Take Your Magic on the Road
"If you look at what you have in life, you'll always have more. If you look at what you don't have in life, you'll never have enough."
Dear One,
Something utterly fabulous happens in the shop now and again (in addition to the standard level of everyday fun and creativity) and I think it's a story worth telling.
Sometimes--perhaps every couple of months--a group of yarn enthusiasts comes into Yarnology for a visit. This is usually a group that meets regularly in their usual spot, and also looks for an occasion to do an annual/semi-annual yarn-focused get-away. They bring with them a vibe of collaborative energy and enthusiastic curiosity that infuses the whole space. It's a joy to be part of their adventure.
In fact, the whole concept strikes me as brilliant: a few days away from home with people you enjoy, a craft that has become your common denominator, a chance to explore a new place, and zero chance of needing to throw in a load of laundry during any of it.
I realize there are a whole lot of retreats available to knitters and crocheters. Retreat options span the globe and may involve really cool designers. They are often breathtaking experiences. It is not my intention to minimize the amazingness of any of them. Retreat to your little heart's content, my friend.
What these people are doing seems simpler and calmer: more of a "treat" than a retreat. Maybe I'm making this assumption because the people who visit us on these wee yarn-based treks seem to be having so darned much fun, but I'd guess that the parameters are roughly:
--a two or three night visit to a place that's easily drivable
--a destination with at least one fabulous yarn shop
--an Airbnb, VRBO, or traditional B & B so you have gathering/making spaces in addition to sleeping spaces
--time spent with friends you just don't see enough of
--a chance to include other interests (book stores, antiques, hiking, birdwatching, etc.)
--your gang picks the dates
Doesn't that sound pretty inviting? No wonder these people are having fun when we see them!
If you're getting cabin fever and need to change your surroundings, perhaps a few days away with your favorite fiber friend(s) sounds like just the ticket. It doesn't have to be expensive, it doesn't have to be planned twelve months ahead, it could even be a sleep-over or a stay-cation in your own town. It seems to me that the necessary ingredient is a chance to gain a new perspective.
I'll admit that I am completely biased, but I think sweet Winona, Minnesota is an ideal place to explore for a weekend...especially if your heart is craving a bit of time in a friendly yarn shop. It's an easy drive from the Twin Cities, Duluth, Mankato, Northern Iowa, Madison, Milwaukee, and points in between. While you may have been in Winona several times, others in your group might not know it as well. They might really enjoy a small-town weekend--complete with easy parking, undiscovered restaurants, and fresh scenery. If all of that appeals to you, check out lodging options via our friends at Visit Winona.
Once you have your dates chosen and a place to lay your head at night, please give us a call (507-474-9444). We'd love to know when to expect you, so we can welcome your gang warmly.
Wherever you may be this winter, you can plan a perspective-changing getaway. It might be a trip to a museum or an arboretum. It might be streaming a great movie with your bestie. It might be hiking a trail you've been meaning to explore. It might be reading a great book under the coziest of blankets.
May your choice of escapes leave you with a fresh outlook and a new optimism. And may it not involve a single load of laundry.
Warmly,
Gaby
