Back to (Vague) Normality

The older boys went back to school this week and its such a relief to be back into a structured routine. All of my children thrive when they have a set plan for the day, their behaviour and demeanour improves,and we generally have a LOT less petty arguing over the silly things that get children so irate. Mama is much better with a set routine too, I must admit.

My daughter started her nursery placement at the school this week too, and (as expected) settled in without a hitch. My kids are sociable creatures, and while they are shy, at the same time they aren't the type to shy away from a new situation - so when they've started school, there's never been tears or tantrums, or the need to extend the 'settling in' period that their school offers (shortened attendance times for the first week or so) - in fact they've always been full time after the first day of their induction, as they fit right into the class. As I said before, they thrive on structure, so I suspect that this is why.

Its a little strange having only one child in the house for the better part of each weekday - not that it will be for much longer. My youngest son is independent and, at 1 and a half, is quite happy to take himself off and play without guidance or intervention. Mama eyes and ears are in effect, but it gives me more freedom, of a sort. I can do housework without toddler help, or I can sit and enjoy a book or knit.

On the topic of knitting - I cast on for a new project this week. I had to get some new circulars for it, so I splashed out and decided to try KnitPro Interchangeables (I bought from p2toguk on Ebay for those curious, great seller). I only bought the one set of tips and a cable, as I wasn't sure how I'd like them, but they are worth every penny. I went with the clear acrylic tips, as I have a few acrylic straights and the knitting seems to fly with them.

My new project is the Shalom cardigan (Rav linky) - a nice open front cardi which I'll be able to wear with the bump and afterwards. I'm using 100% merino yarn (DK weight held double) so the fabric is thick and smooshy. Because of this, I am really enjoying working the project without rushing to have it finished (which is counter-intuitive really, as I enjoy working with it so much that it will be finished quicker than expected because I pick it up so often), its just so pleasant to pick it up and feel the knit fabric in my hands.

My Ravelry group kicks off this week too, which I'm really looking forward to. Its a lot of work, but I'm hoping it will replace my longing for a sociable knit-night in my area. I've joined the KAL (a shawl, in King Cole Riot, for my daughter's intended christmas present - a big box of knitted dress-up bits and pieces), and have plenty of ideas lined up for the stash-busting and WIP wrestling activities too.

Here's hoping that September and October are highly productive knitting months, as November is going to be otherwise occupied :D