The highlight of the trip was spent at Robin and Patrick Russo’s place. Total inpromptu trip; I had their number in my organizer and gave them a call. They invited us over. Pat Russo was working on a Vermont Spinning wheel and a few other projects. Apparently he is busy working with FEMA and was home at his workshop on Sundays only, thus it was a treat to start with…

The road to Bradford, Vermont; lots of pretty scenic hills and winding roads.

As many of you know Robin Russo is a combing guru cuz I always hear all these great things about y’all attending her fiber prep classes. She travels to Convergence, SOAR guild festivals and many other events to teach. Pat goes to Maryland every year with 12 Vermont wheels in tow. Most of them are snapped up like hot cakes at the festival.

Petra Ava with Robin’s Kumihimo stand

Robin mentioned she’s trying to get a Kumihimo class to teach at one of the fiber events in the near future.

Robin’s Dyed Silk hankies gracing her balcony window.

A large walking wheel and a Canadian antique grace her spinning studio.

A wide angle shot from another room; yes that’s an Ashford traditional in the corner. She mentioned it was her very first wheel.

The famous Vermont Heirloom Spinning Wheel based on a Canadian tilt-tension

Side profile

Robin demo-ing on the Vermont wheel.

Close-up of the flyer and more spinning in action

A shot of Pat Russo’s workshop

He makes traditional musical string instruments as well. They’re very decorative

Did anyone tell ya that he makes experimental jet planes as well? Such a talented man. It made my hubby’s day since he’s an aircraft turbine engineer. I thought it would be a great Father’s Day gift just to have Dave visit Patrick’s workshop.

Side view of the plane

A wide angle view with the engine in sight.

Nadya in Robin’s pretty garden

The girls enjoyed the Russo’s pool

Robin playing ball with the girls

And there is Pat in the background with Nadya Anne

One last photo for the memories; we had a great time with the Russos; they are very nice folks.