a little bit good/a little bit bad

Too much of a good thing can make you want to consume something bad. I'm trying to only let the good things in. I'm struggling, floundering, paddling the battle of will and want.

A long armed embrace or promised eskimo kiss won't help this time. I need something more, to absorb into my weak red blood. It's turning cold in here and I haven't got a cardigan. Is there any cashmere out there.

A NeW *WORKSHOP* Announced

The Complete Bookmaker (8 evenings)

Wednesdays 26th January to 16th March 2011

6.00pm – 9.00pm

Over 8 snug evenings come to Hot Bed Press and explore narrative and sequence, form and content, text and image. Become smitten and get inspired by my collection of contemporary artists’ books and give yourself over to being taught the skills you need to make various wondrous book structures of your own. We will use print/type/stitch/folding techniques to develop your bookish creations, drink lots of tea and have inspired conversations while being exceptionally productive. The workshop is suitable for everyone, from complete beginners

to seasoned book makers, as you will dictate the pace. It will also be a great opportunity to allow anyone with an idea for a book that hasn’t yet come to fruition to dedicate the time to experiment with different techniques and get valuable feedback. Be quick to reserve your place at the workshop table and kick 2011 off with the a book case full of enthusiasm.

Cost £200 (£185*)

how hopeful

A new year, or decade, is full of potential. Start yoga (again), go to tap dancing class, draw for half an hour a day, write two pages upon waking, cycle even in the rain. Instead of implementing new regimes this time around, I intend to rid myself of the old routines that hold me back. Holding on instead of letting go, fixing the unfixable, fierce self-reliance, never calling back. A relieved exit from 2010 in the snowy highs of Heriot Toun, with whiskey, whiskers and warmth, waking to a perfect new year breakfast full of hopeful perspective and eggy bread. Happy new you.