You know when someone tells you, “I have good news and bad news…which do you want to hear first?” I always want to get the bad news out of the way. So here goes with the bad news: I had earthquake damage on my recently purchased Napa property where I am planning my new business next year.
The good news (actually the GREAT news): It is not that bad in the scheme of things, can be fixed, and it is not going to set me back time-wise for construction and renovations.
What didn’t fare so well were some of the historic buildings downtown (mostly with brick and stone facades) that hadn’t been retrofitted to withstand a quake of this size. After I flew out to Napa and assessed my place, I drove downtown and saw that one of my favorite older buildings that houses The Vintner’s Collective withstood a lot of damage and was red tagged.
The above picture looks bad, but they are rebuilding and will be back in business, just like most every other business that was hit. Napans (or as some refer to as “Napkins”) are resilient!
Having lived in California, Massachusetts, Colorado, and Texas, I have learned that Mother Nature can morph into many forms, whether it be a snow blizzard, a flooding, a hurricane, a tornado watch, a hail storm, or an earthquake. You just have to take your pick!
Besides feeling all shook up, the nascent stage of launching a new business has been an exciting project to take on, and I was very happy this summer to host a few sets of moms and daughters to show them my vision:
Above is my best friend from high school, Cindy with her two girls, Maggie and Lily. I thought it was just my adult friends who would ask me when my place is ready so they can come stay, but nope…Maggie wanted to know if she could have her birthday slumber party at my place next month. Sorry, Mags…next year!
x
You may recognize these two former Quilting Arts blondes above: my sister-in-law Sally and my niece Lindsey who came all the way from Massachusetts to visit me. We had a fun time together and they were very excited to go the Kendall-Jackson winery, the “Mothership” as Lindsey affectionately refers to it.
x
And lastly, Judy Perez and her daughter Indigo (taking pictures in the distance) came to check out my digs too. Indigo, an amazing artist like her mom, is helping me with artwork for the business.
Judy also proved to me that if her art quilt gig doesn’t work out, she is a very gifted pool cleaner…
x
While I prepare to relocate next year, I am paring down my art supplies, including a sizable box of fabric:
This lot includes hand-dyed and screened fabric, some really adorable prints, and upholstery fabric that would be GREAT for over-dyeing. Just answer the following question by midnight this Friday, September 12, and I will randomly select a winner. (I am very sorry to all my international friends, but this box is sizable, and because of the weight, I can only ship to a U.S. resident.)
Question:
A part of Crafting a Life, LLC, will include retreats. What would your dream retreat be?
My retreat dream would be…. A serene place with a well lighted spacious room to sew. The meals would be prepared and delicious. The sewing tables might even have drink holders attached so we could drink wine and not spill! Oh and a comphy bed to end the night.
Two weeks (because a week is never enough) meeting new friends, expanding my quilting skills, eating and drinking a lot of wine!
My dream retreat would be a place where I could hear birds singing in the morning upon awakening, have freshly made scones just out of the oven with freshly-brewed coffee while sitting at a bistro table outside under enormous trees and surrounded by lovely flowerbeds. After soaking in some delicious outdoors time for some indoor time at the sewing machine with like-minded crazy stitchers who love to have fun and laugh. Evening shared with new friends around an outside fire, some wine and great tapas. Nice for the first day…
I would love to attend a retreat filled with fun and laughter. Also lots of rich colors and fabrics used in freestyle projects.
A week like in Jennifer Chiaverini’s Elm Creek Quilt book series. Private bedrooms and baths, hdcp accessible, elevators in multiple floored buildings. A variety of classes and instructors to choose from – kind of like quilt festival offerings, but on a more intimate, get to know everyone level.
to spend a week learning new quilting ideas and making new friends that share the same interest. Just sewing until i was too tired to do It any more – getting a few hours sleep and starting all over again on a new joyful day…… “this would be my form of a diet as i can sew all day and not really eat much!!!
A couple of days of sewing and then a little excursion into the wine countryside. I’d like meals prepared on site and included in the total cost.
The perfect retreat: Make It Together – Period. Making everything: meals together, crafts and quilts together, selfies together, wine-tasting together, s’mores and laughter around a fire together, new friends and memories – together.
Two or more days of learning fabric surface alterations from talented teachers at an affordable price with meals and lodging included.
My dream retreat would include some time for creating, some time for business management classes, and some “down” time. It would be nice to have sewing machines available so I don’t have to try to bring one on a plane. Maybe I could rent from a local shop. Business management skills development would be a big deal to me and would bring me there even without the create time…as long as there’s wine. I mean, I’m not crazy!!! Lori in VA
For a while, I had a dream retreat. My brother owned a good sized condo on the coast of Florida. An elevator to the door of the condo was the first ideal. Room to sew was ideal and light generally good…….natural light bouncing off the ocean. Plenty of sleeping room for several of us. Private rooms and bath for 3 or 4. More if you wanted to double up. I never did. Loved the luxury bed and bath all by myself. WiFi connections. Cable TV so we did not miss dancing with the stars. Wonderful kitchen so that we could cook. Lots of good restaurants nearby in the event we chose not to cook. Plenty of space so no one felt crunched. It was a place I loved and enjoyed sharing. Ant it was place I was happy to be alone. Ideal in so many ways.
So glad to hear that a little shaking up won’t delay your project! I’ve never been able to get away for a retreat, so I guess my dream would be to make that happen! I picture it as full of laughter and fine food and lots and lots of stitching!
My dream retreat would be learning new art quilt techniques and then using them to have a finished product!!!!!!!!!!!!11
Comfy feather beds, with nice quilts covers to quiet the soul. Fresh Air-The solitude of nature- Sewing at all levels with all levels of creators-spiritual walks with all the critters-and quilting new friends or alone. Knowing that whatever the future has in store for you, your life has been touched by many.
I would be happy to see another person get your Giveaway. Even though very pretty. I have been downsizing mine as well. I am going to a local Quilt store this saturday and signed up for their Fabric yard sale. I am selling about 400 yards of fabrics in 1.5, 2 and 3 yard increments-Hope to get rid of it all. Then it leaves with about the same. Very pretty cottons, but can use only so much in my lifetime!!!
Take care Pokey-cannot wait until I see your finished home retreat project. Deborah
I’d like to start out with a class with one of my favorite artists that lasts maybe three days. Then I’d like to spend maybe two days with the attendees visiting galleries and museums and spending the evenings sitting around talking and hand stitching. Some lectures about good art would be wonderful, too. I’m glad you didn’t suffer too much damage.
I would love a gourmet retreat – good food, friends (new or old) & fiber art workshops.
A tree-filled property with walking paths; a large bright room with all the outlets, tables ,irons and design walls we could possibly need; plenty of yummy, kind-of-healthy snacks including chocolate; free flow of inspiration and ideas from other quilters, teachers, visiting artists, DVDs and books. Time for an afternoon nap. Great coffee , and transportation to local quilt shops, local quilters’ studios and art exhibits. Lots of laughter!
