Your honesty is a gift, not just your spectacular designs. You describe many very relatable and challenging feelings that follow becoming a mother. Our path was entirely different, adopting a toddler and then an infant, but that sudden onset of feeling like there is something else you should be doing, feeling overwhelmed, feeling guilt for some unknown, unidentified, possibly completely imagined shortcoming. Oh, your sharing brings it right back, and our youngest is now 17! I am glad you are settling into your new, more complicated life and its rhythms. So much love and growth lies in parenthood. I wish you all the best on your path.
I second this. One of the things I love about you is how vulnerable you get in your videos. It's one thing to project an image of perfection, like so many other influencers and creators do, but it's so refreshing to see someone be so candid about their struggles. It is a beautiful and brave thing you do. As a mom of a 16 and 18 year old, let me just say that you are absolutely killing it. Just keep doing what you are doing!
What a great video. Ur designs are beautiful. But most of all sharing ur feelings. Congratulations again on ur baby son, he’s adorable.enjoy every minute.❤❤❤
I did not realize how much I missed watching your videos until you posed your latest one. Your genuinely happy and grateful approach to life and an impressive work ethic is so rare. I cannot wait for your newest book to be out, and I look forward to flipping through the pages to appreciate the wonderful pictures taken in Copenhagen. I wish you and your wonderful family all the best, and I thank you for all that you do.
Your podcast was amazing with the photography done in a everyday environment. When photo's are taken with a model standing in an unnatural pose you have no idea how the garment fits with movement. Your photographer (husband) is so talented. The new book is a winner especially the red and white with shoulder frills. Your little boy is so lovely and the tiredness the struggling with the lack of sleep and the hormonal Rollercoaster I remember so long ago. Heippa ❤😊
My goodness, Kika! Every word that comes out of your mouth about motherhood is something that I have thought or said myself with my first child. It's so hard and it was dark for me also. Acceptance is the key! As I survive hard things, I learned that they weren't permanent, and that makes accepting them easier in the moment. It's something I had to learn with time. Thank you for being so real. Mothers need to speak their truth and receive support, not judgement. I appreciate you and your story. P.S. keenly awaiting your book!
It is so nice to see you again. Thank you for sharing your feelings about beeing a young mother. My baby is on the way and I love to knit 1000 things, but I am so tired all the time and my hands are tired too. That makes me very sad but maby I have to learn to relax more before the baby is there😅. I am waiting for your new book and I really need the pattern for the t-shirt❤. Greatings from North of Germany
Just found your channel, fellow knitter here, from Sweden. Knitting has always been my sweet spot, but with the children arriving, time has not been the same off course. You have to be kind to yourself. Every feeling is ok. Yesterday my 13 year old daughter asked me why I was not knitting when we were watching tv. She said that it is so cosy when I knit. She has seen me knitting through all years, when her brother was born. Just felt like a nice confirmation of sorts, that she acknowledged the knitting part of me. Take care! Be kind to yourself. Nothing is the same as before kids, it takes some adjustment. But everything will be ok. 🧶💚
This is so true! My daughters are now grown and (weirdly) have started knitting and dressmaking since moving out...they didn't do that growing up! The eldest now has a child and he enjoys watching his momma knit and sew too ❤ precious legacies!
Dont push yourself trying to exceed beyond motherhood. Trying to fit in writing a book and a new baby PHEW! All the best plans dont always come to fruition. Babies make sure of that!Congratulations for getting to the publishing stage. For myself as a nurse/shiftwork experience, I thought I could cope with lack of sleep. NOT SO. I DID NOT cope. No support. A husband who was an anaesthetist and doing shift work. That was 33 years ago. Look forward to your book release. ❤
How lovely to see you again! I look forward to your wonderful new book, but with great patience as you have a very important new part of life 🩵 Thank you for sharing not only your new designs, but your open thoughts and experiences as a new mom. All good thoughts and blessings to you on all of these exciting endeavors!
Oh my Lord, that child could melt even the hardest heart. He is absolutely adorable. Those eyes! ❤ I can’t wait to see your new book. Love the frills! I don’t have children of my own but I have helped raise 10 nieces and nephews and little miss number 10 is about to turn 2 and she is absolutely amazing. When they start to speak and the first time they say your name, it’s the best feeling. You have all that to come. Just enjoy each day as it comes. You’ve got the right idea Kika - don’t put too much pressure on yourself and leave space in your day for things to go wrong or for extra cuddles. Even without kids I always tried to fit too much into my day and would beat myself up about it. Now I make a to-do list and then I move 70% to the next day. That way if I get it all done, I can just start on the next day’s list, but if I don’t, I don’t feel like I’ve failed miserably. BTW that colour & style of jumper on Juki looked amazing. So good to catch up with your little family. 😊
Your honesty is SO refreshing. And, your experience is also “normal.” We’ve been there :) Now, 4 kids, 11 grandkids later, worked and been in school, those years were chaotic but wonderful. Gone too quickly. The joy from adult children is GREAT; so great! One day at a time sweet Friend. Savor them all :) Diane Westerinen Ellison
I always adore and resonate with your authenticity and vulnerability in sharing your journey, in motherhood, in your projects, in being a content creator. you are a light and I am always overjoyed to see new videos & patterns from you. you are so hard working & inspiring. its so much to balance and I am always cheering you on! I hope once your book releases you feel able to take a bit of a break from the whirlwind and chaos!! 💗💗
Lovely to find your video. I’ve missed you but was not surprised that we were not seeing you yet. I remember the early months with my first baby. I was so tired and felt completely overwhelmed. I was so excited about the baby but had no idea that I would feel so incompetent. My husband who had had nothing to do with babies was much better at dealing with her crying. However, we all survived thanks to friends, family and the Nursing Mothers Association of Australia local group counsellors - mother to mother support was just fabulous. That baby turns 50 this year 😂 - she survived! I think motherhood is an art and each one develops what’s best for herself and her little family in her own way. Accept all the help and enjoy - grandmothers and aunties just love to be part of the process ❤
Welcome back, I have missed you. Edwin is adorable! You brought back memories of what it was like having a newborn in your life for the first time. What you are experiencing is probably more intense because you are so driven to achieve goals in your work, but as Edwin grows you will get used to the go with the flow mentality. One thing though, you really need to take advantage of nap times to rest and regroup without guilt. If you continue to keep going when you are exhausted your body and energy level will suffer causing more stress and difficulty. Your new sweaters are beautiful and I can't wait to get your new book.
