Sweetland Retreat

Spindleworks opening reception

2011-02-21T09:45:00.003-05:00

We had a great time at the opening reception of the Spindleworks exhibit at the Harlow Gallery! We may have gone overboard with the amount of food but it there's one thing that we know about, besides art, it's food!

And there was a really great turnout for the exhibit; some very friendly new faces, too. And some of the artists were able to make it down and brighten up the evening even more!

The show is open through Saturday February 26th and the Harlow Gallery is open Wednesday through Saturday from 12-6pm. 16- Water St in Hallowell.
Gallery Talk: Thursday, February 24, 2011, 7-8:30pm — $3 suggested donation
Exhibition on View: February 16-26, 2011 – free and open to the public

Spindleworks Exhibit - Sneak Peek #3

2011-02-14T23:00:00.003-05:00

The final sneak peek post before the show is open! I had the pleasure of installing the Spindleworks exhibit today and it looks fantastic, if I do say so myself! :)

Opening Date: Friday, February 18, 5-8 pm – Free and open to the public
Exhibition sponsored by us at Sweetland Retreat!
We will also be providing the refreshments at the opening reception so come on by!
Gallery Talk: Thursday, February 24, 2011, 7-8:30pm — $3 suggested donation
Exhibition on View: February 16-26, 2011 – free and open to the public
In February the Harlow Gallery in Hallowell will present Mosaic, an exhibition featuring work by the artists of Spindleworks. Located in Brunswick, Maine, Spindleworks is an art center providing studio and gallery space to 41 artists. The program is one of many arms of Independence Association, an agency whose mission is to assist children and adults with disabilities in achieving full and inclusive lives in their chosen community. Harlow Gallery, 160 Water St, Hallowell, ME

-JRB

Spindleworks Exhibit - Sneak Peek #2

2011-02-12T11:05:00.005-05:00

Caroline Boylston: Purple Tree

Here's another Sneak Peak installment for the Mosaic: Spindleworks at the Harlow Gallery exhibition opening next week! I hope you enjoy these pieces as much as I do. Come to the opening reception and find me (Jamie) - I'd love to hear what pieces strike you the most. And hopefully you'll go home with some fabulous artwork, too.

Kelly Weingart: Data Android 1

Various Artists: Rugs

Anna McDougal: Beets

Various Artists: Scarves

Betty Carter: Embroidered Pillow

Mitch Pfeifle: Knight

Lloyd Whitcomb: Dog

Sam Eberhart: Joker, Joker, Catwoman

Spindleworks Exhibit - Sneak Peek #1

2011-01-30T18:14:00.005-05:00

Betty Carter: House In the Country

I wasn't exaggerating when I said the work in the upcoming Mosaic: Spindleworks at the Harlow Gallery exhibit was inspiring and fantastic. Every time I look at these pieces I just wish it were me that had made them! Well, here's a sneak peek-- more to come! Keep your eye out.

Emilie Williams: Shawl & Placemats

Diane Black & Minton Warren: Woven Doorstops

Emma Becker: Azaleas

Thomas Ridlon: Colonial

Kelly Weingart: Pez People

Terri Snape: Landscape on Map

Earl Black: Playful Cupboard

Angela Alderete: Alan Jackson

Opening Date: Friday, February 18, 5-8 pm – Free and open to the public
Opening sponsored by us at Sweetland Retreat
Gallery Talk: Thursday, February 24, 2011, 7-8:30pm — $3 suggested donation
Exhibition on View: February 16-26, 2011 – free and open to the public
In February the Harlow Gallery in Hallowell will present Mosaic, an exhibition featuring work by the artists of Spindleworks. Located in Brunswick, Maine, Spindleworks is an art center providing studio and gallery space to 41 artists. The program is one of many arms of Independence Association, an agency whose mission is to assist children and adults with disabilities in achieving full and inclusive lives in their chosen community. Harlow Gallery, 160 Water St, Hallowell, ME

-JRB

A tour of Spindleworks studios in Brunswick

2011-01-25T22:09:00.011-05:00

I had the extreme pleasure of visiting Spindleworks in Brunswick, ME to curate artwork for their upcoming exhibition at the Harlow Gallery. Sweetland Retreat will be providing the refreshments at the opening reception for the exhibition, entitled "Mosaic" on February 18th from 5-8pm. Here's a quick tour of their fabulous space that would make me happy to create in any day of the week!

Above is their Spindleworks Store -- this alone would overwhelm you with amazing items to choose from. From paintings to poetry books, sculpture to t-shirts, woven shawls to pottery-- you can find anything here.

But the display doesn't end there...in fact, it's all over their studio! Just about everything on the walls is available for purchase.

The work is so striking and the work of the 40+ artists of Spindleworks blend so nicely together.

My favorite room is the weaving/fiber arts studio above. The amount of looms under that great timber roof makes me want to learn to weave.

There are also a couple of rooms on the 2nd floor with looms for a more private workspace. The artists transform these pieces into vibrant table runners, rugs, shawls, balsam fir sachets, and more.

Brian says that the layout at Spindleworks is as if we took our house and had a studio in every single room-- he's right! (And what a dream that would be!)

We sifted through bins and storage areas filled with inspiring art. It was hard to choose what we did even though we wound up selecting a large amount of work. I just wanted to take them all!
They also have a new wood working shop that I would love to create in-- but that seems to be the theme to every room. I just wanted to create!

Here's what I had put aside at the very beginning of getting there-- the pile grew exponentially. I'll do some sneak peak posts as we get closer to the opening. There are so many exquisite pieces that you'll need to come to the exhibition and see them all (and hopefully take a few pieces home with you!)

Opening Date: Friday, February 18, 5-8 pm – Free and open to the public
Gallery Talk: Thursday, February 24, 2011, 7-8:30pm — $3 suggested donation
Exhibition on View: February 16-26, 2011 – free and open to the public

In February the Harlow Gallery in Hallowell will present Mosaic, an exhibition featuring work by the artists of Spindleworks. Located in Brunswick, Maine, Spindleworks is an art center providing studio and gallery space to 41 artists. The program is one of many arms of Independence Association, an agency whose mission is to assist children and adults with disabilities in achieving full and inclusive lives in their chosen community. Harlow Gallery, 160 Water St, Hallowell, ME

-JRB

Recipe Tutorial: Super Simple Pimiento Cheese Dip/Spread

2010-12-23T11:41:00.008-05:00

Let's chat a second about cheese. It is a delicious creation which, I can only assume, was sent down straight from the heavens. Add in some pimientos and now we're talking about a delight sent down from a heaven full of rock stars. You know, the ones that you wish you could party with. Well, that's how I felt the first time I had pimiento cheese.

I was living in the sunny south in Charleston, South Carolina. I remember going to a little cafe in some small town in the "upstate" and seeing grilled pimento cheese sandwich on the menu. Well, now they had my attention. I ordered it wondering what it would be like and when it arrived I realized that I had made one of the best discoveries of my lifetime. Classically served between two slices of white bread, grilled to perfection, and a sweet tea on the side: Rock Star Heaven.

So I began asking local friends for recipes and did some of my own tweaking and came up with this super simple recipe that anyone can make. Have at it! Try it on a sandwich, with crackers, pretzels, or on top of a burger. And I'll tell ya, this recipe is highly adored by my favorite blogger at 145 Crazy Road!

