Good Morning Everyone,

I have been home from the conference for over a week, and I finally unpacked the last bag, put everything away and feel "caught up".

I have lots of photos from the conference and I'll post a few today, more tomorrow.

The conference was terrific. My week began with my speaking at Professional Development Day, my topic-IN IT FOR THE LONG HAUL; How to Reinvent Yourself to Succeed! I guess the committee chose me to talk about this because I have been in the needlearts business for a very long time, having my first design published in 1976 and my first book in published in 1978. Nineteen books and countless publications later, I am still very active in this business.

My son put together a slide show of my body of work, and seeing it all together in a series of 48 photos, was overwhelming to me.

Professional Development Day is an exciting day for any one wanting to work in the many aspects of the knit and crochet world. In addition to my talk, Vicki Howell gave a very comprehensive talk on how to use social media to advance your business, and Ellen Gormley spoke on how to give your designs a "wow" factor.

First photo is of me, trying out the podium, getting ready for my talk. Me and Vicki Howell "posing for the camera", Kimberly McAlindin,Tammy Hildebrand, Cari Clement, Ellen Gormley, me and Vicki Howell, just before getting ready for our talks.

After breaking for lunch, all attendees had the opportunity to attend 3 sessions with professionals, representing quite a few different aspects of business.

A great day was had by all. Classes began the next day.

Have a great day,

Margaret