Thank you so much for sharing not only your gorgeous knitwear, but also your honest feelings about becoming a mother and dealing with the challenges it presents. I also had a rough time starting out with my first child ( who is 33 now!), and I will never forget the way it totally changed my life. I’m so happy to hear that it’s getting easier for you and you’re able to relax a little bit and enjoy the moments because it goes by SO fast! The happiness of having a child totally outweighs the “dark” period you had to go through to get where you are now, and where you are heading. You are such a joy and you’re family is wonderful! I greatly appreciate all your hard work and dedication to knitwear design. I’m so looking forward to your new book! You rock Kika!!!
I can really relate to the things you say about motherhood! I had my second baby a month ago and I try to enjoy the newborn phase but it is also so exhausting and hard (especially with a 2 year old that also wants attention). But time runs so quickly and soon enough I will get used to everything again :)
It will get better, momma! My baby just turned 15 months. And although this age has a different set of challenges, we are not as tired as we were when the little one was 6 mos below. I am at awe with how much you appear to balance everything. Managing business, keeping your creative juices flowing, and taking care of your small family. You are a super woman!
I am so happy to see you! Edwin is so beautiful. He looks like both you and Yuki. I cannot wait for your new book. You were missed. Take life as it comes. ❤
Sleep deprivation is real. Especially if you're type A and used to getting a lot done. I'm glad you're finding a balance and letting it go a little. I was a little worried when I saw your last video. I just wanted to be able to reach out and say "it will all work out." Thinking "I am so lucky, and I should be grateful or whatever" doesn't make it easier. When your baby is small, a night can seem to go on forever, but when your child is grown, it will seem like time flew by. Edwin will benefit when you care of yourself, too. He seems like such a happy little fellow.
this!! as grateful as we are we can guilt ourselves so much for not being “grateful enough”, especially with trying to balance personal goals & work in motherhood while a baby needs us literally 24/7.
I love the red/white striped ruffle sweater! I think it is such a beautiful design. And I know just what you mean about motherhood being challenging and wonderful and hard and amazing all at the same time. I definitely struggled a bunch with that after our first baby was born a couple years ago. And now that we have welcomed a second little one, there has definitely been some more adjusting to the challenges of this new season juggling a baby and a toddler. I don't think I have much advice or anything to offer, mostly just wanted to say you are absolutely not alone and I understand what you are going through! ❤❤❤
Thank you so much for being honest about your journey into motherhood. I was pregnant around the same time as you, also had an easy pregnancy but there were complications during the birth which led to a c-section. Mentally I found that quite a thing to come back from. I also recognise what you say about setting goals and expectations for a day. My husband and I decided to stop expecting to get anything done in a day, that way we always feel productive. It’s easy to say this but it took us quite a lot of frustration and tears too. But now I feel I’ve got the hang of motherhood, so let’s tackle the next curveball it’s going to throw at us.
100% agreed with the sleeves!! The motivation just isn't there for them after finishing the body 😂 Sometimes I knit the sleeves when the body is like half way done, just to get the sleeves out of the way, and I don't have to worry about them anymore after I'm done with the body 😅
Every new Moms experience is personal and unique. While in it we can’t wait until the next phase always rushing it along and then like in a blink of an eye it’s over. I personally wish I could go back. Your work is always beautiful, thank you for sharing.❤
So lovely to catch up with you. I really appreciate your honesty. You’re doing an amazing job. Juggling your own business with motherhood must be so hard but you’re doing so well ❤
give yourself the grace to know your doing this for the first time, and as you go, things will change.. take the moments as they come... its a learning curve and there's no playbook.. the work/care balance is something that is the hardest to get a hold of... REMEMBER. your Productive even if your RESTING... each stage in his life will be temporary, its a moving target that is always changing. It's all about learning how to adapt to the changes of the moment. Use your support system, and never feel guilty about it... you touched on all the right things:) that picture in your head of how things should look is never going to be perfect, but it is a guideline, not set in stone:) Enjoy the moments. You got this!
Lovely Kika, you are doing an excellent job - you are in “matrescence” - a word I learnt this week and wish I knew 14 years ago when I became a mother xoxo
My little girl is 2 now and your video brings me back to the first few months of motherhood. The chaos and loss of control over time and life mixed with pockets of intense gratitude for this perfect little person. I also had dark dark dark days in the beginning. But I’ll tell you (something I’m sure you’ve been told a bunch already) … it gets better and better each day. And that’s a combination of both you settling into a new normal and your little one giving so much more back. At 6 months, you’re just leaving the “potato” stage and getting to some really fun milestones. Movement, eating, language. It’s all so miraculous. But thank you so much for giving voice to the sad and uncomfortable parts of this journey. I think it’s important to recognize. One extra note to say that, when I was at my lowest, knitting saved me. I may not have had the capacity to look forward to the BIG future, but I could take the small step of looking at a pretty ball of yarn and contemplating what I could do with it. I could rest my heart/head by moving my hands. And I owe a lot of credit for regaining that passion to inspirational crafting videos, yours especially. So, from one mother to another, thank you. You got this. 💛
You are an incredible designer and have one of my favorite youtube podcaster! I am excited to buy the book and look forward to doing another test knit. The guilt will come and go but in time you and your family will create a system that works best for you. You are doing all the things you need to do for your son and yourself. I am a mother of three boys and it is non-stop action but I take a break. It is okay to do that for yourself! Again, you are incredible and will do what you need to do. Congrats on the new book!!!!
