3KCBWDAY3 – Wildcard
Today’s topic is knitting and crocheting heroes, and I think it is well known that mine is my grandma. However, I’ve been under a lot of stress at work these days (still on that 10-12 hour a day kick) so I decided not to write a dramatic post about missing my grandma and instead fantasize about the wild card entry: crafting a perfect day.
I’ve been thinking for a while about taking some time off from work and getting away from the City (and the commute, and the daily grind, and the lines of Allman Brothers or Further fans who have been invading the neighborhood to party near the Beacon Theater for the last two months). MC thought I should take a few days alone, without my phone, away from it all (even from him!).
Back in my first round of grad school days, I had a scholarship from the Roothbert Fund. We were invited each year for a meeting at Pendle Hill, a Quaker retreat center near Philadelphia. I think a short retreat to Pendle Hill would mark the start of a wonderful crafty getaway. It would be easy for me to get there, via public transportation, so I wouldn’t have to stress about flying or spending tons of money on cabs or anything outlandish. I remember the rooms being simple yet comfortable, and the food as being healthy and tasty. The grounds are also beautiful. I imagine myself bringing up a few stitch dictionaries, some of the unusual yarns in my stash that I haven’t yet dared to experiment with, and a full selection of hooks and needles.
Each morning, I would rise naturally, instead of in response to the alarm. After breakfast, I would take a brisk walk on the grounds and look for the ideal place to crochet for that morning. I might attend a Quaker worship service if I felt moved to do so. And then I would spend a few hours working on a spontaneous project.
In the afternoon, I’d take another walk, and then I’d venture into Philadelphia to (what else?) check out the yarn shops. I’ve been pretty good about my yarn diet so far this year, and I’d only buy something which seemed appealing for an immediate project. I haven’t been yarn shopping in Philly before, but it seems like there are quite a few options (suggestions, anyone??).
In the evening, I’d settle down in my room for writing. I’d use the time to work on some book ideas I’ve been trying to write up into proposals. I would have my laptop with me, but I’m not sure yet if I’d allow myself internet access. As much as I love blogging and reading other blogs, sometimes you just have to turn it off! I’d also bring up my Kindle Fire loaded with books, so that I could spend some time reading.
After a few days, the joys of solitude might wear off (at least in regards to missing MC and my cat) and I’d venture back to New York City. But until then, I’d explore my creativity in a beautiful environment with healthy inspirations at every corner.
That sounds like an amazing day!!!!!!
Thanks, heather! I’m looking forward to actually doing it!
What a wonderful day that would be. Can I come too?
Hahaha, you are welcome to join me, Dorothy, as long as you aren’t offended if I just sit in silence!
Sounds like a wonderful day. We have a monastery up here that is very similar and available as a retreat.
That sounds cool, Jess – Knot by Gran’ma.
That sounds wonderful. I hardly did any knitting while in Atlanta for Stitches but it was so nice to just play tourist in a city.
That sounds fun, Vanessa. I’d love to go to Stitches one day.
I think this is a fantasy that can definitely become a reality – you should do it! Take a long weekend, and just go. There. It is done.
So true, Voie de Vie! I just have to book it and schedule the time off
.
hope you get to do it soon
Thanks, Sue! (I hope so too!!!)
Your day sounds so peaceful.
That’s what I’m hoping for, Karen!
That sounds like a fantastic day! I hope you can get some time off to relax soon
Thanks, Liz! I’m looking forward to it.
The best bit about this is that you can actually do it, making it even more perfect! I do hope you get to do it soon.
Tell me, as someone who does lots of different crafty things, do you buy yarn you like and then find a project to fit, or the other way around?
I’m getting to go to a wool festival at the weekend and I’ve never been let loose before! Should I go with a plan or see where I get led astray?
I love that aspect, too, Faith!
Well in the past I bought yarn I liked and pretended I had a project in mind
. But nowadays I’m busting stash so it’s all different.
Wool festivals are awesome! I would go with a budget and a vague idea of what you are looking for. I find that helps me from going too crazy and also allows me to spend on some things I wouldn’t be able to get at home. Have fun!
That sounds like a fab day
Thanks, Samantha!
As a Quaker, I think it sounds like a fabulous retreat… as a hectic crafter, it sounds heavenly. Anyway you look at it, it’s a great day.
Welcome, AmyS, and I do think it sounds fabulous.
I’m with you!
I thought it might appeal to the introvert in you
.
Sounds so peaceful and relaxing. I think that we all crave quiet solitude every once in awhile. The crafting just enhances the experience.
I agree, autumngeisha. These days, there is a lot of noise in our lives.
This sounds so wonderful! You should do it; treat yourself. Like they say, you only have one life.
I plan to – thanks for the encouragement, Kepanie!