Fall Retreat October 2016 Review

Another amazing sewing extravaganza was had by all at Beachcombers Haven in Gleneden Beach. As always, it was the perfect getaway spot for a record number of gals to gather together in October to enjoy each other’s company as well as a wealth of expertise to tap into as needed at a moment’s notice.

Coordinator Leenie Risser did an outstanding job once again this year by flawlessly weaving together every possible detail so that we could hit the ground running when we arrived with cars fully loaded. Sewing stations were ready to go, snacks were out, irons were plugged in, duty rosters and room assignments posted. Smiles and welcome hugs doled out one after the other to a record number of 27 “sandbox” sewers—including five first-timers this year. We managed to stop talking and playing long enough to complete an outstanding number of projects and the “show-n-tell” wall was a thrilling sight to watch as the week unfolded.

Leenie had a special surprise this year raffling off quilts she made. What a way for her to choose to celebrate 10 years of excellent health that follows some serious major medical issues! Congrats to Ruthie Ruby and Maryanne Leipper—quilt winners. And congrats to Leenie for her generous way letting us celebrate with her.

First project on our Show-n-Tell hit parade was Lisa Pridgen’s fiber basket. I can’t wait to try to make one of these for myself….. There’s always at least one project each year that knocks my socks off and her basket project has apparently taken care of my Christmas list. One tip to pass on from her is that if you use clothes line instead of cording, the basket will have stiffer sides.

Kudos to Beth Schwab and Cheryl Burleson, both from ASG Willamette Valley, for knocking out 37 ‘My New Red Shoes’ bags and to Kathy Kruse for adding 6 more to the tally. We had a grand total of 45 bags and 6 ‘Passage Quilt Project’ quilt tops.

Yummmmmm…… Dinner time is always so much fun. Starting with wine tasting and chocolate (yes, dessert first!..) Friday night’s gathering in “Cabin Central” was so inviting. Thank you to the many volunteer cooks and clean-up crews for this year’s tasty feasts on Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights, and for the added breakfast on Saturday morning. Nobody went hungry and leftovers were a real treat as the days (and nights) rolled on.

This is why I drive so far each year to spend my only vacation time with these ladies. They are awesome in every way….

Respectfully submitted:
Jennifer Baker – Penngrove CA (650 miles away…)