My dream retreat would be to have Katie Kendrick, Judy Wise, Traci Lynn Huskamp , and jane Lafazio teaching classes. Participants would choose one teacher for a week and by having these ladies the retreat would draw fiber artists and mixed media artists. My heart skips a beat just thinking about it. I LOVE Napa Valley.
I forgot to say this retreat would be held at your new place and the final day would include a show and tell of the art done in the classes. Be still my heart.
Lot’s of laughter, ability to have a little space alone if needed, just to go for a walk or something. An open accepting environment. The chance to learn something new for me, which isn’t too difficult to find.
The retreat would include not only inspiration for quilting, but a respite from everyday life! Relaxing by a pool, a massage, quiet time to read, reflection, just a time to recharge oneself.
Please let me know if this is where I answer the question for the drawing for the fabric: (If it is not, please point me to the correct place.) My dream retreat: I don’t have to bring anything with me for the crafting portion of the retreat. Everything is provided – machinery, supplies, etc. As a mother of three and a grandmother of 13 (7 biologicals and 6 steps) I absolutely detest being a beast of burden. I don’t want to carry another thing except for any masterpieces created by me during my retreat. Since I share in the love of Julia Cameron’s “artist dates” I would enjoy surroundings to fulfill this deep desire. Panoramic. Larger than I will ever be. Wide open vistas. No fences. Rugged treks. Great, plentiful, and feminine bathroom facilities. I would love alone, quiet time. I would love a few social activities. Classes and advanced classes would be wondrous. I especially desire to learn from teachers and fellow students alike. A variety of food and drink would be appreciated. Safety. Inspiration. Fellowship. Things many women are drawn to. Don’t want much, do I? (sic) Love, Light, & Laughter, Carolyn M. Cournoyer mysticarri@hotmail.com 770-778-0895 Date: Mon, 8 Sep 2014 23:19:51 +0000 To: mysticarri@hotmail.com
My ideal retreat would have roomy tables, comfy chairs, machines available, good light, access to a shop to get all the things I forgot, scenic setting for down time, good food and sleeping accomodations, a fun teacher and you.
I would like inspiring teachers with exciting projects. Plenty of time to work on my own projects. A massage at the end of the day, and lots of fresh fruit.
Dream retreat! Sauna, steambath, spa…good raw foods…scenery….productivity…companionship!
Dream retreat: wet area for dyeing and messy play, design walls, good light, light meals prepared for us, fiber fanatics willing to critique and offer uplifting suggestions, wine, of course. Classes optional.
It might be fun for you to consider Cape Cod and Saratoga Springs, NY area. Granted that would be so I could show you some of the great spots here. I would like to be in an area that could mix the outside with our creative pursuits. Fall leaves, beaches, the natural beauty reinterpreted.
My *dream* retreat would include large expansive spaces in which to work, relax and talk creativity. Would have choices of activities for each day, not a set in stone rigid schedule. Would include free time to develop ideas, have a *think tank* where attendees could share ideas and/or solve problems they may be having with their projects. The retreat would be from 4-7 days long. Great food!
My dream retreat would include making art quilts and touring Napa Valley. What a combo! You lucky dog you!!
My dream retreat would include someone to cook, so I don’t have to worry about the meals. A bed to myself, wifi available, and a place to sew, where I can walk away when I need to. Hiking or walking nearby is also nice, I don’t need a lot of structure, but maybe a brief workshop or challenge with kit to get going, or someone to strive for – not marathon sewing, but creating.
My dream retreat… a beautiful spacious lodge, with warm breezes (but not humid!) looking out onto a beautiful, inspiring landscape be it mountains or water, getting my hands good and messy playing with some of my favorite art quilting gurus!!!! oh and maybe even sipping some wine!
My dream retreat on the west coast would be a month long in duration, preferably NOT during a drought, where I can experiment with various eucalyptus plants, mushrooms, dye plants, earth pigments, ochers, etc., for dyeing, painting, and printing my fabrics!
The preferably not during a drought is so I wouldn’t have to worry about my dye pots setting anything on fire.
I sent a reply to your message box but thought perhaps it would be better here. I would love to be in a laid back group first and foremost, minimal demos or side trips, comfortable surroundings (no bunk beds or group bathrooms), a scenic area, and lots of time to quilt and sew with new buddies and old ones. I would also like the meals to be pre-planned and served in home style fashion onsite. Lots of individual space is great and of course a design wall and group critiques is always welcome. Also I think it is beneficial to have alone time and minimal expectations if that is one’s choice. A nice option for sewing machine and supplies would be nice if you could choose to only bring fabric and thread, thereby eliminating dragging/shipping sewing machines, mats, irons and other supplies.
Agreed on the no bunk beds!
Love the “shaken not stirred” title. My dream retreat would include machines present, great light, comfy chairs, food on the premises, a not “set in stone” schedule, afternoon vineyard tour/s. Fun people.
Everything they said! It all sounds wonderful…..good food, new friends and lots of creating!
My dream retreat would be Italy, I have always wanted to go.
Good food good friends lots of creative inspirations.
Something I have thought of in the past is to pair up a painter with a quilter and set them with some guidelines and then leave them alone to create. Both parties would be exclusive to their craft but pair up to mix skills and create an art quilt to be auctioned off for charity.
Mine would be a week long, with check-in and check-out on the weekend. A room with a view & bathroom. No stairs! Art quilting class(es) during the week, fun but not frenzied, maybe a different technique each day with enough time after to work on my project. Good, simple food – maybe a BBQ one night. And chocolate…there must be chocolate available at all times!
I believe a great retreat would involve community, great meals, hiking to spots for plein air sketching and then back to create or design something from the mornings sketch work.
I would love a retreat where I could bring the women in my family and close friends that are interested in quilting, but don’t have the bug yet. I would like us all to work on a project during the weekend retreat and have finished when we leave. They would leave with a project and a new found love for quilting!!!! (Would probably need to rent some sewing machines because I don’t have enough for the whole family!!!!!)
An ideal retreat would be one where machines were provided and participants had the opportunity to try several new techniques plus have some major fitting sessions for garments.
Quite a few years ago, you and I were at the same Jean Littlejohn and Jan Beaney workshop that was in Walnut Creek…….I liked the notion…..with less people…….a chance to get together with like minds to learn new things and learn from each other……in a very nice location. I would like to have a small amount of time allocated to ways to deal with the stress of sitting for long times…….exercises….ways to refresh……understand ways to “see” things from many different ways…….learn ways to reach out to other artists and have the opportunity to “see” what makes them create……I have often wanted a time block that was open to bring your stuff and have a chance to get some feedback…….work time on whatever it is you are working on…..find others that were interested in things that you were……..a Connection……..
