The Weekend I Didn't Know How Much I Needed

It the Fiber Focused Retreat in Maryland hosted by Channy of @channypeascorner this year. I knew it would be a quick weekend, but I was ready with my crocheted red item for the fashion show and room in my bag for goodies. The entire weekend and travel experience was full of an ease, joy, and peace that I did not expect., but was so grateful to receive.

From my husband being able to drop me off at the airport with time to grab food and coffee with no rush, to the flight, uber ride, lunch by myself at Silver Diner where another diner repeatedly complimented me on my Placencia Scarf, to the ride to the airport from the lovely and gracious Dr. Joyce, to another easy airport navigation, to being greeted at the airport by my husband and daughter. Just overall grateful. Now let me tell you about the weekend.

I crocheted, ate, laughed, cried, shopped, stayed up late, danced, created, and had the best time. I shared a room with my friend Ila Quinn and we talked into the wee hours. We would turn off the lights and still keep talking. Like high school girls hanging out. She has been a friend and supporter that I have needed along this crochet design journey. I loved her even more after meeting her.

I so enjoyed everyone...literally. So many different, lovely, and necessary personalities in one room. It was an intimate gathering. that allowed us to connect on a level beyond and outside of social media. A safe space. People were transparent and vulnerable. Sharing wins, losses, hurts, and struggles. We rallied around each other in word and deed.

We laughed ya'll. Full, double over laughter. We shared big toothy grins beaming forth the joy and happiness we were feeling. Sharing warmth and love with one another.

We learned new things from three great instructors: Resin flower coasters - - LaVonne of @lsfberarts, PomPoms - Courtney of @flynnknit, and Rope Coasters - Quinn of @ilaquinndesigns. Each class and instructor was unique and fun.

Oh, I almost forgot to mention Club Fiber Focus Retreat. Look here! We hit the dance floor. We cupid shuffled and wobbled. We jammed out to hits from the 80's. I rapped all the lyrics to Slick Rick's Children's Story and hit the dance floor solo when It Takes Two by Rob Base started to play. I felt safe, free, and unjudged. Oh what a feeling!

I could go on and on about this weekend. I was blessed with the opportunity to reconnect with people, met new people, solidify friendships and make new ones. To be with others who spoke your fiber language. As Kamaca of @misspurlchicago stated so beautifully, "So many things in life are complicated, crafting doesn't have to be."

Every time I think of that weekend, I smile. A big thanks to Channy who took the idea of creating something she wanted to see and experience and making it a reality. Much love to you and the ladies!

#fiberfriendsarethebestfriends #adultfriends #womensupportwomen