Yesterday I came across these beautiful invitations by Atelier Isabey. I wish I could touch them. I wish you could! Imagine our first sensory experience as babies - touch, taste, smell, sound, vision - how gradually they made the world real and meaningful... And how we realised that the world isn't just out there, that we can design it - make it beautiful - the origin of art, craft, home-making, cooking, gardening... based sometimes on our traditions, sometimes on our own creativity. I know some of us are more conscious of these things than others, but at least for the fortunate among us, finely made objects and beautiful materials, textures and colours are part of our daily experience, and a rich expression of our humanity. I read plenty on my iPad but I love the feel and sound of turning pages in a book. I love how I can imagine - know! - where my favourite passages are. How far in and where on the page. I don't even mind Ian's dog-ears. Books are real and three-dimensional. I’ll often see a book being built in our bindery and be blown away how beautiful it is. I love the carefully printed images, the textures, the weight, the binding, the work and thoughtfulness that went into making it. And I especially like coming across things that reinforce the fact that I’m not alone with these thoughts, which brings me back to Atelier Isabey. I love the design, the gold leaf, the lasering, the letterpress printing of those invitations... I know not everyone can afford this level of artisanship but it's inspirational on every level. I want to hold it in my hand, not look at it on my computer. Heather