Never give up. Never give in.
If you live by these words does it mean you are tenacious, determined, or just plain stubborn? Is there a time when one should give up? I wonder if when I am most determined not to give up is exactly when I should.
Let me explain. I am an accomplished knitter and over the years have turned out wonderful objects. I do not say this from ego but just as a fact. The fact is if you practice something long enough and continually challenge yourself you will become accomplished.
A few months ago I completed a sweater pattern that is complicated but has become a favourite, and I have done a few of these. What I have never done is a project requiring considerable pattern adjustment expressly for a client. For money.
I have toiled mightily. And retooled. (If there is any such word)
Equally talented spinners of the ‘Yarn’ have advised me to give up. Give in.
This I cannot do. It has become a PERSONAL battle. Me and the yarn. One of us will win.
This is a previous one, done to pattern and not requiring personal adjustments. I knit because I enjoy it and have come to the conclusion that once you do it ‘for money’ the fun seems to go out of it. So for now I shall not up nor give in. I will probably give the lady back her money and make a gift of the sweater. Somehow that thought fits.
bridgesburning 
Wow. Complicated pattern. Beautiful.
Thanks Lois. I have done several sweaters in this but it is the first time having to make pattern and size adjustments. How long has it been since we have been blogging buddies. Several years I think. How are you doing?
My Mom used to cut off her nose to spite her face and I try hard not to emulate that. So it’s good to have a little stick to it spirit but grace in knowing when to pack it in. I’m sure it’s a fine project, give it a rest and come back to it. If it still frustrates you then maybe you’re done. Chin up!
Hahahaha you always know just the right words. I think of your Mom often and still miss her.
There’s a place in Seattle called Tricoter and they adjust all patterns according to your measurements so I know there’s a way to do it! Whenever you go there and buy yarn, they take in to account the measurements, needle size and a gauge swatch to do it. Have you seen anything like this?
Hi Emily – it’s wonderful hearing from you. I just did a blog on early blogging days and we have been blogging buddies for many years. How are you?
Oh and I had not heard of the company but will check it out. It’s been a great experience learning to make changes so I do value that. Thanks for the heads up!
You are so right Darlene. From now on for love not money!
I can so relate. I used to sew all my own clothes and my daughters as well. Then I decided to do it for money. The first couple of projects went well and the customers were pleased. Then I had to make something that needed a lot of adjusting and it was no longer fun. On top of it, the customer didn’t want to pay me what we agreed upon. That was it, I got a job in a shop and went back to sewing for fun. Sometimes we have to know when to stop.
I really love this post. And no, we never give up and never give in but sometimes a rest from a problem may make it less onerous when one returns to it. JBX
JB as usual such wise words!