If you can knit a dog, you can knit a prince....

Do you knit? Tired of the same ol' socks 'n' sweaters 'n' hats 'n' scarves?

Wanna try something different and wind up with some companions to sit by your side quietly while you indulge in your favorite hobby? Why not knit your own dog or craft a yarn replica of a member of Britain's royal family?

Knit Your Own Dog: Easy to Follow Patterns for 25 Pedigreed Pooches, by Sally Muir & Joanna Osborne, is the perfect book for someone looking for a low maintenance pet. It may take you a while to create the pooch, but once he's there, he'll be the perfect, decorative couch potato of your dreams.

If you'd like to choose your breed, The Guardian.co.uk has posted a slideshow of some of the dogs, plus provides a free pattern for the Jack Russell Terrier (the Parson Russell Terrier here in the U.S.) I'm partial to the Border Collie, myself, but the Old English Sheepdog is particularly charming.

Knit Your Own Royal Wedding by Fiona Goble is a recent addition to our collection. This is the ultimate piece of royal wedding memorabilia. Probably it's too late to create a cuddlesome royal for the particular wedding coming up, but you could anticipate the future. Remember, Prince Harry isn't claimed yet.

Want to see more? View the book trailer.
Or watch the saucy comedian Graham Norton introduce the royal yarn on his show.

These books are so cool. I wish _I_ could knit. Wait! We have books and DVDs that could help me learn!

If YOU'd like to knit away with one of these titles, follow the links to place a hold or contact us, the Adult Services Librarians, at The Urbana Free Library

The 50+ Dog Owner

Do you resemble this title? I certainly do!

Now, not every baby boomer owns 5 Border Collies, as my husband and I do, but I've noticed many folks in our Urbana community are dog lovers. And just the fact you're older shouldn't keep you from becoming a proud companion to an animal that could be your best friend.

This guide, new to our library this week, is written especially for seniors contemplating life with a dog. The dust jacket flap announces that dogs can "fill a nest emptied by departing children, comfort a surviving spouse, re-energize a recent retiree, or simply continue a long tradition of human-canine relationships." All very true. Examine the useful chapters which will help you decide if you want a dog, how to choose the right dog for you, and what you need to think about when you live with a dog. They need grooming, training, and medical care, just like human companions. And you can travel with them!

Here's a shout-out to our local Champaign County Humane Society. Just as there are lots of us seniors who might want a dog, there are older dogs that would love to be adopted into a forever home. So don't just consider a puppy! Bond with a dog that shares your energy level.

Take a look at The 50+ Dog Owner: Complete Dog Parenting for Baby Boomers and Beyond, by Mary Jane Checchi. Find out if you're ready to bring a canine companion into your life.

We're here at the Adult Services desk, if you need help reserving this title or want to find other dog books. 217-367-4405. WOOF!