Speaking of ‘shaking up’ how about mixing up the dinner tables so you are forced to meet new people and get to know them. Many times I have encountered groups of people who are friends but never break out of their group. Dinners only, let them stay together for breakfasts and lunches! Yes, good mattresses, good air, and cookies on demand! How about no cellphones out of the bedrooms? The dependance on cellphones is distracting and annoying, transfer the need to the sewing machines! Group Critiques- with a bit of guidance and instruction on HOW to do this correctly. Time to do a treasure hunt- whatever you send them out to ‘find’, just to stretch and get away from their work and see the town. I could go on and on- but basically I feel that instruction could be 4-6 hours a day with breaks when something fun and small is planned to move folks around. The rest of the day could be free where they could work or go play somewhere, or perhaps just hang out laughing. Pokey- I’m sure you have lots of plans in your head- what a wonderful opportunity for you to use your skills! You, and everybody who shows up, are going to have such a good time!
Would like to learn different dye techniques etc., then use the fabric in making art quilts. Different design principals with lots of inspiration from nature surrounding. Plus space to work in, and comfy beds and baths a given. A retreat means to me no interruptions to make meals so you can just keep on going if you are in the mood, or take a break but still keep your mind working on your project! Glad you did not have too much damage and also that you posted this to let everyone know 🙂
My dream retreat… sewing machine on site, private room (but shared bath ok), healthy meals prepared on-site, a long table all to myself, morning stretching sessions, evening critiques, sewing room open around the clock, as for the classes, I would enjoy a week of working on a series – learning to develop a germ of an idea into a fully developed series.
My dream retreat, would have a property with inviting walking trails, view of sunrises and sun sets. Plenty of lighted space for sewing and designing. Consider electric outlets in ceiling so no tripping on cords. No TV’s. Comfy bed with luscious soaking bath. Great cooking with lots of variety. Evening wine bar.
I dream retreat would be somewhere in the mountains with friends and making new friends. It would include crafting, sewing and quilting. Learning new ideas and sewing techniques.
my dream retreat would be something like Camp Gold Hollow- time for swimming and crafts, communal meals, lots of singing, sitting around the camp fire and talking about stuff
One where I get to teach fabric painting….if not that, taking an unusual class from someone in a wonderful place…even Napa!!! Of course, the evenings would have to include wine tastings, and yummy food to go with the wine….and sitting outside enjoying the scenery…..where do I sign up?!?!
Dream retreat-no TV or phone. Lots of one-on-one for learning new things, and solitude to create. Excited to watch your new business take shape!
I have family out in your area so a perfect retreat would be one where we could all be together, maybe work on different things, but be together for meals and at night. Did you ever hear of Fletcher Farms in Vermont? They have a program like that…my mom and my daughter spent three days there many years ago. Looking forward to your business up and running.
Nature filled slow mornings, incredible light, like minded fellow artists and the opportunity to explore and experiment on my own. Also, evenings with talk of our art filled days and wine. 🙂
My dream retreat would to learn how to dye fabric and how to machine quilt. Thanks for the great giveaway. Hugs
When I attended art retreats, everything was a frantic whirlwind. Rush to a class, rush to meals, rush to another class, pack-up supplies so I could rush to another class. I enjoyed it at the time. Now, I look forward to retreats at a slower pace. I began meditating about a year ago and now do it twice a day. An optimal retreat would include meditation time as long as the ‘class’ is small. 200 people meditating wouldn’t be enjoyable to me! If we meditated outdoors, woohoo, that would be the icing on the cake!
Any place or time I can go somewhere to create, learn a new skill, improve an old one and not cook or clean would be a dream.
My dream retreat would first be in a beautiful location and a comfortable and colorful facility with good mattresses. Second, it would involve on site equipment (even if it is rental) so that I wouldn’t have to haul a lot of stuff (my back and neck are old and fragile), third it would include learning new techniques especially art quilts. The center would have good light fare to eat and a massage schedule for all attendees.
Debbie Coates Denton Texas
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Oh, yes Debbie – I love the massage idea.
I am on the last book of the Elm Creek Quilt series and that sounds like a fabulous place! Anywhere I could have a solid week of crafting and girlfriends sounds wonderful! Whatever it is, make sure to remember those with food allergies, many people like me could only go if there were safe food options.
I’m glad things were okay for you and that the other Napans are getting back on their feet! My dream retreat is anywhere there is a lovely beach, temperate weather and no phones! Best wishes on your new adventures!
Glad to hear you are pulling through the earthquake and moving forward. Good for you.
As far as dream retreats go, someplace with a pool and great food. An ocean view, within driving distance (no flying). Maybe the Sonoma County coast-Salt Point, Timber Cove, Jenner are nice areas but not sure about availability of lodging. Marin County has nice areas, too, but probably a lot more expensive. I’m on a retiree budget. J
Patricia Fratis
My dream retreat: lots of fabrics, then using them for collage, fabric books, quilts, and getting ideas from others and sharing my ideas.
good weather, good wine, good company, time to create!
Glad to hear the damage is repairable and you are still excited about your new adventure. I think my dream retreat would be in a place with great weather, lovely views, rooms with lots of light, big tables, access to wine, large enough to hold a group of six friends, someone to cook for us or great restaurants nearby, and teachers with a real sense of adventure and a great sense of humor.
My dream retreat would be spacious sewing room, comfy beds, meals provided…healthy yet tasty, wine available, and perhaps time for facials or a massage nearby. You already have picked the surroundings which are magnificent.
My dream retreat would be at a nice sunny but not too hot location with a nice comfy bed, delicious food that I don’t have to prepare, a classroom with lots of electricity for the irons and sewing machines, good lighting and design walls. I’d like the teacher to be nearby for questions and/or suggestions but time to work at my own pace. I don’t need ‘touristy’ things to do because I’m not there for that stuff.
A winter setting with snow outside, a fire in the fireplace, a fabric swap, meeting other quilters to share best practices and absorbing and relaxing!
Since I would have to travel from Texas, the retreat would need to be 4, maybe 5 days. During a retreat, I like a few hours of instruction each day – new techniques, short projects to play with color or the technique— and then lots of time to play with the technique or project. Having some meals supplied or at least nearby is wonderful — the one time food is not really important is when I am sewing. Someplace outdoors to walk and mull over the project — good coffee for afternoon breaks — sewing machines available for rent for those traveling a long distance (although I usually schlep mine in the carry-on luggage). Another idea might me for a Do-Your-Own-Thing retreat — 5 days of working on some UFO with encouragment from a nominal instructor or classmates. Oh and yes a nearby fabric store – I never bring just the right colors to complete my project.
A week with you and a room full of art quilters learning a technique, sharing ideas and creating something new. Would love to have equipment such as sewing machines, lights, irons, cutting boards and good chairs on site. A good supply list for the technique being taught and a local source for additional supplies, fabrics and threads. Someone else cooks, a comfy bed, a place to sit out side with a cup of coffee or glass of wine, a group of strangers who become new friends.
