I should have gone to the UFO lock in!

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I don’t know about you, but I have a few pieces that are minutes away from “finished”. UFO= un-finished object in knitting world. That Vesper sweater for the summer (check and sew the pleats), Allie’s birthday bag (attach i-cord and magnetic fastener), and that sock where I’m going to fix the toe. Probably something else in this category that I’ll find when I’m looking for stuff.

In short, I need a finishing session. Since I’m heading to Stitches Midwest 2012 in Chicago next week, I could use the space in my knitting bags, and a place or two on the project queue for any irresistible, exciting and breath-taking pieces which might inspire me! I should have gone to the UFO lock in!

While I was in Virgina I visited a cool shop, Nature’s Yarns. When I walked in, I was greeted immediately and invited to sit with my knitting since I explained I was a visitor. My sis and I had fun looking at all the pretty yarns, yarn tasting in goblets on the table, samples and other goodies. My sis had purchased some silk caps and an art batt for me at this shop about a year prior, so I was glad to see the spinning supplies. I met a fellow spindle fan, Susi (waves!) who is one of the instructors at the shop. As we browsed and chatted, the place was a beehive of activity. I felt very welcomed, and was so excited to “find my people”!

So, as I was having my yarn wound for a new cowl project, I noticed a flyer for an event at the shop. It caught my attention, because these people were getting ready for their “very first UFO (Unfinished Object) Lock-In evening!” including a potluck, and instructors to help with questions. What a fun idea and a great way to push through those finishing details that trip us up.

Makes me wish I’d be back in Northern Virginia to join them on Saturday. They say space is very limited, so call ahead if you’ve a mind to go.

Meantime, I’ll be rounding up my UFO’s and making a plan! Anyone up for a SE Michigan version?

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Where have I been?

 

two women seated at spinning wheels listening to woman instructing at front of room. Shelves of raw fleece line the wall behind them. All are smiling.
Oh my! It’s been so long since I posted.
And I have so much to share, I hardly know where to start.
Between those unexpected “life” moments, and the beginning of summer weather, I’ve been out and about every day instead of writing. I’ve traveled, knitted, spun, fretted over family members, solved problems, held hands, wiped tears, given hugs, been to the beach (twice) and tried to stay cool.
Plus, in late spring, I had my whole fiber thinking process challenged in a great way by Abby Franquemont. I will never be the same…more on that later. By the time I came up for air, summer was in full swing. I suppose it’s part of our life cycle in this Michigan climate. When spring arrives, we jump at the chance to get outside and do stuff while we can.
So now, I’m jumping back for a quick visit in between summer adventures. Got some spinning and catch up time with friends planned this week. Will upload photos of the great places I’ve been this month. Look for a page for LYS around the country which I love to visit in my travels. “Local” yarn shops in the sense of wherever I’m resting my head at the moment! It’s so fun to go places and “find my people”…people who speak gauge, stash, spindle, breeds, patterns, texture, cast on, frog, social knitting, and a bag for every project! One day, I should post my bags, and the work in progress. I have been doing my share, no fear.

What’s in your bag? Post your project (and bags) as I’d love to see what you’re making!

 

“Tropical” Island Retreat

Poe Reef Light with SailThere’s an island in my heart where I love to go. I’d been inhaling the fresh air in my imagination ever since my visit last fall. I could hardly wait to return. I knew I’d see the trees sway, and the crystal water shimmer and hear the birds calling. We’d take the ferry ride to the landing and drive down the dirt road to our secluded destination. And be greeted there as if we were family. A little slice of paradise has become a home away from home. And this time, we were in for a surprise. Let me explain…

In the Straits of Mackinaw

Located to the southeast of its better known cousin, Mackinaw Island, our destination was the beautiful Bois Blanc Island in the Great Lakes. Part of the Mackinaw State Forest, mostly undeveloped Bois Blanc Island has one restaurant/general store, one tavern, private residences and a handful of places offering lodging. We were headed to the island’s only Bed & Breakfast, Insel Haus, for a weekend  knitting retreat organized by Heritage Spinning and Weaving.

Fourteen knitting affectionados had the run of the place for three days. Our gracious hostess, Christa Newhouse, provided instruction and access to her knitting patterns to all takers. So we knitted. We talked. We ate. We laughed. We spun and plied yarns. We ate more. Watched the hummingbirds and waited for deer. Enjoyed our beautiful surroundings and the company of like minded spirits.

We had beautiful weather with clear blue skies and the fresh cool breezes I’d been imagining. And then, Sunday. Hot. Humid. No breeze. None. We’d been transported to the Doldrums. Out came the fans, and the vats of cold drinks. Off with the sweatshirts and sweaters. Ninety-one degrees F!

Wow! Bois Blanc, in northern Michigan, gone (temporarily) tropical! An island of surprises in my heart.

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He leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul. Ps. 23

Oh no! Sad news for sheep

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