Things have looked a little different around here lately, and in case you're wondering why there has been little action on the sewing front, I thought I better let you know that I've escaped from my sewing room. My husband and I have crossed the Pacific Ocean and flew into New York City just before hurricane Sandy blew in. Hurricane Sandy was so very devastating for so many. Fortunately we were in a safe area, never even lost power. We were the lucky ones.
The purpose of our trip was for my husband to run the NYC marathon - something that he has been training for for many years, but particularly the last 12 months. Of course we were disappointed that the marathon was cancelled but understand and concur with all of the reasons as to why the race couldn't go ahead. We'll be back next year, stronger still.
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| Collecting race numbers. |
Meanwhile, we've made the most of our holiday in NYC, and watched as the resilient New Yorkers bounced back; the subway resumed service (and my feet are ever so grateful), the power was restored downtown, and the empty streets came back to life. We've ventured about, visiting all of our favorite places and more. Today I want to share with you my day trip (1 1/2 hours each way by train) to Bridgeport, Connecticut - to the DS Sample Sale.
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| DS Sample Sale 2012 |
DS Sample Sale 2012
The Denyse Schmidt Sample Sale is an annual event held in Denyse's studio. When Audrie (Blue is Bleu) mentioned that the sale was on whilst we were here and also offered to pick us up from the train station, I jumped at the chance to check out the space where all things DS happen.
There were DS Quilts Fabrics ....
... and gorgeous, gorgeous quilts for sale
(see the quilt - second from the left? It is coming home with me. My first ever quilt purchase).
and more quilts ....
Denyse has a wonderful studio located in a quaint old, multi-storey factory, overflowing with natural light. To be in that space, surrounded by so much individuality and creativity has made me keen to return to my sewing machine. Refreshed.
Whilst there I also got to meet some warm and welcoming quilters/bloggers including Shannon, Jen and Jamie. Together with Audrie, we enjoyed a relaxing post sale lunch. I couldn't have asked for friendlier hosts!
I had a truly amazing day; a highlight, and I am excited to be heading home this week with a little DS memorabilia and renewed enthusiasm.
More trip highlights coming soon.
Rita
Thanks Rita for sharing that. I just checked out at the library the two books I know by Denyse Schmidt "Modern Quilts" and "Quilts" and actually, I could see in your pictures, quilts by DS that are featured in her most recent book. Amazing!
ReplyDeleteyou are one lucky Rita!
ReplyDeleteWow am I jealous ++++++ Saw the notice on Facebook for Denyse's sale and was wishing....
ReplyDeleteThat must have been so much fun! The quilts in your pics are very inspirational. What an excellent opportunity!
ReplyDeleteSad to hear your husband didn't get to run but relieved to know that you survived the storm okay.
ReplyDeleteAnd bonus - DS sample sale!
So glad that you got to the DS Sample Sale during your stay in the States - what wonderful inspiration and great memories to take home with you.
ReplyDeleteGreat to see your pics Rita. I live here on the Hudson River but couldn't get to DS's sale because of transport damage from Sandy. I did get to see a number of the quilts in your photos at Quilters Take Manhattan a few weeks ago when Denyse was a guest speaker. Thanks for sharing and I hope to get there next year :)
ReplyDeleteThat really looks so inspiring. I am sorry your husband wasn't able to run in the marathon I hope it is the cards next year for him. We are all thinking of the people still recovering from Sandy it must be quite an experience to be there through this.
ReplyDeleteI've been eyeing one of her patterns that you took a picture of.... the all white quilt with the pieced triangles. I LOVE that quilt and plan to make it one of these days. Loved seeing the pictures! Thanks.
ReplyDeleteI am slightly jealous too, that would have been very inspirational!
ReplyDeletelucky girl! looks like you had fun. can't wait to see what transpires from your visit to NY from your sewing room.
ReplyDeleteWow! Thanks for sharing the pictures from the DS sample sale. I am sorry you traveled so far for the marathon that wasn't, but very glad to hear that you got to N.Y safely and were still able to have a good visit.