Ingredients:

2 cups of shredded Sharp Cheddar

4oz jar of Sliced Pimientos

1/4 cup Mayonnaise

Salt & Pepper to taste

Tools:

Small Food Processor

Spatula

Let's talk EASY recipe: Put all of the ingredients into the food process (include the liquid from the pimiento jar) and whip it up until the ingredients are all blended together well. Place in the refrigerator overnight and it will thicken up when it sets.

And there you are! An easy and delicious item that can be used for lunch sandwiches, potluck dip, burger toppings, and so much more. Some other variations include adding garlic, pickles, and other ingredients. I find that this recipe is super simple and always a huge hit! Enjoy!

About the author: Joy Ribisi is part-owner of Sweetland Retreat. Having traded in her sunny summer-all-the-time-beach-cruiser-flip-flopping-Southern-living ways for the quiet farm life of New-England-log-splitting-snow-shoveling-earth-digging-lake-swimming life in Central Maine, some things never change. Like enjoying comfort foods.

Recipe Tutorial: Gingerbread Cookies (The Whole Grain Version)

2010-12-22T20:17:00.010-05:00

Lisa Lancaster, owner of Baked in Maine based in Hallowell, Maine, shares some delicious and mouth-watering recipes on her blog and her facebook page. The recipes are easy to follow with gorgeous photographs. If you're not the baking type or simply don't have time then visit her Etsy shop and purchase your favorite baked goods made fresh for your order. There you'll find everything from Red Velvet Whoopie Pies to Italian Amaretto Biscotti and more. And don't forget to follow her on Twitter!

Today she shares with us her recipe for Whole Grain Gingerbread Cookies just in time for the holidays! Enjoy!

Ingredients:

Dough:

2 cups unbleached all-purpose flour
2 cups white whole wheat or whole wheat pastry flour
1 tablespoon ground ginger
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon cloves
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 lb unsalted butter or Smart Balance
2/3 cup brown sugar
2 large eggs
2/3 cup molasses

Icing:

2 cups confectioners’ sugar
1 tablespoon of milk
1 teaspoon of corn syrup, to harden it up (optional)
1/2 teaspoon vanilla (optional)
1/2 teaspoon lemon extract (optional)
1/2 teaspoon almond, my fav. (optional)
*1 bag of Red Hot’s, raisins or whatever… (decorations)

Directions:

Prepare 2 cookie sheets with parchment or cooking spray.

Using your mixer, cream the butter and sugar. Beat in eggs and molasses.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the remaining ingredients; and add to the mixer with a large spoon, mixing well.
Wrap dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight or a minimum of 2 hours.
Roll the dough out on a floured surface (try to use as little flour as possible) to about 1/8″ thick. Using a large cookie cutter (I use a 3 1/2″ gingerbread man), cut out cookies, and place on cookie sheets. Roll out dough scraps and repeat, be careful not to overwork the dough.
Bake @ 350 degrees for 8 to 10 minutes or until edges begin to brown slightly. Remove cookie sheets from the oven and allow the cookies to cool for a few minutes on the sheet before carefully removing them to cool on a wire rack before decorating.
Mix up the icing with a whisk (or mixer). Use a pastry bag or a plastic baggie with a tiny tip of the corner snipped off.
Decorate with icing, raisins and Red Hots. Or use whatever you like.
* 1 tablespoon of meringue powder or egg whites will make a firm “Royal Icing”

Have fun!

To order Gingerbread Cookies from Baked in Maine:

http://www.etsy.com/listing/36606819/holiday-gingerbread-christmas-cookies-by

And check out her Tote Bag Giveaway offer, too!

Paper Christmas Wreath Tutorial by The Red Thread

2010-12-21T12:12:00.024-05:00

Searching for some fabulous last minute Christmas crafting ideas, I came upon a fabulous tutorial by The Red Thread. Her blog is fantastic and one that you'll find yourself going back to time and time again to find a new nifty little craft to grab by the horns! Below you'll find her detailed tutorial on creating this fabulous Paper Christmas Wreath! Grab some papers and get to craftin'!

After creating my advent calendar I had some left over paper and I was inspired to make a paper wreath.

If you'd like to give it a go you'll need the following materials:

• 1 to 2 sheets of wrapping paper - I used the same paper in 2 different colour ways. Think outside the square with your paper choice - you needn't use wrapping paper, it could be magazine pages, plain old white office paper, old comic books, anything! Patterned scrapbooking paper would also look fab. You needn't limit it to 2 patterns, if you kept to a consistent colour palette you could use any numb

er of patterns or plain colurs.• 1 large and one smaller plate, salad bowls or similar to trace around (unless you have a really big compass??)
• lightweight cardboard

I used ivory card, but it could just be the side of a box because it will be hidden. The size you'll need will depend on the size of your bowls.

• scissors
• stapler
• sticky tape• ribbon - roughly 65cm
Start by finding your plates or bowls to trace around. The diameter of my large salad bowl is 34cm, and the smaller one is 21cm. If your circles are much larger or smaller you will have to adjust the size of your leaves accordingly. The diameter of my finished wreath is 42cm, which is the perfect size to hang on a door.

1. Place the large bowl upside down on the cardboard and trace around it.

2. Place the small bowl upside down in the centre of the circle you've just drawn and trace around it.

3. Cut around the outside of the largest circle. Then cut across your circle, through

the centre until you reach the far edge of the small circle. Next cut across the line you just cut so you now have a + in the centre of your circle. This just makes it easier to cut the small circle out. Cut out the small circle so you end up with a donut shape. Join the open ends of the donut back together with sticky tape. (of course if you have a craft knife and cutting mat you could just cut around the two circles)

4. Draw a leaf shape about 12.5 cm long on a piece of paper, and cut it out to use as a template. I cut the point off one end of the leaf so I knew which end was the bottom. I used 64 leaves in total, of which 16 were white. The number of leaves you need may vary slightly depending on how much you overlap your leaves.

5. Roll the bottom edges of the leaf together so they overlap and the sides curl up.

6. Staple the rolled leaf to the bottom, just off centre, of the wreath base so the open end of the leaf is pointing out and down.

7 & 8. Continue rolling each leaf as you go, stapling them in position so they overlap the previous leaf. They need to overlap and be placed close to each other so the cardboard base and the staples aren't visible. The leaves should be positioned so that they follow the curve of the wreath base. The placing is fairly random, the leaves aren't in rows. If you are using an accent paper (like my white one) place one for every 4 -6 of the main colour leaves. Make the colour placement random too.

Looking at the back of the wreath you can see that the staples
attach the leaves to the centre of the cardboard ring,
and the leaves fan outwards.

9. & 10. Continue stapling the leaves in place. I found it useful to stop often and hold the wreath at arms length so I could see the overall shape that was being formed. Make sure the tips of your leaves follow the curve of the wreath base.

When you have reached half way stop and go back to your original starting point. Now start again from this point, facing your leaves the other way and going in the opposite direction around the wreath. Make sure that you overlap the leaves at the starting point, so there are no gaps. If this seems a bit too tricky you can always just continue on as you were all the way around the circle so all your leaves will be facing the same way. Complete the circle of leaves.

11. & 12. Tie a half bow in your ribbon so there is a small loop and one short and one long end. Thread the long end behind in the leaves in the top centre of the wreath. Staple the ribbon to the wreath.

The wreath is so light that it can easily be hung with Blu-Tac. I just put a blob each at the top and the bottom of the wreath and one on the top of the ribbon.

And that's it. Using a stapler makes it pretty quick and easy. If you're going to give this a go and any of the directions are unclear I'm happy to answer any questions.

I hope you have as much fun making this as I did.

