The weather could not have been more idyllic for knitters who travelled to scenic cottage country from as far south as Texas, and as far north as Timmins, to meet renowned knitwear designer, Debbie Bliss.  On the shores of Lake Muskoka, this special two-day event took place to celebrate the tenth anniversary of Debbie’s signature line of luxury yarns.   

Debbie arrived on Friday afternoon, and the first order of business was to relax in a Muskoka chair and soak in the gorgeous view from the hotel balcony.  A balmy summer’s day with blue skies greeted her, while just across the bay the RMS Segwun was docked and preparing for the blissful sunset dinner cruise that evening. 

Its time to board the steamship and surprise the knitters as they arrive.  Debbie was in good company with her daughter Nell joining in for the fun festivities.  This was Nell’s first visit to Canada, and what did she love most?? “The shopping!”  She also caught sight of her first loon, and asked, “whats up with these chairs, everywhere?”  Yes, Muskoka chairs were seen in every colour of the rainbow all along the lake.

Debbie kicks up her heels and does her happy dance while Nell waits to meet the knitters as they come onboard.

Bon Voyage!  In a fiery blaze of colour, Terry the Stilt Walker waved the boat off on a three hour cruise of Lake Muskoka.

Cocktails on the upper deck!  Debbie gets a chance to meet her adoring fans and check out their knitwear before choosing a winner for The Wear Your Bliss Event.   

The book signing gets underway on the freight deck.  In the background is the original red postal box from the days when the royal mail ship carried and delivered mail between the lakes.  Postcards can still be stamped and mailed today from the ship.     

Okay ladies…….. its time to open up those gift bags and see what goodies are inside.  Everyone had one of Debbie’s newest books for signing. 

Debbie dubbed these sisters, ‘The Ginger Girls’ and shared a funny moment with each of them during her book signing.

A postcard perfect view as twilight descended on the lake.  Who ordered this amazing summer weather??  The moon cast a magical spell and as darkness fell, became the ship’s guiding light, leading the captain back to the wharf.

Right on cue!  Just as the first course ended, an incredible tangerine glow washed across the horizon for everyone to enjoy from the dining lounge. 

After a delicious dinner and decadent chocolate cake for dessert, the doorprize was awarded to one very exuberant winner.  Congratulations again to Donna!

Its an early morning set-up the next day inside Grace & Speed.  The Bliss Marketplace showcased all of Debbie’s latest yarns and books and drew quite a crowd of eager knitters by early afternoon.  Paloma, Riva, and Andes were three of the biggest hits, and all eyes were upon the just released Fall/Winter magazine.  Debbie brought along two of her brand new designs in Party Angel for a sneak peek, patterns are just being published and will show up soon in stores. 

After lunch, Debbie wowed the audience with an inspiring presentation, focusing on her history and philosophy of design.  Her career began with knitted plants (Elton John was one of her first customers), and using odd materials like cling wrap for children’s garments.  She then led the audience over to the fashion stage for an interactive show with personal fittings. 

Debbie and Nell say goodbye to everyone, their time in Muskoka may have been short but it was a wonderful experience for all, interacting with fellow knitters and sharing in memories that will last a lifetime.

Next week its on to Halifax for highlights from the final stop on Debbie’s Canadian tour.

See more pics at:  facebook.com/diamondyarn/

This entry was posted on Saturday, September 17th, 2011 at 12:11 pm.