The other day I started a pair of Hermiones Everyday Socks. I tried making this pattern once before, but I messed up the eye of the partridge garter stitch edged heel. I ended up frogging them. This time I decided to do a pair in just one color. It's easier than changing balls of yarn to making contrasting cuffs, heels, and toes. I'll work up to using a second color the next time I do this pattern. It's a free and very popular one on Ravelry.
So far, so good. I goofed up the heel the same way I did the first time, but ripped it out and started again. I had forgotten to start on the wrong side. I should have known, since the instructions said to pearl to the end of the row. It's very relaxing and soothing to knit outside on the porch again. I also love to get at 5:00 a.m., light a beeswax candle, and knit on the couch with my coffee. Socks are one of my favorite projects. This one has texture, but it's still fairly easy.
I baked a batch of chocolate chip cookies and took them to some sweet little kids in my neighborhood. I also did my grocery shopping and splurged on some new and exciting foods. I made fettuccine with a tomato meat sauce, and plan to bake rhubarb crisp tomorrow. It's amazing how eating new foods jazzes up life. I bought some red grapes on sale for .99 a lb. They are a rare treat around here. I am out of butter, so I will pick it up in bulk at Costco. They have it at the best price.
I stopped at the library and checked out a couple of books. I have been reading a lot about retirement. Now that my parents are both no longer living, I feel like I am in a new phase of life. I don't have to worry about them anymore. I didn't realize how much energy I expended in that direction until now. I feel like I have taken flight. The retirement preparations have gone into effect. There are many plans for adventure in the works. How are things going with you?
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I like the colors on the sock. I never mastered the art of knitting on circular needles - I do my socks with double pointed needles. :)
ReplyDeleteI'm sure you are a favorite neighbor with the kids in your neighborhood! If you have a Ralphs in your area, they are having Land o Lakes butter on sale for $2.99, provided you buy 5 participating items, this week. Not sure how that price compares with Costco, though.
Good of you to plan your retirement. I know I am enjoying mine! :)
Thanks Bless. Sometimes I use dpn's, too. I always finish the toes with them. I can tell you are enjoying your retirement. You always find the best deals on groceries, too.
Deletewhen you mentioned that both your parents have passed away, i thought what? wait, did i miss a post or two? so i scrolled back & sure enough i had missed several, not sure why they didn't come up in my feed (silly blogger)
ReplyDeletebelated condolences on your dad passing, hope you are keeping well; (i found it hard mentally when mine passed) sock knitting with such pretty yarn is certainly a good distraction.
mmm, comfort foods are always nice especially with a lovely pot of brewed tea
looking forward to seeing the finished socks (have missed you over on the forum too)
take care
thanx for sharing
Thank you selina. Funny, I have been drinking more tea. I didn't have the energy to make coffee at first, so I just made a pot of green tea. (then I made some coffee later.) Yesterday I baked a rhubarb crisp.
DeleteAs I read yo8r post, I pictured you in your living room,knitting. 😊
ReplyDeleteYou sound happy and content.
Rhubarb crisp sounds delicious.
I’ve been cooking more often these days. Yesterday I made spanakopita, and today leek & potato soup, and mushroom risotto.
Thanks Nil. Rhubarb crisp is divine! Your meals sound delicious.
DeleteI have that sock pattern marked in Raverly so I am eager to see how you get on with it. Rhubarb is a favorite around here, but it is so expensive that it is a special treat. Only cooking the old standbys each evening-I have not felt too adventurous. I am always up before 5am. To me seeing the sun rise is the best way to start the day.
ReplyDeleteI could give you loads of rhubarb... it's gorgeous cooked and set in jelly
DeleteHi Anita, Hopefully I will be successful this time. It's expensive here, too. I am still within my grocery budget, though. How wonderful that you see the sun rise each morning. I used to do that when I lived in Santa Fe, New Mexico.
DeleteIt sounds like your knitting is bringing you comfort and peace, Stephenie. Knitting in that soft, gentle light of a candle wiuld be lovely. I have not knitted for many months but I will be taking a small washcloth project with me when I go soon to be with my Mum who has to have a major operation in coming weeks. There will be many hours to pass in the hospital and I know I will need something to ease my mind and occupy my hands. Meg Xx
ReplyDeleteThanks Meg, it is. I hope your mum's operation goes well.
DeleteI too missed the post about your dad's passing. Sending my sincere sympathy to you and a big thank you for sharing a few thoughts about his dementia. I'm dealing with the same thing and am very stressed. Bobi
ReplyDeleteHi Bobi, It is SO stressful. I'm sorry you're going through that right now. I plan to write more posts about that sort of thing. I hope you have support.
DeleteI’ve often looked at that sock pattern but I think it’s the heel that puts me off. I should really have a go though & branch out from the flap & gusset heel, the only one I’ve ever knitted.
ReplyDeleteHi Lynfm, This one has a flap and gusset. It just has a few garter stitches at each edge. I'm sure you could do it. I just finished mine.
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