These days we all need a little happiness, joy and ease and we all find that in different places. Some head for the woods where the trees will block out much of the clatter of every day life. Others head for the beach where the waves soothe their soul and the salty air cures some sadness. Still others turn to hobbies and activities that keep them busy. If you fall into that last category we have just the place for you! Great food, good drinks and plenty of knitting is what's in store.

Welcome to the Knitting Nook in South Portland!

Located in Ferry Village, this little spot offers great food, plenty of fibers and a wonderful community feel.

And the story behind it is inspirational. Back in February 2017, owner Lisa Plourd was walking with her dog when they both fell into icy waters. After being rescued and recovering, Plourd realized how important it was to do what makes her happy. And now we have the Knitting Nook.

Of course, there's more to the story. Below we've linked a Press Herald article with the full story of this near-death experience that led Plourd to following her dreams.

Inside the Knitting Nook is equal parts airy and light and cozy and comforting. This is a great place to spend sunny days and those chilly, grey winter afternoons.

Knitting lovers will appreciate just how well-stocked this place is. It's full of top-of-the-line fibers of all types.

And the community feel here is strong! Come with friends or meet new ones and enjoy a few hours of creating together.

After just one visit, the space here will feel comforting and homey. In fact, those who aren't knitters might just want to learn so they have an excuse to spend the day here.

Although that's not the only excuse for being here. Having a well-stocked bar certainly doesn't hurt! They've got a rotating selection of draft beers and hand-selected wines.

Could there be a better and more relaxing combination than creating something out of beautiful fibers while enjoying a drink?

And, after all that creativity you'll probably build up a hunger. Good thing they've got made-to-order, locally sourced items on their menu of small bites.

Although don't let the word small fool you. These bites are meal-sized and you'll have no reason to need to leave!

And, these days they even have an outdoor area to enjoy.

Whatever your reasons for enjoying the Knitting Nook, we know you'll want to make visiting a part of your routine!

The Knitting Nook is open Thursday through Saturday from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m. and on Sunday from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. You can learn more about it here or follow them on Facebook. For some more of the background into Lisa's founding story check out this article. They can be reached on 207-767-5648.

Love the idea of a store that doubles as a cafe? We've got more! You can sip wine while you read at this one-of-a-kind bookstore in Maine. And if you're not close to South Portland, the hours will slip away from you at this Maine yarn store that's also a wine shop in Oxford County.