You're back in Kansas, Dorothy

First of all, congratulations to Lee Butler, the winner of our cruise project, Friendship Garden. Thanks to everyone who commented or follows my blog. Your supportive comments always make my day and I love reading about you, too.

Our fantasy cruise to Alaska is over, but definitely not forgotten - nor likely to be soon. Robert and I thoroughly enjoyed a low key pace, exploring each port on foot or by bus to see the glacier in Juneau, the totems in Ketchikan and the quaint town of Skagway. We found many local artisans and their wares and purchased a few keepsakes for ourselves and the grankids. (All of that is still on it's way here via UPS. More next week.)

We love visiting other parts of the country that are so different from our own. One sight you don't see in Kansas is fresh fish markets on every street corner. Robert had to try the chowder at every stop and was rarely disappointed. I prefer crab cakes, but ate mine before I thought to snap a picture (sorry!).

The Salmon Market & clam chowder in Ketchikan.

 The City Hall in Skagway is covered in antlers - pretty cool!

On our way back to the our ship, the Norwegian Pearl, the mountains and fog in the background were sure signs we were in Alaska.

 Each day, our cabin boy tickled us with adorable towel sculptures. My fav was the elephant.

We arrived back in Seattle on Sunday morning, hauled our luggage and extra boxes to the hotel across the street and spent the day wandering around downtown, content with the outcome of our first ever Great Girlfriend Getaway. I love Seattle - the waterfront, the market, so much cool stuff to see and do. Here was a sign that spoke to me. I had missed the Chocolate Buffet on the boat and was ready for some really rich dark chocolate. How could I refuse?

 Just down the street was this little cupcake parlor with minis that begged for me to indulge in a sampler of tastes. The double chocolate and fresh strawberry did not disappoint.

Although the scenery was out of a movie and our bunch of 34 quilters were delightful, the best part was being able to spend a whole week with my buddy, Pam, who lives over 10 hours away. Emails and phone calls are fine, but quality girlfriend time is the best. Many of the girlfriends on the cruise agreed that quilting while traveling with friends makes for the most unforgettable vacations. It's a gift you give to yourself and each other. Watch for upcoming GGG events - cruises (New England/Canada Sept. 2013 is almost full), retreats and trips to spend with quilting friends and make memories.

The Moda Designer Shop Hop begins next week. More on that Saturday.