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Dear hearts,

I had a message not so long ago from a knitter who follows me via these pages, as well my Twitter and Facebook feeds. She noted that I seldom stay in one place for very long, and asked how often I am at home.

I might have replied that, as dear Mr. Johnny Mercer famously wrote, “Any place I hang my hat is home.” However, I understood that my correspondent meant “home” in the sense of my official place of residence.

She concluded by asking, “If you don’t like the Midwest, why don’t you move somewhere more inspiring?”.

Gracious, what a question.

I can but say, with firm emphasis, that anyone who would consider the American Midwest as uninspiring has not spent enough of what is presently called “quality time” in the American Midwest. The region is vast, and contains multitudes: of people, of animals, of plants and trees, of landscapes, lights, shapes, and colors.

The Midwest has already given the world enough art and design to fill several commodious museums, and continues to inspire new generations.

Witness a recent happy emergence on the fiber arts scene, the pattern book Midwestern Knits by Allyson Dykhuisen and Carina Spencer.

What these estimable ladies have brought together is a collection of bold, beautiful pieces sparked by the sights (both urban and rural) of an often underestimated part of America.

I am particularly proud to note that the crisp geometry of Ann Weaver’s “Grand Rapids Furniture City” was designed with two colors (Hot Pimiento and Squid Ink) of our own, dear Steamer Trunk.

Whether or not you hold the Midwest dear to your heart, I recommend you take a good look at the book–it’s available via MidwesternKnits.com as well as (electronically) via Ravelry.com.

What is more,  Midwestern Knits is hosting a knit-along of “Grand Rapids Furniture City” beginning on October 23. For information and to sign up, pay a call on the Midwestern Knits Ravelry group. 

Yours Ever,

Mrs. Crosby

Contentedly at Home in the American Midwest