I did not have any dogs growing up, but I knew that once I got one, he would have to be as handsome as he was useful. I was attracted to the deep browns, ticking patterns, and elegant composure of German Shorthaired Pointers, in the family of huntings dogs, also called gun dogs, bird/duck dogs, and field dogs. My prayers were answered in Strapping Noble, whom we nicknamed "Strap," our German Shorthaired Pointer mix. Since we're not hunters, he's turned out to be more handsome than useful, but I'm happy with that!

I had no idea I could enjoy a book so much with "plastic" in the title. Of course, the positive way to describe the book is living with authentic, sustainable materials: wood, glass, steel, linen, cotton, sea sponges .... Not only are the photos beautiful, taking their well-laid-out suggestions make for surroundings that make you feel better, too.

I am in love with wool. I wear wool socks all winter, along with "woolies," a thin, wool base layer, usually Merino. It's an amazing temperature-regulating, natural, traditional fabric that is widely-available and super-breathable, which means it hardly needs to be washed (and never dry it in a dryer!).

This book makes me want to clean my house and to take better care of the things that I have. Not only are the photos full of modern-rustic farmhouse charm, the advice is truly helpful. I also love that the cleaners are truly non-toxic (hint: most solutions involve baking soda and/or vinegar!) since I strive for a chemical-free home.