Joining row of 2 ear flaps

[Debbie1519]

Hi Everyone,
I have my ear flaps knitted for my hat. The pattern says to knit one and then break yarn. Knit the 2nd one the same as the 1st but don't break yarn.
Next Row: (joining row)
With smaller needles, cast on 8 sts. K18 sts from 2nd ear flap. Cast on 38 sts. K18 across 1st ear flap. Cast on sts. 90 sts in total.
My problem is after I finished the 2nd ear flap it is still on the needle with the yarn attached so how do I cast on 8 sts and then knit the 18 sts that are the 2nd ear flap
http://www.bernat.com/pattern.php?PID=5394
thanks