Important Note: This tutorial is supplied for personal use only.

The Red Thread is the passion of Sydney artist Lisa Tilse, whose
love of colour, design and the radiant imagination of children
led to the creation of these vibrant works of art.

Knock your socks off amazing workshop!

2010-01-30T14:57:00.001-05:00

Beginner's PMC- Precious Metal Clay
Saturday, February 6th, 10am - 4pm

Have you ever wanted to try PMC? And what is PMC anyway? PMC (Precious Metal Clay) is a wonderful material which has revolutionized the world of jewelry making. It is a clay consisting of microscopic silver particles suspended in an organic binder. PMC can be worked much like any modeling clay. It is then fired at a high temperature, burning away the binder and leaving a pure silver piece. With very few tools and a bit of imagination, anyone can make beautiful jewelry with PMC.

In Introduction to PMC you will learn about the different types of PMC as well as all about the tools needed to work with it and firing and finishing options. We will learn about using textures and you will learn to make your own rubber stamp to use with PMC. You will come away at the end of the class with a necklace and earrings that you made & designed yourself, as well as the knowledge and skills to continue working with PMC on your own.

If you have been intrigued by PMC and have wanted to try it or if you want to learn to make beautiful silver jewelry, then this is the class for you! In the class you will receive a materials packet which contains some basic tools and materials, including PMC and findings to complete your necklace and earrings, and handouts with all the information you will need to work with PMC, including projects you can do at home. A tools kit specially assembled by the instructor with her favorite tools will be available for use in class and can be purchased at the end of class for those who wish to continue working with PMC at home.

What to bring: Everything you need for working with PMC will be provided and you need bring nothing but your imagination. However, if you have worked with PMC before and have some favorite tools, do feel free to bring them. If you use magnifying or reading glasses for small work, you should bring those. If you have any favorite rubber stamps or interesting textures you would like to work with (lace, leaves, buttons), feel free to bring those as well.

$130, supplies included (see above), bring a bag lunch

Instructor: Lisa Salsbury, Ellsworth, ME
"I don’t create specifically to express myself. It is the act of working with the beads, metal and clay, sometimes more than the finished product, which drives me. I enjoy it more than nearly any kind of activity and it can relax and energize me in a way nothing else can. There is (almost) nothing more exciting to me than starting on a new project or trying a new technique. I do not usually design my pieces ahead of time, but let the beads or metal design for me. I feel I work best when I go into a project without any preconceived notions of what I would like a piece to be."
Lisa received her PMC Certification in March of 2009. See more of her work at www.willowandme.com

Register now!

Crafting for your sweetie!

2010-01-19T17:11:00.001-05:00

Love You Much Valentine's Class
Saturday, January 30th, 1pm - 4pm

What better time of year is there to express your love and appreciation to your family and friends than Valentine’s Day?

In this class you’ll create 4 love & friendship cards, 4 3” x 3” friendship notes, and 9 tags that can be used when packaging up Valentine’s treats for your kids, teachers, friends, &/or co-workers. The whole collection is packaged in this one-of-a-kind Stationery Purse.

$25, students need to bring scissors and adhesive (double sided tape, tape runner, tombo glue or another scrapbooking glue). All other supplies are included.

Instructor: Carrrie Arsenault, Gardiner, ME
Carrie has been a Stampin' Up Demonstrator for 2 years and a scrapbooker for 12 years.
Artwork © Stampin’ Up!

More info here:http://sweetlandretreat.com/workshops.htm

Register Now!

New Year's Resolution-- Learn a new instrument!

2010-01-02T16:35:00.001-05:00

Introduction to Violin
Wednesdays: January 20th - March 24th, 6pm - 8pm (10 sessions, 2 hours each)
Image: Daniel St.Pierre / FreeDigitalPhotos.net
In this course you will learn the basic foundation skills of playing the violin. Among other things, students will be taught to identify the parts of the violin, and the basic technique.
You will need a violin in working order along with a bow. A limited number of violins may be available for rental from the instructor. Please inquire at registration. Once those run out we can suggest local music stores to rent from.
$200 for this 20 hour class.
Instructor: Hannah Miller, Waldoboro, ME
Hannah has played violin for over 19 years, and has taught private lessons during that time.

More info here:http://sweetlandretreat.com/workshops.htm

Register Now!

Upcoming Workshop- Introduction to Encaustic!

2009-12-24T14:30:00.001-05:00

Intro to Encaustic Painting
Sunday, January 17th, 12pm-4pm

This class will cover a brief history of encaustic, supplies and where to buy them, setting up, basic encaustic painting including fusing, embedding objects, and creating texture, as well as cleaning up, and caring for your paintings. Participants will complete 1-2 small paintings. No painting experience necessary. Open to ages 15 and up. (private classes available upon request)

$70, all supplies included. Feel free to bring along objects to incorporate (dried natural objects, paper, and photographs on plain paper work well)

Instructor: Jamie Ribisi-Braley, Manchester, ME

More info here:http://sweetlandretreat.com/workshops.htm

Register Now!

A perfect way to start your New Year!

2009-12-16T16:32:00.000-05:00

Meditation in Motion "MAGIC STEPS" - let's dance
Sunday, January 10th, 10am - 12pm
From many ancient cultures archaic dancing sequences have been handed down, which have direct impact on our consciousness and our abilities of perception. To practice them is a form of meditation in motion, which opens the door to a conscious experience of the unity of body, mind, and soul. The roots of theses magic steps are thousands of years old.
They address human archetypes which are hardly lived anymore in our modern times, as they are so devoid of conscious rituals.
These movement sequences are quite easy to learn and open the door to a space beyond our every day worries and the constant struggle with our past and our future. This seminar is an invitation to deal with your own being, physical body, and originality.
A part of the training will be accompanied by live music and each dancer has the opportunity to work on the connection of rhythm, voice, and dance. This workshop is wonderful for all levels. Be prepared to move!
$25, students should wear loose, comfortable clothing.
Instructor: Joao Carlos Bordallo, Portland, ME
Joao Carlos Bordallo is an instructor of Movement Concept and the Brazilian martial art, Capoeira. He has trained in Capoeira for thirty-three years and was honored with his master’s belt, achieving the title of “Mestre,” in 1995. His work is a unique combination of martial art, dance and meditation that blends balance, agility, strength, music and mindfulness. Joao’s work is inspired by his training in Sufism in Turkey and Germany, and his study of Butoh in Japan. He has traveled as a teacher and creative instructor to Asia, Africa, Europe and America.
More info here:http://sweetlandretreat.com/workshops.htm

Register Now!

Rescheduled due to snow...Scrubby goodness!

2009-12-09T12:35:00.002-05:00

Natural Body Scrub & Bath Salt Workshop *new date!*
Wednesday, December 16th, 6pm-7pm
Create an assortment of all natural body scrubs & bath salts- great for yourself or for gift-giving. You will leave the workshop with 3 finished 8oz containers of your own mixtures of body scrubs and/or bath salts (more containers may be purchased at the class). Scrubs will be made from a base of sugar or salt and feature your choice of ingredients including: pumpkin, coffee, almond & orange extracts, lemon balm, essential oils, and much more. All ages are welcome- make this a family event!
$20 includes all supplies

Instructor: Joy Ribisi, Manchester, ME
Joy M. Ribisi originally hails from Long Island, NY and now lives in Manchester, Maine where she's living out her dreams of running an artists' retreat in her 1860s farmhouse. Joy is co-owner of Sweetland Retreat.
Some of the plant ingredients used in this workshop were grown right here at Sweetland Retreat!
More info here:http://sweetlandretreat.com/workshops.htm

Register Now!