Thank you so much for mentioning the dark side of early motherhood. It’s definitely glossed over and makes people feel guilty when they experience it. AND it takes away the accomplishment of getting through it! It isn’t easy, but we do it anyway! Well done!👏 I so related to the feeling of doing so many things but feeling like you’re not doing anything good enough. I wish I could say it gets easier but with a 7yo and 3yo, I still struggle. Also I CAN’T WAIT to make the striped sweater.
Edwin's little head popping up on the bed😂 So cute! ❤ Your knits are so beautiful, Veronika. Take time off and enjoy your baby, he'll be off to school in no time ❤ Much love xxxx ps imo no-one can 'work from home' when they have a baby. You end up either neglecting your baby or your work. Consider working on your book when your husband can care for your baby in the evening when he comes home from his work. Childcare is a tiring job. Take care of your lovely self. Xxx
I’ve missed seeing you! Motherhood is a totally new journey. One day you’ll look back and think wow the time flew by but in that moment you are becoming a new person with all of the changes. I think you have a beautiful family and I can’t believe he’s going to be six months!! So excited for your next book I have your first one and I am here for all of it. I have a request, I love your purses!!! All of them are so cute! I would like to know the brand. 😂 I’m kind of a purse addict.
Nice to see you back. Can wait to see all your designs and videos. What i heard you saying is that you feel guilty. Please don't. Whatever you are doing at the moment enjoy it and most importantly rest when you can without feeling guilty. You mind and body will be greatful. Blessings to you and your family.
Edwin is SO beautiful! Beautiful family! Thanks for sharing a sneak peek of your book. Lovely designs and photography. I’ll be excited for the release. ❤️
Wonderful video! Your son is beautiful and looks to be thriving! You look and sound wonderful! I remember all the anxiety and frustration of living with a baby/toddler! How I miss it! You are doing SO MUCH! The stuff “they” say about having a career AND children is crap! If you do it all, something will be neglected! Love your son, take care of yourself (experts at torture use sleep deprivation!), lean on and love your husband. We will be here when you get back! 💕 Your skills are awesome and aren’t going anywhere! You are doing great! .
Thank you for your videos, always inspiring and uplifting. Sometimes you need to take one day at time, focus on the basics and take care of yourself. But it does get easier, I promise! They start to do more things independently and interact with you more. And then just like that they suddenly become a pre-teen and you have to learn a whole new way of being a mum! 😂 Enjoy it, you're doing your best and that is all anyone can ask of you. x
i was so happy to see your new post, your little one is adorable, glad youve been able to get back to creativity and your passion for yarn craft and we benefit from that !!!
Thanks for sharing your vulnerability. I relate so much to your stories especially as a working mom. The first year of motherhood is particularly challenging. There is so much joy in having a baby but also so much overwhelming emotions and responsibilities. My child is 7 now and it’s soooo much easier.
You are so right... motherhood is the hardest (but best) job you will ever have. Working whilst raising a family is even harder. You are doing so well. Be proud of yourself and your little family 💖 Your work is excellent, your style is classic and will stand the test of time 👍🏻
Lovely video, I'm very excited for the book! My baby is currently 5 weeks and I find it so reassuring to hear other mums say they didn't enjoy the newborn phase so much. I loved pregnancy, but then having an actual baby (who I love endlessly of course), feels so overwhelming and just way too much a lot of the time. ❤It's good to feel like this feeling is normal xxx
Good morning from Northern Illinois USA. I haven't seen your videos in so long!! This video just popped up. So happy to see you. Ive missed alot of videos! I have to play catch up!! Congratulations on your sweet little baby!! ❤️ There is nothing better then being a parent! So excited for you and your husband. I love your creations. You are so talented and creative! Your studio is beautiful. You are such an inspiration being a wife, mom, artist, author & business woman! This video uplifted my morning. God bless you & your family.
Heavy is a good way to describe the first few months with a new baby... I can totally relate to that. I'm so glad you're finding a good rhythm for you. It can be so hard, but also so rewarding. Also - soooo excited for the striped ruffle sweater. It's AMAZING! Thanks for the new video!
Thank you for sharing, you're amazing. You're not along in your journey of being a new mom and you're to be admired for all that you do! Can't wait for your book to be released!
So very happy to see you back! SO excited to get your new book! 6 months old is such a darling age! (childless doge lady here! BUT I did a plethron of babysitting in my day!) LOVE LOVE that you are coming back~ XO
Hearing your heartfelt discussion about your motherhood adjustments brings back so many memories. As a grandmother, I have felt so much more able to lean into the slowness of being around babies and toddlers to be in the moment with them. My wisdom is learned from many, many mistakes. Hearing you be so insightful and examining the changes and your feelings assures me that your experience overall will be better and healthier for you and your precious baby. 🥰
Loving your honesty and self-reflection. Your designs are beautiful and I am wishing you only success 🤞I miss Finland sometimes, its a very calm smart country with increddible nature surroundings.
Lovely to see you and gorgeous baby. You are doing SO MUCH . A baby is more than a full time job. I would leave your book for a year and come back to it. But I can see you love doing it.I have just now bought your arctic light and salty days sweater, you have so many great patterns out there already. Would love to see some baby knit patterns from you one day.Love the frill sweater xxxx
Oh Kika, I have missed your videos. Your honesty, your vulnerability, your joy and love for life, is always such a gift to behold. Your first book is the only knitting book I've ever purchased, and I will definitely be buying your second one when it becomes available! Thank you for sharing your life, and please know you can always take a break like this. Your audience will still be here whenever you're ready to return.
