While Quilt Market can be fun and fabulous, it can also be tiring. Particularly the last day. Especially if you’re staying late and tearing down the booth. There’s a lot to pack. And you have to wait for the crate to arrive on the fork lift. I can’t say for sure, but from what I saw around us, I think that this year we were one of the first if not the first booth to get their crate. WHEW! What a difference that makes!

At the end of each show we break down the book racks, carefully tuck away the quilts, eat the leftover Quilter’s Chocolate (I mean, we have to do something with it), tear up and store our cushy floor… everything goes in the crate and we go off to a nice dinner proceeded by a nice adult beverage for those so inclined.

John caught in the crate

Publisher Amy Marson was (and usually is) in charge of packing. It’s like packing the car for a family road trip. One person needs to have a vision and the commitment to following through. Super-tall Sales Rep John Pilcher (left) was in charge of everything high up, including quilts and curtains, as well as anything that looks exceptionally heavy. Editor Lynn Koolish was in charge of boxing books, flyers, folders… anything that can be accomplished sitting down and that her questionable back can handle. I was in charge of collecting our display items from other booths and whatever else I could do without getting in the way… book rack breakdown, floor tear up, chocolate eating, etc.

While it’s hard work, I really enjoy tear down. It’s like doing dishes at the end of a day-long house party: You get a few fun people in the kitchen, washing the wine glasses, nibbling on leftovers, telling jokes, and really enjoying working together. After four or five days of Market meetings when I’ve been dressed nicely and on my best business behavior, it’s just the kind of break I need.

As always, I’m looking forward to next year!

Lynn freeing John from the Crate