Sorry not to have written for a while - I've been away (twice) - more in a moment - and have been working hard on various projects for next years show and the year ahead.
Well, would you like the good news or the very good news first? Actually it is all very good news so thats go ahead with that:
The 2008 show was visited by more visitors than ever before and we had so many lovely things said by our visitors, lots of comments about the wonderful exhibitions - so thank you to all our exhibitors, about the warmth and friendliness of our volunteers, so thank you to all our volunteers, the variety and choice of goods on offer by our traders, so thank you to all you traders.......I could go on but you get the general idea.
Next years (2009) show will be even better, we have exhibitions coming from France, from around the world, from Scotland and the rest of the UK. We have a wonderful new juried exhibition called "Homecoming Quilts", please spread the word around all the quilters you know outside Scotland. LLQS09 is part of the official "Homecoming Scotland" programme for 2009, do visit www.homecomingscotland.com. So encourage friends near and far to come to Scotland in 2009 and make sure that they come in May and visit us as well.
The new LLQS programme for classes and workshops - all year around will be announced at the beginning of August, with classes etc starting in September. We have a new office, storage and WORKSHOP space in Dumbarton. The three of us are busy re-wiring (is there no end to our talents?) with help from our friends, stripping (that's paint stripping) sanding and painting. Its fun and hard work - but we have to be ready for September.
Isabel, Patricia and I have just been away with another friend Fiona on a New England Quilt Tour with Country Heritage Tours of Amherst New Hampshire. We had the best time four quilters could have. Our tour companions - another 47 women and 1 man were guided around quilt shops, shows and exhibitions by the world's best guide Vicki Pitts. Driven with care and expertise by Renee. We can't say enough good things about this trip, truely a great time was had by all, we can't wait to book for the next time.
Stay in touch - I'm here over the summer - just a few days hooky to do some judging down at Birmingham and one or two other things.
On e personal note - Richard and I have just celebrated 30 years of marriage! Patricia is awaiting - anyday now - the birth of a new grandchild and Isabel and Chris are putting in a new kitchen. Just in case you don't think we have lives outside LLQS.
Back soon
Ruth