October 13, 2026

I did a “swatch” and simultaneously got started on the blanket by doing 2 each of the sunflowers and circles, then joining all 4, including the last edge. They measure 19” across. After blocking, that would be 40” for 8 squares before the border. Because I’d actually like an odd number of squares for each row (so it’s more symmetric with a row beginning and ending with the same type of square), I think I will do 7x7. But the question then is do I have enough of the blue (Lakeside) yarn?

Next I will weigh my swatch and what’s left of the skein. If necessary, I can go down to 5x5 squares and/or plan to use the other colors on the border. That’s assuming I’ll have enough of the light yellow (Buttercup) of which I only have 2 skeins.

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66g of Lakeside left and lots of Buttercup

October 16, 2026

I’ve decided to go with 7x7 to get it to roughly 40” square after the border. (Best donation size.) I had been limiting myself to only 4 skeins of the Lakeside in order to reserve 2 for a 2027 temperature blanket, but I’ve rethought that idea. I don’t really like the look of my finished temperature blankets, and they don’t make good donations, so why use all that time and yarn? What really appeals to me is the year-long aspect of it. So, instead, I may give some thought to a different year-long project.

I added 3 more squares to my “swatch” and finished the continuous JAYG to where I’m ready to start joining the next row.

I’ve also decided to go down a hook size for the solid circles. I’ve done a few so far and I think that would look better and maybe lessen the need to block at the end.

October 30, 2026

Row 2 is complete!

November 1, 2026

I’ve now got row 3 and the first 4 squares of row 4 completed and joined.This is 50%, not including the border.

I made an optimistic plan that has me doing either 4 squares or 3 squares and a bottom row edge of the continuous JAYGO each evening (except Tuesday when I have an evening work obligation). If I can do that, then I should be able to finish this up next weekend.

I’m enjoying the process, and I think it’s lovely, so no worries if it takes longer, especially since this yarn is a little tough on the hands. I could alternate with Card Deck flowers since that’s a soft acrylic.

November 8, 2026

All squares are complete and joined. Now what is left is the border, but I may leave that for a few days. This yarn is quite tough on the body and I don’t want to injure myself. I have time to finish the border today, but I think I will be careful.

November 9, 2026

I couldn’t hold back any longer and finished the border after work (it’s Monday). I did a round of sc, followed by 3 rounds of hdc, as recommended in the pattern except I did the last two rounds of hdc in the third loop (a.k.a. Camel Stitch) to make the border a little more decorative.

I’m very pleased with the whole blanket. It’s not the softest, but it has a nice weight and drape to it. And I really love the colors and design. My last step is to weigh all the leftover yarn and get good pictures in the daylight.