I would love a long arm retreat. Kind of a ‘everything you need to know’ with some surprises thrown in.
Private room with attached handicap bath(walk in shower) Elevators if space is multi story.
Small groups with time to spend quietly alone at times. A 6 foot work table per person including a iron, power source, cutting board, good lighting, sewing machine available to rent and a comfortable rolling desk chair, and fans for cooling. A shady spot to sit and visit and relax with others.
Bird feeders outside the windows, so maybe I’d see some birds that aren’t native to my area.
I think my dream retreat would include a walking vineyard tour and tasting as well as a fantastic meal. I love quilting and sewing, but I also want to learn new things so maybe instruction on painting, photography, gardening, or cooking. I sometimes get overwhelmed at retreats and need something to give my mind a breather which helps me refocus.
My ideal retreat would be one that I only have to show up ready to create, learn, and share. Machines, fabric, and notions are all provided. Food is tastefully prepared with an eye on healthy comfort (is that even possible?). A bit of wine is always a plus.
A retreat for quilters and fiber artists in Napa? What more could you ask for? Beautiful country for inspiration to create. Great food and wine. Private rooms and baths. Nice hiking or gentle strolling in the area. Finish off the day with a fabulous glass of wine. Sounds fantastic Pokey. Best of luck to you in your new venture.
My dream retreat would be to be at a beautiful location with friends sharing art quilting and instructors sharing their latest techniques.
My ideal retreat would be in a serene location that is easy to reach from airports or railways. beautiful but not distracting. Appropriate work space–not crowded. comfortable but not luxurious. Food should not be focus but healthy options. The atmosphere should foster creativity.
My ideal retreat would be one where each member of my family could be included, their souls nourished and collectively be taught new skills that we could bring home with us to improve our lives.
Smiles,
Kelly
My dream retreat would be…a place that has spaces for early morning sitting in silence…places to sit and write or sketch and sip a hot cup of coffee or tea.. time for letting the inner being speak out and show what is calling to show up in a work…Time alone before a breakfast with the group and then class time. Having alone time other than sleep is very important to me. It could be beneficial to have a mid morning and mid afternoon time for the group to stretch/walk/ shake the joints into action. Having time with an instructor and time to work on ideas begun in the class would be ideal. Napa is so beautiful that having time to take in the vies, the sounds…the air of the place. To have a gathering place where folks may, if they desire, sit together and work on a project after the evening meal.
Having great teachers will, I am certain be a given at your retreat center. Now to get a savings going so I can plan a trip.
Kristin.
It would include good healthy food, and lots of creative opportunities including some mini classes and free creative time.
Bright space to work in (with a view as a bonus); plenty of electrical circuits to handle irons, lights, machines and more; wet and dry work areas; comfy sleeping accomodations; no need to cook; freedom to do my own thing, with opportunities to learn and get critiques from others; no set in stone schedules; oppportunities to interact and learn from others in an informal way… An escape from everyday life 🙂
My dream retreat would include a 5 day art quilt class, great wine and wine tastings, morning exercise, great vegetarian food choices and wonderful conversation.
Classes in art quilting, wine and chocolate. Old friends and new friends. Comfy beds and fresh hot coffee in the morning
Best retreat atmosphere and set up would include a six-foot table for each retreater with tables in small groups of five or six for social interaction. +great food +a scheduled morning and evening gentle hike or walk for those who want to participate +an area set apart for hand stitching complete with quilting-related DVDs to watch as we sew +a few scheduled classes with preregistration, supply lists, and classroom fees OR perhaps attendees could volunteer to teach a class with preregistration and supply lists. (If you teach, you get another workshop free.) +maybe an opening and closing ceremony a la Elm Creek Quilters in the Jennifer Chiaverini books to establish a safe environment. Oh, and books donated by attendees to share with everyone! Of course, there will be wine—we’ll be in Napa! Retreat length=one week, Sunday dinner through Saturday breakfast. Wow! I have some very specific ideas, don’t I? Just things I’ve gathered while attending many topic-specific retreats!
Lots of fellow quilters in a brightly lit location, preferably near a body of water
Fresh air with some outdoor activities (i.e. Simple hikes) with lots of quilting time and possibly classroom instruction. Oh, and simple gourmet meals and some great wine…..what could be grander?
A week of quilting classes located in a beautiful setting with walking paths and near a beach. I’m glad your new place wasn’t damaged and thank you for the great giveaway.
Beautiful location where I could start the day chatting with fellow quilters on a porch with a cup of coffee. Spending the day learning new things and having time to create. Having a wonderful dinner in the evening with friends old and new. Taking time to share stories and see what others have accomplished. Key word: inspiration
A well lit happy space, on a bluff over looking the Pacific Ocean, where 10-12 friends, old and new, could gather to sew. Quilts. Cloth art dolls. Clothing. Whatever they like to sew. Good, simple food cooked, served, and cleaned up by others!
My dream retreat would include both fiber art and mixed media teachers, would be held in a tranquil setting where participants can ” take in nature”. Good food, time to share and make new friends. I love being inspired by others! At least five days is a must. I am ready to go!
Any time in a quiet, well lighted place with nice quilters would be an ideal retreat for me. Would also love a place that offers an opportunity to try different techniques.
My dream retreat would be in Napa of course! It would be nice to have sewing machines on site, so we wouldn’t have to lug those heavy things around. And chocolate!
My ideal retreat would be located in a beautiful place, comfortable, great people to meet, interesting conversations, walks, great food and oh yeah some fun classes. What a getaway!
A place to enjoy nature, with a mix of teachers, mixed media, quilting, collage, jewerly. Well known teachers and good food & wine!! Hanging out in the evening and playing games, laughing and making great memories!!
I’ve never been to a quilt camp or a retreat, but I would consider it a dream to have a week of learning surface design & mixed media techniques from well-known national artists, that I haven’t a hope of seeing in my little town! I’d be more interested in learning techniques than finishing a project. A private room & bath would be great, but not mandatory if I could find a friend to go with. I like the idea of personal time to walk and enjoy the natural surroundings, with a camera in hand, of course! I would be willing to use provided machines, but I love my machine and know it’s capabilities and might find getting used to a different brand/model of machine a bit of a problem, but not an insurmountable one. I love the idea of your retreat and look forward to your posts about the progress, even if I am never able to afford to attend. Good for you, Pokey!
Hi Pokey I would love to win your fabric stash. have been busy making heart pins and necklaces. You might remember me from the Houston Quilt show.
My dream retreat would be hours of couching, embroidery and mixed media. Also a nice lunch and a drink in the evening would be fun. And lots of information exchange. fondly Edie Hedman edie1961@yahoo.com
MY DREAM RETREAT…would be in beautiful venue surrounded by vineyards. Included would be a wet studio for dyeing all kinds of fabrics, state of the art berninas, a rainbow of fabrics and threads, baskets of surface embellishments, a bevy of people who have a passion for art quilting and who love to share the techniques they love, patios/lawns with chaise lounges to basque in while recharging, people to cook and clean up after us, a full wine cellar, and NO PHONES of any size or shape…and no bunk beds.