Veronica, I’ve been following you for quite a while and I always love your creations. I am definitely making that pink sweater that you’ve been wearing today! Do you ever do test knits? I would love to be one of your test knitters. The first child is such a huge adjustment. I personally found that the second child was much easier because you were already in the swing of being a parent. Everything is not new the second time around. It sounds like you had some postpartum depression. I too had some. It’s just hard being a mother! My daughters are now grown, ages 28 and 29. so I am anxiously awaiting being a grandmother! I hope you will do some more baby clothes that little onesie you made for your son was so cute. I’m looking forward to some baby creations from you!😊
Thank you so much for sharing. I think a lot of mums feel the way you do. I know i did. The pressure we put on ourselves to be productive. And why? For me, i think my value as a person was connected to my productivity. But you being there for your son, and for yourself through rest and joyful, individual activity that is not related to work - that is more important than those few extra things ticked off the to-do list that ends up becoming our self-inflicted slave-driver. Take care of yourself. X
I have 3 kids and the first 3 months was the hardest for sure but it did get easier in the fact that I was more confident and less worried all the time with each baby going forward ❤
So nice to see a new video with you today! ♥ Love that new stripey ruffle top too. 😍 I've always appreciated your honestly here on your channel and that you've been willing to share it with us. So many parents go through some many of the similar things and it's nice to have it open and shared. It makes people feel less alone. ♥
You are a breath of fresh air. I love your podcasts and your warm honesty. Your designs are so beautiful. I live in New Zealand and hubby and I hope one day , to come visit Finland. Your baby boy is gorgeous. Our 3 are all adults now but the love for your child just grows and grows. Keep shining. Xx
Having a «velcro» preemiebaby only thing I’m able to work on are crochet dishcloths. Small enough to work on while hes on me😂 4 months now and agree that I now can enjoy motherhood a little, not just being tired all the time❤
hi kika! you are my favorite knitting designer, I am in love with your patterns! I can't wait to see all patterns of the book, I love your knits and patterns, thank you for your work!
I was wondering how you were doing with such a rough delivery. So glad you are healed and back!! Sooo looking forward to the un-named tee in beginning with the sleeves. I'm sure it will be ready for spring knitting......Looking forward to getting your book! Can't believe you got that done with all the things on your plate to do and heal. Best to you and your family.
I ended up having my first baby around the same time as you and I recognise myself so much in what you say about the first 6 months with having a baby. Thank you for opening up about it! Becoming a mum, however wonderful, definitely is very hard in many ways. I look at other mums in such a different way now 😅 every mom is such a hero ❤
It is a shock to the system but you and your baby comes first, we will wait, just go with the new flow! Rest is very important to to incorporate the changes in your life and as you understand the creative process ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 🙌🙌❤️💜❤️🤗😘🥰you’re doing amazing!
Sooooo glad to see you. You look fabulous and your ‘boys’ are cuter than ever. I’ve been waiting for Bubblicious so I flew over to your website and grabbed it. Looking forward to your new book. I have the first one and love it. My very first sweater I ever made was the cinema sweater. Well almost. One sleeve to go.
I can totally relate to the feeling of guilt that I should be doing something else. My daughters are now in their 20s and I still have the feeling of guilt that I should be doing something else. It’s a tough to break from the feelings, habits and routines. Motherhood is wonderful but also exhausting…it’s easy to lose oneself. Unfortunately, we all have a different path so we can’t say “do it this way”. The advice that holds true across the board is to be gentle with yourself because mothering is hard work. You’ll find that the days are long but the years are so short. ❤❤❤
First of all, you are doing great. Great mom, great contes and wonderful inspiring projects. Good or bad news, depending on how you want to take it, things do get better when they reach the age of 3. They are a little more "independent" but till then, go with the flow. Rest when he rests otherwise it is easy to end up having a bit of a breakdown that you never saw coming. Some months you will feel you have managed to find a balance, but others, it all changes again and you must readjust and accept that you must pause till things calm down. Till then, be kind to yourself. Your regular viewers will still be here, and we will keep up to date when you can post. I admire your work. Your first book was very inspiring, even though, I admit for a very beginner knitter like me, I love looking at your first book that I have at home but I am still lost and confused with some things and with a small child of my own and working 40 hours a week it's hard to find enough time to concentrate and practice to at least finish 1 piece as this is all new to me. I knit and crochet small things, easy projects but only with the two or three very basic stiches that I know. Everything else is still gibberish to me and I hardly have time to find out how the other stiches work. Video tutorials help a lot to gain time in understanding.
Gorgeous designs and thank you for showing us a peak of your trip and photoshoot, Edwin is the cutist! You don't need to feel guilty these feelings happen to all mothers I imagine and there is never a thing which we don't think we should be doing instead. I worked from home when my oldest was a baby and remember trying to grab moments during nap time and feeling constantly exhausted, it does get easier.☺
I loved the pink half-sleeve. I’m eagerly waiting for the pattern. It’s exactly the knitting model I was looking for. And excited for your new book. Best wishes❤
Your honesty is a gift, not just your spectacular designs. You describe many very relatable and challenging feelings that follow becoming a mother. Our path was entirely different, adopting a toddler and then an infant, but that sudden onset of feeling like there is something else you should be doing, feeling overwhelmed, feeling guilt for some unknown, unidentified, possibly completely imagined shortcoming. Oh, your sharing brings it right back, and our youngest is now 17! I am glad you are settling into your new, more complicated life and its rhythms. So much love and growth lies in parenthood. I wish you all the best on your path.
I second this. One of the things I love about you is how vulnerable you get in your videos. It's one thing to project an image of perfection, like so many other influencers and creators do, but it's so refreshing to see someone be so candid about their struggles. It is a beautiful and brave thing you do. As a mom of a 16 and 18 year old, let me just say that you are absolutely killing it. Just keep doing what you are doing!
What a great video. Ur designs are beautiful. But most of all sharing ur feelings. Congratulations again on ur baby son, he’s adorable.enjoy every minute.❤❤❤
This is a beautiful message and full of wisdom.💜
I did not realize how much I missed watching your videos until you posed your latest one. Your genuinely happy and grateful approach to life and an impressive work ethic is so rare. I cannot wait for your newest book to be out, and I look forward to flipping through the pages to appreciate the wonderful pictures taken in Copenhagen. I wish you and your wonderful family all the best, and I thank you for all that you do.
Your podcast was amazing with the photography done in a everyday environment. When photo's are taken with a model standing in an unnatural pose you have no idea how the garment fits with movement. Your photographer (husband) is so talented. The new book is a winner especially the red and white with shoulder frills.
