Oh, how I want to go this year, and went in about 2004 (my first and only time). I can say that I stayed about a block or so away in a hotel, but wouldn't recommend it. I didn't rent a car, just walked everywhere. Not many places to eat near the convention center, or my hotel, so I had very little to do at night. I loved the conference, and shopping. I signed up for a class with Ricky and it went for a couple of days. Wow! Then I found the nicest antique quilt there, and bought it right before catching my flight home. Wow! I'd love to go back, but maybe have to wait until next year when my youngest is in college and drives. Right now I take him to school each day and bring him home. Have fun!!! Karen Wheeler

Mary, I went to the Gala on the Green last year, but was dissappointed. But, there WAS a group that was having lots of fun up close to the band, laughing and dancing, etc. Was that the TQS crowd? My roommates and I were at a very "unfun" table. (Venders making plans for the next day, etc.) The lighting was so poor where we were sitting, we were not even sure what we were eating. The sad thing was that they did not charge last year, so everyone signed up, and then half did not show. People were walking out with 2 or 3 extra dinners. (The fruit salad was good for breakfast the next morning.) So, my question is: Do the TQS members try to sit together at this event, and can you actually "talk" while the band is playing? Should I sign up? (I love to dance, but am self concious, unless there are a lot of us. A glass of wine helps, too.)

Franceslovesfabric wrote: No, I signed up for her Wednesday class (although I haven't gotten my confirmation yet!)

Maggie in E. Central Illinois

BJ, next year it will be me crying that I can't go back. This will be my first time -- and probably only time for a long time to come. I heard that they will have a display of the Hoffman challenge quilts, so if so, I'll be sure to look for yours and take a photo for you! Hugs, Robin

My notice came today and I got the two things I requested: Ricky's Best Kept Secrets and Ricky's concert. I had thought about signing up for the Gala on the Green. Can anyone who has attended it tell me how it was? I'm getting more excited very day.

Sigh and UGH (I'm Unable to Go to Houston) again this year. Maybe sometime...you all sound like you are planning a whale of a quilt party! So raise a fat quarter to those of us from TQS who have to say UGH again this year! Cheers, BJ

My sister and I have signed up for Ricky's class but like you, we haven't heard yet if we have it and the other ones we applied for.

Maureen from Scotland

I signed up for Ricky's Best Kept Secrets, but don't know yet if I got in. Sure hope I do.

If you've never been to a RT Super Seminar, I think Ricky's Best Kept Secrets class (#530) would be an absolute MUST DO in Houston!

WooHoo! I'm in the David Taylor class on Wednesday! Last year I took a class with Frances' husband so it is only right that I get to take one with her this year. Is anyone else in Ricky's Best Kept Secrets class on Friday?

I have the David Taylor class on Wednesday, Wanda I hope that's the one you're in. And I have the Judith Baker Montano class on Saturday, is that the class you have Maggie? Looking forward to seeing all my friends there.
Frances

I just wanted to chime in and say that I too, am going to Houston! Wasn't real sure about it at first, but overcame a couple of hurdles and now it's a go. I hooked up with a group of friends who live a couple of hours south of me. We are all staying at the Hilton! Yeah! My hotel of choice! (Vicky - if you still do not have a room, keep calling the Hilton, as I think our group may be cancelling a couple of rooms if we quadruple up!) I am so excited, and this will be my 9th straight year. I just started to post and blog a couple of weeks ago, so am beginning to learn a little about each of you. What a fun group! I WILL go to the TQS booth each day at 1:00pm, and meet y'all! And, maybe Thursday night dinner? Didn't know what I'd been missing! Dana or Ann, tell Alex and Ricky Dawn Siden said "Hi!" when you see them on Monday. (I promise they will not give you a blank stare!!) Wish I could be there with you!

Dawn
In beautiful Northwest Montana

It's great to hear so many TQS members will be in Houston, I went in 07 and 08 and am soooooo looking forward to going again. I will be arriving on Wed afternoon and leaving Sun morning. I am waiting to hear about the classes I signed up for and of course Ricky's concert and the Gala. Not sure I have left myself enough viewing and shopping time but I'll manage. Janet, good luck with your entries. Wanda, thank you in advance for arranging dinner, Margarita, glad to hear you are making the journey. See you all soon, Pat

scottishquilter wrote:
That sounds like a good plan, Maureen. Nothing wrong with Joanns and Walmart as far as I'm concerned! I'm sure you'll be stopping at a few quilt shops too. Hope I'll get to meet you at the show.