My apologies to those who have been waiting for the details of the upcoming trips in 2010.
I've not been completely idle and have been spending a lot of time doing background reading--at the moment for the one to Italy. My desk is piled high with reference books and a detailed map, and I’ll be taking a site-inspection trip to Italy in January. I’ll be sending details to Garth, my talented, long-suffering website designer and a preliminary itinerary will be there very soon.
Concerning this tour, it's been a difficult decision to finalize the itinerary--there are just too many wonderful places to visit. However, I've narrowed our main stops (where we will stay in hotels) to three places: Florence, the small Tuscan village of Anghiari (described as being located in the "geographical heart of the Italian Renaissance") and ending with wonderful Venice. This tour will take place in late September.While I've been thinking of a trip to Italy for several years, it seemed a matter of serendipity when Nicky Epstein's book, Knitting in Tuscany, was published. This book has been an inspiration and has validated the areas which I had been planning for our itinerary.
We'll spend at least five nights in Anghiari and while we're there will take excursions to the nearby villages of Siena, Assisi and Arezzo. Throughout the tour, our days will be spent enjoying the Italian cuisine, marvelling at the wonderful scenery, visiting centuries-old buildings and viewing treasured art. Just a few of the activities you can look forward to: a cooking class with a chef who will take us to the local market and then prepare a memorable meal; a private tour of La Tessitura Busatti, a family firm of talented weavers which has been in existence for over 170 years; visit with a glass blower on the island of Murano; Sansepolcro, site of a lace-making school; a tapestry weaver in the mountains of La Verna.
Season’s Greetings to all! My sincere wishes for a healthy, happy 2010.
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
Monday, November 23, 2009
Errors and an Omission
Thanks to Margaree for setting me straight on my latest post, where I erroneously indicated that Baddeck was the capital of Cape Breton. In fact, there is no capital on Cape Breton but rather four counties. In addition, Margaree rightfully pointed out my lack of knowledge leading up to the expulsion of the Acadians--whereby they rejected British laws and would not swear allegiance to the British king. I promise to make up for my weakness in Nova Scotia history.
My omission was neglecting to talk about our visit to Lucy Neatby's home and studio while we were in Halifax. This was another highlight for our group and was accompanied by much anticipation and excitement to be visiting the home of such a respected, innovative and amenable professional. I know this is getting to be hackneyed, but it is still true that our group left with smiles and arms full of yarn and patterns that they just couldn't live without! http://www.lucyneatby.com/
I was especially happy to meet her assistant Dawn as we had spoken a number of times by phone. I told Dawn she could be an inspirational speaker--she even had me thinking I could/should plan a tour to Botswana and tie it in with the books by Alexander McCall Smith. (Maybe I should try to contact him the next time I'm in Edinburgh!)
My omission was neglecting to talk about our visit to Lucy Neatby's home and studio while we were in Halifax. This was another highlight for our group and was accompanied by much anticipation and excitement to be visiting the home of such a respected, innovative and amenable professional. I know this is getting to be hackneyed, but it is still true that our group left with smiles and arms full of yarn and patterns that they just couldn't live without! http://www.lucyneatby.com/
I was especially happy to meet her assistant Dawn as we had spoken a number of times by phone. I told Dawn she could be an inspirational speaker--she even had me thinking I could/should plan a tour to Botswana and tie it in with the books by Alexander McCall Smith. (Maybe I should try to contact him the next time I'm in Edinburgh!)
Saturday, November 21, 2009
Cape Breton Island
Another sunny day for travel. We had a smooth ferry ride across the Northumberland Strait between P.E.I. to mainland Nova Scotia, where we docked at the small town of Caribou. We then headed towards Cape Breton Island, not truly an island since the building of the Canso Causeway, but always referred to as one.
Although we arrived in Baddeck, the capital of Cape Breton, too late for the group to do any yarn shopping, many of our group went across the street from our hotel and looked longingly through the windows of Baadeck Yarns. However, our keen knitters made up for this during the following five days and again many newly-purchased skeins of yarn appeared on the bus. Pat Fields, owner of Baadeck Yarns, and her assistant Betty were very knowledgeable and helped us to make choices from their extensive stock of yarn, books, patterns and needles. Have a look at Pat's website: http://www.baadeckyarns.com/. Pat carries a special yarn called 'First Flight' which she developed to mark the 100th anniversary of the first powered flight in Canada by the plane called the Silver Dart.
