At last a chance to tell you about the retreat. Last Wednesday I left sunny California for the Baskets of Yarn Winter Retreat in cold North Carolina. Margaret King picked me up at the airport, she even had a sign with my name on it! Margaret told me there had been a little panic that morning on the Ravelry forum. Apparently a rumor had started that I wasn't coming! I later learned what happened. We drove up to Broyhill Inn in Boone, a really cute town up in the mountains. We helped Betsey, owner of Baskets of Yarn, set up the shop area.



Thursday I taught a class on making my vintage apron from Knitty Gritty. The group of women in my class were so much fun. The laughter began and didn't end until the last day. Monica filled me in on how the rumor on Ravelry started. Her friends knew how excited she was about the retreat. They decided to play a trick on her by saying I wouldn't be coming. She posted this on Ravelry and confusion began.



Bronze Bella debuted at the retreat. Betsey was so kind and gave each student one. It was great to be able to see the response to Bella first hand. All weekend the Broyhill Inn was swarming with knitters carrying their Bellas. I loved it. Thursday night everyone wore their pajamas to dinner. On their shoulders was Bella, which really accessorizes flannel pants and slippers well. Classes after dinner were taught in our pajamas too. I now firmly believe all knitting classes should be taught in one's pajamas.

Friday I taught a class on designing knitwear from the top down. It was a lot of numbers, so hopefully I didn't confuse my students too much! Saturday it snowed which made it all the better for knitting. Sunday we ventured out into Boone for lunch and a little shopping. Most had left, but those of us who stayed were treated to a full body massage and a half off sale in the yarn shop. Fortunately, no fights broke out.

The whole weekend was so relaxing. I don't know if it was just a case of deju vu, but I left there feeling like I had known these women for a long time. It's amazing how knitting quickly brings strangers together and forms great friendships. Betsey has already started planning for next year. Check her website for details. I highly recommend attending, even if you have to fly. It's a great experience. Registration begins May 1.

I'm really terrible about remembering to take photos, so here are some links to others who did remember; Joan, Margaret, Sarah and Trish.