Your little boy is so lovely and the tiredness the struggling with the lack of sleep and the hormonal Rollercoaster I remember so long ago.
Heippa ❤😊
My goodness, Kika! Every word that comes out of your mouth about motherhood is something that I have thought or said myself with my first child. It's so hard and it was dark for me also. Acceptance is the key! As I survive hard things, I learned that they weren't permanent, and that makes accepting them easier in the moment. It's something I had to learn with time.
Thank you for being so real. Mothers need to speak their truth and receive support, not judgement. I appreciate you and your story.
P.S. keenly awaiting your book!
It is so nice to see you again. Thank you for sharing your feelings about beeing a young mother. My baby is on the way and I love to knit 1000 things, but I am so tired all the time and my hands are tired too. That makes me very sad but maby I have to learn to relax more before the baby is there😅. I am waiting for your new book and I really need the pattern for the t-shirt❤. Greatings from North of Germany
Just found your channel, fellow knitter here, from Sweden. Knitting has always been my sweet spot, but with the children arriving, time has not been the same off course. You have to be kind to yourself. Every feeling is ok. Yesterday my 13 year old daughter asked me why I was not knitting when we were watching tv. She said that it is so cosy when I knit. She has seen me knitting through all years, when her brother was born. Just felt like a nice confirmation of sorts, that she acknowledged the knitting part of me. Take care! Be kind to yourself. Nothing is the same as before kids, it takes some adjustment. But everything will be ok. 🧶💚
This is so true!
My daughters are now grown and (weirdly) have started knitting and dressmaking since moving out...they didn't do that growing up!
The eldest now has a child and he enjoys watching his momma knit and sew too ❤ precious legacies!
Dont push yourself trying to exceed beyond motherhood. Trying to fit in writing a book and a new baby PHEW! All the best plans dont always come to fruition. Babies make sure of that!Congratulations for getting to the publishing stage. For myself as a nurse/shiftwork experience, I thought I could cope with lack of sleep. NOT SO. I DID NOT cope. No support. A husband who was an anaesthetist and doing shift work. That was 33 years ago. Look forward to your book release. ❤
How lovely to see you again! I look forward to your wonderful new book, but with great patience as you have a very important new part of life 🩵
Thank you for sharing not only your new designs, but your open thoughts and experiences as a new mom. All good thoughts and blessings to you on all of these exciting endeavors!
Oh my Lord, that child could melt even the hardest heart. He is absolutely adorable. Those eyes! ❤ I can’t wait to see your new book. Love the frills! I don’t have children of my own but I have helped raise 10 nieces and nephews and little miss number 10 is about to turn 2 and she is absolutely amazing. When they start to speak and the first time they say your name, it’s the best feeling. You have all that to come. Just enjoy each day as it comes. You’ve got the right idea Kika - don’t put too much pressure on yourself and leave space in your day for things to go wrong or for extra cuddles. Even without kids I always tried to fit too much into my day and would beat myself up about it. Now I make a to-do list and then I move 70% to the next day. That way if I get it all done, I can just start on the next day’s list, but if I don’t, I don’t feel like I’ve failed miserably. BTW that colour & style of jumper on Juki looked amazing. So good to catch up with your little family. 😊
Your honesty is SO refreshing. And, your experience is also “normal.” We’ve been there :) Now, 4 kids, 11 grandkids later, worked and been in school, those years were chaotic but wonderful. Gone too quickly. The joy from adult children is GREAT; so great!
One day at a time sweet Friend. Savor them all :)
Diane Westerinen Ellison
I always adore and resonate with your authenticity and vulnerability in sharing your journey, in motherhood, in your projects, in being a content creator. you are a light and I am always overjoyed to see new videos & patterns from you. you are so hard working & inspiring. its so much to balance and I am always cheering you on! I hope once your book releases you feel able to take a bit of a break from the whirlwind and chaos!! 💗💗
I love the pink T-shirt!! Can’t wait for a pattern
Ditto!
Lovely to find your video. I’ve missed you but was not surprised that we were not seeing you yet. I remember the early months with my first baby. I was so tired and felt completely overwhelmed. I was so excited about the baby but had no idea that I would feel so incompetent. My husband who had had nothing to do with babies was much better at dealing with her crying. However, we all survived thanks to friends, family and the Nursing Mothers Association of Australia local group counsellors - mother to mother support was just fabulous. That baby turns 50 this year 😂 - she survived! I think motherhood is an art and each one develops what’s best for herself and her little family in her own way. Accept all the help and enjoy - grandmothers and aunties just love to be part of the process ❤
Welcome back, I have missed you. Edwin is adorable! You brought back memories of what it was like having a newborn in your life for the first time. What you are experiencing is probably more intense because you are so driven to achieve goals in your work, but as Edwin grows you will get used to the go with the flow mentality. One thing though, you really need to take advantage of nap times to rest and regroup without guilt. If you continue to keep going when you are exhausted your body and energy level will suffer causing more stress and difficulty. Your new sweaters are beautiful and I can't wait to get your new book.
Thank you so much for sharing not only your gorgeous knitwear, but also your honest feelings about becoming a mother and dealing with the challenges it presents. I also had a rough time starting out with my first child ( who is 33 now!), and I will never forget the way it totally changed my life. I’m so happy to hear that it’s getting easier for you and you’re able to relax a little bit and enjoy the moments because it goes by SO fast! The happiness of having a child totally outweighs the “dark” period you had to go through to get where you are now, and where you are heading. You are such a joy and you’re family is wonderful! I greatly appreciate all your hard work and dedication to knitwear design. I’m so looking forward to your new book! You rock Kika!!!
I can really relate to the things you say about motherhood! I had my second baby a month ago and I try to enjoy the newborn phase but it is also so exhausting and hard (especially with a 2 year old that also wants attention). But time runs so quickly and soon enough I will get used to everything again :)
Oh wow that must be a whole new level of challenges with two little ones 😍 You’re so right time goes so quickly!