The rest of our time helped me to gain an appreciation of the Gaelic traditions of the Scots who settled the island, after they were forced off their lands by cruel landowners during the Highland Clearances. Their traditions are honoured and enhanced by the program at the Gaelic College of Celtic Arts & Crafts at nearby St. Ann's. People come from around the world for a variety of subjects: studying the Gaelic language, learning the bagpipes, even an apprentice program for kilt making. It's important to remember that the Scots weren't the first to settle Cape Breton, as for 10,000 years, the Mi'Kmaq Tribe called this area their home.
I really enjoyed my visit to the Alexander Graham Bell Museum and it's stunning setting on a hill overlooking Bras d'Or Lake. From the museum, it is possible to see the original Bell family summer home, Beinn Bhreagh. I was so intrigued by the many accomplishments of Bell and his colleagues, that on my return I read the biography about Bell entitled Reluctant Genius by Charlotte Gray.
There were several more highlights for me: one was a visit to Iona and the Highland Village. It's a living history museum, with authentic period buildings, farm animals and costumed staff. It was though we'd stepped back in time as we visited a progression of cabins, homes and other buildings. We saw demonstrations of traditional activities, with a pleasant interlude for a stop for tea and freshly baked bannock and oatmeal crisps baked in a wood stove. This is an active place with courses in Gaelic culture and studies throughout the year. http://museum.gov.ns.ca/hv/index.html
I also loved our visit to the Fortress of Louisbourg, a reconstruction of part of the original fort from 1744, originally built by the French. Louisbourg is sometimes called "the Williamsburg of Canada" and members of the staff are dressed in period costume. I haven't done it justice in this blog--to get a better idea of the scope of the project, have a look at http://www.louisbourg.ca/fort/
My only disappointment was the cloudy weather while we went around the Cabot Trail which prevented us from seeing the beautiful scenery. We did stop in the little village of Cheticamp and visited the Les Trois Pignons (which means 'three gables'), an information centre with a great collection of hooked rugs and hangings. I should have mentioned the importance of Acadian history on Cape Breton. Cheticamp is the reference centre for the genealogy and history of the many Acadians who were forcibly removed from their homes. http://www.lestroispignons.com/troispignons/en/welcome.html
Although we arrived in Baddeck, the capital of Cape Breton, too late for the group to do any yarn shopping, many of our group went across the street from our hotel and looked longingly through the windows of Baadeck Yarns. However, our keen knitters made up for this during the following five days and again many newly-purchased skeins of yarn appeared on the bus. Pat Fields, owner of Baadeck Yarns, and her assistant Betty were very knowledgeable and helped us to make choices from their extensive stock of yarn, books, patterns and needles. Have a look at Pat's website: http://www.baadeckyarns.com/. Pat carries a special yarn called 'First Flight' which she developed to mark the 100th anniversary of the first powered flight in Canada by the plane called the Silver Dart.
The rest of our time helped me to gain an appreciation of the Gaelic traditions of the Scots who settled the island, after they were forced off their lands by cruel landowners during the Highland Clearances. Their traditions are honoured and enhanced by the program at the Gaelic College of Celtic Arts & Crafts at nearby St. Ann's. People come from around the world for a variety of subjects: studying the Gaelic language, learning the bagpipes, even an apprentice program for kilt making. It's important to remember that the Scots weren't the first to settle Cape Breton, as for 10,000 years, the Mi'Kmaq Tribe called this area their home.
I really enjoyed my visit to the Alexander Graham Bell Museum and it's stunning setting on a hill overlooking Bras d'Or Lake. From the museum, it is possible to see the original Bell family summer home, Beinn Bhreagh. I was so intrigued by the many accomplishments of Bell and his colleagues, that on my return I read the biography about Bell entitled Reluctant Genius by Charlotte Gray.
