helpful notes and mods
I made the blanket almost twice as large as the pattern called for. I also put a stitch marker three stitches in on both sides, and used that to make sure I increased as needed. (I only increased on the right hand most stitch marker, and slipped the left most one. But as I reversed the work every row, this made for steady increases.) I also switched the yo increase to a kfb so there is no lacy opening along the sides. I maintained my stitch marker system for the decreases (k2tog).
I found these related projects to be helpful - maybe they also will be for you too.
LostMaeblleshire & flafi for thoughts on ears
knitforewe “I think the pattern could have explained better that the head will be a pocket and all you have to do is separate the slipped stiches from the purl stitches and you can then stuff the head.”

other notes
This is the first time I’ve knit a baby blanket, and I have to say I’m pleasantly surprised with the pattern. The yarn was fluffy and its hard to see stitches, which is why I followed someone else’s recommendation and did the knit version - so at least I can see the stitches, unlike trying to pick them up with crochet!