Rhinebeck 2010

This past weekend was the perfect weekend for my first ever Rhinebeck experience.  Not only were the trees in their peak, but the weather was also very cooperative- cool and crisp, just as an autumn day should be. Wonderfully ideal for layers of handknits :)

After a dark and rainy drive, we arrived in Rhinebeck late Friday night (technically Saturday morning), so we took our time in the AM and showed up at the New York Sheep and Wool festival at about 11.  Some of the first friendly faces I spotted were these familiar ones:

I ran into the ladies of Ravelry (Jess, Sarah, and Mary-Heather) and Melissa of Neoknits upon arrival and had a chance to catch up a bit.

The first Ravelry meet-up was at lunch time and I had a fun time seeking out people that I know 'online' (and now in real life!).

As far as the food went, I think my favorite thing was the fried pickles.  They were recommended to us by Casey and they did not disappoint!

* I know, I know... pregnant woman...pickles..I get it.  I haven't had many cravings, but I have to tell you the truth- looking at this picture is giving me a major hankering for another helping of the fried little morsels!  

Saturday afternoon Joe and I both took a class with designer Lily Chin.  This filled the day and left little time for shopping.

At the Ravelry Party, I finally got to meet Steven A in person:

*Ok...I actually met him at the Ravelry meetup, but we didn't snag a pic until the evening.

Sunday we had a little time for shopping, we even managed to visit some four legged friends (and some monkeys, too!):

Although it's hard to tell from the picture, the sheep here is kind of tiny (see poster).  Since we have been home, Joe has mentioned a few times how it would be cool to get a couple of these tiny sheep and let them roam around the yard.  He thinks its a great idea- I think they'd end up as coyote food.

Sunday evening we headed down to New Jersey to stay with some friends.  Monday was to be spent in the city and I had one tourist trap I had to see : Purl Soho!

Unfortunately for me, Purl does not open until noon- and we showed up too early.  At least I got to see the outside!

I did find a yarn shop near Central Park that I was able to stop in at. String Yarn  had the new Filatura di Crosa book I have been looking for-  I was more than happy to snag a copy.

 I know some of you have already asked what was worn on this knitterly weekend.  Some of the knits you have seen before, some were fresh FOs (loaded into the car wet from blocking!).  I will be sure to get some more pictures and give details soon!