I went to the Cross Stitch PAL's Retreat this past weekend and had a Blast! It was so nice to finally meet everyone - put faces with names. I came in as a newbie and left with some great friends. I arrived in Myrtle Beach on Thursday afternoon and promptly went to the Hospitality House to check-in. I was told everyone had just left to visit Mary's "shop". Mary of M--Designs is the designer who taught all 3 classes at the retreat. She set up a really nice mobile stitching shop. If you needed it, she had it!
That evening was the dessert buffet - I've never seen so many desserts in one room in all my life! Everything was great! Got to talk with the ladies and do some stitching.
The 1st class was held Friday Morning. It was a Halloween/Fall Treat Bag. Once I finish it I'll post some pictures. It's a really nice Halloween/fall design you can switch out on the bag. Bag works just like a tuck pillow. Very well made!
That afternoon the Stitcher's Pouch class was held! The design for this class is sooo cute! I can't wait to finish this one! It's traditional style stitching with a poem; including some really nice fibers and coordinating fabric to finish the bag. I'll probably have this one done anytime now and when I do I'll post pictures :)
The 1st of 2 PALs parties was held that evening. Boy these ladies now how to party! I'm not a night owl so I had a hard time keeping up! Next year I'll remember to bring my toothpicks to keep my eyes open - LOL!!! We had the Stitching Grab Bag exchange and the Ornament exchange. I left with some really nice stash and 3 beautiful Christmas ornaments that I can't wait to add to my tree!
We had the last class Saturday morning. It was an Ornament finishing class. Everyone had some really great ideas! I can't wait to use them :)
Saturday evening was so much fun! We had the last PALs party. Got to present 5 pieces at the Stitcher's Showcase. I received 2nd place in it's category and the Best in Show for The Kiss and 3rd place for my unframed Oak Island. The gift exchange was also held that night. I had fun watching these ladies steal from each other and open presents. I walked away with a nice Vera Bradley change purse and make-up bag!
The whole event was wonderful! I want to thank Amy of Down Sunshine Lane for hosting this event - it was the 10th anniversary. I can't even begin to imagine how much work she puts into making these events happen! They really know how to make a girl feel welcome! Can't wait to see everyone again next year!
2 comments:
It was so great meeting you in MB & I'm SO GLAD you had a good time & can't wait until next year! ;-) Tell Bruce not to be such a stranger next time, we don't bite, not even when we're asked (or at least not most of us!)!!! ;-)
Oh how fun! Its too bad I can't take off enough time to go to that event! I'd drive the 17 hours for soemthing that fun!
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