Empty Spools (Asilomar)

[Randi S.]

Has anyone been to Asilomar? Do they have irons set up in the classrooms, or should I purchase an iron when I get there (I'm flying)? Is something scheduled the entire time, or do you have personal time in the evenings? Any hints that would help me plan for packing?

[Alex A.]

Have I got hints for you!
Don't worry about irons - lots of people drive and there will be plenty. If possible pack something like an OTT light - some of the classrooms can be dark - especially if it is raining outside. Speaking of rain, bring an umbrella and dress in layers. It doesn't get super cold (just wet) because the ocean keeps temps moderate (check http://www.weather.com before you leave) As a student I would wear jeans and SUPER comfortable shoes - You will do a lot of walking (it is BEAUTIFUL there), however, there is a little jitney bus that helps people who can't get around so well.. Lots of folks like to walk on the beach in the morning and afternoon - so if that is your bag, you know what to bring to wear. Every night (except free night) there is show and tell of students work - this always blows my mind because of the talent on hand. Then each teacher is required to give a ten minute "this is who I am and my work" - so you get a glimpse at what is going on in all the different classrooms. The ladies who put it on are VERY accommodating and do everything within their power to continue to make this an extraordinary experience.

Bring a camera....

I LOVE ASILOMAR!!!!!! I am very excited to be going as a student this time - I am taking Susan Carloson - who are you taking?

[Margo C.]

:cry: :cry: :cry: Oh, Pooh! I wanna go!!! :cry: :cry: :cry:

[Alex A.]

my suit case is big enough for you Margo <wink>

[Margo C.]

Yeah....but your suitcase is in CALIFORNIA fer cryin' out loud!! :roll:

[Alex A.]

don't be so picky, only details - LOL

[Randi S.]

Thank you!! I'm taking Gloria Loughman's class this Sunday. :-)

[Alex A.]

Have a ball!!! BTW: just checked the weather - bring rain boots too! LOL

[Hannelore N.]

I humbly offer to carry the suitcase that has Margo in it!

I have been to a workshop with Gloria Loughman here in the UK a few years ago. She is a lovely lady and an excellent teacher. You'll have a great time, Randi!

[Kathryn S.]

Hi Randi, I am very excited for you! I love Asilomar, been there twice. First time with Dale Fleming, second time with Diane Gaudynski. You will walk a LOT but it's beautiful there. There are deer roaming around on the grounds! And the ocean is right there, and it's glorious. If you have a couple of free hours, check out Back Porch Fabrics in Pacific Grove. If you have no car, I imagine that lots of people, even some from your class will be going there. Diana McClun is a very gracious host, the talks by the faculty are awe inspiring, and you will work very hard but have a great time. And to take a class from Gloria Loughman, well, you've hit the jackpot.
Can you tell I love this place?
Kathy

[Robin G.]

Oh, Randi, you'll have a great time!!! It's beautiful there! and the Cotton Patch has a full-size quilting store set up for anything you might need. When I went (Sept 2009), Suzanne (one of the three ladies who puts it on) offered a tour of the coast and Carmel for newbies one afternoon, so that was lovely (even though I'm originally from California). You'll make great friends. It's just a very special, magical time. Every morning when I was heading down the hill (not large) for breakfast, I found myself grinning from ear to ear, just for the sheer joy I was feeling. Just enjoy and soak it all in!

[Randi S.]

Well, I'm packed and off to bed! I'll let you know all about it when I get back. Thanks for all the info!

[Paula D.]

I leave next week for my SEVENTH time at Empty Spools, and I am in Michigan! It is so worth the cost to me. I think eventually I will have taken a class from every teacher! LOL I am envious of the people who live close enough to drive, and load their vans with EVERYTHING! (Chairs too). I love coming to California, the epicenter of all things quilting. Oops, perhaps that's not the best word to use! Anyway, it rocks this quilter's world!

[Judith T.]

And don't forget the delicious food from the cafeteria. It is so good that the local fire department often dines there. And during mid morning break, the staff brings coffee and tea and water and goodies to munch on. But it is more than food, it is so beautiful there and with all of the quilters and other groups in this magnificent setting. The year I was there when Robin G went (we were in the same class with Suzanne Marshall), I took a lot of walks on the wooden boardwalks going through the sand dunes. They also have a big lodge with a roaring fire and a little giftshop that sells seaglass jewelry plus lots of other stuff..............You can even just vacation there........wish I were going again. Judy in AZ

[Jill B.]

gee I am soooooo wishing I could go to.....lol lol lol