Dyeing to Hoop!

2009-11-24T09:39:00.004-05:00

Make Your Own Tie Dye
Saturday December 5th, 10am-12pm
You are never to young or old to learn to tie dye, Lizzy have done instruction for ages 4-80! Age has no place in this adventure. There is something special about seeing people creating their own artwork.
She will provide everything needed for the completed project. It is a great time and students get something they have created to take home. Each participant will be able to choose the design they wish to make and will learn how to tie the shirt up for that design. Each will bring home a finished product that will need to process for 24 hours. Instructions will be sent home for the wash out and end processing.
$15 includes all supplies (indicate t-shirt size at registration)
Instructor: Linda "Lizzy" Kennedy aka Lizzyoos, and Kyndmamma, lives in the woods of Maine. She has two grown sons and a granddaughter. She is a Tie Dye professional, a music lover, promoter, Radio Dj (wmhb.org), Homegrown Network Rep, an original Phunky Bitch. She spends her days dying new projects, making jewelry, hula hoops, reviewing music, and just enjoying nature. You can find her on the Maine music scene and at many of the summer festivals vending as Lizzyoos. Check out Lizzyoos.net
More info here: http://sweetlandretreat.com/workshops.htm
Register Now! & make a day of it...come to hula making, too! ....
Hula Hoop Crafting
Saturday December 5th, 1:30pm-2:30pm
Come join us and make your own personalized hoop to use for fun and exercise! Hula hooping is national past time that is great for young and old. All supplies will be provided (included in the supply fee) and you can decorate your hoop with many colors of tape and even sparkly tape too. Open to all ages, great family activity!
$25 includes all supplies
Instructor: Linda "Lizzy" Kennedy
Make a day of it...come to both classes!
More info here: http://sweetlandretreat.com/workshops.htm

Register Now!

Perfect for Holiday Gifts!!

2009-11-11T18:54:00.002-05:00

Falling Into Craftiness- Leaf-Printing on Fabric
Saturday November 21st, 2pm - 3:30pm
Leaf-printing is a fun and easy printmaking method. Using fabric screen printing ink and real leaves, students will create unique, one-of-a-kind fabric art on tote bags, clothing, scarves, or whatever they would like to try! We will also try leaf-printing on paper to make some unique gift tags or cards.

There is NO experience necessary to jump right into this craft, so NO WORRIES! It is easy and fun and yields awesome results no matter what your printmaking experience is.

Kids welcome! This craft is suitable for ages 5 and up, but we do need a parent/guardian there to work with their child. For each parent who registers for the class, one child 10 and under can attend for free.

$20-- Provided by instructor: screen printing ink, brushes, brayers, 1 small 8" x 9" tote bag to print on. Students need to bring: Fabric to print on for additional projects- this can be t-shirts, scarves, shawls, socks, tote bags, table runner, skirts, etc. The fabric should be smooth (i.e. no terry cloth or knits), and fairly light in color to allow the ink to show up well.

Instructor: Grace Kendall, Litchfield, ME
More info here: http://sweetlandretreat.com/workshops.htm

Register Now!

Card Making!

2009-11-08T19:20:00.001-05:00

Quick Card Technique
Wednesday November 11th, 6pm - 8pm
Join Lorna and Maryanne for an evening of fun with cardmaking! You will learn how to make 10 cards out of one 8 1/2 x 11" sheet of decorative scrapbook paper. Additional decorative papers, including holiday themed designs, along with ribbon, brads, stamps, and other embellishments will be available to create your cards.
We will think 'outside the box' and you will discover just how easy and fun this is. You will be amazed! Instructions will be handed out at the class, examples will be provided, and door prizes are drawn at the end of the class. This class is stress-free and the only thing you have to do is HAVE FUN! All ages are welcome.
$15 includes all supplies
Instructor: Lorna Plourde, Gardiner, ME

More info here: http://sweetlandretreat.com/workshops.htm

Register Now!

Soothe your soul

2009-10-21T11:03:00.001-04:00

Meditation in Motion "MAGIC STEPS" - let's dance
Saturday November 7th, 10am - 3pm
From many ancient cultures archaic dancing sequences have been handed down, which have direct impact on our consciousness and our abilities of perception. To practice them is a form of meditation in motion, which opens the door to a conscious experience of the unity of body, mind, and soul. The roots of theses magic steps are thousands of years old.
They address human archetypes which are hardly lived anymore in our modern times, as they are so devoid of conscious rituals.
These movement sequences are quite easy to learn and open the door to a space beyond our every day worries and the constant struggle with our past and our future. This seminar is an invitation to deal with your own being, physical body, and originality.
A part of the training will be accompanied by live music and each dancer has the opportunity to work on the connection of rhythm, voice, and dance.
Students should wear loose, comfortable clothing. Bring a bag lunch. The workshop will take place in two sessions of two hours each with an hour lunch break.
$60 per person
Instructor: Joao Carlos Bordallo, Portland, ME

More info here: http://sweetlandretreat.com/workshops.htm

Register Now!

Making paint-- not just for Sorcerers anymore!

2009-10-10T21:16:00.009-04:00

The Grind: Making Oil Paint by Hand - FREE hands-on demo!
Tuesday October 20th, 6pm - 7:30pm
Ever wonder what goes into making a tube of oil paint? Come and participate in a hands-on demonstration where you will learn how to make your own oil paint from scratch! Discuss the different properties of various oils and what would work best for you as an artist. Making your own paint can save hundreds of dollars a year on supplies and is a technique that is easier than you think!
Free: The event is free but please register so that we can keep track of attendance. (If you would like to make your own paint to take home there is a supply fee of $5 per tube made.)
Instructor: Jamie Ribisi-Braley, Manchester, ME

More info here: http://sweetlandretreat.com/workshops.htm

Register Now!

A workshop that feels good!

2009-09-24T00:22:00.001-04:00

Natural Body Scrub Workshop
Wednesday October 7th, 6pm - 7pm
Create an assortment of all natural body scrubs - great for yourself or for gift-giving. You will leave the workshop with 3 finished 8oz containers of your own mixtures of body scrubs (more containers may be purchased at the class). Scrubs will be made from a base of sugar or salt and feature your choice of ingredients including: pumpkin, coffee, almond & orange extracts, lemon balm, essential oils, and much more. All ages are welcome- make this a family event!
$16 per person, includes all supplies
Instructor: Joy Ribisi, Manchester, ME

More info here:http://sweetlandretreat.com/workshops.htm

Register Now!

Upcoming Workshop- Card Creations!

2009-09-19T19:45:00.002-04:00

Card Creations From the Heart
Wednesday September 23rd, 6pm - 8:30pm

Join Lorna and Maryanne for an evening of fun with cardmaking. An example of what Lorna and Mary Anne will be teaching you is how to make 10 cards out of 1 piece of 8 1/2 x 11" sheet of decorative scrapbook back ground paper and how to make 12 cards with matching envelopes out of a used calendar.

We will think 'outside the box' and you will discover just how easy and fun this is. You will be amazed!!!!. This is just an example of what Lorna and Maryanne can teach you. Instructions are handed out at the class and door prizes are drawn at the end of the class.

This class is stress-free and the only thing you have to do is HAVE FUN!

