Can there be a more awesome way to spend a precious Northern summer weekend, than surrounded by water, trees and eclectic people all pulsating to a great beat? Nope. I think not.
The Crafter and a posse of family and superb friends thoroughly rocked out the weekend at the annual ‘Folk on the Rocks’ music festival here in Yellowknife. I cannot properly emphasis what an awesome mix of positive people this festival attracts. It truly embodies all that the term ‘folk festival’ conjures up in the imagination, with none of the commercialized taint that often rears its head at larger southern venues. From the ever awesome Fred Penner to up and coming Maria in the Shower to (my personal fave) throatsingers Nancy Mike and Kathleen Merritt, you could not help but be inspired and entertained. I think the fact that the festival runs off the backs of such a dedicated volunteer corps is just another testament to the awesomeness that is Yellowknife and the North.
Though fewer in number this year, the vendors too were a relaxed and wonderful bunch. The Crafter was beyond thrilled to meet so many enthusiastic lovers of artisan soap and handmade products. It is most rewarding to watch them laugh as they read each soap’s bio. But best of all, are the clients who share their stories of a soap or scent they loved or remembered from their past. Some told of travel, others of family or friends who made soap. It is such a blessing to allowed to share a little of their experiences. Who could have guessed that soap was a bonding agent too?
Finally, we have a shot of the Crafter and her booth (note the ‘recycling’ theme):
So, what was popular this weekend? Soapwise, the Northern-inspired soaps flew off the shelves, of course. Otherwise, choices were as eclectic as the people themselves, with Beer Me, Kayaking the Coast and the Devil is in the Dimples maybe edging ahead a bit. The Lotion2Go and KnottytoNice were a big hit too.
Thanks to a stiff breeze, there was little in the way of biting insects this year (can I get a ‘halleluja”), though people still stocked up on our newest line: ‘On the Land’ natural biting-insect deterrent.
Now some cleanup is in order. Some restocking. And some serious house cleaning!!! Then, maybe a little painting around the place…..