ReplyDeleteI *almost* went to the DS Sample Sale, but purchased a 1951 15-91 Singer instead. Maybe next year. I was really curious about items offered other than the quilts. Was the fabric priced below regular retail? Congrats on your great purchase and your wonderful attitude about the Marathon. The timing really stunk on that!
ReplyDeleteThis sounds like a dream come true
ReplyDeleteIts my goodness that i am watching your colorful designs.
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my aunt lives very close to there in CT and one day I'll combine a trip! Thanks for sharing and inspiring. So sorry about the marathon...but glad to hear NYC is bouncing back x
ReplyDeleteFantastic! I was in NYC the week of 21st October....so I just missed Sandy and the sample sale....very jealous about the sample sale....but very happy to miss the hurricane :)
ReplyDeleteIt looks like you have a fabulous day at the DS Sample Sale - such wonderful quilts. It will be great to have you back - only a few more sleeps! Can't wait to see you and your new DS Quilt.
ReplyDeleteWow, what an amazing day! Your pics are wonderful - so inspiring! Someday :)
ReplyDeletethe second quilt on the left is the one that caught my eye too. lovely!
ReplyDeleteThose quilt are beautiful- though yours are still my favorite!! Glad you had a wonderful vacation but I can't wait until you get back to your normal sewing routine so we can see more of your own beautiful quilting! :D
ReplyDeleteThis is an awesome post, thanks for sharing, I love the improv quilt. Your purchase was beautiful. I love it.
ReplyDeleteI am so sorry your husband was dissapointed it must have been hard for him after training so long. I am so glad that you both were safe.
ReplyDeleteLucky you! So exciting to see all those wonderful quilts in person and to bring one home!
ReplyDeleteLooks like you were able to have fun despite Sandy. I just wondered, did you buy the quilt for a specific reason, like a gift or because of the colours used (it would go well with the guest room), or simply because you saw it and liked it?
ReplyDeleteSorry probably over explaining my question because I'm tired!
Wow what an amazing trip.
ReplyDeleteWow how lucky and fortunate were you - both with Sandy and with Denise. A great purchase too by the look of things.
ReplyDeleteIt was so much fun to go to the sale with you :) Glad you enjoyed yourself!
ReplyDeleteI just got through reading all the way through your blog. Lots of inspiration and beautiful work. It's a shame about the marathon but I do think they made the right call on it. I was shocked when they announced at first that they were going ahead with it with so many people suffering and needing the services and resources. Your trip to Conn. was such a wonderful coincidence and a great opportunity. Funny that a prolific quilter like you would buy a quilt made by someone else. But it is Denyse Schmidt, after all! Who could resist? I think I saw that snake quilt in a magazine photo. Standing by from now on hoping to get in on a giveaway or two. Nancy
ReplyDeleteWhat a great trip for you Rita and how exciting to have gone to Denyse Schmidt's studio, just love her designs. Pity about the Marathon cancellation but they did the right thing. There is always next year. Safe travels and thanks for your great blog. Sandi
ReplyDeleteI've really enjoyed following your travels on IG. Great photos, Rita! Congrats on your lovely purchases!
ReplyDeleteSome friends of ours travelled to New York to run in the Marathon together, so I know how disappointing that is. Like you though they seem to be making the best of it and having lots of fun anyway!
ReplyDeleteWell you have had a most interesting trip! How fun to go on your side trip!
ReplyDeleteWowee! What a lucky day to get to Denyse's place. I love the quilt you got. I bet there was a load of inspiration there.
ReplyDeleteWow I am so jealous!! That is a dream place to go :) So funny to see my fabrics for my current quilt project in the blue stack 4th photo down. Love Denyse's work!
ReplyDeleteI really enjoy the article. I come here from the Google while searching for some good article. Thanks
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Beautiful, beautiful pictures! Thank you for sharing!
ReplyDeleteYou were about 40 minutes from me!! I wish I had known you were here... I would have met up with you in a heart beat!!
ReplyDeleteLucky you!! I wanted to go, but decided against it as from Philadelphia it is a long day. You inspired me to make the Cladonia Shawl, including buying the Madelinetosh yarn that the pattern calls for. I started it twice with Koigu that I had, but was not happy with it. I love this yarn!
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