$15 includes all supplies

Instructor: Lorna Plourde, Gardiner, ME
Lorna retired from Central Me. Power after 36 1/2 yrs. of service. She & her assistant Maryanne McCullough have 15+ years of stamping experience each. "We enjoy card making and always looking for new and unique ways to make cards. We do this as a hobby, that's why we enjoy it so much."

More info here: http://sweetlandretreat.com/workshops.htm

Register Now!

Upcoming class: Watercolor ~Register Now!

2009-08-24T21:36:00.002-04:00

Watercolor- Don't Be Afraid To Jump In!
Saturday September 19th, 2pm - 4pm

After a brief time of exploring what watercolor can/cannot do, we will "dive in" to an easy, pre-drawn (by Melissa) still life, finding the darkest darks and learning to leave lots of white paper.

Perfect as a beginner or refresher course...don't be afraid to jump in!

$23 ($20 class fee, plus $3 paper supply fee payable to instructor)

Required supplies: Watercolor paint--either tubes or paintbox style--can be quite simple and inexpensive, a medium size "round" brush, and a small detail brush.

Instructor: Melissa Post van der Burg, Augusta, ME

More info here: http://sweetlandretreat.com/workshops.htm

Register Now!

Upcoming Class- Intro to Digital Photography

2009-08-12T11:42:00.004-04:00

Introduction to Digital Photography
Sunday August 23rd, 2pm - 5pm

If you have ever wanted to learn how to take better photographs this course is for you! This course is for the regular Joe photographer who wants to learn how to turn amateur snapshots into well composed photographs. Using your own digital camera you will learn about using composition and lighting and how to explore the settings on your camera to help you take your photographs to the next level.

$15 per person. Bring your own digital camera (and user's manual if you have one).

Perfect for beginners and students of all ages!

Instructor: Joy Ribisi, Manchester, ME

More info here: http://sweetlandretreat.com/workshops.htm

Register Now!

Upcoming Class- Gelatin Plate Printmaking

2009-07-28T09:54:00.002-04:00

Gelatin Plate Printmaking
Tuesday August 11th, 6pm - 8:30pm

This method of printmaking was developed in the 1970s by Francis Merritt, who was co-founder and the first director of the Haystack Mountain School of Crafts in Deer Isle. The process replaces other traditional printing plates with gelatin; ink is painted or rolled directly onto the gelatin and prints are pressed and pulled by hand. Because there is no special equipment needed to press or pull prints, and gelatin and natural materials are readily available, this is an easy "take home" class- a method that is easy for students to learn and then experiment more on their own.

The class will cover a short history of the craft, the making of the gelatin and gathering of other materials, the printing process including basics and experimenting with found objects, storing and/or disposing of your gelatin plate, and different crafts you can do with this process. All materials will be provided in the supply fee.

$50 per person ($40 class fee plus $10 supply fee payable to instructor)

Instructor: Grace Kendall, Litchfield, ME
Grace is currently a stay-at-home mom and works from home as a printmaker and crafter. She sells printed paper goods on Etsy (cozink.etsy.com) as well as in selected stores in Maine. Grace currently has work hanging at Captive Elements Art House in Lewiston as part of their June show. She learned the gelatin plate printmaking method when she was a teenager and attended a workshop at Haystack. She's been printmaking for about 7 years.

Registration deadline: Wednesday August 5th!
Class is limited to 8 students so be sure to complete your registration early!

Upcoming class: Reiki Attunment 2 -Date Change

2009-07-20T09:12:00.000-04:00

Reiki Attunement Class -Part 2
Friday July 24th, 3pm - 7pm date change

Reiki II is the second level in becoming a Reiki Master. The students will be attuned to three sacred symbols enhancing their Reiki energy. The symbols are only given to those who have already been attuned to Reiki I. Those attuned to Reiki II can then perform distant healings, emotional/addictive healings and power healings. The class will consist of a review of Reiki I, a study of the three sacred symbols an attunement and practice with the group.

$75 per person
-- Optional course supplies: Reiki manual ($20, let us know if interested in purchasing), cushion, pen and paper

Instructor: Justina Anderson, Usui Reiki Master
Justina is a Usui Reiki Master and Licensed Veterinary Technician from New York.

Register now!

Just listed! Hula Hoop making class!!!

2009-06-16T21:37:00.002-04:00

Hula Hoop Crafting
Wednesday July 22nd, 6pm - 8pm

Come join us and make your own personalized hoop to use for fun and exercise! Hula hooping is national past time that is great for young and old. All supplies will be provided (included in the supply fee) and you can decorate your hoop with many colors of tape and even sparkly tape too. Open to all ages, great family activity!

$25 per person ($15 class fee plus $10 supply fee payable to instructor)

Instructor: Linda "Lizzy" Kennedy aka Lizzyoos, and Kyndmamma, lives in the woods of Maine. She has two grown sons and a granddaughter. She is a Tie Dye professional, a music lover, promoter, Radio Dj (wmhb.org), Homegrown Network Rep, an original Phunky Bitch. She spends her days dying new projects, making jewelry, hula hoops, reviewing music, and just enjoying nature. You can find her on the Maine music scene and at many of the summer festivals vending as Lizzyoos. Check out Lizzyoos.net

Registration deadline: Monday July 20th!

First day of classes!

2009-06-05T09:44:00.003-04:00

I am so excited to say that tomorrow, Saturday June 6th, is the first day of classes at Sweetland Retreat!!!!!!

It's been a long road of renovation and learning and growing but we've finally made it to this point! There's still work to do in order to open as a Bed & Breakfast but our goal was to have classes started by this summer and here it is...2 weeks before the Summer Solstice. Who would have thought we'd be ahead of schedule?

And to celebrate, we're offering a special discount of $10 off to anyone who takes both classes this Saturday and Sunday- The Reiki Atunement class (good for Reiki Level 1 or 2) and the Full Moon Ceremony & Drumming Circle.

So register now!

Intro to Encaustic Workshop!

2009-05-19T22:13:00.003-04:00

Intro to Encaustic Painting - Saturday June 20th, 10am - 2pm

Learn the ancient art of encaustic painting! Encaustic is the use of beeswax and damar resin melted together and combined with dry pigments to create a unique painting medium. This paint is applied hot/molten and manipulated with a direct heat source. It makes for a lovely layered image into which objects and photographs can be added. If you've seen a Jasper Johns painting then you've seen an encaustic painting!

This class will cover a brief history of encaustic, supplies and where to buy them, setting up, basic encaustic painting including fusing, embedding objects, and creating texture, as well as cleaning up, and caring for your paintings. Participants will complete 1-2 small paintings. No painting experience necessary. Open to ages 15 and up.

$70 includes all supplies; feel free to bring along objects to incorporate (dried natural objects, paper, and photographs on plain paper work well)

Instructor: Jamie Ribisi-Braley, Manchester, ME

Jamie is passionate about creating art and about sharing her techniques and knowledge. She loves to learn how the old masters created their supplies and how they used them. Jamie believes that once you have the foundations of a medium, you’ll know how to make it work for your voice.

Jamie is co-owner of Sweetland Retreat and received her BFA in Painting from Boston University. http://jamieribisi.com

Register now!

First workshops at Sweetland Retreat!

2009-05-15T23:14:00.009-04:00

Reiki Attunement Class -Part 1 Saturday June 6th, 1:30pm - 6:30pm

5 Hour course during which you will become a Reiki Practioner. This is the first of 3 steps in becoming a Reiki Master.

The Reiki attunement process is how one becomes a Reiki practitioner. Being attuned to Reiki gives one the ability to easily access the Reiki (Universal Life Force) energy, for the purpose of healing a person or situation. Attunements can be given only by a Reiki master and can be given for either the purpose of training one in Reiki, or for simply giving someone a larger experience of Reiki than usually experienced in treatments. The attunement is permanent, thus making the recipient a Reiki practitioner.

