To market, to market

Hi everyone:

No, I wasn't at Quilt Market in Houston, but at two Christmas markets in Calgary. I look forward to attending at least one market each year and this year it was a double whammy. My daughter and I went to Spruce Meadows for their International Christmas Market on Friday and then went downtown to Art Market at the Telus Convention Centre on Saturday. I was shopped out by Saturday night, but enjoyed seeing all the vendors and buying just a thing or two - as well as a few Christmas gifts.

The entrance at Spruce Meadows

I love going to Spruce Meadows as part of the market is outside and the decorations always get me in the Christmas mood. My favourite part of Spruce Meadows is Santa's reindeers. There are always several in a pen outside the barn and this year Sarah was lucky enough to have her picture taken with one of them - not sure if it was Dasher or Dancer, but it was a special treat.

Sarah and one of Santa's reindeer

Taking a break from pulling Santa's sleigh

As you can see, Rudolph was unavailable for autographs

Thank goodness for signs or I might've ended up at the North Pole!

One of the decorations at the entrance to one of the buildings - yes, there are several!

At Spruce Meadows, you "whoa", not "stop" when leaving

I didn't take too many photos inside at Spruce Meadows as it was very busy and a bit dark in the buildings making it difficult to get a good photo of the booths - or maybe it was because I was too busy shopping! I tried to do better at Art Market the next day.

In the foyer at Art Market

One of several showcases highlighting items from the artisans

These were eggs with wonderful Christmas scenes inside them. Very unique.

Loved these little critters made from wrench, cutlery and other miscellaneous metal bits. Very creative and great recycling.

I thought that these trophies were very clever - and cruelty-free as they were made from wool felt.

A view inside the booth of my friend, Diane McGregor of Castilleja Cotton. These quilts are all made from Castilleja Cotton's patterns. As you can see, they're beautiful and varied in theme. I love her designs.

This vendor had the great idea to use book covers to create pocket books and purses. See the Chatterbox one? It was only on the poster or I'm sure that it would've been going home with me!

My favourite part of Art Market was the Pook Toque booth. My kids have been wearing these warm and distinctive hats for years and I enjoy listening to the patter of these vendors. It's great entertainment. Who would've thought that you could style these toques into the George Washington or (my daughter's favourite) the Princess Leia? They also have scarves and mitts (I bought a pair for both of us) lined with fleece. And the best part - they're Canadian, eh! 

Don't let their solemn looks fool you - these two are quite the characters!

Sorry, I can't show you the items I bought. Some have now been consumed - yes, I bought a few cookies, candy, chocolates, ... and some are gifts and I don't want to spoil the surprise. 

All in all it was a fun couple of days and now it's time to get back to the pattern designing business - and maybe a bit more Christmas shopping.

Speaking of business, I have an exciting announcement tomorrow, so be sure to check out my post then!