Tucson 2010

I hadn't planned on exhibiting at Tucson this year. I was just going to shop and attend the Interweave Party. (Yes, I would drive all the way to Tucson to go to that party. It is that good!)
Then an email came from Kate McKinnon asking if I was interested in a booth at the Best Bead Show. The table space was to be next to Green Girl Studios. Kate offered to put me up at her house. My cushie digs would be in the "Barbie Vintage Dream Coach", a wonderful old trailer Kate has restored into cool and cozy digs. (Photos by Kate McKinnon)

Now I really had to hustle to get ready. It was less than two weeks until the show. Julie, my wonderful helper and friend rushed over and we worked like crazy getting more kits done and packing up the car. I set out for Tucson Tuesday, Feb. 2 at about 7:30 am. The day ahead would consist of driving the 6 1/2 hours to Tucson arriving at the Kino Center where the Best Bead Show is held. Unloading my car and setting up my booth. A quick cat nap, fix the makeup and change clothes, then off to the Interweave Press Party. Busy day!!! As I was extiting the Kino Center into the parking lot, I noticed this spectacular desert sunset! The sunsets are some of my favorite things about the desert. Next stop, the Interweace Press Party! This is one of the best parties of the year. Interweave Press throws a party for it's advertisers. Most of us have known each other for at least 15 years. Most of us are bead vendors or have exhibited our artwork and have advertised in Beadwork Magazine and/or other Interweave publications. The world's nicest people are in the bead business, so it is always a great pleasure to see each other again at this lovely party! Laughter, hugs and catching up are what this party is all about! The staff of Interweave Press are so great! Thank you Interweav for another stellar evening! Below from Left to Right: Jean Campbell & Kate Richbourg, Joella, Me and Carole of Creative Castle, Doris & Judith Schwab both bead store owners in Chicago. These are just a few of the lovely people I am privelaged to visit know in this wonderful bead world! More on Tucson tomorrow!