I stopped into Portland this weekend for a lunch date* with my friend Samantha (and the most adorable new addition to her family, pup Lark).
Of course, I couldn't help but snap some pictures of the space that Samantha runs, A Gathering of Stitches - A Makerspace for Fiber and Textile Craftspeople. A class was just wrapping up, and various studio spaces and corners were alive with activity from the makers and crafters who do their work there. There's something pretty amazing, I think, about all sorts of creative mediums happening simultaneously and in one space. It's a buzz, and an energy that you can't help but feel and that surely makes one want to put our own hands to work! Delightful. And Inspiring. In addition to their shorter classes in the Portland space, A Gathering of Stitches is hosting several retreats this summer on the coast of Maine, including the one I keep dreaming about - Slow Stitching Retreat ..... Ah, slow stitching and handwork by the seashore? Yes please. Except I can't fit it into my schedule of shuttling kids from summer camp to summer camp, sadly, and so I shall just have to hope it runs again next year for me to join in on the fun.
*I was there for a lunch date but also a dinner date, to be followed by front row seats to The Moth. Lucky girl I am, and so in love with my hometown this time of year as it comes alive in such a pretty way. This is my second year seeing that show as it comes to Portland (I'm a loyal listener to the Podcast), and it was just as amazing as last year. If I haven't told you before, let me tell you now that if possible, you should never let Moth come to your town without getting there yourself! I left with a stomachache from laughing so hard, and tear stained eyes. Storytelling at its finest.
