Wednesday, May 07, 2008

blast

Last week, I de-cat-haired my house in anticipation of company. I knew that at least one of my guest was allergic to cats, so I put forth my best effort in cleaning every corner and baseboard. If only I'd known that one of them would be allergic to TEXAS!! The pecan pollen just about did poor Melissa in!

On Thursday, when everyone began to arrive, Kristi and I met three of them - Melissa, Sarah, and Lee - at the airport, then whisked them away to my corner of the metroplex for Fuzzy's Tacos - my favorite! From there, we picked up Cara, then headed back to the airport for Desiree. After spending the day shopping at my favorite scrapbook store, we made our way back to Fort Worth and the historic Stockyards, where we scarfed down tender, juicy, perfectly seasoned filets.

The next morning, 4 more friends arrived, and Darren prepared a scrumptious brunch of fresh fruit, miniature quiches, muffins, and pigs in a blanket. (I don't think I could ever entertain if not for Costco. The muffins and little quiches came from there.) By noon, we were on the road, headed for Summers Mill, outside of Salado, for a scrapbooking retreat.

Don't laugh, but we (by we, I mean Sheri) rented a U-Haul trailer to haul all of our scrap crap! Seriously... 11 women, a weekend's worth of clothes and toiletries, and our scrap stuff. We filled the floor of the trailer, and even had some stuff stacked on top of it!
On our way down to Summers Mill, we stopped in Waco to visit fellow scrapbooking friend Melissa, and to meet her 1-week old baby. He was adorable, and Melissa, as always, looked radiant. Her other two children were thrilled to have visitors, and were delightful and sweet, just like their Mommy.

I had a BLAST at the retreat! I have proof, too. Usually, I'm able to get anywhere from 20-30 layouts done, but this time, I only finished FIVE! And they were five simple ones at that! Since I largely work on client jobs here at home, I make myself work on my own photos at retreats. That's usually enough to motivate me and keep me working throughout the weekend; it's fun to work on my own memories! But this weekend, I was feeling more social than motivated. I don't regret it, though. Between visiting with the other 41 women there and reconnecting with old friends, I had the BEST time! We found time to shop in Salado (a treat in itself), sing karaoke (I did Journey's "Don't Stop Believin'"), and to take a 2 mile walk around the pastoral property.
Sunday night, we returned to Fort Worth, where Melissa, Sarah, Tiffany, Desiree and I managed to stay up all night long! At about 2:00, I said, "We have to leave for the airport in 3 hours. We might as well stay up." And so we did.
Great friends.
Great times.
What a blast!

5 comments:

Brynn said...

HOW FUN! I'm so jealous, I wish I could have been part of the "porch swing" pic!

I'm glad you all had so much fun & everyone made it home safe & sound.

Sherry said...

One of these days I am going to get myself to an SS retreat. It would also be better than great to be able to meet you one day! I am still looking for the Karaoke videos... =D

~Melissa~ said...

Awww, Stacy! You'll never know how much your visit meant. :) Thank you for taking the time to stop by.

Sarah said...

Stacy, this trip was fantastic and I cannot thank you enough for making it possible. I came home refreshed and relaxed.

I never did get to eat at Sonic or get a picture taken of just you and I so I am going to have to invite myself back. LOL

I am still thinking about the food at Fuzzy's and Dutch's. YUMMMY

You are such a great hostess and tour guide. I can't wait until next month when it is my turn.

Melissa said...

Even though I am allergic to Texas, the friendship and fun more than made up for it. Im already planning my next trip. I cant wait to see you again next month and return all the hospitality you showed me. Love ya!!