This fun and interesting quilt was made in secret for Elly in 2002 at the Academy, during secret late night stitching. We surprised her with it and it was wonderful to see it this year. Both my mama, Jo Ann and I have blocks on it:)
Susanne Louth was the Honored Quilter this year and we got to see a few of her treasured quilts and hear her story of quilting through the years. She was awe-inspiring and lovely to listen to.
One of Jeni Buechel's latest patterns from a new set. This is one of the patterns from FLOURISHES. Her designs ands fabulous silks can be found on her ORNAMENTAL APPLIQUES website. Incredible appliquer and designer and purveyor of fine silks and other extraodinary fabrics.
Another beauty for our eyes... I believe that this was by Suzanne Louth, as well. Please correct me if I am wrong:)
My proud mother, with her first entry into the annual academy challenge. This cardinal is her original design and I think that she did a wonderful job on it. The challenge winner wins a $500. scholarship for tuition to the next year's Academy!
Of course, no Academy year would be complete without a skit written and directed by Bette, our beloved administrator and friend. Here, Elly is showing us all how the late night stitchers look and act when gathering for some last stitches for the night. Green robe and light up glasses to boot! Too much fun!
A beautiful creation by teacher, Suzanne Marshall. I saw this with a 1st place ribbon in Houston!
At the annual "our Mother's Hats" afternoon tea and social, we gather in all kinds of headgear. My Academy friends brought along an extra tiara to make me feel extra special. l.-r. - Teri, Katie, Diane, Pat and myself.
A treasured photo with a treasured quilter extraordinaire - Sharon Schamber. The beautiful show stopper behind us is the Grand Champion prize winner at Houston this past year. Spectacular!
And her latest creation almost finished! Sorry about the back view, Sharon! Listening to her talk about this lovely quilt was so awe-inspiring and fun, just after yet another Academy gathering.
Some great students of mine from classes I taught. We truly had so much fun and their creations were all delightful to see take shape. The front row is sharing their THINK OF ME, DEAR ONE block, shown in a quilt that I have in Elly's latest book.
This block was my AZALEA FESTIVAL design class and I was honored to have these ladies show their efforts at the last main gathering before some of us scattered to the four winds.
If able, you must put this Academy on your Bucket List, for it is a week-long extravaganza like none other! Maybe we'll see you there in 2012!