There were several more highlights for me: one was a visit to Iona and the Highland Village. It's a living history museum, with authentic period buildings, farm animals and costumed staff. It was though we'd stepped back in time as we visited a progression of cabins, homes and other buildings. We saw demonstrations of traditional activities, with a pleasant interlude for a stop for tea and freshly baked bannock and oatmeal crisps baked in a wood stove. This is an active place with courses in Gaelic culture and studies throughout the year. http://museum.gov.ns.ca/hv/index.html
I also loved our visit to the Fortress of Louisbourg, a reconstruction of part of the original fort from 1744, originally built by the French. Louisbourg is sometimes called "the Williamsburg of Canada" and members of the staff are dressed in period costume. I haven't done it justice in this blog--to get a better idea of the scope of the project, have a look at http://www.louisbourg.ca/fort/
My only disappointment was the cloudy weather while we went around the Cabot Trail which prevented us from seeing the beautiful scenery. We did stop in the little village of Cheticamp and visited the Les Trois Pignons (which means 'three gables'), an information centre with a great collection of hooked rugs and hangings. I should have mentioned the importance of Acadian history on Cape Breton. Cheticamp is the reference centre for the genealogy and history of the many Acadians who were forcibly removed from their homes. http://www.lestroispignons.com/troispignons/en/welcome.html
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
Prince Edward Island
I thoroughly enjoyed our visit to P.E.I., also known as the 'Gentle Island'. The weather was wonderful, the residents were pleasant and welcoming, and we again met some talented craftspeople. Although the hour was late when we arrived in Charlottetown, we received a warm greeting by several members of the staff at our hotel, The Islander. We were quickly given key cards to our rooms and our luggage was delivered promptly.
A welcome surprise was the plate of freshly baked, chocolate chip cookies in the lounge. I later learned the cookies were baked by Josh, a young man who also did double duty at the reception desk. Whenever Josh saw the cookie supply was getting low, he would go to the kitchen and bake another double batch. He also generously gave us copies of the recipe.
The next morning we had a short walking tour from the hotel to Province House. We were accompanied by our costumed guide, Rebecca, who in her other life is a student at the University of P.E.I. Even though I'd been to Province House many years ago, I enjoyed our visit and hearing about the rich history of the building, which still is the venue when the provincial legislature meets.
Our touring day was warm and sunny. No one wanted to go swimming at Cavendish Beach but most took off their shoes and at least got their feet wet in the (cold) Atlantic Ocean, and walked on the fine sandy beach. We visited nearby Green Gables, the home of the fictional Anne Shirley and the setting of the famous stories by Lucy Maud Montgomery.
An unscheduled but enjoyable stop was to the P.E.I. Preserve Company, located in the beautiful village of New Glasgow. The company produces a wide variety of preserves on site, using fresh local fruit whenever possible. The beautiful setting is enhanced by twelve acres of gardens and the company has plans to build a respite cottage next year. It was too early for lunch when we visited, but there is a nice looking restaurant attached to the shop. http://www.preservecompany.com/
Another memorable stop today was our visit to Fibre-Isle Fine Yarns. Owners Sylvie Toupin and Jacques Arsenault welcomed us and gave us a guided tour of the mill and explained the numerous blends of fibres which they combine into stunning yarns. The mill equipment is manufactured by nearby Belfast Mini-Mills, and the Toupins said how well it is suited to processing different fibres, especially the bison they use in most of their yarns. Sylvie knit all the beautiful shawls and scarves which were on display in the showroom. I don't know how she had the time to create so many beautiful objects. When she was questioned, I seem to recall she said it's a passion--a feeling which struck a resonance with our group.
Again, we found much yarn which we couldn't live without and left Fibre-Isle with arms full! I came away with several skeins: one was a mix of 70% bamboo, 15% bison and 15% cashmere. Another one was a mix of 65% superwash fine merino, 25% Lyocell cellulose and 10% Canadian bison. All the yarns in the shop were in beautiful colours. Have a good look at their website and perhaps join their mailing list. http://www.bisonyarn.com/.
