This is seriously gorgeous country. The air, the trees, there is nothing here but the earth and the sky, and my entire stress level has just dropped to barely registering.
Two felters who worked with me in a class at the Felter’s Fling last September in Massachusetts, invited me to teach a private workshop in Lisa Jacenich’s studio in Monterey, VA. Her friend Gisela flew in from Iowa, we arrived in Richmond airport within two minutes of each other (when has that ever happened?) and we set out for the three hour drive to the western border of Virginia, in the Appalachian mountain range, seven miles from the West Virginia border. We are in a very small town, actually I understand there are only 1800 residents in the entire county. OK, this is like stepping into one of Adriana Trigiani‘s Big Stone Gap novels. I’m totally out of my element, and I have to say, loving every minute of it.
We stopped atop Shenandoah Mountain, elevation 2900 feet, and the view was breathtaking. Gisela, from the plains of Iowa, couldn’t get over how many trees were in one place.
My accomodations are wonderful. Gisela and I had our pick of bedrooms, and I chose a sunny yellow room, with a wall of windows, looking out over a meadow. I woke with the dawn this morning, just transfixed by the beauty and simplicity of the meadow, the birds, the quiet, and the serenity. I had my tea on the porch, and just sat. It felt really good.
Lisa and Gisela are two wonderful felters, who want to make more clothing with their felted fabric, and need help with the most critical areas like fitting patterns. We’ve already worked through the patterns for two garments, one each, and muslins are the next step. I’m enjoying the pace, and the fact that I can really concentrate on just two students.
All is quiet on the home front, at least that’s what the kids are telling me. I suppose I don’t really want to know anything different. I’m enjoying this brief break from my reality for just a few days before I jump into final preparations for Convergence.
I’m so happy for you, Daryl!
You deserve it, you have gone non stop for so long now. Congras!
Oh the Appalachians are so beautiful, your post makes me want to plan a trip right now! I’m so glad you’re enjoying yourself. Is Gisela the lady who was in charge of the fashion show at Midwest last year? She did such a good job!
Yes indeed Christy, Gisela was the wonderful coordinator for the Midwest Fashion Show in 2009, as a matter of fact, we watched the DVD of the fashion show one night after dinner. You looked stunning in that award winning walking skirt!
So glad you enjoyed your visit Daryl! It was a joy meeting you and Gisela for the buffet at the Highland Inn! I love Lisa’s beautiful new vest she created with you…what a work of art =) Yes, we are blessed to live in such a scenic and peaceful ‘garden’ here…but the best part is all the great folks who live and VISIT here! So come one, come all….love to have you<3