If you read this blog, you know that I've been very busy lately, so much so that for the first time in months I had a weekend just for me.

But not by myself!

The two guilds I belong to, Toronto Hookups and  T-Rocks (the Regal Order of Crocheters and Knitters) joined forces for our third annual retreat. We hold it far away from the hustle and bustle of the city at a wonderful place called Canterbury Hills Conference Centre in Ancaster Ontario. Sadly I had a brain cramp and forgot to bring a spare battery, so mine died quickly after we arrived. My dear friend Pirkko had better luck, so if you want to see some stunning pictures, check out her blog.

We started the weekend off Friday night with some libations and luckily for us, it was one of our attendees birthdays so there was much chocolate and celebration!

 


This was followed by more libations and a gathering around the fireplace. Fireboy (aka Keeper of the Flame, aka Kerry the Birthday Boy) was in charge of keeping us warm and an admirable job he did.

 

Saturday started off wonderfully with a trip to a LYS. Julie at the Needle Emporium was a charming hostess and brought us up to date with the newest trends coming to hooks and needles near us. Sadly I broke my vow not to enhance the stash, but really, how could I resist?

The luscious and totally my colour Handmaiden Seasilk. I swear Angels sing when I hold it.

 

Bamboo - one of the hottest trends. And the Regia Bamboo is oh so soft and soothing to knit. Even though my fellow retreat-ers think I knit on toothpicks (2mm needles).



 

There was also the most beautiful bag there (and yes, loyal readers know I have a bag fetish). Who could turn down a Jordana Paige bag that matched her sweater (see Einstein pic below)? I mean, really!
 


    

Nora, Erin and Sue participating in some retail therapy

 

I got to spend some quality time with Lillith (and my friend Roseanne) and I may have converted some new spinners!

 

This is some of the Corriedale roving that I dyed for the retreat and managed to spin in between classes and wine.

Note to self....Merlot and spinning are not a good combination!

 

Finally I finished my Einstein sweater and the weather was perfect to wear it. It's knitted out of Knitpicks Sierra. Keen eyes will note the absence of lower buttons. That is because I am a dumb ass and picked up the wrong end to knit up from. Sigh. I ended up sewing up the button holes on the bottom because they just looked...stupid.

Note to self....apparently Merlot and knitting don't mix either.

This picture also makes me look a tad more "fluffy" than I actually am. At least I hope it does!

 

The entire gathering was brought to a hush when we were treated with a visit from two deer fawns. The momma showed up later, but by then my camera battery had died. Now you understand why we go to this particular place.



 
 
 

Here is our group. A good time was had by all



 

Next weekend is Easter, which means another three day weekend and then the weekend after that is the annual Kingston trip to meet my dear friends Peggy and Janette. I can't wait!