CKU-A Atlanta 2006
So, Atlanta. Wow.
Started off totally awesome on Wednesday when a bunch of the teachers (Cathy, Carrie, Joey, Anita, Margie and me) all got in around the same time - this never seems to happen. We had the chance to hang out, eat, and just enjoy each others company before the event even got started. It was so cool.
Later that evening Cathy and I met up with Renee Pearson and had the best time at the Pie Bar - most of the time we never really get a chance to leave the hotel so this was a real treat. We drove through some Atlanta neighborhoods (and by the governers "house") and simply enjoyed all being in the same place for a couple hours.
(thanks to Rhonda for the photos)
To all the women in my album track, wow. Each time I meet the people who have signed up I feel so completely blessed that I have the chance to do what I do. Each group is so unique and special. This group was different though...there was something else in the air. It was mellow and chill and everyone was just working away and bonding with the people at their table - I love that. I also love that everyone allows themselves (after the first initial freak out) to simply play and remember that it truly is ok. This event is so much more than it seems on the surface.
What was different is that these ladies had been planning something for me. On the last day of class they presented me with a Gratitude album filled with amazing layouts and words. It was so cool. But what really put me over the edge was a gift they gave to Chris, Simon and I. They presented us with $600 to give to the autism charity of our choice. It totally pushed me over the edge. I know there are some good crying photos of me floating around out there. I can not put into words what that all means to me - especially after being in this room with all these women, sharing stories about our families, changing attitudes about scrapbooking, giving permission to go with the flow and enjoy the process.
So ladies, thank you. For your graciousness and your goodness and your faith.
Another totally cool thing - getting to meet Ikuko. She will be my translator when I go to Tokyo in October for CKU-Japan. She is so cool and fun and delightful. Can't wait to hang out with her again.
Cathy and I also had the chance to visit a darling store: The Atlanta Scrapbook Connection. Thank you Marylea for the opportunity to take a break and to enjoy the wonderful vibe in your store. And Kathryn - we were so supposed to get the chance to chat more - that was a total highlight for me.
I feel like I have more to say - needing to make sure I am on track with my to-do list this week. This includes setting up a weekly meal plan for Simon. If I think of things I forgot I will just add to this post in an edited version.
Now, if you have sent me an email over the last month or so I am terribly behind. One of my goals this week before I leave for New Zealand on Friday is to get through them all. I read each and every one that comes through. Forgive me for the delays.
And HOLY COW - I am going to New Zealand on Friday. UNREAL.
I am taking some of your classes in Tampa in December! I can not wait! Totally excited about this...well, that's if I can get through on the phone to sign up...lol! But I always hear you talk about how amazing the experience is...so I can't wait to see it for myself!
and New Zealand...wow!!
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Sounds like another amazing experience at CKU. Can you tell us if you'll still be teaching next year? I'm so hoping I'm able to go to one then. Here's to a productive week before leaving again! (I myself am leaving at the end of the week for a much-needed vacation!)
Brek
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Ali, those NZ girls better watch out, they don't know what's gonna hit 'em! It was such a pleasure to be in your track in Atl. I knew I would come home with an album, but I came home with so much more.
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oh, and now I can't stop saying "freakin hilarious" :)
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ali, hope you enjoy NZ. Boy..does that place ever ROCK...prepare your heart to be stolen :)
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so very cool :)
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We can't wait to have you over here in NZ Ali. I'm looking forward to doing your classes.
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So much goodness! I do wished I could of met you when you came to Atlanta. Glad you had a good time in hot lanta! ;)
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Aren't scrapbookers' the coolest, most wonderful people??
What a truly unique and unforgettable gift!!
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WOw what a wonderful gift of your class, I would be in tears too! New Zealand, another WOW! I hope you get to see some of the country too because I heard it is amazing! have fun and I think your stamps will be waiting for you when you get back!
corinnexxx
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Have an amazing time in New Zealand. I so wish I could get there someday.
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WOW...just when you think that society might be faltering at times...people come together and selflessly give of themselves. Simply wonderful to behold.
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Can't wait to meet you in Wellington!
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Ali, thank you for being so open, honest, and real (and for an amazing weekend)! You, my dear, are the one full of graciousness and goodness. Have fun in NZ!
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wow. while i wasn't there for this album track session, having experienced in san jose last month, i can certainly feel the emotion from your thread here. again, it is a reflection on you, ali. you're just cool. that is very generous ladies from atlanta track. how inspiring to know that goodness is all around us.
blessings,
erin
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Even though I didn't take your track this time - a few of my friends did - you still helped make the whole CKU-A experiece fantastic! Thanks! Hey - I have some friends in NZ that you are probably going to hang with so I'm very jealous! Have a ball!
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loved getting to meet you. the class/track was an amazing experience, for sure. hope you enjoy NZ... it's my home away from home. you may not want to come back... seriously. just remember to bring sunscreen... though it's winter, it IS under the hole in the ozone layer! =oP
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Hey Ali, so looking forward to meeting you in Wellington. Everyone is so excited to have you come on down to NZ. Don't forget to bring your winter woolies!
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Have a great time in NZ! Be sure to say, "Hi!" to Nic for me!!! I love NZ! Lived there for four years and miss it EVERYDAY!!!! P.S. If you could throw my mate, Janelle, in your suitcase on the way home from NZ that would be super!!!!
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Ali, that was really amazing of those women to do that for you and your family. I hope they can find something one day. Hope you have a safe trip to NZ and have fun.
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Amazing. Such wonderful experiences for you each and every day.. What a blessed life!!
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just got back from 10 days in london and need help desperately putting together an album. the solution? i just ordered your new book! can't wait to get started! would love to see you in sunny san diego soon...
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WHAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA. I so wish I was coming. I'm sure you will have a blast!!
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Wow!!! How amazingly cool that must have been. Very touching!
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Whoa, Ali!! I'm impressed you got into the Pie Bar - that place is HOT!! Usually a 2 hour wait,minimum. I'm bummed I didn't get to go to CKU, especially since it was in my backyard. Darn that cousin - you'd think she could plan her wedding a little better, huh?
Oh well, I heard your track was amazing. Glad you had fun in Hotlanta!!
Kathe Cunningham
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