Thank you for asking!
Suzanne Logan Pt. Reyes, Ca
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The answer to your question: see below at the end of your post
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From: susanking=pdq.net@bounces.wp.com [mailto:susanking=pdq.net@bounces.wp.com] On Behalf Of pokey’s ponderings Sent: Monday, September 08, 2014 6:20 PM To: susanking@pdq.net Subject: [New post] Shaken But Not Stirred: Napa Update & a Fabric Giveaway
pokeysponderings posted: “You know when someone tells you, “I have good news and bad news…which do you want to hear first?” I always want to get the bad news out of the way. So here goes with the bad news: I had earthquake damage on my recently purchased Napa property where I a”
Lovely surroundings, warm loving energy, healthy but very tasty meals, own room and bath, a week of creating with minimum supervision, opportunity for alone time and coming together time , a guest lecturer to talk about how to live a mindful life in these chaotic times and of course sun and an ocean view. How can one not create beautiful things in such an atmosphere. Plus no pressure if one chooses to stay in bed all day reading art quilting books and magazines.
Best wishes for your new venture, you have a beautiful spirit Pokey and you will succeed in what ever you do. So glad you survived the earthquake unscathed.
My dream retreat would be in Napa, and include some Chardonnay in the evenings. I actually would just love the time and space to work on my own projects in a beautiful, calm, supportive atmosphere.
My dream retreat would be on a white sugar sand beach, looking out at crystal clear water, under swaying palm trees and a clear blue sky with a never ending supply of frozen fruity drinks with colorful little paper umbrellas. All seam allowances would be the perfect scant 1/4″, rotary cutter blades would always be sharp and seam rippers would never be needed.
Thanks a bunch for the chance to win! ☺
Glad your damage wasn’t too bad and best of luck in the future!
my nana maree @ yahoo . com
The opportunity to create and collaborate with like minds in an atmosphere of fun and relaxation would be my idea of an unforgettable experience.
My dream retreat would include five days of techniques, a new one each day. Always something new to open up your creative mind. Relaxation time, maybe wine, a beautiful view and above all very friendly people. Enough laughter to chase away the trials of everyday life.
my dream retreat would begin with a walk along the ocean or tree covered lane like in forest gump. a short yoga class finished with a light breakfast. then to the quilt class taking on a project I have never done before. all my closest friends including my sister would join me. my sis would love this type of adventure. after a nice dinner prepared by the chef from ‘the hundred foot journey’ (great movie) we would enjoy coffee around the fire pit. ok I love to dream. why not wish for it all. thank for you. I love your blog!!!
My favorite retreat would be five days of working on a technique new to me. I’m basically a traditional piecer. I would love to spend a week working on a mixed media, art quilt type project. I don’t know if I would want one big project, or several smaller ones to develop multiple ideas, or refine one. There would be working, laughing, telling jokes, and making new friends – at all hours of the day.
in the company of people who love creativity while learning from those who have great skill and imagination. A comfortable setting and amenities is a bonus.
My favorite retreat would be “what she said” to most of these responses! And, comfy spots to hand sew for hours (very zen) and pleasant mild temperatures. But still needs one day of excitement – my bucket list includes being able to go to the fall Quilt Market in Houston for the to-the-trade days; the ultimate fix for us fabric addicts, lol!
My dream retreat would be rising to sunshine, good coffee and fresh pastry and fruit. Then head to the studio to find a pile of colorful and textural, large size contemporary scrap fabrics. I would create collages all day until an afternoon walk in the garden to pick floral bouquets for the catered gourmet dinner complete with the finest Napa wines. A massage and or mani-pedi before dinner. After dining al fresco, there would be time for casual talk or reading and then off to a private bedroom and soak in a jacuzzi tub with candles and soft music.
No formal classes for me. Just freedom to create…but yet friendly, expert counselors on hand to answer questions or provide educational information in the areas of creative lifestyle, which may require appointments or small group setting. Topics including: fine art and craft, interior design, gardening, cooking, wine and cocktails, entertaining, etiquette, happiness and self confidence, health and exercise, beauty and wardrobe makeovers, style gurus, money management, and networking and technology.
Outside tours to wineries, museums, or shopping optional.
I want to feel richly fulfilled, yet relaxed.
I’m so glad everything is working out for you! And I’m looking forward to the opportunities ahead!
The ideal retreat would be 5 or 6 days long. Each person would have a large table to themselves with a design wall and a comfortable chair on wheels. Good food made by someone else, gourmet coffee, ice cream and chocolate. I would prefer a bedroom and bathroom for myself or two people max in a room. An outdoor area to sit and relax with some hand sewing. An in ground swimming pool would be great. Would be nice to have a great fabric store nearby too.
My Dream Retreat would be to spend a week doing surface design, Dyeing, Over Dyeing, Painting, Silk Screening…Creating Magical Cloth. How many different Type & Textures of Natural Fiber can one play with in a week? I imagine an Indoor & Outdoor area to work in. I would also expect, especially in Napa, to Enjoy ALL the Wonderful Bounty that California has to offer, from her wine, to fresh fruits & vegetables. As long as I am dreaming, I might as well stay an additional week & use that Amazing Fiber I’ve just made.
ThanKs for the DayDream…I enjoyed iT!!!
My dream retreat woul be a place where cool winds blow, birds sing, a smell of coffee brewing and pastries baking. I would also be surrounded by beautiful fabrics and threads. I would be able to dream new dreams for these fabrics and threads and create beautiful things with them. I would bring my friend Cathy with me and we would laugh and play and make new friends.
My dream retreat would be somewhere with spectacular views and local attractions to help stretch the muscles…(IE winery, cute antique shop, quaint bistro etc.) Nice accomodations, plenty of sewing space with bright lighting, healthy fabulous food, wine, a separate space for early birds and night owls. Generous amount of days to get lots of things done, a tutorial or two, and some shared tips and swaps.
My ideal retreat would be freeform and laid back. A peaceful room for handwork, a messy room for art tecniques and a room prepared for sewing on machines. No classes, but opportunities to visit nearby places and lots of good food and wine.
My favorite retreat would be 10m days long and include time in Nature and time to explore and expand art quilting techniques while completing some small projects. And of course so good food and wine would be nice.
My dream retreat would be near the ocean with time to sew and time to relax on the beach or take a walk every day. I would enjoy dinner and a glass of wine with new friends and then wake up and do it all over again.
Hi Pokey! My dream retreat would be at least a week long filled with friends and lots af materials/fabrics that would be put to good use. I always love learning from great instructors and then turning around and experimenting/creating with what I have just learned. That is most fun with good friends and a great venue. Those make the best pictures and memories for future laughs.
My dream retreat would be using paper/fabric stitching by hand and on the machine and look at the emotional aspects of the art produced. Where? Gulf coast of Florida or Alabama- with those white sand beaches!
