The Revolving Door of July Guests

Seems like everyone's favourite month for visiting is July!!! And who can blame them.

We have been having so much fun with a series of guests - pretty much back to back. A day off in between to do laundry and re-stock the fridge and then the next batch arrives. I will think back to these very fun weeks in November when I am feeling lonely. Trust me, nobody is lining up to come in the "ber" months.

Lots of SUP (Stand Up Paddle board) lessons - and virtually everyone had success. I think I could post some funny shots, but wouldn't want to do that. Everyone is a little wobbly their first few times.
But we are all of an age where trying something new is a very brave thing, and despite achy knees and hips, everyone managed to get up and stay up.

The weather and water temperature have been perfect for guests. In fact, there has been nary a drop of rain all month, which is a bit scary. I am worried that every time I dip my watering can into the lake, I see the level go down. I don't remember a summer like this in the 20 we have been on the lake.

Speaking of weather, how can people keep predicting thunderstorms - day after day - when the skies are virtually cloudless. Aren't clouds a prerequisite for storms? They are predicting the same thing for today, but now I am completely skeptical.

So, what I have been doing in the studio - not that much, except in the wee hours while the guests are still asleep. 

I did finish the little paddle board mat - will now figure out how to finish.

I have done occasional rows on the knitting project.

I read two amazing books: The Postmistress and Sarah's Key. Loved them both, especially the first one!!

I did discover an incredible artist, whose work I LOVE! Her name is Rea Kelly and I suggest you go visit her site with a cup of coffee.

I did visit a couple of markets and craft shows, including the Muskoka Arts and Crafts show this past weekend in Bracebridge. This year my hubby didn't join me, so I was able to go to the fashion and jewellery booths that he normally hurries past. Here are my treasures:

The little link ring above the silver one was made by my friend Lisa Ridout. She and I go wayyy back to my early copywriting days. She went back to school to study jewellery making many years ago and makes absolutely stunning things. This was her first outdoor show in 10 years. She is a regular at One of a Kind and has a few retailers who carry her lines.

Sorry for the bad shot (into the bathroom mirror). This is an up-cycled dress I got from a vendor who makes all their wares from recycled items. This is made of t-shirts and the thing about it is the design. I think there is some magic in there because although it looks incredibly body fitting, it hides a multitude of sins and is very figure flattering on nearly every figure. Plus it is unbelievably comfy - after all, it is old t-shirts!!

Although it's not easy to see in this picture, this is an incredible scarf that is made by a textile artist who uses a free arm quilting machine to marry all kinds of fibers. This has sari silk, roving and ribbon - in all my favourite colours and it is light enough to be worn all year.

There were many fabulous vendors, but by this point I had blown the budget. But I love getting things that are unique and not on every rack in every store.

Kudos to so many talented Canadian designers and artists for inspiring me to come home and create something.  We all need to get out there and support one another.

So today, I am off to the grocery store to replenish yet again. I think I will also go look for an on-line youtube video for rain dancing. I just checked and found this. Will try later. What did we ever do before Google?????