Yes the three beginning chain is counted as the first double crochet.

Thank you...

Sounds like you've been working too hard and need to take a 'me' break. Put your feet up & do whatever you find the most relaxing. That does not include doing handiwork because you don't want to waste the time.

glassquilt, I think you are right.

I hate when that happens. You get to thinking about the pattern so much that you start to think there are several different things they could mean! LOL

Last winter I sat down and made a hat for my DS. Didn't take very long and it seemed so simple. I sat down a few weeks later to do one for DH and I couldn't get it started! Nothing seemed to go right. I still need make it!

I usually have trouble starting projects, and often start them 2-3 times before I get the hang of it. Partly I think this is because I work in the evenings when I am already tired, and also the light is not as good. I've got the afghan going now, although I did rip out a good bit yesterday and did it over. Thanks, all!

Merry Christmas to all my "friends" here on the Knitting Forum.

I know when I start making mistakes it is time to quit for the day. It is amazing how much easier it is to knit when you are rested.