~ Two of my favorite things are knitting and reading, and the evidence of this often shows up in my photographs. I love seeing what other people are knitting and reading as well. So, what are you knitting or crocheting right now? What are you reading? Take a photo and share it either on your blog or on Flickr. Leave a link below to share your photo with the rest of us! ~ Ginny at small things

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Good morning!

Well, as you can see, I’ve started yet another shawl — this one is done in Cascade’s Ultra Pima Cotton in a rich, scarlet red (the lighting doesn’t show how beautiful is this yarn!). It will be a perfect shawl for the summer .. something light to put on the shoulders to avoid a/c drafts while looking gorgeous at the same time … what more could you want?

I did finish the Hugs ‘n’ Kisses shawl I was working on last week. Remember that one? It was done in Suffolk-Dorset wool blend from Solitude Wool and is so amazingly cushy and beautiful. It’s a bit late in the Spring to need it … so I’ve got it draped on my couch for a spot of color until the Fall when I’ll love the size and coziness of it. Yes it’s big (76 x 36) but isn’t it gorgeous??? I love the color combination and the wool is so soft and scrunchy. The pattern is available on Ravelry and Craftsy.

As far as reading … hmm, we’re about half thru the second Brotherband Chronicles and it is just as good as the first. We’re so enjoying this as our final read-aloud for the school year (and may have to read the third as a “summer read-aloud”!)

I’m reading Monica Ferris’ latest in her “needlecraft mystery” series: And Then You Dye is a fun read with interesting characters and lots of craftiness involved. It’s nice to read something light and fluffy for a change – if you’re looking for some light reading for the summer, Ferris’ series of books are fun (and they usually include some kind of crafty pattern)!

I’ve also got I Just Like to Make Things by Lilla Rogers about how to stay passionate about your art/craft while making money. Her focus (and expertise) is as an artist’s agent, so altho her profiles and tips are focused on painters, fabric artists and home-decor specialists, the crux of her message is wonderful. I’m enjoying delving into her thoughts on staying creative and passionate and not burning out. Very helpful stuff in this hidden-spiral book!

So what are you reading and knitting … wanna come play?