At first I was completely gung-ho, all "I'm going. I am so there!" But now, I'm getting wishy-washy. It's a financial thing for me. It adds up to be pretty pricey and in this economy, every penny definitely counts. On one hand, I could swing it but I feel kind of selfish. That's family money. If I go to the Gathering, I'm probably using a good portion of our summer vacation fund.
I thought about a roommate or two or three, but I don't really know anyone else who's going or who might be interested.
On the other hand, this is really business. Oh, sure, I know it's a lot of fun. But it's also about getting out there, meeting other glass artists face to face, connecting with vendors, getting some amazing teaching tips and being completely inspired by some of the best in the lampworking world. I feel like I've stalled out and I think that going would be a great opportunity.
I don't know. I really want to go, but I'm just so up in the air about it. If anybody who's gone to a Gathering in the past has any feedback, input or ideas about this, I'd love to hear from you. Seriously, don't be shy, just let me know what you think or what your plans are. Or if you need a roomie!
In the meantime, I've got two new listings on eBay. I'm still plugging away over there and trying to be more consistent with my listings.
~Clad~
~Savannah~
6 comments:
Laurie, they are so beautiful. You are very talented!!
Thanks, Lisa! Wow, that makes my day. :)
I haven't been to a Gathering yet, so take my advice with a big grain of salt. I've never heard someone say, "Sheesh, I wish I hadn't spent the money on going to the Gathering." However, it happens every year, so I don't think you have to feel like you *have* to go this particular year just because it is within driving distance this year. Where were you guys going to go this summer? Big trip, or little trips here and there? Highly anticipated particular destination, or up-in-the-air play it by ear when we get ready to go? Alright, I guess I'm not helping... I was going to say do what you feel is right for you, not just because you feel like you "ought" to do one or the other. Maybe hubby and the kids could follow you at the end of the Gathering and you guys start your vacation from there? Good luck, I know it will all work out for the best.
P.S. Clad is so elegant, and the name has incredible appeal for anyone remotely interested in history, ancestry, etc.
Thanks, Angie.
I had actually talked to Robert about meeting me in Miami with the kids and then heading on down to the Keys or flying over to the Bahamas or Puerto Rico for a family vacation. However, my real goal is to get them all to Australia/New Zealand. It's the 'Big One' and I've been saving for it ever since Anna was very young. We're almost there and I'm not sure if I want to dip into the fund.
I really WANT to go to the Gathering, I just have deep-seated issues of guilt regarding spending money on myself. I think it's some kind of Midwestern thing. :)
Oh Laurie - I hesitated commenting because I knew I couldn't be much help.
Of course one of my dreams was to go to The Gathering at some point. Last year it was almost a physical hurt I wanted to go so bad! This year (after talking to a couple of friends who did go to last years in Oakland) it's honestly not worrying me.
There are places I'd far rather see in the USA if I had the chance to visit & although a event that features so much glass goodness, beads I can only imagine, & talent that I'd love to see in action...I know that at heart I'd get a longer term thrill out of seeing some of the outstanding scenery that your country has to offer.
So of course I'm going to say 'hey girl keep saving' & bring that family of yours down under. They will get such a kick out of visiting somewhere different - I know my girls loved Australia & still talk about it....& that is only next door!
Deb - after seeing the pics in your recent post, I think that may have sealed the deal. I so want to visit New Zealand!
I'm thinking of making a day trip down to the Gathering just to meet a couple of people face to face, and then heading on down to the Keys for some R&R, fishing and kayaking with the family.
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