Home Again!

Hello!  I made it back in one piece from CHA with a head full of ideas, and much excitement about what’s brewing for the near future.  My husband and Wally met me at the airport and I rode home with a 100 lb Golden Retriever on my lap in the front seat.  He couldn’t get close enough and, of course, he has no idea how big he is.  It was okay with me.  I was missing those fuzzy Wally hugs something fierce!

I was bubbling with energy during the entire trip, but the minute I hit the couch it just drained right out of me.  Rich tried unsuccessfully to wake me up at midnight, and I finally became somewhat conscious around 3:30 am and stumbled like a drunken sailor to the bedroom.  Apparently, during my absence, Wally had taken up residence on my side of the bed but I slipped into the approximately 18” of space he’d allowed me, gave him a few smooches, and fell into a state of catatonia for a few more hours.  I’m not yet in full control of my faculties, but I wanted to share a bit of the trip with you today.

First of all, I’d like to say how much I enjoyed the time I spent with my Flourishes teammates.  We fit together like peaches and cream.  A nicer bunch I couldn’t imagine.  Here’s a photo of the gang:

Front row, left to right:  Dee (from the blog team which does the Timeless Tuesday challenges), Jan Marie (owner), Julie, Stacy  Back row, left to right:  Me, Cindy, Dawn

Christine, Laura, and Danielle could not be with us, however, I did get to spend some time later with Barbara Anders (blog team) – another awesome lady who I felt like I’d known forever.

I can’t possibly name or picture everyone I renewed acquaintances with or met for the first time.  I will say that after all these years on SCS I was thrilled to spend some time with Sherry Cheever (I was SO hoping she’d be there!), Cindy Lyles, and Val Stangle.  It was like Old Home Week!  Funny how familiar and comfortable you can be with folks you’ve only known through the internet.

I fell in love with the DoodleBug display.  I wish I could remake my stamp room to look just like this:

 

Here’s just a tiny preview of what’s coming to Flourishes:

 
  

There’s much, much more, but I don’t want to overdo it.  Suffice to say that we were very busy scouting for three days, and Jan Marie and Julie had their hands full placing orders.

The Flourishes team knows full well what the show stopper was for me, and I haven’t even pictured it here.  I believe I was simply too overcome by the beauty of it.  It was designer paper by Prima.  Oh, glory!  I don’t even need to say “be still my heart” because my heart simply stopped upon first sight.  I think I dragged everyone I met over to see it!  It will be in the Flourishes store soon, bless Jan Marie’s little pea-pickin’ heart!

Okay. . . is that enough for today?  I think so.  Stamping will happen when I’ve recovered my senses.  What a fabulous trip it was!  Thank you to everyone who made it happen, and thank you all for putting up with my excitement.  Have a great day!

Comments

[Glenda Brooks]

I'm so glad you had a great time! I'm so envious...CHA...wow! I know Wally and Hubby are so happy to have you home!

[Betty McCommon]

I can only imagine how much fun you had and how tired you must have been. I can imagine how your dog missed you. I always hate leaving my dogs when we go, they don't understand.
My husband said sometime I can go to CHA so someday I will.

[Sherry Cheever]

OMG I can't believe that we finally were able to meet in person and get to spend some time together. I will totally hang out with you anytime and be BAD together and I hope it's sooner than later! Big Hugs my fabulous friend!!!!

[nancy littrell]

OMG Leslie, sounds like an absolutely FABULOUS trip:-) I just knew you would love it and come home totally inspired! I can not wait to hear all about it IRL! TFS your pictures and a tiny bit of new products. Will be watching for your new creations. TFS

[Rose Ann]

What a great photo of you all, and it sounds like such a fun time! Looks like some fabulous goodies are coming to Flourishes as well!!

Your homecoming with your DH and Wally sounds perfect! ;)