As I mentioned in last week's article, I packed up my sewing machine, a few changes of clothing and headed west to Silver Lake, NY for a four-day weekend quilting retreat with friends. The weather outside was actually perfect for indoor activities . . . Like sewing! Not so great for being outside. (That's the lake beyond the fog!)
Even so, I like to venture out when I travel anywhere, including sewing vacations. The little coffee house and boutique in Perry, just a 5-minute drive from our sewing machines in Silver Lake, got the 'quilts-are-awesome' memo. The painted wall behind the counter isn't a quilt, but it sure looks like one!
After a long day at the sewing machine, it's important to stay hydrated.
But, what's with all the serpents everywhere, including on the Brewery logo and exterior? Fortunately, my roommate Janet, is originally from the area and shared a little local lore with me.
Silver Lake is a quaint little Village on the shore of a small lake of the same name. Many of the rows and rows of tidy, well-kept Victorian-era houses that line the narrow streets are now summer residences. This row of cottages face west toward the lake and dramatic sunsets year-round, but especially in the summer time.
Back in the mid-19th century, local businesses had an idea to draw tourists to the town. Before heading back to our sewing stations after the brewed refreshment, we went in search of the local marker for the full story.
I fully expected to be that tourist who got to see the western New York version of Scotland's Nessie. But all I got was a small handful of bufflehead ducks bobbing and diving in the cold water! They were a good, perhaps better, substitute for the legendary serpent in the lake. Migration means spring is coming!
Lest you think we weren't on a serious mission for the weekend. Back in the sewing room quilt tops were being turned out in rapid fashion from all of the 20-something retreatsters. This version (below left) of "Moody Blues" from The Versatile Nine-patch book was a collection of unfinished parts and pieces on my basement shelf before it was scooped up for a trip to finish-land. As a group, we had a competition to make Easter Bonnets from an odd collection of parts and decorations. Linda (below right) converted her sleeping cap to a sunrise service bonnet in plenty of time for the upcoming holiday.
I fully expected to be that tourist who got to see the western New York version of Scotland's Nessie. But all I got was a small handful of bufflehead ducks bobbing and diving in the cold water! They were a good, perhaps better, substitute for the legendary serpent in the lake. Migration means spring is coming!
Crazy as it seems, I pin-baste for hand quilting, and usually regret that after my threads catch on the pins about a million times. What can I say, I'm an odd duck sometimes. But it works for me.
Happy Stitching!
Head Hummingbird
Hummingbird-Highway.com
Hello. I love going to Silver Lake. Was wondering what cafe that was.
I think it’s the Country Belle – right on the main street in Perry. They serve Breakfast and lunch food and beverages plus a few local grocery items. The Brewery is about a block or two away. Lovely little bookstore a few steps away from the brewery – I think that is new. Silver Lake is awesome!