I think that 2014 is the first year that I can look back on and say, "Wow, I really lived this year to the fullest." So often as we approach the end of the year, I always feel like I could have done more, seen more, lived more. But my goodness...I don't think I could have fit anything else into 2014.
I bought a condo and officially became a grown up (complete with homeowner's dues, clogged sinks, and paint samples). I met an amazing guy that loves the farmer's market almost as much as I do and puts up with my cat when she's a little too loving. I had way too many long nights and early mornings overseeing the opening of the BHLDN shop in the downtown Seattle Anthropologie. I put a patio into my backyard, pretended to have a green thumb, and canned every single piece of fruit that I could get my hands on.
And then of course, there's my most challenging and fulfilling accomplishment of the year-La Mercerie. After years of dreaming and months of planning, La Mercerie finally got its feet off the ground and I couldn't be happier. Not only has La Mercerie allowed me to turn my passions into a business, but I've also been able to help others lead a more creative life, which is really the most important reason I had for launching La Mercerie in the very beginning. I am overwhelmed by the support that I have received from my family, friends, and people just discovering La Mercerie for the first time.
Let's not forget...La Mercerie's motto is "to make and do". So of course, I made things in 2014. Lots of things. I started three quilts for my family's Christmas presents way back in April (and finished them on December 22. Oops). I fell in love with the Washi Dress and made two Tova dresses. The Alder Shirtdess pattern was released by Grainline Studios and I couldn't stop myself...three dresses later and I think I have a problem...There were two knit hats for me, one for Nate, and five for Christmas stockings, a scarf, a sweater, my new favorite weekender bag, and a Scout tee. Yikes.
After what I'm starting to realize is a ridiculous amount of making, I couldn't be happier. La Mercerie is starting to build the creative community I have always dreamed of. November marked the first month of Knitting 101 classes here in Seattle, which will soon be joined by a monthly open knitting night for wine, friends, and knitting help (but let's be honest, we're really all going to be there for the wine...). La Mercerie was lucky enough to join some amazing local businesses at a holiday pop-up shop hosted by MAKERS. I met some inspiring new friends through Instagram and am continually inspired by the community that it is able to create. All in all, 2014 was pretty darn amazing.
2015 is already shaping up to be another year of excitement. There are some new products and kits in the works for the La Mercerie shop-including some pre-made items! We will continue to offer classes and work with local makers in the Seattle community. There will hopefully be some exciting partnerships and projects later in the year as well.
But to start the year off with a bang, I'll be hosting a knit along on Instagram with Jen (@grainlinestudio) and Amy (@seamstressandtheband)! We're all ready for some oversized, cozy sweater-making to kick off the post-holiday season. I've decided on Maude-a classic, boyfriend-fit cardigan by Quince and Co., knit with some Brooklyn Tweed Shelter in Tent. Pick your pattern and join us with #sundaysweaterkal. We'll be casting on this Sunday, January 4!
Happy New Year and thank you for an amazing 2014,
Jess