Beautiful fabrics, beautiful people (inside), beautiful food and beautiful surroundings … perfect.
Ideal retreat: three days of a mixed media project interspersed with a trip to a winery and a fun night of games and show and tell.
Somewhere in a forest where I can go for walks in between mad sewing storms. Good food I don’t have to cook and a comfy bed.
My ideal retreat would be just being with friends and a sewing machine under the warm Napa skies. I love that area of the country!
OMG My Dream retreat would be a week long class with you Pokey, Eleanor Burns, Edyta Sitar, Jenny Doan, Jane Sassaman and the Batty Piecemakers (my quilting bee). I have more fun with these ladies and I think it would be wonderful to take classes from you all as well. What better way to spend a week long retreat learning from some of the best in the industry.
I like the idea of a sort of hideaway. Nature and calm. An place to sew like a common area but then with little private cabins to go back to to commune with nature and then meet up with other sewists to work on projects. I know it would be hard but I would not be looking for a huge expense just simple living and playing. Real food not catered, everything natural and clean.
A dream retreat for me would be 3 to 4 days long; a restful and inspiring setting with refreshing views and walk-friendly trails nearby; a well-lit workroom with ample space for each participant; fresh and simple meals prepared for the group; several mini-sessions over the days to include demos and opportunities to try out new methods or gadgets such as mixed media or surface treatments; private rooms would be nice; evening entertainment of a video or photos from a quilt show, or featured artist’s work. Good luck to you.
Dream retreat? Not too many people, so you get to know everyone. Work room with lots of natural light filtering through the trees. Individual tables for everyone, and comfortable swivel office-type chairs without arms. Lots of ironing, cutting stations and design boards. Relaxed,, not frantic atmosphere. Options to work on own projects or take classes. Good food, but not too much of it. Near several unique quilt shops that will stay open late just for the retreaters. Wine. Comfortable beds. Spa showers in each room. Massage therapist onsite. Planned Show & Tell. Ice breaker to get to know each other in the beginning.
My dream retreat would be two-part: The first portion would be held at a secluded resort where I could wind down & relax from this hectic world. All supplies are included so there is no lugging extra baggage. And an abundance of quilt shops would be nearby to shop ’til I drop. Then I would move on to the second portion, which would have me cruising to exotic destinations (with more quilt shops!). Of course, wonderful quilting workshops with awesome teachers would fill my days at sea. Okay, I’m ready…take me away!! 😀
A perfect retreat would have a lot of hands on teaching and some relaxing down time options- hikes, yoga, winery visits, etc. Glad to hear the damage wasn’t too bad!
allisonpogany@gmail.com
My dream retreat would be to attend a big quilting convention with classes and with my best friend in some fabulous city.
kdavis1@centurytel.net
My dream retreat would be a week of quilting, with a few lessons by nationally known teachers and at least two days to work on my own projects. I’d like there to be no more than 15 people and I’d want to make friends as well as learn.
It’s so beautiful there I would love to have some creative time outside under the trees, a little wine and lots of laughter.
A week-long Christian sewing/quilting retreat would be amazing!
A retreat, quiet place out in nature, where all the meals are prepared for you. Where you can focus on your new friends and learning new skills.
My dream retreat would be somewhere that is quiet, all meals provided, plus snacks. I would for the place to have plenty of light, sewing machines for everyone. A calm and peaceful place. It would be a real treat to have you, Winnie Fleming, and Sue Garman to teach some classes. Time to just sew and not do all the others things demanded of me at home!!!
A dream retreat would, of course, include awesome food. Plenty of room to work would be ideal. How great would it be to have a masseuse on hand to work out the kinks caused by being deeply immersed in your work all day!!
Dream retreat: to travel the world soaking in the foods sites and creative people everywhere while creating something pertaining to where I was each and everyday!
My Dream retreat would be to just quit working and devote all my time to my quilting. And of course work on my next step in “myself”, which is to open my Etsy site…
My dream retreat? Meals and lodging included of course. A large room with plenty of table and space to work for everyone. Lots of lighting, laughter and learning. A comfy bed at the end of the day. Quilt shop(s) close by for quick little field trips. Space enough for up to 10 people; more than that and I think it would be too hectic. Lots of fabric to play with and great friends who enjoy quilting as much as I do……I’m ready to go LOL
My dream retreat would include several fiber and art quilting guru’s to stretch my imagination and help me consider techniques that I haven’t used before.
My dream retreat….a few days with no phone, a simple yet fabulous setting, friends, space and tools for art, some learning, art, a fun excursion, more art.
My dream retreat – (a short list …)
* the location would be anywhere scenic so that while you are crafting/sewing/hanging out, your creative juices would be stirred while gazing outdoors.
* large open spaces with lots of light and enough tables to spread out whatever you are working on.
* helpful mini classes on all kinds of fiber (or paper or ….) crafts, maybe even a challenge or two with prizes.
* little shopping or scenic getaways planned to fuel the artistic bent and get to know the new friends you make.
* at least 4 days long but maybe even as long as a week or two.
* comfy beds and coffee in the morning.
* scrumptious food and snacks and of course, chocolate available always and wine in the evening!
Is this a short list? 😉
I have never been to a quilt retreat even tho their a re lots of them close to me. Maybe that’s the problem I need to go half way across the country to your new place for a retreat!!!
My dream retreat would include:
-access to Practical paleo food, chocolate and beer
– a sewing space that included lots of natural light, views of other quilters and the outdoors
– no tripping over cords
– high speed wi-fi
-a community design wall
-the ability to learn from, have access to a quilt/art teacher who acted like a tutor and instructor.
–
All or the replies are wonderful, but I would add, easy to get to without driving. I have become a timid driver.
My dream retreat would be in San Diego, where the weather is neither too hot or too cold. It would be in a mansion overlooking the ocean. A mansion with STAFF. People to carry my luggage, escort me to my palatial room that has a balcony, and there would be other like-minded people with me attending this retreat. We would have classes or open studio time. The mansion would have a free store onsite, so if I forgot anything or needed anything, it would be provided. A spa would be available to help those achy muscles that come when you stay bent over a hot sewing machine. Meals would be fresh and available all day, but including lots of fresh food that is locally grown. And there would be beer – lots of it. Samplings from local craft breweries and my all time favorite, Shiner Bock.
The retreat would last a month. We come as strangers and leave as family, eager to do this again next year.
Yep, that about sums it up.
