Streets, sidewalks, courtyards and squares are often made of brugis or cobblestone in Latvia. It adds charm, lets rainwater get absorbed by the ground, and is more effective than a row of speed bumps. It can really rattle you. However if you drive with one wheel on the metal rail of the trolly line you only get half rattled. Most of the cobblestone is squared off centuries old granite, with round river rocks used in no drive parking zones or anywhere you shouldn’t drive fast. They really work. I end up doing a lot of detours to avoid the bumpiest cobblestone streets. I just love the subtle colors of the stones with sunlight and shadows that inspired “Brugis”.

I always get complements for how my sleeves fit, I have made armholes like this for 40 years, and they work. There is no bulkiness in the armpit and no matter the slope of your shoulders the sweater is flattering.