$75 per person

Pre-payment required

Space is limited, register now! Call (207)-512-8447 or email sweetlandretreat@gmail.com with your contact info.

Instructor: Justina Anderson, Usui Reiki Master Justina is a Usui Reiki Master and Licensed Veterinary Technician from New York.

-- Optional course supplies: Bring a yoga mat or pillow to make yourself comfortable.

Visit our WORKSHOP link for more classes

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Full Moon Ceremony

Sunday June 7th, 7:30pm

In this special healing and releasing ceremony we will create a sacred space for healing and support and to raise a collective consciousness. This ceremony includes:

Saging and Creating Sacred Space

Opening Prayer

A time of sharing

Releasing of those things we no longer need in our lives

Bringing in those things we want in our lives

Pulling a Medicine Card for a message for the month

Short discussion of what these cards mean for the coming month

Drumming and singing

Closing Prayer

You may bring drums, rattles, and dress appropriately for an outdoor event (weather permitting--ceremony will take place indoors in the case of rain). Drums will also be available for use or purchase.

$10 or equivalent abundance exchange per person.

Visit our WORKSHOP link for more classes

...

Painting the cottage & garage

2009-05-04T23:55:00.003-04:00

Growing up, Joy & I had many many movie favorites-- most of them with very catchy songs in them. One we always watched was Pete's Dragon. We dreamed of living in a lighthouse on the shores of Maine in Passamaquoddy. We had no idea that it was a real township or that we would actually move to Maine.

So when Brian started scraping the exterior of the cottage and garage in preparation of

repainting it, I couldn't help but think of a scene from Pete's Dragon. The family gets out their bucket of white paint and slather it all over that lighthouse! Watch it here- I'm telling you, it's catchy!

All our Brazzle Dazzle years have just begun! :)

-Jamie

...

Press: Kennebec Journal Woman's Quarterly

2009-04-22T19:59:00.004-04:00

We were featured in the Kennebec Journal Woman's Quarterly today!

This is a wonderful article written by Nancy McInnus and we think it portrays us exactly as we are! She really has a gift for words. We didn't know exactly what she'd think of us giggling and rambling on about every idea we have for Sweetland and what we are trying to make it be. But she captured it brilliantly.

You can download the PDF here: http://www.sweetlandretreat.com/press/kj042209.pdf

Or you can see it on the KJ's flipbook here: http://centralmaine.mainetoday.com/flipbooks/WQflip09Spring/

...

Come meet us!

2009-04-21T19:49:00.004-04:00

Joy & I will be vending at the Arts & Crafts Show at USM this weekend if you'd like to drop by and visit us! We'd love to meet you!

University of Southern Maine - Costello Sports Complex

37 College Ave, Gorham, ME

Saturday, April 25th 10 AM – 4 PM
Sunday, April 26th 10 AM – 3 PM

...

Maple Syrup Sunday

2009-04-20T22:01:00.006-04:00

March 22nd was a nice crisp end of Winter day for Maple Syrup Sunday! Each year, we're visiting a different local producer of pure maple syrup-- this year we took a tour of Sugar Brook Maple Farm in Mt Vernon.

I thoroughly enjoyed the vanilla ice cream with hot maple syrup and Joy & Brian had some baked beans with hot dogs and maple syrup. Yum!

We were completely amazed at all the hard work and dedication that it takes to produce maple syrup and run a syrup business. Especially in a year like this when the weather was teasing us, it's hard to rely on Mother Nature. You can never count on how much syrup you'll get but when you do get it...how sweet it is!

SUGAR BROOK MAPLE FARM

Mt. Vernon: From West Mt. Vernon Chimney Route 41. Approximately 3 miles from the West Mt Chimney right on Blake Hill Road 3/10 of a mile on the left

Phone: 207-293-2831

...

Cupcakes!

2009-01-08T20:34:00.004-05:00

Tuesday night we had a craft night for our Etsy Maine Team members and had such a blast! Drea made YUMMY cupcakes that spelled out "Sweetland"!!! Can you believe it? It was such a *sweet* surprise (pun intended).

In attendance was Peggy, Jenn, Kim, Drea, Joy, and I. We ate way too much food, as usual for craft night, and gabbed it up a good bit. There was also singing and Jumbones involved (for Sammy, of course). Wish we could host craft night every night!!!

Local Attractions- Friends' Folly Farm & YURT!

2009-01-04T19:41:00.011-05:00

Today was the Open House for Friends' Folly Farm, better known as Yarn in a Yurt! They are located just about 15 minutes away in Monmouth. We've been dreaming of erecting a yurt in our yard and wanted to take a closer look and purchase some homemade yarn along the way!

What's a yurt? A yurt is a Mongolian hut which was developed as a portable house for nomadic tribes. Modern yurts have become very popular since they are easy, inexpensive, and

quick to assemble. We were surprised by its warmth and the beauty of the natural light that evenly streamed in through the dome at the top of the structure-- what a beautiful studio this would make!

One of the reasons that we are so drawn to yurts is that they are so eco-friendly. Building the structure requires about 1/3 the

material that would be needed for a conventional building of its size. The dome can be cranked open for temperature modulation. This yurt was made and installed in one day by White Mountain Yurts.

Visting the yarn shop was such a treat! Not just to see the yurt up close and personal but to see and touch all of their

beautiful yarn! They dye their own yarn which is made from their herd of goats & sheep as well as selling other Maine grown & processed yarn. To say that there is a rainbow of colors would be an understatement!

Friends' Folly also sell their own patterns to go along with their yarn as well as basic equipment, supplies, and books for spinning, dyeing, knitting, & felting. As if that weren't enough, they also offer workshops & classes!

We had such a blast visiting the shop & spinning mill and hope to make many trips back there. The three of us kept remarking throughout the day how nice it was to go there and experience it all. We highly recommend it and when you go-- tell them Sweetland Retreat sent you!

___

Friends' Folly Farm is located at 319 Norris Hill Rd in Monmouth, ME
Their current hours are: Tuesday-Thursday Noon-6pm, Saturday 10am-4pm, and by appointment or chance 207-632-3115
You can find their website at http://friendsfollyfarm.com

___

A Christmas present

2008-12-28T21:47:00.001-05:00

A Christmas present from Tiffany Ann!, originally uploaded by Sweetland Retreat.

Our cousin, Tiffany, gave us this PERFECT stitched sign for Christmas-- HOW CUTE??? We're going to put it in the entryway so greet all friends.

Thanks Tiffany Ann!!

The Rooms Are Coming Together!

2008-11-28T11:49:00.009-05:00

It is finally coming together at Sweetland Retreat! We have been working on the house for just over one year and are pleased to share some photographs with you!

Above you can see two of our guest rooms along with our guest living room. We're still working on furnishings and wall color, etc. We will also be refinishing the floors. We're just so delighted to have progressed so far in the last year! We're looking forward to giving you a tour in person soon!

Register to vote!

2008-09-26T15:54:00.003-04:00

Voter registration deadlines are fast approaching! (list of deadlines here)

No matter who you vote for, your voice matters.

Horsing around!

