My friend Linda and I went to the CHA supershow this past weekend. For those of you who don't live in the USA, the CHA (otherwise known as the 'craft & hobby association') hosts a convention twice a year. The first part of the convention is held for merchants to purchase products from companies to sell in their stores. The second part, (also know as the CHA Craft Supershow -held on Fri & Sat) is held for the public/consumer. Usually the show is held in Florida or California, but this time it was held in Rosemont, Illinois. For us it was about an hour's drive to get there so we decided to check it out. There were tons of 'make-it, take-it' booths and we kept really busy doing all kinds of things. Many of the companies hosted these projects and everything was, believe it or not - FREE (sponsored by companies such as Michaels & JoAnn Fabrics, Delta, Plaid, Crafts & Things, Paper Crafts Magazine, National Sewing Council and numerous others. We sewed dog colars, flowers from fabric, made beaded necklaces, painted t-shirts and wall hangings and the list goes on and on. Simply wonderful and what a fun time as everyone was enjoying themselves. The National Sewing Association was even raffling off sewing machines on both days!
Many, many well known artists also were there, including the fabulous clay artist - Lisa Pavelka (who used to be on 'The Carol Duvall Show') and mixed media artist Bernie Berlin! I think my jaw dropped when this woman standing in front of one of the craft tables turned around and I realized it was Bernie! I hadn't expected to see her but had always hoped to one day. She was teaching people how to create ATC's. Even though I've made a few of them myself, I couldn't resist sitting for awhile and soaking up any info she was sharing. She's an amazing artist and in my opinion, a real 'earth angel' - a kind, generous and gentle spirit. For those of you who don't know her, Bernie operates and owns an animal rescue called 'A Place To Bark'. Anyone who has saved over 600 dogs lives, in my opinion should be given a special place in heaven. I asked Bernie if I could take a photo of her so I'm posting it on my blog. Thank you Bernie for showing us how to create ATC's and for being the beautiful person you are! She does accept donations so if you want to help her with this incredible mission she's on, please visit her blog. http://www.aplacetobark.com
Have a great nite everyone and thanks for stopping by:)
