Paducah !

Well today was wonderful, not because I worked my tail off with kids, laundry, bills & errands, but because I received my confirmation for my hotel room in Paducah! Yea!! I have been going to the AQS quilt show for the past 7 years. I am really strange about this one event- I always go alone. My mom is a sewer and creates wonderful and beautiful things, but she is not a quilter. She asked why I never invited her. I have also had a few friends who sew, every so often ask about it. I always tell them, like my mom, they are welcomed to come and stay, I'll share the hotel room but I go to the show by myself.

Here's why- I've never had friends that are into quilting as much as I am. Not even 1/2 as much as me. I've gone to other quilt shows with friends, and I feel like I'm rushed along, not getting to just sit and study the wonderful quilts. I feel like they don't appreciate the quilts and the opportunity to see these works of art in person- up close! I don't want to feel like I need to entertain them or they are bored if I stand there just staring in awe of a quilt. Plus, I love to take lots of classes, so my days are usually filled with classtime. This is my one week that is just for me- and only me. I can do what I want and go when I want, without coordinating and planning with others. I don't have to worry about baby bottles being packed, and keeping up with kids or their toys. It it the ultimate selfish week for just me! But in exchange for the week, my family gets a happy and sane mom and wife. This one week a year is lots cheaper than years of therapy.

The first year I went, I lived in Atlanta & I didn't know anyone who even quilted. When I got to Paducah, everyone was so nice. I would see the groups of ladies on the bus, or in the exhibits, or eating lunch, and they would just include me in the conversation. I felt like I was there with tons of long-distant friends. I actually never felt alone. I think that's one of the best things about quilters, they are so friendly & welcoming (for the most part ;-). Anyway, I really enjoyed it. We have moved a lot- the first 11 years we were married we moved 9 times. So each year the quilt show rolled around, I was some place new, and didn't know anyone to go with, so I just kept going alone.

Since we have been here, I have actually met someone who I feel so connected with through quilting. I never had anyone I could just sit and talk with about quilts and what's going on, and talk about how beautiful or ugly fabric and patterns can be. My friend actually came up this past AQS show and stayed for 2 days. I will admit it was fun to talk about the quilts with her, and compare notes. She'll come up for a few days this next year, and it will be fun.

I guess when you have someone to share the love and passion for quilting, it makes going to a show fun to share that event with someone else who has the same love. I'm glad my friend will come up again. I will also enjoy some time with all my 'new' long-distant friends.

To any of you who have been to the AQS show and talked to someone who was by herself- I want to thank you for helping to make me feel so welcomed and included.

Thought for the day- while thinking about a 5 day quilt show. . .

"Too much of a good thing can be wonderful!"
--Mae West

Gratitudes
1. A nice long bike ride with my 11 yr old.
2. Hearing my 2 1/2 yr say 'sorry', without being told to say sorry.
3. Watching the 8 month old's first hand clapping, while watching the 8 yr old squeal with delight while watching the baby's 1st clap (hard to explain- me, watching her, watch him)
4. a large diet Dr. Pepper with crushed ice
5. My dear husband mopping all the hardwood floors :-)