' one) for the cowl. I really like the Mosaic pattern too, but felt that the Celandine added a softer touch to the cowl pattern. 

 Pattern: Adapted from  the Celandine pattern, from Marianne Kinzel, First Book of Modern Lace Knitting

Yarn: Rowan Creative Focus Worsted in True Purple

Needle size: Circular 4.5mm

I did do some knitting in my first and second days at the hospital. It was a welcome distraction, and I was really happy to see how the pattern was going to suit a cowl - it also meant I met a fellow Ravelrer! As soon as I was on gaz and air though all I wanted to do were crosswords - I am not making this up, I was that gone. I used to breathe in and out, stop, offer an answer and carry on with the breathing. Let's be thankful there is no video evidence of this... 

I am hoping to finish it soon, to wear when I can start walking again and take Baby MiH on strolls! 

Many thanks for all your lovely comments yesterday! It will take time for me to go back into blogging in earnest, but be sure that I read every single comment - show them to Mr MiH as well - and  I will love catching up with your blogs when things settle down a bit!