A Gift and A Vicarious Tour!

I could not resist buying this book for my sister's birthday. She is an avid knitter. And since our family is of Italian descent, it seemed like the perfect fit!


Of course, I also couldn't resist flipping carefully through it before mailing it off to my sister and I'm glad I did!




The book is called "Knitting in Tuscany" by Nicky Epstein. Along with some of her original patterns, the author presents tips and travel recommendations with beautiful photography and interesting commentary on the history of knitting in the region.

A glass of wine is always a welcome break!

I adore this beautiful knitted, wool version of Pinocchio! Author Carlo Collodi was born in Florence.

Siena is a beautiful, medieval city in Tuscany.

This is a knit wreath based on a terra cotta coat of arms for the Wool Guild. "On your wall, it declares your affiliation with the International Order of Knitters."

I found this book beautiful and inspirational. I couldn't begin to accomplish most of these projects, but I would love to wander around Tuscany and imagine doing them. I know my sister will love it!

Faith and The Artist!

I've been reading "Walking on Water; Reflections on Art and Faith" by Madeleine L'Engle. It is described as a collection of the author's meditations on the nature of art and its relation to faith.

L'Engle feels that talking about her art and talking about her Christian faith are one and the same.

"It means attempting to share the meaning of my life, what gives it, for me, its tragedy and its glory. It is what makes me respond to the death of an apple tree, the birth of a puppy, northern lights shaking the sky, by writing stories."

This is a remarkable and thought-provoking book that is best read a little at a time and reflected upon before moving on. It is an inspirational look at the creative process and how the artist's spiritual self shines through his or her creations!

This is a book I will be reading again!