Yarn Along and a New Book

~ 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?

Another week has come and gone and the heat remains relentless.  But the knitting has made progress.  I have put the Wrapped in Leaves Shawl away for the moment because it is too hot to have that yarn on  my lap.  Socks are the knitting of choice when you don't want to sweat under the wool!

Over the weekend, while I was out running a few errands, I discovered this wonderful little basket at The Container Store.

It is not a natural fabric, but not totally synthetic either.  It is folded flat in the above picture and the fabric is stockinette.  Easy to put in your purse or knitting bag which was the purpose in buying it.

Just pop it open.

Fold down the sides.

And there you go!

As you can see, there is much progress on the V Junkie Socks.  This was my first pattern to make considerable modifications to.  I wanted a regular heel in stead of a short row which meant the instep pattern had to be re-worked.  I am so proud of myself for figuring out how to do it!  I am really a "pattern instruction follower" and not a risk taker when it comes to something different.  But I did it!

DPN's are my choice when knitting socks, but with my fibromyalgia it seems to be harder to manage the needles.  After I completed the heel and gusset I switched over to 2 circulars.  It also gave me a chance to try the sock on.

Over the weekend I dashed over to the Mad Tosh Store ( so lucky to have that here in town) and picked up this pattern.  I am thinking it will be on the needles soon!

On the reading front.... I am almost finished with The Birth House.  The further into it I read the more knitting shows up!  That was a pleasant surprise!  But even more pleasant was this:

Ann's new book arrived today in my mailbox.  If you haven't read One Thousand Gifts I recommend it !  This is her newest book and just the first page caused me to put it down and think.  This story is directed toward Advent and has already captured my heart.  If you are new to my blog you may not know that I met Ann back in May.  She is as beautiful in word and heart in person as she is on her her blog.  I hope you get to know her.  You won't be disappointed!