2008-09-11T22:07:00.005-04:00

Last Sunday, on my 30th birthday, Brian took me to Monmouth to go horseback riding! My horse was named Gracie and his was Echo. They were very very good horses and we took them on an hour and a half ride through roads, trails, and woods! Gracie didn't like the puddles much and tried to knock me into a tree but I managed to steer her back onto the trail. We even got to do a short trot!

We had a blast and are finally getting over the pain found in muscles we didn't know we had!

Tales from the Garden...

2008-09-09T13:31:00.001-04:00

AppleBlossoms, originally uploaded by Sweetland Retreat.

Well by now most of the flowers have gone by and the fruit trees that were in bloom are now full of delicious fruit: apples, peaches, pears. Crab apples, too! We do need some help with our fruit trees if anyone is good with these trees! Pruning in the late fall is in order, for sure.

The field is full of goldenrod and gives the hayfield that look of Laura Ingles running through the field on Little House on the Prairie.

We found a nice spot full of raspberries and a small patch of blackberries, too. We had a great time filling our bellies with the bounty of our yard! We will certainly have to plant some blueberries soon!

The veggie and herb garden are coming along quite nicely. The lettuce has kept us in greens for the past few weeks and the pepper plants are yielding a nice variety of sweet and spicy delights. Leeks look great, someday I'll learn what to do with them. The squash was planted a bit late but should prove to be delightful very soon. I see some rather large yellow squash developing and I'm eager to cook them! The scallions, however, never even attempted to grow for some reason.

The herb garden is a delight, probably because I've had a bit more experience with herb gardens than veggies. The cilantro was yummy but I let most of it go by and seed into coriander. It is now hanging in the cottage drying. Sage, thyme, rosemary, oregano, chives (Jamie's favorites), and basil are all bountiful and I've begun harvesting some, as well, to dry for winter. The parsley was a disappointment this year but I still have quite a lot dried from last summer. I've heard parsley doesn't grow that well in Maine.

I'm about to finish weeding the garden to make some more room for fall crops: spinach, another run of lettuce, and I'm sure I'll find something else to plant!

If you're in the area and want to help out, grab a fistful of weeds and help me clear room for some more goodies!

Do not adjust your monitor

2008-08-09T12:26:00.002-04:00

Can you believe this sky?? Joy and I were amazed to see this sight as the rain let up one evening. Our entire yard was cast bright pink like there was an invasion of glowing Barbie dolls. Absolutely stunning against the deep blue sky. Maine is a dream!

...I know what my next painting is going to be :)

Come home soon SS Samuel Erwin!

2008-07-18T17:51:00.002-04:00

Much love to our brother Sam who is headed out to Iraq.
Take care of your men and come home safely very soon!! We love you!!!!

Etsy Finds- Art!

2008-07-09T09:15:00.003-04:00

I curated an Etsy Find with some of my favorite artists! Come check it out and buy some art!!!

Art Fair tomorrow!!!!!

2008-06-27T14:29:00.004-04:00

Come out TOMORROW Saturday July 28th from 12pm-dusk to see us at the WHATEVER FAMILY FESTIVAL ~ HALLOWELL’S RIVERFRONT CELEBRATION ~ We will have a couple of tables set up for the Outdoor Art Fair: show and sale, featuring artists from the Kennebec Valley Art Association.

We will be having a "Be an Artist For a Day" event where folks young and old are invited to contribute to our "Whatever Festival Art Quilt" --all supplies will be provided so come on out and paint! ...No talent necessary :)

The Art Quilt will be assembled on the spot so keep coming back to our table to check out the progress! We are encouraging artists to sign their quilt square in the middle to show the vast array of ages and locations of the contributors. Art can and will unite us!

Hooray for helpers!!!

2008-06-18T12:25:00.005-04:00

Our sister, Justina, came up from NY to stay at her camp just a few minutes away. She's so excited to get us moving along that she volunteered to work yesterday! She finished taking down the wallpaper in what has been dubbed her 'pink room'. This is a difficult task and one that we have come to dread so we are SOOOOO happy to have her come and help us!

She brought along her Husky, Brody, who wanted to get in on the action between playing games of Shark with Sammy. Justina also painted a desk that we bought at auction this past weekend-- It looks fabulous and now matches the dresser that she gave us! Things are coming together!!!!!

Now our only question is for our sister JoAnn--- when are you coming up to peel wallpaper????

A Garden Tour of Sweetland Retreat...

2008-06-16T17:46:00.022-04:00

Our roses are in bloom and they're as big as our heads!! Joy models one behind her ear (really on top of her face!)

The best part of our week is strolling around the property to see what's newly in bloom-- we're finding flowers and trees that we didn't know that we had! The women that lived here before us really knew how to garden and put a whole lot of love into it. We thank them every day-- cause we know they're listening! The beautiful flowering white bush behind Joy in this photo is called Spirea-- our nephew dog walked under it the other day and tiny white dots of confetti were all over him-- I thought he went to a party!

The Lilies have started to make an appearance as well and they are lovely ladies. This patch is growing behind the cottage where the white and yellow Daffodils were last month. Can't wait to see what comes up next...I bet it's yellow!

Sweetland Retreat also has the good fortune of having a ton of Hostas! We saw them when we were thinking about buying the house and fell in love-- luckily there are even more now than we saw last year! The will soon blossom into pretty flowers but right now they are nice big patches of elegant curved leaves.

We were surprised to wake up one day and see exotic colored Irises on the side of the house. They have petals that are just begging to be painted or photographed! I'm sure that these will be a favorite muse amongst our guests!

When you turn the bend in the driveway you will be greeted by this buxom lady. A fragrant hello from this jeweled purple Lilac will start and end your day perfectly! You may feel dwarfed next to it but you'll delight in her sweetness.

Next to the Lilacs were another surprise... Poppies!!! My favorite flower! What a burst of color. They are growing under a Rhododendron bush and we're going to try to take some of the seeds and spread them around the yard. Unfortunately, it was so hot the day the poppy bloomed that she wilted within a few hours. No worries, though, there are a few more peeking their heads out now.

The front yard has it's share of beautiful blooms, too. There are monster Azalea bushes and Rhododendrons. The Azaleas are a fiery pink that are almost red and the Rhododendrons are a light purple-pink. You can't miss our house when they are in bloom!

...more to come soon!!!

In memoriam

2008-06-04T16:58:00.003-04:00

Aunt Stephanie
Rest In Peace, you will be missed.

"Farewell to thee! but not farewell
To all my fondest thoughts of thee:
Within my heart they still shall dwell;
And they shall cheer and comfort me."
-Anne Brontë

Gardening time!

2008-05-27T21:09:00.001-04:00

IMGP6050, originally uploaded by Sweetland Retreat.

It's fiddlehead season! The former owner of the house came over and taught us how to pick fiddleheads and where to find them on our property-- and boy are they plentiful! This photo is from our first day's picking-- and there were some more to come!

We also started a vegetable garden. This section is the spiral herb garden-- a Joy's brainchild and my sculpting skills :) We've used pottery shards that we got from our friend Jennifer and some bricks and miscellaneous items from the garage to form it.

While were planting, Joy decided to have some fun and try a headstand...it didn't really work out!!

Wallpaper Removal

2008-05-11T13:42:00.001-04:00

Revel in our madness as we remove what we think is only 2 layers (but actually 4) of wallpaper in the upstairs Guest Living Room.

Pecans!

2008-04-28T20:24:00.003-04:00

IMGP4825, originally uploaded by Sweetland Retreat.

The floor has been stained a lovely shade of Pecan (which way do you pronounce pecan?). Here it is half way stained but Brian has now completed it (that'll be in the next update!). This is sort of like a before and after shot all in one.

