and what a whirlwind it was! So fun. I love being surrounded by creative people. I don't care if they favour my style or one that is completely different, I just love it when people love to make stuff. Like my dear dear friend Kelly here. She used to live down the street from me, but now lives in Ohio. I never get to see her anymore, let alone craft with her, so it was such a treat to get her out to Silver Bella for the weekend. Anyway, let me start at the beginning...
So I had a connecting flight in Phoenix, where I was to meet up with Kim and her friend Cori. We had never met, so clever Kim made these signs of me to hold in front of their faces as they got to the terminal. Very funny...and very cute signs, but I was so embarrassed, I confiscated them immediately. I do love them though, and can't help but laugh when I remember that moment...good thing Kim is so quiet and shy, ha ha!
Once we all arrived at the airport, sweet Becca picked us up and joined us for dinner. Although most of us had not met previously, we instantly bonded. You'd think with a reaction like this, I'd remember what happened to cause me to guffaw like this, but no, can't remember what it was. Clearly, a good time was being had by all. These women are so great. All sweet, funny, clever, creative, generous, helpful, really. I could go on and on, but I will leave it at that. Thank you all so much, I loved meeting and spending time with you. Just sorry it went by so fast. Maybe next year?
During dinner, sweet sweet Becky quietly asked if Kelly and I might like to go to an antique shop the next day where you have to dig for treasure...uhhhh yeah!!!! So Teresa and Becky picked us all up and took us to Second Chance...loved it! 
Here you'll see Kelly and Cori on the hunt for jewelry pieces. Kelly is my other friend that makes jewelry. Her pieces are similar (use vintage stuff) yet different than my other jewelry artist friend Amy, and we are working on getting Kelly to set up an etsy shop. You know I'll let you know as soon as she does.
Here Teresa and I are sorting through trims and things. Lots of treasures were found by all, but especially Carolyn, Kelly, and me. The others went to lunch next store while we kept up the hunt for hidden treasures. I'll show you what I found another day, when my box arrives. (Yep, bought more than my suitcases could hold.)
Happy Bellas heading home...until Carolyn pointed out the need for a photo in front of this building, which brought on another round of laughter and silliness, pretending to be too cool (notice I couldn't even keep a straight face, figuratively and literally).
Then it was back to the hotel for set up and sign in for all the participants. Teresa really went all out (and her family too, who were there helping) planning the event, getting sponsors (see the silver bella blog for info) and creating the magic that occurred. Teresa's friend (and sponsor) Holly (who owns a local store called Creative Elements) decorated the room with pink feather trees and snowflakes and each guest received a pink cake box with materials to make a festive garland which Miss Foof herself created and taught. Then it was time for the Bella boutique.
Oh my, too many treasures to show,and too many vendors to cover(mentioned on the silver bella blog as well), but here are some of the photos I took of the wares for sale.
The next day, each attendee had 5 (!!!) different 2 hour classes, two of which I taught. A crazy long day of crafting! I met new friends and was happy to see some old friends as well. It was fun to put some people's faces with their blogs, and to have blog readers introduce themselves. Here's a photo of Carolyn's last class, with creations in hand. Looks like a happy bella group to me!
It was a busy, fun filled weekend. Thank you again Teresa, for all the hard work and creativity you put to use making it a special event for us all. As for those that have asked, yes, I will have some kits to sell and will give notice here first. It won't happen before Monday to be sure. Thanks for the interest. Guess I better try to get the mess in my house from the whirlwind of preparation picked up now...wish me luck!
