I have been writing this blog post now for more than an hour, and I am struggling. I cannot explain how it felt to meet dear dear friends who I firmly believed I would never ever meet in real life.
I hope they know just how much it meant to me. These photos look so “stand-and-smile” but it wasn’t like that at all. There was a LOT of hugging and some gift swapping, and loud raucous laughter and a bit more hugging. There were toilet stories and sharing and encouragement and support and invites to parties. Thimbleanna you are here in spirit. We never did manage a photo-or certainly not on any of my devices. I smile like an idiot every time I look at these photos, Stephanie, Jacquie and Erica
You lot are a whole lot of bomb-diggetty.
and this is a new friend and a story I shall be telling for about the next five forevers. A while ago, Angie sent me one of those “you-don’t-know-me-but” kind of emails. In her email she offered to loan me some things for my booth. In fact, she went around and photographed all the things in her house that might be useful and sent me pics and measurements and ideas. (yep, kinda crazy… but in the best way). I bought things online and sent them to her house…..lots of things in lots of boxes. Nothing was too much trouble. Then Angie and her gorgeous (and funny) husband delivered all my junk to the Convention centre for me, along with their furniture. Angie helped me set up and then hung out with Jem and I and then at the end of it, they were there helping again. Unbelievable !
After quilt market Jem and I went to visit Angie and her family to say thanks and were given dinner and completely and utterly embraced. Angie’s help was invaluable, not just at quilt-market but in the weeks before-hand when I was a complete stress head. It felt so good to have someone on hand in that whole other alien country who I could ask questions of. I knew Angie was a great person but it was just so much more than that, we got to hang out with her awesome family and laugh and read bedtime stories. On the night we were leaving we all headed outside and then Angie realised we didn’t have a photo so we rushed back in and took a few quick pics. (look at the littlest man sleeping in the background). The very best bit about this crazy internet adventure is the new friends, and I know you all know that.
I tell you, my dance-card overflows.
Are you free for the next dance?
ReplyDeleteSo thrilled for you Jodie, especially that none of them turned to to be axe murderers.
ReplyDeleteso jealous of the awesome people who got to hang out with the awesomer you.
ReplyDeletehow wonderful that bloggy bond is Jodie and what a treasure Angie is,so glad you had an awesome o/s adventure.xx
ReplyDeleteI think it is called karma Jodie. Lovely people get to meet lovely people.
ReplyDeleteVic has been to the States a few times and he is always humbled by their generosity of spirit and genuine interest in what you are about. How wonderful to make new friends like that. You have been truly blessed. :)
ReplyDeleteI consider myself the very lucky one to not only have met you in person but to call you my friend. :o) Angie is amazing and you are so deserving.
ReplyDeleteAwww, I AM there in spirit! What were we thinking? (Ok, I'll tell you what we were thinking -- I hate to have my picture taken and it rarely happens LOL!) I was so sorry we didn't get more time to chit-chat -- your booth was swamped every time I went by. I'm betting Angie is the one who feels lucky -- I know just how she feels -- that's how I met Kellie!
ReplyDeleteSo....for your next trip.... ;-D
Wonderful! And people ask why we blog! We make REAL friends through this internet. People who don't participate will never understand. I'm so glad the trip went well- it sounds like it was amazing.
ReplyDeleteLook at you! *waves like bonkers*
ReplyDeleteAmazing isn't it? Karma can be a bitch, but mostly she's not.
ReplyDeleteJodie, you are so lovely. I love to hear your stories. You have a beautiful writing voice that is a joy to read. Thank You!
ReplyDeleteWonderful stuff! So glad you had a good time.
ReplyDeleteSounds like all the stress of quilt market was so worth it. New friends, new stories and an adventure of a life time.
ReplyDeleteBecause you are so funny and warm people fall in love with you. X
ReplyDeleteProvidence! because someone Greater orchestrates these little favors for us, what's not or who's not to love? So happy for you, it's sooooooo not about things right? Can't wait for my turn.... some day........
ReplyDeleteThe people are always the best bit!
ReplyDeleteGlad you had a successful trip.
I've heard (and read) that Portlanders are great people, and you've certainly proved that right!
ReplyDeleteI was wondering how you were getting on, I tell you there are some great people out there. Glad it all worked out and you had a wonderful experience.
ReplyDelete