It will get better, momma! My baby just turned 15 months. And although this age has a different set of challenges, we are not as tired as we were when the little one was 6 mos below. I am at awe with how much you appear to balance everything. Managing business, keeping your creative juices flowing, and taking care of your small family. You are a super woman!
So good to see you again. Edwin is precious. I’m looking forward to seeing your new book. 😊
I am so happy to see you! Edwin is so beautiful. He looks like both you and Yuki. I cannot wait for your new book. You were missed. Take life as it comes. ❤
Sleep deprivation is real. Especially if you're type A and used to getting a lot done. I'm glad you're finding a balance and letting it go a little. I was a little worried when I saw your last video. I just wanted to be able to reach out and say "it will all work out." Thinking "I am so lucky, and I should be grateful or whatever" doesn't make it easier. When your baby is small, a night can seem to go on forever, but when your child is grown, it will seem like time flew by. Edwin will benefit when you care of yourself, too. He seems like such a happy little fellow.
this!! as grateful as we are we can guilt ourselves so much for not being “grateful enough”, especially with trying to balance personal goals & work in motherhood while a baby needs us literally 24/7.
Happy to see you back on TH-cam, it is a pleasure to see you enjoying life with your baby.
I love the red/white striped ruffle sweater! I think it is such a beautiful design.
And I know just what you mean about motherhood being challenging and wonderful and hard and amazing all at the same time. I definitely struggled a bunch with that after our first baby was born a couple years ago. And now that we have welcomed a second little one, there has definitely been some more adjusting to the challenges of this new season juggling a baby and a toddler. I don't think I have much advice or anything to offer, mostly just wanted to say you are absolutely not alone and I understand what you are going through! ❤❤❤
Thank you so much for being honest about your journey into motherhood. I was pregnant around the same time as you, also had an easy pregnancy but there were complications during the birth which led to a c-section. Mentally I found that quite a thing to come back from. I also recognise what you say about setting goals and expectations for a day. My husband and I decided to stop expecting to get anything done in a day, that way we always feel productive. It’s easy to say this but it took us quite a lot of frustration and tears too. But now I feel I’ve got the hang of motherhood, so let’s tackle the next curveball it’s going to throw at us.
Love the shoulder detail of the anemone one👍
100% agreed with the sleeves!! The motivation just isn't there for them after finishing the body 😂 Sometimes I knit the sleeves when the body is like half way done, just to get the sleeves out of the way, and I don't have to worry about them anymore after I'm done with the body 😅
Every color selection I see is so on point- can't wait for the book
Every new Moms experience is personal and unique. While in it we can’t wait until the next phase always rushing it along and then like in a blink of an eye it’s over. I personally wish I could go back. Your work is always beautiful, thank you for sharing.❤
So lovely to catch up with you. I really appreciate your honesty. You’re doing an amazing job. Juggling your own business with motherhood must be so hard but you’re doing so well ❤
Edwin is so cute and you are settling into motherhood beautifully! I really love the relaxed/everyday look of your book photos 🩷
give yourself the grace to know your doing this for the first time, and as you go, things will change.. take the moments as they come... its a learning curve and there's no playbook.. the work/care balance is something that is the hardest to get a hold of... REMEMBER. your Productive even if your RESTING... each stage in his life will be temporary, its a moving target that is always changing. It's all about learning how to adapt to the changes of the moment. Use your support system, and never feel guilty about it... you touched on all the right things:) that picture in your head of how things should look is never going to be perfect, but it is a guideline, not set in stone:) Enjoy the moments. You got this!
Your baby boy is so beautiful and so are you. You are glowing from the inside out. Can't wait for the book. And I'm in love with the redstripi one
Thank you so much for all your beautiful patterns and for sharing about your maternity so honestly.
I am waiting for your tee pattern - lately, I've been wearing (and making) a lot of cotton blouses, they are so convenient for everyday life!.❤
the red and white striped sweater is so cute! love the neckline!
Your knits are beautifull, can you please create knitting pattern for kids sweater..😊
Lovely Kika, you are doing an excellent job - you are in “matrescence” - a word I learnt this week and wish I knew 14 years ago when I became a mother xoxo
My little girl is 2 now and your video brings me back to the first few months of motherhood. The chaos and loss of control over time and life mixed with pockets of intense gratitude for this perfect little person. I also had dark dark dark days in the beginning. But I’ll tell you (something I’m sure you’ve been told a bunch already) … it gets better and better each day. And that’s a combination of both you settling into a new normal and your little one giving so much more back. At 6 months, you’re just leaving the “potato” stage and getting to some really fun milestones. Movement, eating, language. It’s all so miraculous. But thank you so much for giving voice to the sad and uncomfortable parts of this journey. I think it’s important to recognize.
One extra note to say that, when I was at my lowest, knitting saved me. I may not have had the capacity to look forward to the BIG future, but I could take the small step of looking at a pretty ball of yarn and contemplating what I could do with it. I could rest my heart/head by moving my hands. And I owe a lot of credit for regaining that passion to inspirational crafting videos, yours especially. So, from one mother to another, thank you. You got this. 💛
You are an incredible designer and have one of my favorite youtube podcaster! I am excited to buy the book and look forward to doing another test knit. The guilt will come and go but in time you and your family will create a system that works best for you. You are doing all the things you need to do for your son and yourself. I am a mother of three boys and it is non-stop action but I take a break. It is okay to do that for yourself! Again, you are incredible and will do what you need to do. Congrats on the new book!!!!
Thank you so much for mentioning the dark side of early motherhood. It’s definitely glossed over and makes people feel guilty when they experience it. AND it takes away the accomplishment of getting through it! It isn’t easy, but we do it anyway! Well done!👏
I so related to the feeling of doing so many things but feeling like you’re not doing anything good enough. I wish I could say it gets easier but with a 7yo and 3yo, I still struggle.
Also I CAN’T WAIT to make the striped sweater.