We're going to have some awesome classes in this room!!

Have some items you're looking to get rid of? Browse our Wish List and see if we need any of it (most likely we do!) Click on the "Contact" link at the top of our website.

A virtual Tour of Sweetland Retreat

2008-04-28T19:15:00.004-04:00

Videos!!! Take a virtual tour of the B&B (breakfast not included) and see our progress. This video is in three segments for your viewing pleasure.

Workshop Floors are down!

2008-04-19T10:10:00.001-04:00

Workshop Floors are down!, originally uploaded by Sweetland Retreat.

We've finished laying down the new pine floors. Next step is staining & sealing, we've picked a Pecan stain. Brian did such a great job with these floors-- they're gorgeous!

Also-- the wild turkeys have returned for the season! It's been so warm out this week that the snow has almost completely melted. The turkeys are back everyday and we're throwing out seed for them. We love to hear them gobble.

Art Supply Rummage Sale -Saturday! 04/12/08

2008-04-11T16:03:00.001-04:00

art supplies
Originally uploaded by Jamie Ribisi-Braley

We are going to have a table set up at the Art Supply Rummage Sale at the Harlow Gallery in Hallowell, ME on Saturday April 12th from 10am to about 3/4pm.

Come and visit me and buy some of my orphaned art supplies! The proceeds will go towards our renovation at Sweetland Retreat as well as to the Harlow Gallery as a donation for the opportunity.

Other artists will also be selling their supplies so come on down for an interesting day! Their address is 160 Water Street in Hallowell.

New Wall is up, flooring is ready & wallpaper is coming down!!

2008-03-23T08:36:00.001-04:00

New Wall is up!, originally uploaded by Sweetland Retreat.

The drywall and glass door is up! This is the new enclosure around the stairway that leads from the workshop to the master bedroom. Today we'll be patching, sanding, & painting it!

Turns out there was 6 layers of wallpaper on these walls!!! Can you believe that? One was uglier than the next. A real early one was very very pretty but there was no saving it. Peeling took the better of 2 days and we're still not done in this one room! The walls underneath are plaster with horsehair. We are going to put a skim coat of plaster tinted with fabulous natural pigments. More on that when we start that project!

This is some of the beautiful premium pine boards that we got for flooring in the workshop room. Brian found them on an awesome deal at the lumber yard-- they were $2 a piece which came out to less than 75 cents a square foot. Definitely the least expensive and the nicest option that we found (and we looked really really hard!) It should be going down this week!!!

A banner of a day!

2008-03-05T21:13:00.001-05:00

banner_making, originally uploaded by Sweetland Retreat.

Joy sewed us this awesome Sweetland Retreat banner for our propaganda use. She is an embroidering genius! We had it at the FAB Fair with us (which was pretty fab and we'll post more pictures soon!) We wanted it to evoke our craftiness, fun attitude, and colorfulness and we think it does all that. It was amazing to finally be able to spread out in a big workshop room and make this together and we can't wait to have others come and join in our happiness!

Level walls!

2008-02-27T18:33:00.003-05:00

level, originally uploaded by Sweetland Retreat.

Our BFF Adam Junior came to visit and to work this past weekend. He was our first artist at the retreat and put in a lot of hard work building a wall in the workshop room. The wall is enclosing the stairs (with a beautiful antique glass door to be installed) and creates privacy for the master bedroom above the workshop.

Adam taught Brian how to frame out a wall and drew a detailed diagram so that Brian could build a half wall at the top of the stairs on his own.

Adam-- We love you!! Check out his sculpture on his website AdamJunior.com

Come visit us at the FAB Fair in Skowhegan!

2008-02-07T20:05:00.000-05:00

Saturday February 23, 2008 from 10:00am - 3:00pm
at the Skowhegan Area High School, West Front Street (Rt 2 West)

View Larger Map

Sweetland Retreat will be hosting an "Everyone Can Be An Artist" activity! Come to our table (near the library) and paint your heart away! We can give you some instruction or you can let your imagination run wild. No need for any art background... we want to show each participant that if you have the interest then you can paint! We encourage everyone to donate their masterpiece to the Retreat so that we can have a benefit auction in the Spring to raise funds for our renovation.

More about the FAB Fair--- This annual event attracts hundreds of people of all ages and with the variety of businesses, organizations and crafters their is always something for everyone. With this year's focus on interaction and making the event even more engaging- this will be a year not to miss! This event also is known for the Luck of the Draw Raffle with plenty of prizes and gifts for fairgoers to win. (We have donated one of Joy's photographs!) We have heard that GIfford's is giving out free ice cream! Don't miss this event!!!

Getting happy with the dust

2008-01-29T18:27:00.001-05:00

Getting happy with the dust, originally uploaded by Sweetland Retreat.

Joy creates a happy face on my ass with the shop vac

This is how I got to that point. I spent a good 4 hours sanding this with very fine sand paper all by hand and dragged my butt all over the place...you gotta get dirty! Brian sanded it with rougher stuff right before me. We have just stained it in an Early American finish and are about to put the polyurethane on it tomorrow.

Brian did an awesome job installing pine boards on the landing upstairs. It looks fabulous and is awaiting a stain and polyurethane, also.

Master bedroom painted

2008-01-26T11:33:00.001-05:00

master bedroom painted, originally uploaded by Sweetland Retreat.

We have painted the Master Bedroom in two tones of yellow/gold. It looks amazing in the morning light and with the newly sanded floor. We're still in progress on the floor but it's looking beautiful...

This is a before (gray paint) and during (top sanded portion) shot of the original wood floor. We didn't think it would be so pretty but it certainly is! Now we need to decide on a finish! Any ideas???

Winter berries

2008-01-24T17:07:00.001-05:00

Winterberries in snow, originally uploaded by Sweetland Retreat.

A view of the winter berries outside of the living room window. Lovely!

Joy painting the upstairs master bedroom

2008-01-16T21:57:00.001-05:00

Joy painting, originally uploaded by Sweetland Retreat.

Joy with her BFF the paint roller. These slanted ceilings are literally a pain to paint. This is the primer going on. We've already painted the main color but will take photos over the weekend. This is the 2nd floor master bedroom which is over the workshop space. It will have a private bathroom and a private entrance from the studio. Since this is in the converted woodshed it has wonderful slanted ceilings. It'll be a nice hide away!

The underflooring on the landing needed to be repaired so that we can lay down new pine on top of it. The rest of the floor in the bedroom is going to be refinished to it's original state! It's very pretty but not done yet...more photos to come!

Workshop has been painted

2008-01-16T21:47:00.001-05:00

Workshop has been painted, originally uploaded by Sweetland Retreat.

We chose a buttery yellow for the workshop walls. Soothing, bright, and neutral. Now we need to figure out what to do with the floor. We lucked out with the rest of the house, most of the other rooms have original wood floors underneath their current coverings. This one, though, used to be a wood shed so there is only a sub-floor under the carpet and linoleum. Anyone want to donate wood flooring???

Welcome to Sweetland Retreat!

2008-01-10T18:03:00.001-05:00

SnowingAgain, originally uploaded by Sweetland Retreat.

Sweetland Retreat is currently under renovation! We plan to open the Retreat for workshops in late Winter and for Bed & Breakfast guests in the Spring. Drop us a line, comment, here, or bookmark our site! If you would like to join our mailing list please email Jamie at jamieribisi{at}gmail.com

More news REAL soon!