Ida Tendam
A comfortable bed in a single occupancy room-doesn’t have to be large. Walking/running paths to start the day with. Afternoon exercise. Exceptional lighting–not just for sewing but also when I am eating. Large work spaces, sewing machines and basic items available to use so I am not taking mine. Drink holders, irons and boards that are easily available. A shop that is onsite where I can purchase items I may have forgotten. Snacks that do not come in a package but are fresh. Rolling and padded comfortable chairs. Lecture classes in the evening where we learn about the history and symbolism of quilts.
mmmmmmm. An area with comfy lounging furniture to take a break from hard work and soak in a view or enjoy books and friends and snacks. A design wall, table with lamp/light, outlets for each student and perhaps a storage cabinet as well so they can lock up stuff and not have to haul it back and forth. Lots of good food. My very favorite retreat to teach is five days of design basics that includes an art based field trip, mini excursions to sketch/find inspiration, and at least a day of design and critique.
My dream retreat would be somewhere warm and sunny, preferably with a beach to do some hand sewing on. It would include free neck and shoulder massages whenever they were needed and chocolate (calorie free of course!) on every table!!
My dream retreat would be a large and well-lit sewing space, with a patio where we could sew outside if the weather was good–south facing so the light would be perfect. Large sewing tables and a height-appropriate cutting table complete with a large mat. Rulers, irons & ironing boards that stay at the retreat center, as well. I’d love afternoon classes and maybe the option of some local sight-seeing. Afternoon classes because then the mornings and evenings would be free to work on our own projects and/or socialize, etc. Simple meals so that most of the time could be spent sewing. Comfy beds, but nothing else in the bedrooms (no TVs, phones, etc.).
I have never been to a retreat, so just going to one would be my dream!
My dream retreat would be held in a roomy, well lighted (lots of windows), working area where students could work and share the joy of quilting. I would invite my best friend Phyllis, from Texas, settle in and completely enjoy the experience. Napa, CA, is an ideal location for all to experience what CA is all about!
My dream retreat would be all inclusive meaning no need to lug a machine, supplies, etc. And includes overnight accommodations and all meals, snacks. Best wishes Pokey! 🙂
My dream retreat would be my FL buddies, time to sew & time to love & laugh!!
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My dream retreat would be somewhere in the mountains (since I live in NY, maybe the Poconos) with friends.
Wow! All these ideas sound wonderful! I’ll be happy with all! Especially like the laughs!
My dream retreat would have to be free of the need for me to cook or clean, would include time for myself and maybe a massage and then supplies and a great teacher to experiment with art quilting and embroidery. sound like heaven.
My dream retreat would be everything everyone has said plus a teacher/facilitator who would lead creatively – not teach only their own quilt or art work. And be fun!
I have been to any number of classes but never a real retreat where instruction and accommodations were in the same place and would love that. Having meals provided would be part of this. I would like to follow daily sessions with just some relaxing and sharing with other with the same interests. I love all kinds of fabric related topics, especially surface design, but would like one where instead of just creating the fabric, actually create a final product, rather than having a lot of raw material. Like design classes too. if machines are needed would like that they be provided or at least available for a reasonable rent.
I would have a FUN sewing retreat with great friends, fabrics, food, all taking place at a beach!
I have never been to a retreat… yet! I would want a private room that is cozy and well decorated with a place to look at the view while I sketch, paint, whatever. I would also want a large room for the class learning, with comfortable chairs with padded seats so my bottom does not ache after sitting a little while. Also I would want it to assessable for people with disabilities. Personally that means I need either a wider chair or at least one without arms. Handouts from the class that I can take home. It would need high speed wifi, and electric outlets galore. Time and encouragement to make friendships that will continue after the retreat, if wanted. Massages would be awesome.
Ahh, I bit like Asilomar. To make it perfect I would really enjoy spending each day with a different fiber artist and just about everything supplied for you and add glamping to the mix, one day of hiking and a bit of sightseeing/shopping, good friends, good food and wine of course…sign me up! Oh, and 7 full days of bliss in addition to travel time….10 days sounds good!
Like others, I’d have to say looking at Elm Creek is a great blueprint to begin with! Several guest teachers to chose from. Offerings for different confidence levels, and methods (paper-piecing/patchwork/applique..). Having it all ADA accessible would be great, as I’m stuck in a chair. Having equipment there to use a big plus for those of us out of state/area, access (onsite or near by) to supplies (fabric & kits) necessary as we always need another option or piece. Meals & snacks included, Breakfast-continental, Lunch-light (sandwiches/salads/soup) and Dinner sit down w/ awesome dishes & wine to showcase Napa. Maybe cooking demos as part of them. Breakfast & lunch buffet style so classes/activities could flow on their own schedules. Free time to work/sight see/relax. Access for late night or early morning sewing. Love the idea of meet & greet at beginning and assigned seating at dinner so you get to know others, if everyone has to participate there are no hard feelings. LOL, sounds like setting up GS resident camp. Hugs & Best Wishes on your new adventure.
A good group of quilters/switchers who leave the outside world behind and love to laugh. Absolutely no cell phones/text msgs/email/Facebook/Instagram/blogs. Leave all in driveway and p/u on your way home. OK, well maybe a computer, but only access is to view a quilt pattern or color chart or how to do something quilting related. Good food and drink, no diets allowed, lots of backed goods. Lots of natural sunlight, my bungee chair from The Container Store and my Sew-EZ table. Lastly a never ending supply of inspiration!
last msg was supposed to read a good group of quilters/stitchers…sorry!
Some place that is light and bright. Would have to be a scenic view and good company to share it with.
Some place near the sea, with friends & family!
My dream retreat would be with lots of quilting friends, along a mountain side with a glorious view. Plenty of time for laughing, sharing and creating. And lets not forget coffee and desserts anytime we wanted them. Feather beds all covered in quilts, just in case we find time to sleep.
Oh my god. A dream retreat at this point would just be anything low key without kids. ANYTHING. If I had to be pickier, though… I’d say I would want something with lots of options, but nothing too forced. Something relaxing and social, with everything provided (or as much as possible) and a beautiful setting to learn in!
No technology allowed. Quiet time but master class studio
My dream retreat: a location that is serene and inspiring, accommodations that are easily accessible, with flexible meals (what if I get really caught up in an idea?), private rooms, classes or lessons that aren’t rigid, area to socialize and get to know new friends without being shoved into “group time”, mature students (it’s not the age, it’s the maturity).
Am I strange, I just want a few great professionals to teach me how to use the many different types of machines so I can learn to do it all. Thanks POKEY, ps, i’m glad you have this site as I can now follow you here.
Mine would be camping in the UP! Surrounded by waterfalls and forest!
I would love a retreat that taught fabric dye process with natural materials. .. plants, berries, etc.
Quiet Setting, good food, adequate rooms, good conference rooms that set up for classes well, interesting teachers and something new that is hard to learn on my own without the help of a competent teacher.
Week long (or two) with both wet studio and design space. Healthy meals, good wine, a masseuse available, walking trails, comfortable beds with great sheets. A place to swim! Good lighting. I don’t want to be part of the drawing (I have too much fabric, too!).
Here are just a few things that would be on my idea of a perfect retreat: lots of open space, both inside and out, healthy meals, quiet, spa available for downtime between sewing, small intimate class time, and I could go on and on. 🙂 Thanks for the fantastic giveaway!
