Homestead Day

This past Saturday was Farm & Homestead Day at the Common Ground Fairgrounds. We haven’t gone in the past, but this year we decided to give it a try. It was a beautiful Saturday (for a change – most Saturdays have been rainy!). There was a lot of sunshine and a nice breeze. A lot of families were there with a lot of workshops for kids.

For example: Building fairy houses.

The loom was in action. Someone was just finishing up the “Acts of Kindness” insertions when I stopped by.

I was kind of fascinated by the scything activity. This field was about half mowed. There is a bit of technique to it, of course. You sort of tip the point up at the end of your swing to pile up grass behind you, creating a windrow. I didn’t try it but I’m glad there is someone out there teaching it.

I wanted to learn more about spinning. I think if I’m serious about it, I’m going to have to get a spinning teacher and get instruction over a period of time. I tried out a spinning wheel and I could do it, sort of, but the yarn was overspun and doubled back on itself constantly. I gave up and thanked the woman. I went over to observe a woman using a drop spindle (Turkish) and I found that mesmerizing. Later I heard a teacher at the dyeing booth say to really learn, you have to purchase a fleece and take it through the whole process. Fleece to garment. I wondered if I was up to it.

The kids had no hesitancy in sitting down at the spinning wheel, and having a go at it. I need some of their can-do attitude.