I have been teaching at Houston IQA show. I thought I would get to see some of the market and festival, but so far the long arm classes have taken all my time. Pam Clarke and I (and all of our crew) did set up last Saturday and Sunday. The classes started Monday morning and I have been involved with the classes since then. I was able to attend the awards ceremony on Tuesday evening. It was absolutely the best. Sue McCarty won best of show and many other longarm quilters as well. Renea Haddidin won 2 awards for miniature and for wearables. I'm so proud of all the long arm quilters! My classes have been full to the brim and the students have been soooo wonderful. I have seen a few repeat students, but most of the students are brand new to me. I love new friends, so I'm thrilled. We have also talked to many new teachers about taping on thequiltingschool.com Everyone is excited about it and they want to tape early in the spring. It will be very fun. I'm exhausted tonight. I have 2 classes left to teach tomorrow and then I leave for home early Saturday morning. My energy level has stayed up much longer than I anticipated and my back hasn't hurt at all. I really think the West Clinic has been a successful alternative to back surgery for me. I am totally energized with quilting ideas. I can't wait to get home and implement them. I also have a show quilt waiting for me......... My 2 new show quilts are hanging in the Houston Show in the Swvorski display. They are absolutely gorgeous. Cheri did a beautiful job of putting the crystals on each quilt, including the backs.