Edwin's little head popping up on the bed😂 So cute! ❤ Your knits are so beautiful, Veronika. Take time off and enjoy your baby, he'll be off to school in no time ❤ Much love xxxx ps imo no-one can 'work from home' when they have a baby. You end up either neglecting your baby or your work. Consider working on your book when your husband can care for your baby in the evening when he comes home from his work. Childcare is a tiring job. Take care of your lovely self. Xxx
I’ve missed seeing you! Motherhood is a totally new journey. One day you’ll look back and think wow the time flew by but in that moment you are becoming a new person with all of the changes. I think you have a beautiful family and I can’t believe he’s going to be six months!! So excited for your next book I have your first one and I am here for all of it. I have a request, I love your purses!!! All of them are so cute! I would like to know the brand. 😂 I’m kind of a purse addict.
Nice to see you back.
Can wait to see all your designs and videos.
What i heard you saying is that you feel guilty. Please don't. Whatever you are doing at the moment enjoy it and most importantly rest when you can without feeling guilty. You mind and body will be greatful. Blessings to you and your family.
Edwin is SO beautiful! Beautiful family! Thanks for sharing a sneak peek of your book. Lovely designs and photography. I’ll be excited for the release. ❤️
Wonderful video! Your son is beautiful and looks to be thriving! You look and sound wonderful! I remember all the anxiety and frustration of living with a baby/toddler! How I miss it! You are doing SO MUCH! The stuff “they” say about having a career AND children is crap! If you do it all, something will be neglected! Love your son, take care of yourself (experts at torture use sleep deprivation!), lean on and love your husband. We will be here when you get back! 💕 Your skills are awesome and aren’t going anywhere! You are doing great!
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Skills!
Your knitting is extraordinary.
Very inspiring and impressive!
Thank you for your videos, always inspiring and uplifting. Sometimes you need to take one day at time, focus on the basics and take care of yourself. But it does get easier, I promise! They start to do more things independently and interact with you more. And then just like that they suddenly become a pre-teen and you have to learn a whole new way of being a mum! 😂 Enjoy it, you're doing your best and that is all anyone can ask of you. x
i was so happy to see your new post, your little one is adorable, glad youve been able to get back to creativity and your passion for yarn craft and we benefit from that !!!
Thanks for sharing your vulnerability. I relate so much to your stories especially as a working mom. The first year of motherhood is particularly challenging. There is so much joy in having a baby but also so much overwhelming emotions and responsibilities. My child is 7 now and it’s soooo much easier.
You are so right... motherhood is the hardest (but best) job you will ever have.
Working whilst raising a family is even harder.
You are doing so well. Be proud of yourself and your little family 💖
Your work is excellent, your style is classic and will stand the test of time 👍🏻
Lovely video, I'm very excited for the book! My baby is currently 5 weeks and I find it so reassuring to hear other mums say they didn't enjoy the newborn phase so much. I loved pregnancy, but then having an actual baby (who I love endlessly of course), feels so overwhelming and just way too much a lot of the time. ❤It's good to feel like this feeling is normal xxx
Your new designs are all wonderful as usual, but I’m so so excited about that Frill Sweater 😍 So cute!
Ow good to have you back. Ow how cute. God bless you
Good morning from Northern Illinois USA. I haven't seen your videos in so long!! This video just popped up. So happy to see you. Ive missed alot of videos! I have to play catch up!! Congratulations on your sweet little baby!! ❤️ There is nothing better then being a parent! So excited for you and your husband. I love your creations. You are so talented and creative! Your studio is beautiful. You are such an inspiration being a wife, mom, artist, author & business woman! This video uplifted my morning. God bless you & your family.
Heavy is a good way to describe the first few months with a new baby... I can totally relate to that. I'm so glad you're finding a good rhythm for you. It can be so hard, but also so rewarding.
Also - soooo excited for the striped ruffle sweater. It's AMAZING!
Thanks for the new video!
Such a lovely Vlog! Thanks for your honesty! Love your designs & just really enjoyed watching! Sending Lots of Love from Germany!
You are such a wonderful person! Honest with your struggling and in the same time happiness! Like in real life. Love your knitting! 💗
Love the tshirt, look toward yo the pattern when you get the time 😊
Thank you for sharing, you're amazing. You're not along in your journey of being a new mom and you're to be admired for all that you do! Can't wait for your book to be released!
Love the pink t-shirt, cannot wait for the pattern! 💗
Oh my god...the striped frilled sweater is so nice❤❤❤
I’ve missed you so much. So nice to have your update on life.
So very happy to see you back! SO excited to get your new book! 6 months old is such a darling age! (childless doge lady here! BUT I did a plethron of babysitting in my day!) LOVE LOVE that you are coming back~ XO
Hearing your heartfelt discussion about your motherhood adjustments brings back so many memories. As a grandmother, I have felt so much more able to lean into the slowness of being around babies and toddlers to be in the moment with them. My wisdom is learned from many, many mistakes. Hearing you be so insightful and examining the changes and your feelings assures me that your experience overall will be better and healthier for you and your precious baby. 🥰
Loving your honesty and self-reflection. Your designs are beautiful and I am wishing you only success 🤞I miss Finland sometimes, its a very calm smart country with increddible nature surroundings.
I absolutely love your channel
Lovely to see you back on TH-cam.
Love the striped frill sweater! And yes a frill at the cuff would be cute!!!!! Love your podcast and look forward to them
You are amazing and so talented. Thank you for your creativity and honesty.
Hi, thank for all, love every piece of thing you are doing and shearing with us. What A nice enery you have!
Lovely to see you and gorgeous baby. You are doing SO MUCH . A baby is more than a full time job. I would leave your book for a year and come back to it. But I can see you love doing it.I have just now bought your arctic light and salty days sweater, you have so many great patterns out there already. Would love to see some baby knit patterns from you one day.Love the frill sweater xxxx
Hi Kika. So good to hear from you. I can't wait for the book to come out. Edvin is so cute.
I am so glad to see updates, you are very relatable and love your designs. Good luck with a book and know that you are doing great ! ❤
Oh Kika, I have missed your videos. Your honesty, your vulnerability, your joy and love for life, is always such a gift to behold. Your first book is the only knitting book I've ever purchased, and I will definitely be buying your second one when it becomes available! Thank you for sharing your life, and please know you can always take a break like this. Your audience will still be here whenever you're ready to return.