The next day we left P.E.I. but not before another memorable visit--this time to Belfast Mini-Mills. http://www.minimills.net/html/store/index.html I think I can safely say that we were all impressed by the dedication and ingenuity of the family who design the mill equipment, which is exported all over the world. (Some of our group had seen proof of this when they visited the tiny Orcadian island of North Ronaldsay and saw the equipment from this company in operation. ) The mill wasn't just equipment but there was also a large shop with yarn, roving, knitting and woven goods.
A welcome surprise was the plate of freshly baked, chocolate chip cookies in the lounge. I later learned the cookies were baked by Josh, a young man who also did double duty at the reception desk. Whenever Josh saw the cookie supply was getting low, he would go to the kitchen and bake another double batch. He also generously gave us copies of the recipe.
The next morning we had a short walking tour from the hotel to Province House. We were accompanied by our costumed guide, Rebecca, who in her other life is a student at the University of P.E.I. Even though I'd been to Province House many years ago, I enjoyed our visit and hearing about the rich history of the building, which still is the venue when the provincial legislature meets.
Our touring day was warm and sunny. No one wanted to go swimming at Cavendish Beach but most took off their shoes and at least got their feet wet in the (cold) Atlantic Ocean, and walked on the fine sandy beach. We visited nearby Green Gables, the home of the fictional Anne Shirley and the setting of the famous stories by Lucy Maud Montgomery.
An unscheduled but enjoyable stop was to the P.E.I. Preserve Company, located in the beautiful village of New Glasgow. The company produces a wide variety of preserves on site, using fresh local fruit whenever possible. The beautiful setting is enhanced by twelve acres of gardens and the company has plans to build a respite cottage next year. It was too early for lunch when we visited, but there is a nice looking restaurant attached to the shop. http://www.preservecompany.com/
Another memorable stop today was our visit to Fibre-Isle Fine Yarns. Owners Sylvie Toupin and Jacques Arsenault welcomed us and gave us a guided tour of the mill and explained the numerous blends of fibres which they combine into stunning yarns. The mill equipment is manufactured by nearby Belfast Mini-Mills, and the Toupins said how well it is suited to processing different fibres, especially the bison they use in most of their yarns. Sylvie knit all the beautiful shawls and scarves which were on display in the showroom. I don't know how she had the time to create so many beautiful objects. When she was questioned, I seem to recall she said it's a passion--a feeling which struck a resonance with our group.
Again, we found much yarn which we couldn't live without and left Fibre-Isle with arms full! I came away with several skeins: one was a mix of 70% bamboo, 15% bison and 15% cashmere. Another one was a mix of 65% superwash fine merino, 25% Lyocell cellulose and 10% Canadian bison. All the yarns in the shop were in beautiful colours. Have a good look at their website and perhaps join their mailing list. http://www.bisonyarn.com/.
The next day we left P.E.I. but not before another memorable visit--this time to Belfast Mini-Mills. http://www.minimills.net/html/store/index.html I think I can safely say that we were all impressed by the dedication and ingenuity of the family who design the mill equipment, which is exported all over the world. (Some of our group had seen proof of this when they visited the tiny Orcadian island of North Ronaldsay and saw the equipment from this company in operation. ) The mill wasn't just equipment but there was also a large shop with yarn, roving, knitting and woven goods.
Next, off to Cape Breton Island.
Monday, October 12, 2009
From Halifax to Charlottetown
There was time after we'd checked out of our hotel, for a quick visit to the Halifax Farmers' Market, one of the oldest in North America. I love markets and took the opportunity to have a look at the variety of stalls and the local produce. I could tell that a visit to the market is a Saturday morning custom with Haligonians.
Before leaving Halifax we experienced another highlight of the trip with a stop in the Hydrostone Market. Initially we gathered at an interesting, well-stocked yarn shop, LK Yarns, where our group (again) discovered more yarn and patterns which they couldn't live without!
