I was thrilled to return to my hometown, Paducah, Kentucky, April 23-26 for the annual quilt show. For those who don't know, Paducah's the quilt capitol of the world, and the American Quilter's Society's show attracts people from as far away as Japan.
I arrived Tuesday evening, and Wednesday started a whirlwind of activities. At 7:30 a.m. a morning show reporter from WPSD-TV met with me at the Expo Center for an interview. As the crowd swelled outside the doors, I got a sneak peek at some of the quilts. The doors swung open at 9:00 a.m., and throngs of excited people came through. The quilts were truly breathtaking. The best of show winner forfeited her $20,000 prize to keep her quilt. It was beautiful, a reproduction of her grandmother's handkerchief.
Bob and Betty of Quilt Books Unlimited graciously shared their jam-packed booth on the main floor of the Expo Center with me. So many people came through. I heard someone say up to 35,000 people come to Paducah for the show. We had a great time.Contrary to the photo bottom left, I did wear shoes on Wednesday when I sang and spoke at Northside Church of God. The good people of the congregation opened their doors to the community and outdid themselves on the refreshments and Southern hospitality. It was such a treat to have my mother and two sisters at the event.
Each day from 11:00 to 3:00 I spent at the Expo Center signing books. On Thursday afternoon, the local Christian radio station, WGCF, asked me in for an interview. Glen and the staff were great. A big thanks goes out to my sister and professional photographer, Tina Harper, for following me around with her camera so I can share the happenings with you.
