Welsh is Scottish

Irvine Welsh did a reading at Book People last night, which I attended. He signed all three of my books: "Trainspotting," "The Acid House," and "Glue," his newest. It was great to hear him read aloud from the new book, and doing all his characters' voices, although it was easier to understand when I read along. I grew up watching nothing but BBC programs, and I thought I was pretty good at understanding all manner of UK accents. Without the book, however, I would have been lost. Lurvely accent, though. People were asking him about all of his writing, and I commented that "Bad Blood," which functions as a self-contained short story within "Trainspotting," is one of the best stories I have ever read. "The Acid House" is also really good. My two favorite stories are "Disnae Matter" and "Snuff." Diabolically clever!

My New Cat Toby

I brought home a new kitty from the Town Lake Animal Center today, and he is very mellow, super-sweet and so cuddly, and has the softest fur ever. Diana isn't sure what to make of him, but I'm certain she'll warm up soon and they'll be playing together in no time.

This is the picture of Toby that was on the Austin Pets Alive website. He's even more handsome in person.

P.S. TLAC has lots of beautiful cats and dogs that need homes, so please check them out if you're looking to add to your family.