I Survived Quilt Arkansas!

I am finally rested from my quilting retreat.  We had so much fun but I was exhausted!

Our Quilt Guild hosts this wonderful event every two years and I was asked to host the party for 150.  I was so thrilled and honored that I agreed before I knew the dates; my wedding anniversary (oops).  So for two years the committees would meet, plan and meet some more.  We had some wonderful out of state and in state teachers and friends from all over joined us for three fun filled days.  There were several vendors that set up mini quilt shops to give us an opportunity to fondle fabric and spend money ;) 

On Thursday night we were delighted to have Sue Nichols share her stories of how she became a quilter.

I apologize for the poor quality of my amateur picture taking but all I had was my cell phone.  Her quilts are amazing!

Friday night one of our other teachers, Jeanette Huff gave a wonderful lecture.  Unfortunately I missed it.  My troops and I were setting up for a Mardi Gra Gala!

~ the buffet ~

~ the tables ~

We were given two challenges; a feathered mask and a quilt challenge.  Both Mardi Gra themed.  Here is a picture of the mask parade.

~ our third place winner ~

~ my silly friend Carol Ann (left) won second place ~

~ and a very adorable first place winner! (left) ~

~ receiving her much deserved award from Tom Russell ~

And then the parade of quilts!  There were some really amazing quilts and I had way too much fun with this ;)

~ third place went to......drum roll please.....ME! ~

~ second place went to #15 (far left) ~

~ and first place went to #2 (left) ~

The one on the right is my friend Donna's.  She traveled all the way from Hawaii to join us and brought some friends from Louisiana.

~ Donna on the right and her friend Carol on the left ~

We were entertained by the very talented Bell Pointe Quilters performing a "Quilter's version of Momma Mia".  Okay - I have to admit I have never seen Momma Mia but seriously - this skit was knee slapping, wet your pants HILARIOUS!

And my silly husband who drove out to spend our anniversary with me.  Thank you honey for all your help with the party.  Thank you for enduring weeks of the living room being filled with Mardi Gras decorations and all the nights I sewed into the wee hours to complete my quilt challenge.  Thank you for holding my hand when I would worry I wouldn't be able to pull this off.  Thank you for allowing me to spend a few days with the girlfriends so we could stay up late, giggle and let our hair down.  You're the best and I adore you!

Laissez les bon temps rouler!

Sharon