The Librarian

October went by without me finding a book that I felt deserved the mantle of being a bookchat book :(. But happily I found just the one for November. It is a darling little book that I came across at a library that I don't usually visit. I'm so glad I did. It is called The Knitter's Home Companion - a heartwarming collection of stories, patterns, and recipes by Michelle Edwards. ` Published byMelanie Falick books Everything about this book appealed to me: the size (little), the illustrations, the inclusions of patterns, the book recommendations, recipes, and the writing. The writing (a collection of essays primarily about knitting, but encompassing the full richness of life: of mothering, being part of a community, and of humanity at large) is just beautiful. After enjoying the book so much I just had to google the author, and seek out more of her work to read. What I came across on her  website , and the browsing that followed, reminded me just how steeped in...

I think I may have been avoiding you, lovely blogspace, because I haven't had any books to share for book chat! But, I did happen upon a book at the bookstore the other day that had me thinking (not reading, see below): Colin Firth's biography. I had such mixed feelings as I stood admiring the handsome cover (yes, maybe I stood admiring it just a little too long, to be honest with you). There is something that feels altogether wrong about a) reading about Mr Darcy's 'real' life - it could be sordid, you know b) reading about Mr Darcy's 'real' life - bursting the bubble just one little bit could spell the end of my pick-me-up BBC P&P ritual, and now that would be perfectly devastating. this sweet image entitled 'wet firth' is taken from www.telegraphy.co.uk Sorry, I could only find the cover image in tinsy tiny. Colin Firth The Biography by Alison Maloney I'd be ok to hear reports though, so if you happen to have read it, ...

I love NZ Life & Leisure. I don't always buy it, but every time I do I am inspired; by the photography, the stories and by the people. I was drawn to the cover of this month's issue because the colours were just so delicious. It took me a while to realise that the pretty girl on the cover, with a very cute little home, was actually a sweet friend of mine. I don't know if you have caught World Kitchen on TV3 (it has just finished it's fourth season but season four episodes can be viewed here ). Nici is one of those people who is just super-inspiring, and after reading the feature article on her in NZ Life & Leisure I was reminded all over again of her infectious positivity and upbeat take on life. I felt so buoyed to get out there and do what I love, just as she has. Thanks Nici!