For a knitter, all seasons are knitting seasons, but it seems especially fitting, and now has almost become tradition at Sievers, to offer a week of knitting in the fall. There’s really no better time to think about cozying up with a project, be it challenging or simply soft and comforting, as the colder weather settles in.
One of our two knitting favorites in October is the Creative Knitting Retreat with Mary Germain. Students have the option of a 5-day or 3-day class and they bring spectacular knitting projects to start, or continue, or finish, all with encouragement, instruction and guidance from Mary.
We considered ourselves lucky to be able to simply see these beautiful handknits in person!
Across the road in the Walter Studio, the knitting adventures continued in the Open Knitting Studio, which also had a 5-day or 3-day option. Although there’s no formal instruction, ideas and inspiration were shared and knitting solutions given by many helping hands.
In addition to days (and nights!) full of knitting, there were a few extracurricular events planned in advance, bringing both groups together. The efforts made by the coordinators resulted in an even more special and memorable week and are very much appreciated! One of those events was a meal together followed by an inspiring and fabulous fashion show. What fun!
The next afternoon, all the knitters joined together to surprise and honor Cindra for her many years at Sievers and upcoming retirement. She thought the studio visit time would make for a good opportunity to sing “If Once You Have Slept On an Island” to both groups (which she did later), but first came the recognition and appreciation from all in the room, plus gifts, cards, refreshments, warm words and to top it off, a special banner and tiara to mark the occasion.
The sun may have set on the last full day of knitting classes this season but it never sets on the good memories of spending time with knitting friends!
Please tell Cindra for me that she is a princess of quite a lot and Sievers will not be the same without her…sending her wonderful wishes for an adventure filled retirement! Hugs to all, Becky Dexter
Thanks Becky! How sweet! We agree with your every word!
We were just talking about Cindra and wondering if there had been a party on the occasion of her retirement. If only we could have been there! Best wishes to her and be sure to tell her that she will love the next chapter of her life!
Hi Karen,
The knitters sure pulled out the stops to recognize Cindra. Luckily, we still have a few more months before she officially retires! Take care, Carolyn
Your artful photography always captures the essence of Sievers for me, Carolyn! And a big congratulations to Cindra on her retirement! I’m hoping to be able to share a class with her next year.
Thanks, Cheryl! I know Cindra will be planning to take a class, so that might happen. Plus, she gives her time to so many Island organizations, you’ll no doubt see her at Island events! See you soon, Carolyn
Cindra,
May the future be as blessed as the past in all you have given to us
Mary Ann Clemens
Hi Mary Ann,
We share your sentiment 100 percent! Take care, Carolyn
Thanks for your hospitality. Always such a great time. Cindra will be missed so much but happy to hear her beautiful voice again with the lovely island song. So many memories to keep us warm throughout the winter months!
Thank you, Karen, for being a part of one of our favorite weeks of the season with so many of our knitting friends! We are fortunate to have 37 years (and counting) of good memories and we treasure each time we’ve heard Cindra sing, along with her talents, humor and smiles that she’s shared with all of us! Hugs, Carolyn
Congratulations to Cindra on her retirement! What a wonderful celebration you had for her! The hand knits are gorgeous as always! Thanks for the beautiful photography and post, Carolyn. My best to everyone. Jean
Hi Jean, We certainly missed you and look forward to next time! Thanks for your good wishes for Cindra, too! We know she’ll make the most of her time and enjoy some new adventures. Take care, Carolyn
Congratulations, Cindra. I will miss you AND miss you singing the island song. I just love when you sing it! Thank you again and again and again.
Also the knitters outdid themselves! The projects were all winners. Mary, you look so cute in your outfit. You would easily pass as a youngster!
Hi Cheena,
Cindra’s “If Once You Have Slept on an Island” song has been a cherished tradition for so many years. We’re all so lucky to have heard her sing and will hold the words and her voice in our hearts. And yes, the knitters brought fantastic finished pieces and works-in-progress. Mary’s sweater and skirt together were one of the “Best of Show” combinations.
See you soon,
Carolyn
Cindra,
Happy retirement! It warmed my heart to see you being celebrated with the knitters and thanks to Carolyn for all your photos that bring Sievers and the island closer to us that live farther away now. Have a wonderful fall and winter all!
Judy Osbon
Thanks, Judy, for your retirement wishes for Cindra and note about bringing Sievers closer through these blog posts. The fall colors are really just coming into their full glory and we look forward to enjoying them for as many days as the weather allows! Hugs from all of us, Carolyn
Hello Cindra – it’s been MANY years since I have visited the island. (The first time, Dear Walter was still with us; the second time for a class with the very fun and talented Doreen Speckman). I will always remember your welcoming smile and help wherever needed. And you seemed to remember everyone at all times! Such a wonderful place for your career and the joy you have given everyone. Congratulations and enjoy your retirement. Darcey Magnuson
Hi Darcey,
What a wonderful reflection of Cindra and your time at Sievers. Looking back, we see you were here for a class with Doreen in 1987, just a year after Cindra started working at Sievers! Thanks for sharing your warm thoughts and for staying connected with us. Our best, Carolyn, Ann and Cindra