My First Double-Pointed Needle Project

I'm very excited about starting my first project using double pointed needles. Actually, I've started it three times and frogged it twice so far.

I always seem to lose once stitch of a needle. But, always a stitch at the beginning, can't figure out how this is happening.

It's a tam style hat form "One Skein Wonders" I am using a yarn which is a combo of silk, wool & cashmere. Jo Sharp Silkroad DK Tweed in Beanshoot. The yarn feels very soft to the touch. I will not be adding the three crocheted flowers to it.