Although our trip was off to a rocky start with Tracie's flight being canceled and her flying standby all the way, that was NO indication of the rest of the weekend in Phoenix. Once I arrived at the hotel EXCITEMENT filled the air and the fragrance of friendships old and new captured my senses.
After getting settled in the room it was time to meet my INchie group for our swap. WOW! What a group! They were the loveliest and most talented women one could hope to meet. We spent the next hour or so swapping our INchies and sharing introductions. My only regret is that I did not get to sit with each of them and visit the night away. I could hardly believe my eyes as I looked at each of the UNIQUELY created tiny works of art! Each and captured my heart as I thought of how these tiny bits of art were carefully and lovingly created and assembled.
Everyone pitched in to ensure that all participants received INchies from the other! Look at these BEAUTIFUL CREATIONS!!!
I received these AWESOME gifts from various members of the INchie group. I can hardly wait to use these in artistic creations.
Soon it was time to pick Tracie up at the airport. We went from the airport to dinner then headed to our room to get ready for class the next morning.
Arriving at class we greeted each student then the FUN began! It was as though we were all friends FOREVER! There was much ANTICIPATION as each person picked up their paint brushes and began to paint. Their creations were brought to life as the paints blended on the canvas. Here are a few pictures of our students working on their FABULOUS works of art! ( I apologize for not getting more closeups of everyone's work but you can visit Tracie's blog as she has pics of the students with their finished artwork):
As Tracie and I hugged each person leaving class there was a moment of sadness that the day had come to an end. We had made new friends and loved being able to share our time with them. What BEAUTIFUL works of art they had created in class!
As always the next day proved to be as much fun as the day before. This was the Vintage Journal class. WHAT color combinations and textures! Aren't these just BEAUTIFUL!!!
Again we felt moments of sadness as each person left. More new friends had touched our lives and took a special place in our hearts.
Later that evening we went to the banquet and had a TERRIFIC time. Here is a picture of us with Vicki, one of our students and friend! Isn't she lovely?
As we began our journey home we reminisced on the experiences, fun, excitement and sense of joy in sharing with others.
AGAIN, Linda had put together a time for all of us to leave the worries of the world behind and to spend time with friends.
She had given all of us, teachers and students, an atmosphere filled with creativity and relaxation!
Please visit Tracie's blog to see more pics of our classes.
3 comments:
Hi Maryilyn!
It was fun to sit next to you at the vending extravaganza. I think we have the same sense of humor...love your laughter! Well I see you have your plate full teaching at so many retreats. I'm sure I will be seeing at other events. Take care!
Hugs and Shimmies
Robin
p.s can we do reciprical link exchanges?
It sounds like a great place to teach. You have so many lovely retreats over there. We are slowly getting things happening here, it takes awhile. Your students look very absorbed in what they are learning.
You and Tracie make it a beautiful experience. It's your warmth and friendliness that make everyone feel like friends for years!
I am so disappointed I didn't get to spend time with you!
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