Usually the craft show administrators block out a group of rooms for the artists at a hotel close to the show venue. This year, at the very same time as the Philadelphia Museum of Art Craft Show, there was a convention of nephrologists, or kidney doctors…. [really!]

The nephrologists had locked up most all the rooms in the city. So, instead of downtown Philadelphia, I stayed in lovely Conshohocken, a beautiful little town a half hour train ride from the show.

The PAM show is always worth the effort, no matter how long it takes to get there. I was honored to be included along with all the fantastic artists who participated.

Fantastic artists yes, but even better, wonderful collectors, art lovers, craft supporters and general all round visitors, including this way too cute dog, Jersey Girl, who came to the show in her owners sling. I admit it, I am a sucker for sweet dogs.

Yes, visitors galore! Wonderful people, checking out one of the best craft shows in the country.

At one point, I glanced over and saw these 3 women all trying on my swing coats at the same time. And each one looked fabulous!

There’s nothing as flattering as a swing coat.

Well, except maybe a pretty woman in a trench coat.

So many people with so many different figures looking good in so many styles. The very best look for you? The one that makes you smile!

One of my favorite people anywhere, the weaver Randall Darwall, came by to borrow a needle and thread. I grabbed my camera and had a friend snap some pictures while he was doing his best to stitch a tiny tear.

The long hours and hard work of shows are more than balanced out by the wonderful people I see, meet and visit with. It’s like the best party ever.

Thank you PAM, the show committee and volunteers, Conshohocken and all the wonderful old and new friends I met, saw and visited with.