I would love to have an all expense paid retreat in which a group of quilters gather to learn shortcuts to make quilts for charity (I make quilts for the Santa Train and wounded military men and women). There would be state of the art sewing machines, fabric, and supplies available, good lighting, and home cooked meals. I know, dream on! Thank you for the chance to win a box of treasures!
Good friends (new and old), good projects, good food, good wine and maybe a good napa.
Here’s the set-up: Comfy quarters, with permission to stay up late if engaged in something exciting, such as a project with a completed non-traditional quilt/art piece as the goal. A creative and supportive teacher-guider or two, who will start with a fun technique, and inspire us to expand in any direction, using provided machines and supplies. Have hints ahead of time to bring extra materials from home (fabrics, beads, preserved moss, etc.). Include terrific and inspiring co-students. (Not possible to screen, of course, but hopefully ones who respond to a creative class description.)
An ideal addition: an on-site machine technician! I’m not a pessimist, though.
Thanks, Pokey.
My dream retreat would include fabulous teachers – with access to lovely fabric, good food, good company (a massage therapist sounds heavenly) in a nice setting. I would love to complete a project at a retreat instead of taking home pieces that never do get finished and put together…i digress…but i think a retreat where I could try new techniques and designs (more art like than craft like)..
My dream retreat would be to spend a week sewing and doing crafts. With school, i never get to sew and craft as much as i would like to, and that would give me opportunity to spend an entire week doing what i love.
My dream retreat………….. Picked up from the airport via passenger van, arrive at the retreat destination to a wine and cheese reception, the retreat location has a spa on site with massage and pedicures available. After the reception we are off to dinner and dessert of course and then coffee and tea with show and tell. Day two – breakfast, sewing, lunch outside on a quilt, sewing, pedicure, sewing, dinner, dessert, bed. Day three – breakfast, sewing, lunch, sewing, massage, sewing, dinner, dessert, bed. Sewing=learning something new, a class. I could go on forever! I love retreats!! PS I live in Canada, but have my sister in law’s address to ship to in Michigan.
A secluded location without commercialism , home cooked healthy food that is prepared for the group, lots of wine, a small group of old friends, climate control and very comfortable beds. Plenty of electrical outlets, modern irons, clean ironing boards, ample extension cords. Surprises. A road map before I get there with patterns if applicable. Above all, a personable, down to earth instructor that wants to be there and affords time for each student. The flexibility for the more advanced participants to help the newer participants.
I love retreats, have been on some good ones and really bad ones. A good one can be almost spiritual because it will get you in touch with your inner self and creativity begins to flow. Worth every dollar you expend. Oh nature is always good too.
Anywhere near a beach is always wonderful. Also a wine country retreat would be fun.
Your description of plans for this fantastic retreat speak to every corner of my heart! Ideally, it would be spent with my sister who lives in California. I live in Indiana, and my sister and I haven’t seen each other since our mother died 10 years ago. It won’t be affordable for me, but I have recommended it for her and her daughters. Have fun with your happy dream come true! I am an art quilter, and would love to add your overflow to my overflow.
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Everyone has such good ideas for the perfect dream retreat!! I so agree. I just want to show up with an appetite for learning (and some great food) and bring some clean clothes to get messy with dye, paint, a little wax and colourful strings of thread. I also need a cheerleader to kick my creative butt, keep convincing me to ignore my internal perfectionist and encourage me to work through my goofs. And perhaps a defibrillator because if this dream retreat is half the things we all want it to be, we might need to be revived from all the inspiration. However, in my real life, just winning some way cool fabric is a big enough dream for me. Good fortune on your journey, Pokey!
My dream retreat would be 4-5 days long in a beautiful, serene place with all the supplies provided so I only needed to show up. It would be both technique/project based so that I could learn something new and put it to use. There would be time in the day for introspection and sewcializing and time in class to see what everyone else is creating.
I love rustic retreats; where you are in the woods, with a beautiful view. I just don’t like to be too far from modern things, such as toilets and showers. I love a good sun room to sew in with your fellow retreatees and lots and lots of laughter and fabric.
Well, I have never been to a retreat, so I don’t know what they usually include, but since I like hand quilting, I’d like a lot of cozy places to sit and chat while stitching. I would like to see what others are making.
The Napa Valley would be my dream retreat location! I’d love a morning of fabric dying followed by winery tours in the afternoon, and then a delicious California picnic dinner and chatting around a fire
pit. The next day I’d like to do some printing/stamping/other alteration to the fabric, followed by a free afternoon for walking or reading, and then another California dinner. The third day I’d like to sew the altered fabric into some kind of art quilt. Congrats on your new business! And thanks for the chance to win this awesome box!
My dream retreat would be in the mountains on crisp Autumn days. Large widows in every room with a fabulous view. A cook to prepare all the meals so we would have more time to quilt. Great space for each quilter, so they wouldn’t be crammed together. Games to introduce each other and at the end a tell all to see what they learned and who they met. Fabric available for purchase along with other quilting supplies. Hard to say which teachers, I have watched so many great teachers out there. A large porch to sit and watch the sunset. Most important would be everyone would have FUN!
ncjeepster@aol.com
My dream retreat which i can only dream of is to come and play with art supplies with other fun women. The best would be to hang out and do awesome art and learn old techniques with new twist.
And Just have a good time!! Thankyou.
My dream retreat would be on a cruise ship, by the way Pokey, really enjoying your updates. Sorry about your bad news but looking forward to the new place! Linda James
My dream retreat would be as beautiful outside as it is inside. I would want classes outdoors and indoors. It would include art quilts and other mixed media ventures.
My dream retreat could be at any location. What I want is great lighting, comfortable chairs, delicious food and group of friendly people that I can learn with.
My dream retreat would be beautiful, outside, with delicious food, great friends, and fun crafts!
My dream retreat would be located in Jamaica! 🙂
Lots of time to learn and meet new friends and beautiful open rooms with lots of natural light.
Pokey,
My dream retreat is 5 days. Morning starts with a group hike, then breakfast, class from 9:00 until lunch, a short creative presentation by a teacher after lunch and time to walk or exercise before class from 2:00 until 5:00. Cocktail or wine party at 6:00 followed by dinner and a creative lecture or slide show by another teacher. I would like to take such a retreat and study with Sue Benner.
I prefer retreats that have attractive accommodations, I don’t want to stay in a college dorm room when I am at a retreat, I want to be in a special and beautiful setting that inspires my creativity. I would love to attend a retreat in a luxurious conference center or resort. I have attended the Alegre retreats for several years, organized by Katie Pasquini-Masopust. Alegre is exceptional. i would recommend it.
I am intrigued by your new venture. Will you be accepting applications for employment? I would like to tell my goddaughter about your endeavor, she lives in Napa, she is a writer and a creative individual and I just have a feeling she could contribute to your new company.
Cordially, Jean