Veronica, I’ve been following you for quite a while and I always love your creations. I am definitely making that pink sweater that you’ve been wearing today! Do you ever do test knits? I would love to be one of your test knitters.
The first child is such a huge adjustment. I personally found that the second child was much easier because you were already in the swing of being a parent. Everything is not new the second time around. It sounds like you had some postpartum depression. I too had some. It’s just hard being a mother! My daughters are now grown, ages 28 and 29. so I am anxiously awaiting being a grandmother!
I hope you will do some more baby clothes that little onesie you made for your son was so cute. I’m looking forward to some baby creations from you!😊
Great to have you back. Life sure changes with children
But what joy. Love the new patterns . Take care . From New Zealand
Thank you so much for sharing. I think a lot of mums feel the way you do. I know i did. The pressure we put on ourselves to be productive. And why? For me, i think my value as a person was connected to my productivity. But you being there for your son, and for yourself through rest and joyful, individual activity that is not related to work - that is more important than those few extra things ticked off the to-do list that ends up becoming our self-inflicted slave-driver. Take care of yourself. X
Looking forward to ordering the book!
I have 3 kids and the first 3 months was the hardest for sure but it did get easier in the fact that I was more confident and less worried all the time with each baby going forward ❤
So nice to see a new video with you today! ♥ Love that new stripey ruffle top too. 😍 I've always appreciated your honestly here on your channel and that you've been willing to share it with us. So many parents go through some many of the similar things and it's nice to have it open and shared. It makes people feel less alone. ♥
Lovely video.. I love your chats with us. It's a beautiful thing as are all your garments. love and hugs to you and yours.
You are a breath of fresh air. I love your podcasts and your warm honesty. Your designs are so beautiful. I live in New Zealand and hubby and I hope one day , to come visit Finland. Your baby boy is gorgeous. Our 3 are all adults now but the love for your child just grows and grows. Keep shining. Xx
Having a «velcro» preemiebaby only thing I’m able to work on are crochet dishcloths. Small enough to work on while hes on me😂 4 months now and agree that I now can enjoy motherhood a little, not just being tired all the time❤
Oh my goodness, Edwin is so adorable! He looks so much like his dad & Mom!! You are doing amazing Kika. I want to support you in every way!
hi kika! you are my favorite knitting designer, I am in love with your patterns! I can't wait to see all patterns of the book, I love your knits and patterns, thank you for your work!
Love your frill sweater! The new book is going to be amazing! 😍-Tami
I was wondering how you were doing with such a rough delivery. So glad you are healed and back!!
Sooo looking forward to the un-named tee in beginning with the sleeves. I'm sure it will be ready for spring knitting......Looking forward to getting your book! Can't believe you got that done with all the things on your plate to do and heal. Best to you and your family.
I so glad to see you back on here I have missed you
So glad you are doing this
I admire you
Love your work
so great to see you and your beautiful family!
I ended up having my first baby around the same time as you and I recognise myself so much in what you say about the first 6 months with having a baby. Thank you for opening up about it! Becoming a mum, however wonderful, definitely is very hard in many ways. I look at other mums in such a different way now 😅 every mom is such a hero ❤
i loooove the photoshoot!!!
It is a shock to the system but you and your baby comes first, we will wait, just go with the new flow!
Rest is very important to to incorporate the changes in your life and as you understand the creative process ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🙌🙌❤️💜❤️🤗😘🥰you’re doing amazing!
Sooooo glad to see you. You look fabulous and your ‘boys’ are cuter than ever. I’ve been waiting for Bubblicious so I flew over to your website and grabbed it. Looking forward to your new book. I have the first one and love it. My very first sweater I ever made was the cinema sweater. Well almost. One sleeve to go.
I can totally relate to the feeling of guilt that I should be doing something else. My daughters are now in their 20s and I still have the feeling of guilt that I should be doing something else. It’s a tough to break from the feelings, habits and routines. Motherhood is wonderful but also exhausting…it’s easy to lose oneself. Unfortunately, we all have a different path so we can’t say “do it this way”. The advice that holds true across the board is to be gentle with yourself because mothering is hard work. You’ll find that the days are long but the years are so short. ❤❤❤
First of all, you are doing great.
Great mom, great contes and wonderful inspiring projects.
Good or bad news, depending on how you want to take it, things do get better when they reach the age of 3. They are a little more "independent" but till then, go with the flow. Rest when he rests otherwise it is easy to end up having a bit of a breakdown that you never saw coming.
Some months you will feel you have managed to find a balance, but others, it all changes again and you must readjust and accept that you must pause till things calm down.
Till then, be kind to yourself. Your regular viewers will still be here, and we will keep up to date when you can post.
I admire your work. Your first book was very inspiring, even though, I admit for a very beginner knitter like me, I love looking at your first book that I have at home but I am still lost and confused with some things and with a small child of my own and working 40 hours a week it's hard to find enough time to concentrate and practice to at least finish 1 piece as this is all new to me. I knit and crochet small things, easy projects but only with the two or three very basic stiches that I know. Everything else is still gibberish to me and I hardly have time to find out how the other stiches work. Video tutorials help a lot to gain time in understanding.
So happy You are back ❤Happy 6 months Birthday to Your Baby 🎉
Gorgeous designs and thank you for showing us a peak of your trip and photoshoot, Edwin is the cutist! You don't need to feel guilty these feelings happen to all mothers I imagine and there is never a thing which we don't think we should be doing instead. I worked from home when my oldest was a baby and remember trying to grab moments during nap time and feeling constantly exhausted, it does get easier.☺
The book looks absolutely gorgeous, I love the vision you had for it and I'm really excited to get the book!
So glad to see you again. Also glad that you are learning to "relax" into the "mahem" . Edvin is a cutie, and your upcoming patterns look amazing!😃
I loved the pink half-sleeve. I’m eagerly waiting for the pattern. It’s exactly the knitting model I was looking for.
And excited for your new book.
Best wishes❤