Blossom and Yarn

What an unexpectedly wonderful day we had yesterday! Quite by chance last week I spotted  a yarny event happening in Norfolk over the weekend. Even more fortuitously, it was taking place a mere stone's throw away from where Mr JK was running a 10k race! So no sooner had Mr JK crossed the finishing line, then we were heading to a group of villages in the heart of rural Norfolk

The Blossom and Yarn knitting and flower festival grew out of an idea from its artistic director, Lois Gill. She wanted the six churches in the Wayland group who worshipped together to collaborate on a creative project, involving others on their journey to make something really special. Back at the start of 2014, teams of knitters began knitting 4" squares using reclaimed yarn. Those  squares have then been combined to create some extraordinary pieces. Each church was given a different event that is part of any church's year - Easter, Harvest, Remembrance, Christmas, a baptism and a wedding - and within that church, the villagers decided how they were going to recreate it. So sit back and prepare to be delighted as I take you on a journey through a year in a country parish!

St Margaret's, Breckles - Easter

We were welcomed in the church porch by branches of brightly coloured Easter eggs, bunnies and daffodils galore and the promise of Hot Cross Buns and Simnel cake at the end of our visit if we so wished. A chorister singing Easter hymns and an organist to accompany him were two of the delights, as well as real ducks and rabbits in the Easter garden up at the altar!

Holy Cross, Caston - Wedding

Pink bunting adorned the gates to the church and surrounding houses, and garlands of roses trailed down the pews, along with rose trees and turtle doves. The bell ringers were busy in the porch and the bishop had come along to assist in the proceedings! The wedding party took pride of place down at the altar - bride, groom, bridesmaid, best man and vicar - all watched by a number of wedding guests. Across the road from the church, the wedding party continued with cutting the wedding cake and rose petal confetti scattered on the tables. 

St Martin's, Thompson - Harvest

Garlands of sunflowers and carrots festooned the porch, along with a bountiful harvest of almost every fruit and vegetable you can imagine. The attention to detail in this church's work was amazing, and I think this was my favourite of all the churches we visited. Tables were set for a harvest supper down the aisle and sunflowers intermingled with wheat to create a stunning display. Apples ripe for picking hung down from a huge apple tree at the font, and there were lots of harvest mice enjoying the feast too. Guaranteed to make you smile!

SS Peter and Paul's Church, Griston - Baptism

The baptism of Princess Charlotte was recreated here, with visitors following the lines of pastel bunting and pompoms into the church. Knitted teddies sat on ledges and delicate daisies decorated the screens. The proud parents stood with their new family of four at the font, while other guests were seated close by. 

St Botolph's, Stow Bedon - Remembrance

An air of solemnity was present as you entered the church porch, with its poppy curtains. Poppy petals cascaded from the font and the display of poppies at the altar were a fitting tribute to all those who laid down their lives to serve their country. 

Holy Trinity, Great Hockham - Christmas

The echo of Christmas carols welcomed us into the church where the porch was 'lit' by beautiful candles and greenery. A huge Christmas tree at the door was laden with decorations and gifts waiting to be given. The Nativity  scene at the altar included a full size sheep and donkey. The three wise men bearing gifts were also in attendance and there were Christingles lit on the window ledge. Mince pies and yule log were on offer for any hungry visitors as well as a glass of mulled wine!

The festival was on for just four days and I have only been able to give you a flavour of what you could see. I urge you to go and look at the photos in my Flickr album (be warned, there are a lot so make a cup of tea before you start!) to enjoy the Blossom and Yarn festival for yourself. You are in for a real treat! xxx