The Sow's Ear. Yes, The Sow's Ear

Yesterday, my very understanding husband and I had a bit of time between appointments in Madison. And since we live close to an hour away from the capital, we weren't really sure what to do with the time. But I remembered hearing of a yarn/coffee shop in Verona (Wis.) so we used our handy smart phone, looked it up and put the address in our handy GPS - what did we do before all this technology? Lo and behold, The Sow's Ear is in downtown Verona located at 125 S. Main Street and it is a delight. Here is the view from the road:

Notice the garden right in front. It had tomatoes, cucumbers,
and peas.

I didn't ask how they got the name of their business but it does appear that someone's lawn pig lost an ear!! I did notice that their "motto" is "Needles and Caffeine - Feed Your Addiction" 

Hubby had his phone so he could connect to the WiFi and check email. I happened to have my knitting (imagine that) so we were all set. We went in and here are some of the feasts for the eye:

What a marriage - food and yarn!

This woman is Debra, the proprietor.

Just imagine the pleasure at gazing around at all the colorful yarns, rovings, books and to smell coffee, cookies and even sandwiches and quiche. There were ladies knitting and chatting, one working on her computer and people ordering food. ahhhhhhh

We decided to split a cookie and latte. 

The proprietor is Debra and the web address of the establishment is http://www.knitandsip.com/ You can, in fact, just knit and sip. But you can also purchase patterns, wonderful yarns from exquisite fibers, and even take classes in a variety of subjects, all involving yarn or the spinning of it. It is a little off the "beaten path" as far as Madison is concerned, but is well worth the very short drive to Verona. You won't be disappointed, whether you go alone or with a few friends. Or with a great husband.

P.S. While I was there, I spoke with a woman who is a part of The Bodgery! I believe it is some sort of artists' collective but if you go to the link and click on "Events" you will see on their calendar "Fiber Frenzy." It is a gathering of all things fiber and those who love it. I think it is just an evening where you can go with whatever you are working on, including knitting, crocheting, sewing, basketry, she makes jewelry with feathers (fiber, I'd say), and everyone works on their projects, shows & tells, and ooohhhs and ahhs at everyone else's work. Sounds like a fun trip to coordinate with some friends.

I also found a flyer for the 2014 Wisconsin Sheep & Wool Festival in Jefferson, Wisconsin. The dates are September 5-7 and cost is $7 for all over the age of 8. Three day pass - $12. For more information on this event, click here.