It was 114 on the thermometer when we departed on our trip. We drove for 5 1/2 hours. Whew. Since I drove there was NO crocheting time. Yes, it hurt me too. I had googled directions to a local yarn shop and actually went there before we even checked in for the competition. www.yarnhaus.com. They were having a sock knitting on circs class, I listened and watched abit. But didnt want to disturb them. Since the store was having a 20% off sale, I got some sweet deals!
We then went to the convention center and checked into our room..... on the 26th floor..... Hey, I felt like a queen. Valet parking, bellhop carting luggage, and the room was awesome! Feather pillows & comforters. granite shower, and what an immaculate view of the bay! We had the whole afternoon Friday to do as we pleased. So we pleased to restup and then head down to the lounge for some down time. Live music, great atmosphere. We had a great time.
Saturday was a day of mixed emotions. I do not like crowds. And, here I was surround by 1500 convention go-ers. So what do I do? Yep. I found my anxiety meds and took them. The county chairperson took me by the arm, after she found out I was shy and lead me thru the sea of people, introducing me and keeping me talking (and breathing). We went to the grand ballroom which was setup for our "ladies luncheon". 10 people sat at each table. and wow, there were so many tables. each table had a massive gift basket in the center. Some had kitchen stuff, bathroom stuff, bubbly (yes, liquor girls), and just all sorts of items. I would guess 150 baskets in total. For lunch we had a fruit plate. some fancy-schmancy chicken and rice dish, and what southern luncheon would be complete without a slice of pe-can pie and freshly whipped creme.
After lunch, we had a guest speaker from the Ronald McDonald House. and a fashion show, with heirloom kids, and then adult fashions. All handmade. After that, another speech. finally, we get to the goody of the situation. the prize winners. each one of us were asked to stand by our entries. I was so nervous. I told myself not to cause a scene. Not to hyperventilate, and not to stand "wonky". I think I did pretty well. 3rd place....not my name. whew. 2nd place.... my name. I was thrilled. They handed me the ribbon and prize money (cha-ching)then 1st place. It went to an elderly lady who squeezed my hand and cried. She kept saying. "ooh, ooh, i've never won anything! are you sure? is it me? ooh ooh! I admit I teared up. she kept holding my hand and shaking. Now, I was scared SHE was going to hyperventilate! I patted her hand and congradulated her. Her entry was pretty. Diamonds and squares in filet, in about a size 20 ecru thread. I was happy for her. I was happy I placed, but there is always next year,right? So we left that convention center and headed north. We stayed in the capital city and a regular little hotel. no down comforter, no down pillows, but a king bed so its all good. about 9 ish we got hungry and went in search of sustinance. We decided on the sho-gun Japanese resturant. Great time, great food, great company. Those chefs are amazing chopping and whacking that food into yummy goodness. I definately recommend it! Just got home awhile ago. Beat. but a feeling of satisfaction has came over me. I've never entered a crocheting contest before and to place 2nd in state, is not too shabby for a first-timer. Will I do it again? We shall wait and see! thanks to all who kept us in thought during our trip. I appreciate it!
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