Back from the Frolic

Stephanie wrote:

A week ago today we left for Fiber Frolic.  Where does the time go?  

Last weekend was loads of fun.  The weekend in pictures . . . 

The weather was beautiful all weekend long.  Outside vendors were able to enjoy it the most.

This kid goat was for sale along with a couple of others.  I wonder if this one found a new home.

These alpacas were so friendly and docile - very popular with the little kids.

And the parade was not to be missed.  Animals in costumes, kids marching along making music - it was a colorful, lively affair.

Half the fun of these events is the people we get to meet.  We met several people who know our yarn through Sheri at The Loopy Ewe.  Friends from around New England who made the trip to the Frolic stopped by to chat.  It was a very social weekend.

I always come away from these weekends with new ideas and information.  For instance I learned that Hatchtown Farm is now offering a fiber CSA.  A fiber CSA allows individuals to purchase shares of fiber.  The share money goes toward maintaining the animals.  In return shareholders receive fiber (or yarn) after shearing.

I've been involved with a farm CSA for produce, so it's exciting to see this same model transferred to fiber farms.  The fiber CSA is an innovative way to supply farmers with working capital and to receive fiber in return.  It's encouraging to see more and more fiber CSAs popping up.

Work is progressing on my Fiddlehead Socks (Ravelry link).  I'm making my way through the gusset increases.  Pictures will have to wait for better lighting conditions and an extra pair of hands.

This and That

Stephanie wrote:

It's been a crazy week here as Mona and I get ready to head out of town tomorrow.  There is always so much work involved before we hit the road - get our inventory in order, make sure we have all our supplies and display items, figure out the logistics of transportation (we can no longer fit everything into one van).  And we need to leave the home front in order - at least food and clean underwear for everyone.  

Once we get there we still have to set up, vend for a couple of days, tear down and pack it all up again.  We need a yarn roadie.  

Where are we going?  Maine Fiber Frolic.  It's a relaxed, family friendly event with animals and demonstrations.  And vendors, of course.  If you're in the area, be sure to check it out.

My latest knitting obsession is Fiddlehead Socks, our spring sock club installment.  Sivia Harding designed the pattern, and it's truly enchanting.  I'm having a hard time putting it down to do all of the aforementioned work.  It's not too late to order Fiddlehead.  And you can find the KAL for Fiddlehead here (Ravelry link).  Feel free to join us.

Finally, check out the work Claudia is doing to raise money for multiple sclerosis.  She is serious when it comes to fundraising.  Be sure to take a peek at the prizes she is giving away.  Consider making a donation - every little bit helps.

I will be working on Fiddlehead this weekend.  I promise pictures upon my return.