Cherries and socks!

Ok, a while back I asked for input on what my next project should be! Although I am eager to get started on Hedera, which was the favorite, after all the comments I actually read the pattern. (What a concept, huh?) So, here's the deal... math and I don't get along very well, and since I don't have the right size needles or yarn, and since I'm not all that familiar with knitting patterns anyway (so reducing the pattern is not an option), and since this was only my second pair of socks, and since I really don't know a lot about socks yet, and ... well, you get the picture! So instead of option A, B or C, I went with option D pictured below:

As you can see, I had some fun with the colors. This was the yarn that I had picked out for Hedera, before I realized that I needed a LOT smaller yarn and needles. So Hedera is still in the queue for when I get to a (real) yarn shop for some sock yarn and smaller needles. (I like them in sets of five, not four, and Hobby Lobby doesn't sell the smaller sizes in sets of five.) Oh, and the sock? That's it... I haven't made the other one yet! :) They call it "Second Sock Syndrome."

Question for sock knitters: How do I get rid of that little hole at my ankle, and the ladder at the gussett? I tried knitting really tight there, but it's still there. Also, I haven't blocked it, will it go away with blocking? Any input would be appreciated! :)

And just for fun, because this is the "ChariTree" blog: Ashley gave me this absolutely darling apron!! I don't know if you can see them, but it has cherries all over it! and I just love the old fashioned look!