We were soon met by Kathryn Thomas, founder of the unique Fleece Artist Yarns. Kathryn divided us into two groups and in turn, we were privileged to have a tour through her studio and to see a detailed dyeing demonstration. We were all impressed by the quality of the materials and the dedication of Kathryn and her staff. (For instance, we learned that the silk in the yarns comes from Switzerland, where the quality is far superior to that from China.) Kathryn was very generous with her time and forthright in answering our questions. It gave our group a deeper appreciation of Fleece Artist Yarns and everywhere we travelled throughout the rest of the tour, many more purchases were made and orders placed.
After a light lunch at a busy bakery in the Hydrostone, we boarded our coach for the trip to P.E.I. and our hotel in Charlottetown. We anticipated a journey of no more than four hours, however, approaching the Confederation Bridge, our driver explained the significance of the flashing lights: the bridge was closed to high-sided vehicles (coaches and transport trucks) due to high winds.
Actually, in the end, our enforced change in plans was serendipitous -- it gave us time to visit London-Wul Fibre Arts, located in the countryside outside Moncton, N.B. Again, a memorable stop as it was the favourite shop of our friend Dorine Gould, who died in August. (Most of our group had travelled with Dorine a number of times, and were very fond of her and enjoyed her gentle nature.) We all miss her and it seemed appropriate that events should have meant we had an 'unscheduled' stop at London-Wul. (http://www.thewoolworks.com/) Heidi Wulfraat is the owner and a visit to her shop is not to be missed. Most of our group bought her beautiful handspun yarn.
I was concerned that the Bridge wouldn't open in time for us to reach Charlottetown, and was worrying about having to make alternate accommodation arrangements for nineteen people. There was also the concern that even if the bridge opened that evening, that our coach driver might be approaching the limit of the number of hours he could drive that day. It all turned out just fine and although it was dark and the group couldn't appreciate the bridge structure, we made it to Charlottetown and received a warm welcome from the staff at the Islander Inn.
Next installment: Our time on P.E.I.
Before leaving Halifax we experienced another highlight of the trip with a stop in the Hydrostone Market. Initially we gathered at an interesting, well-stocked yarn shop, LK Yarns, where our group (again) discovered more yarn and patterns which they couldn't live without!
We were soon met by Kathryn Thomas, founder of the unique Fleece Artist Yarns. Kathryn divided us into two groups and in turn, we were privileged to have a tour through her studio and to see a detailed dyeing demonstration. We were all impressed by the quality of the materials and the dedication of Kathryn and her staff. (For instance, we learned that the silk in the yarns comes from Switzerland, where the quality is far superior to that from China.) Kathryn was very generous with her time and forthright in answering our questions. It gave our group a deeper appreciation of Fleece Artist Yarns and everywhere we travelled throughout the rest of the tour, many more purchases were made and orders placed.
After a light lunch at a busy bakery in the Hydrostone, we boarded our coach for the trip to P.E.I. and our hotel in Charlottetown. We anticipated a journey of no more than four hours, however, approaching the Confederation Bridge, our driver explained the significance of the flashing lights: the bridge was closed to high-sided vehicles (coaches and transport trucks) due to high winds.
Actually, in the end, our enforced change in plans was serendipitous -- it gave us time to visit London-Wul Fibre Arts, located in the countryside outside Moncton, N.B. Again, a memorable stop as it was the favourite shop of our friend Dorine Gould, who died in August. (Most of our group had travelled with Dorine a number of times, and were very fond of her and enjoyed her gentle nature.) We all miss her and it seemed appropriate that events should have meant we had an 'unscheduled' stop at London-Wul. (http://www.thewoolworks.com/) Heidi Wulfraat is the owner and a visit to her shop is not to be missed. Most of our group bought her beautiful handspun yarn.
I was concerned that the Bridge wouldn't open in time for us to reach Charlottetown, and was worrying about having to make alternate accommodation arrangements for nineteen people. There was also the concern that even if the bridge opened that evening, that our coach driver might be approaching the limit of the number of hours he could drive that day. It all turned out just fine and although it was dark and the group couldn't appreciate the bridge structure, we made it to Charlottetown and received a warm welcome from the staff at the Islander Inn.
Next installment: Our time on P.E.I.
