My mojo!

Can I start out by saying that I have a general distaste for the word "mojo", but I have no better way to describe what I'm talking about-- the feeling of excitement and desire that comes with working on knitting projects. The need to create more, faster, an ever-changing lineup of works in progress on the needles.

For some reason lately, as I've slogged through my Meridien cardigan, I've felt my mojo waning. I'm repeating the same 33 rows over. I'm on repeat 14 now, and nearing the end of the first section of the cardigan. Normally, I'd be racing to the finish line, ready to work on the little Gramps sweater that is now overdue (the intended baby had an early yet fashionable arrival). I don't like having a ton of projects on the needles at once, but even if I did, I think I'd be slowing down, anyway.

What happened? I still love knitted things. I enjoy knitting, when I do. My queue is still growing. Indeed, quite a large group of knit friends are starting on Viajante, a Martina Behm creation that appeared in February.

I have the yarn for it, and I'd love to knit with my friends, but actually casting on seems to encompass some kind of weight that I can't explain. I'm not producing at the same rate as I was before. Do I need to take a break from Meridien and my endless repeats? Should I allow myself to slow down and focus on getting things done methodically, not pushing myself if the "mojo" just isn't there?

I feel like I've been thrown into water and forgotten how to swim. On a logical level, I'm still inspired by projects I see on Ravelry, by my local knit group, and by your comments, lovely readers. What keeps me from picking up my needles at night?

Have any of you been through something similar? I took an extensive break from knitting for a few years during college and came back stronger than ever... Maybe I just need time? A new yarn store to peruse?

- YX

Queued: Summer knits

Two cute things in my feed recently:

Cowl Cami, by Jennifer Hansen, has only four projects and is just gorgeous:

I'd love to use linen, cotton, or a plant fiber on this to keep it light for summer. I also love that the tank is styled with another tank under, which is much more realistic to me than wearing just a knitted tank by itself. Whenever I see a knit tank alone, I always wonder how someone can wear it with just a bra and not feel "exposed".

I love the drape of the cowl and the texture of the fabric on this piece. And it's possible that I'm being seduced by a great colorway and photo set.

The other thing I'm loving right now is Caret, a Romi Hill design:

The wrap is so cute and the colors are classic and nautical. I could totally see throwing this in my purse to fight the AC in the summer. I know we've looked at chevrons before, but I love this for the irregular striping and aged look. Just an excellent combo of color and pattern.

Do you have any summer favorites?
- YX