Happy Halloween

Making a Hat

I lost my favorite hat on a trip to PA last year. So, as the air turns chilly and cold in Maine, I decided to knit a hat.

I bought this Pagosa hat pattern from a very friendly seller Holly from Silly Little Lady. She emailed me the pattern quickly and was available to answer my questions. Even as a beginning knitter, I found the instructions well laid out and easy to follow.



Then I found this beautiful yarn from Jennifer at Just For Ewe. I felt well cared for by this Etsy seller and love the feel of Miss Dottie's wool. I'm reminded at how "alive" natural fibers really are--definitely a delight to work with and wear.



After a little fumbling around as I got used to using double point needles and circular needles, I was on my way. The pattern has the option of adding a visor. I decided I like this one the way it is. Here are some views:







I pretty much wear this hat all the time now! It's my new favorite!

Cheers!--Janyce

Honeymoon

Andy and I had to get right back to work after the wedding and we just got away for our honeymoon over Columbus day weekend. We hiked a 40 mile loop in the mountains. The weather was a little chilly but all of us (including madder the dog) had a great time.
No that's not a stream that is the trail (it was a little wet)
Okay maybe a lot wet
Andy and Maddie enjoying the view

Maddie taking a break

We still have to make it up and over the tall mountain in the distance that day

Waterfall coming down Old Speck
Icicles behind us as we head down Old Speck

Fiber Maine-ia

Looking for something to do this weekend?
Why not check out the Fiber Maine-ia Festival in Orono
http://extension.umaine.edu/fibermaine-ia/conference.htm

Bread

Jan and I have been developing some new organic baking accessories (still in the beginning stages) but I've been baking bread to test things out. (I know it's a tough job) We ate this loaf with some arugula, fresh tomatoes, organic olive oil with herbs, and Camembert cheese. I just love getting cheese from the Orono Farmer's Market. I'm a little addicted really.

Paint Penobscot Count Purple

During the month of October, Spruce Run is holding a "Paint Penobscot County Purple" campaign to help build awareness for those in our community who are affected by domestic violence. We are donating $5 for each purple scarf we sell through our online shop at http://www.madderroot.etsy.com. There are many ways to participate: wear purple ribbons, purchase purple light bulbs to put in your homes or work places, dress in purple, or think of your own purplicious way to show support and build awareness. For more information and ideas, please do check out this link: Paint Penobscot County Purple.

Common Ground

Unlike Jan I didn't bring my camera so there is no shot of me with a garlic head (still jealous that I missed that one) but I went to the common ground fair as well last weekend. What I did come away with is the start of a new collection of prints. As some of you may know my other job besides madder root is at the University of Maine where I am the Printmaking Tech. It seems my life revolves around printmaking so it seems only natural that I would be drawn to a wood engraver at the fair. His name is Tony Kulik. He does some amazing work and the two prints I have just make me want more. I'm thinking his veggie series would look great in a kitchen.