Deciphering a new pattern

I have something new to show but first I want to thank you for the compliments and support on Iris. It feels great to be able to share my knitting and excitement to finish a successful FO. The assurance was so good that I wasted no time and casted on a new project that needed some confidence. The design is relatively within my range but the issue is that the pattern is from a Rowan magazine. As I mentioned before, I haven't knitted anything following English patterns. So while my good knitting vibes was still around I chose Rambling Rose. My usual way to knit is to start with the back piece but I could not resist this time. I started with the left front, the most interesting ( only) piece with the climbing stalk. I love to make the bobbles and to see the pattern emerging. Soon the exciting part was done and all what was left were the boring ribbing and stockinette stitches. I am using a substitute yarn Sport from Kid ( 100% cotton), instead of the Rowan 4 ply cotton since it's not sold here. It's not so soft and my pieces are kind stiff. Hope a good block session will help later on.
I had to dedicate more attention on the directions in order to decipher the different symbols in Rowan pattern. I guess, I am more a graphical than a word person. My climbing rose came out shorter than indicated in the pattern and I had to come out with my own numbers for the neckband decreases. I hope it will not be a problem later on. Another issue is the bust area, it seems to be a bit wide for my measurements. Though I followed the pattern for the size S ( 86cm). I decide that I don't want to frog and redo the problem areas. Other than that it has been a relaxing knit, specially for my eyes. Lately I have been suffering from some eye strain, perhaps too much knitting ( Iris required a lot of eye work) and sitting for too long in front of the computer. I went for an eye check up last week and I was told that I need glasses, the type you need when you get older! :( I was a lucky lady as I have never needed any glasses in the past but soon I will be wearing one of those that you wear close to the tip of the nose.

Next, I have some newly acquired beads from the weekend Jade market.

There are just a few strands of faceted onyx, crystal and amethyst. In the black tray, some jade, faceted aventurine, tiny coral flowers and a horn stick, that I want to make into a hair pin. I know my last purchase is still sitting in my collection. However, a beading lady can never have enough beads. It's the same philosophy behind the yarn, if you know what I mean. ;)