Back from the Maritimes
It's been a readjustment to settle into regular life again, after our group's tour of Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island. I for one, really enjoyed our stay there and wanted to share some trip highlights.
For most of the tour, we had wonderful weather--starting with our stay in Halifax and the chance to explore this historical, beautiful city. I spent a great day walking along the harbourfront, visiting Pier 21 and the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic and just enjoying the day--with a stop for a lobster roll lunch at one of the many great restaurants. For those whose legs weren't accustomed to the hills and many places to see, the city offers a free bus service called FRED (Free Rides Everywhere Downtown). This frequent service is comprised of a number of city buses which circle the central city area, stopping at museums, historic sites and major hotels. There are guides on each of the buses who answer questions and provide an interesting commentary and a historical background of the buildings throughout the route.
Our hotel, the Four Points by Sheraton was conveniently located within walking distance of just about everything. The lobby was spacious, with comfortable chairs for sitting and knitting together. (As soon as I can figure out how to add photos, I'll show you the projects of our talented group.)
One evening we also visited a yarn shop called The Loop. (http://www.theloophalifax.ca)%20it/ It was fortuitous that we were in Halifax during their evening knitting get together, and our group enjoyed the chance to see what the shop carried. We received a warm welcome of tea, coffee and cookies. I think the shop was also happy to have us come by as our group left with arms full of purchases.
Another evening we had a special group dinner at the Halliburton Inn, a heritage property which offers charming rooms and outstanding meals. Two surprise guests, Shirley Scott and Carolyn Green, were there to greet the group and to add to our enjoyment. It was a memorable evening, both for the excellence of the food and the enthusiasm of our group!
Next: On leaving Halifax and going to Charlottetown.
For most of the tour, we had wonderful weather--starting with our stay in Halifax and the chance to explore this historical, beautiful city. I spent a great day walking along the harbourfront, visiting Pier 21 and the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic and just enjoying the day--with a stop for a lobster roll lunch at one of the many great restaurants. For those whose legs weren't accustomed to the hills and many places to see, the city offers a free bus service called FRED (Free Rides Everywhere Downtown). This frequent service is comprised of a number of city buses which circle the central city area, stopping at museums, historic sites and major hotels. There are guides on each of the buses who answer questions and provide an interesting commentary and a historical background of the buildings throughout the route.
Our hotel, the Four Points by Sheraton was conveniently located within walking distance of just about everything. The lobby was spacious, with comfortable chairs for sitting and knitting together. (As soon as I can figure out how to add photos, I'll show you the projects of our talented group.)
One evening we also visited a yarn shop called The Loop. (http://www.theloophalifax.ca)%20it/ It was fortuitous that we were in Halifax during their evening knitting get together, and our group enjoyed the chance to see what the shop carried. We received a warm welcome of tea, coffee and cookies. I think the shop was also happy to have us come by as our group left with arms full of purchases.
Another evening we had a special group dinner at the Halliburton Inn, a heritage property which offers charming rooms and outstanding meals. Two surprise guests, Shirley Scott and Carolyn Green, were there to greet the group and to add to our enjoyment. It was a memorable evening, both for the excellence of the food and the enthusiasm of our group!
Next: On leaving Halifax and going to Charlottetown.
Sunday, August 30, 2009
A Scottish Photographic Competition
To anyone who has travelled to Scotland: you may wish to take part in a photo competition called "My Scottish Experience". It is sponsored by the luxury hotel group called The Town House Collection. Those who have come to Scotland on a Scottish Skeins & Skerries Tour will recall two of the properties, Channings and The Bonham.
You can read the details of the competition on the hotel website: http://www.townhousecompany.com/townhousecompany/scotland/index.aspx. The deadline is November 30th to upload an image and send it along, with a brief description of your 'experience'. There are a number of desirable prizes for the winners.
Have a look at the hotel site and get out your photos!
You can read the details of the competition on the hotel website: http://www.townhousecompany.com/townhousecompany/scotland/index.aspx. The deadline is November 30th to upload an image and send it along, with a brief description of your 'experience'. There are a number of desirable prizes for the winners.
Have a look at the hotel site and get out your photos!
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