Dispatch from Asilomar, #1

We couldn't have asked for a more perfect day for the drive up north; cool but not cold, a bit windy, blue skies, wildflowers in bloom all along the way--and we got to our hotel in time for Happy Hour (popcorn and snacks, with complimentary drinks). We (quilter friend Sandy and I) met up with two more quilter friends, and we strolled across the parking lot for dinner--just a nice relaxing evening.
Sunday morning we were able to have a good hot breakfast (gotta love Embassy Suites!) then hit the quilt and yarn shops in Pacific Grove before checking in for the conference. I broke down and bought a couple of balls of lavender Calmer to make a Shedir for D2. It's cast on and the first row knit... pictures soon.

Couple of random photos, just because this place is so darn photogenic. Today the sky was as clear and as deep a blue as I've ever seen--so blue it almost looks phony.

The stairs are at Merrill Hall, the view of the trees is from the opposite direction--I just turned around and took another photo.

This is Merrill Hall. My class this year is meeting there--it's not my favorite classroom, I must admit, but it's been very convenient.


Here's a view of the top of my workspace as I get started cutting strips for my "strata." I haven't gotten very far in this picture... as of tonight, I've got 95 fabrics cut into strips, with another 16 left to go. Hopefully I'll be able to get out the ol' 1230 and start sewing in the morning.
The teacher for the class is Louisa Smith, who has energy to burn and who loves loves teaching in Merrill Hall!

This is one of my classmates showing off her completed strata. She has over 100 fabrics in this set.



Friend Sandy had already sewn her strata at home (can y ou say, eager?) so she was ready to start cutting and laying out her pieces.

Here's what it looks like so far.

Not to worry, this arrangement will probably be changed again and again before being sewn down.


Another view of my work space. I am not a tidy quilter, unfortunately, nor am I especially well organized. My excuse this year is that my whole life is rather unorganized, to put it mildly. When I was packing for this trip I realized that I had better pack clothing I like, since I may not be able to access anything else when I get back!

Yes, I left D4 to deal with the contractor and the painters and the rest of the project.

But Karma has reared her head and bitten me where I sit. Specifically, in the driver's seat--my truck is at the local Ford dealer's getting some major work done. Nothing like having vehicle trouble when you're 400 miles from home!

Okay, time for me to trek down the hill to bed. I've about exhausted my energies for tonight, and I'll need to recharge for tomorrow!