Another Purchase! And Cats!

For anyone who didn't know, I'm a huge fan of Jane Brocket, starting several years ago when I stumbled upon her knitting blog Yarnstorm. Her photography, her writing style, her love affair with color, all spoke to me. Then Twist Collective came along and an article by Jane appeared with socks and painted fingernails (which my long-time readers will remember I used to sport as well). I had to buy that sock yarn, and I did, and made my own pair.

Jane subsequently published The Gentle Art of Domesticity which sits by my bedside for those minutes before sleep when I treat myself to my favorite sort of eye candy...and then she wrote and published The Gentle Art of Quilting, and I decided I wasn't such a nut for saving every single scrap of the marvelous cottons I use in my bags and accessories for the day when I'd finally have time to return to quilting again.

And now? Now Jane's published THIS:

And suddenly I find myself reading that she'd much rather knit a plain sock, have a book nearby, with a glass of wine, and good friends to chat with. Simple knitting that doesn't require much brain power. (The socks in that photo up there are headed to Vermont once they're finished)

Hmm...I'm thoroughly enjoying this book, and can highly recommend it. It's not that Jane can't knit lace or cables or whatever she wants...she can. But how much more comforting (and don't I agree?) to spend time with friends and family, with knitting close, but not commanding your attention.

The Gentle Art of Knitting has delightful patterns for simple things. And Jane's trademark style of writing that helps you think about your own craft in a different way than you did before.

Of course, I've been sewing, working on finishing orders, and today I managed to complete the last of the National Capital Cat Show orders. I'm ahead of schedule and delighted with that.

But the kitties are feeling ignored again, of course, so they try to amuse themselves with each other:

I had no idea when I brought a little boy home that The Meezer would pick up rather "slutty" behavior. Just look at her snuggling up under his chin there?

And he's most agreeable, dontcha know?

Till she suddenly has had enough, and he's still feeling amorous, when she gets feisty and let's him know who's really in charge.

I'm glad I'm easily amused...
(btw...those photos are taken with my iPhone - so let me know if you think they're any good? I might decide not to bother buying a new camera!)