Still no Cheesesteak

But I had a great time in Philadelphia anyway! While my dear b.f was at his conference, I explored the city. I was only there for about 24 hours, but I did a lot in that time. I walked to Rittenhouse Square, which was beautiful – sort of like New York City in miniature. I also walked around the Old City, and saw the oldest continuously occupied street in Philadelphia, Elfreth’s Alley. I even saw the Liberty Bell! I have only been to Philadelphia once before, and I didn’t get to do any sightseeing, so it was fun to be a tourist. And finally, I walked around Antique Row, full of quaint shops and also fun, modern ones.

On to the knitting. I did indeed go to Rosie’s Yarn Cellar… but I’d rather tell you about Sophie’s Yarns in Antique Row. It was a huge, lovely store. Hardwood floors, nice displays with tons of shop samples (not many swatches, though), and a big table in the back for sitting and knitting. They even had fresh flowers!



You can see the owner and two staff members in this photo. They look like they’re having fun!



The shop had lots of handpaints (Interlacements, Schaefer, Cherry Tree Hill), as well as Rowan, Manos, Dale, Colinette, and tons of novelties. I bought some Schaefer Little Lola in a happy color for baby gifts. But the best items were in the back – there was a section of luxury natural fiber yarn: Joseph Gellar Camelhair/wool and Prime Alpaca, Grignasco (I think it was a cashmere blend), and some wonderfully soft Frog Tree Alpaca. Everything was in beautiful natural colors…yum. Anyway, I highly recommend this spacious, lovely, well-stocked store if you’re in Philly.

Other than that, I have a partially finished poncho pic for you:



Apologies for the pajama pants and odd facial expression. I still need to block it and add the 5" fringe my friend really wants. Once I finish, it will be time to dive back into my two UFO's.

Happy knitting, everyone!