Inspired …

Had an amazing weekend with some scrapping friends at The Inspired Retreat in February.  The venue was the stunning Crabwall Manor Hotel on the outskirts of Chester.   The main part of the castle was really old – apparently dating back to 1066.  There’s a “new” wing added with more rooms and swimming pool/spa.

The line up of teachers was fab.  Lance Anderson (Mr Rusty Pickle himself), Karen Burniston and Lida de Witte along with Dina Wakely and Emma Trout.  Sadly before the retreat, news broke that Lance and family had taken the decision to close down his business.  So sad … have loved all the Rusty Pickle classes and projects I’ve done in the past.  My fingers are crossed that something can be worked out so he stays involved in the industry.  He’s too big a character and will be missed!

Unsure what the hotel had to offer, we stopped off at a pub on the road down to the hotel.  Mj, Angela and Lis had stopped there and said lunch was a bargain at £3.49 for a carvery.  Food was fab value for money … but the service was. let’s say, interesting.  The guy serving did not want to be there … and when another chef walked through, words were said, then they both disappeared into the kitchen and “raised voices” could be heard through the swing doors.  Next time though, we’ll opt for the high tea at the hotel.  It looked fab.

True to form, the amazing creative talent that is Lida de Witte, once more stunned everyone with her project.  A sewing casket (which we made from scratch) with three mini-albums inside. 

On the top of each casket are four beautiful flowers, which again were handmade.

Over the course of the weekend we had 8 classes – some layouts, some albums and of course you get something that little bit different from Karen Burniston with her pop-up heart layout and the birdie in the parlour.  What I really liked was you did all the classes on offer rather than pick and choose.  As a result, it was more relaxed and more projects neared completion (some just need photos added!)

On the Saturday evening, there was a masquerade ball complete with masks you made (or cheated and bought!!).  These were the offerings of our little group.

 
The gang from Mj’s Crop Circle …

We had some great weather for February, although we didn’t spend a huge amount of time outside as there was too much going on!!  After lunch on Sunday, we did manage to get outside for 15 mins to explore the grounds!

The retreat was extremely well organised and there were some lovely touches and surprises along the way.  From pre-dinner drinks to small presents in the room on arrival and on Saturday evening … and on our desks on the Sunday morning and huge muffins just before we all left.  Thanks so much for all your hard-work Michelle – very much a team effort with hubby and son helping out whenever needed.  Also, to ScrapShed and Bellaboo for providing too many tempting treats in their shops.

Next one planned for October … and think everyone that is free will be back!