What's better than stamping...????

That would be....

STAMPING IN A CASTLE IN ENGLAND!!!!

Monk Fryston Hall - (website)

OK, it's really a manor house, but as an American, this is a castle to me!!!

I've known about this retreat for quite some time now, as I know the hostess Monica, and knew that Emily was going. I also knew that I wouldn't be going, lol! Such a dream weekend for sure, but how could I go with Thomas working and Bella in school? I'll tell you how! Thomas has "use or lose" days of leave (vacation) - which means he hasn't taken nearly enough in the past two+ years! He was TOLD he would need to take it in September, and just told me so the other day. Emily happens to mention to me yesterday that Monica had an empty spot to fill.....and my brain just clicked!!! So I said...maybe I can go! I called Thomas and he said YES!!!!

Over the moon in delight, and I immediately start researching airline tickets. This was very last minute, but I was able to find a reasonable one. I was so immersed in said research that I completely forgot to pick Bella up at the bus stop!!! OHMYGOSH! Luckily for me it's right across the street from the house, and my awesome neighbor brought her to me! Soooo embarrassing! Good looking out, Simone!!!!!

Here is the info Monica put out about the retreat:
The Venue -Monk Fryston Hall, an elegant 12 Century Manor House with convenient access (A1 and motorways links are less than 5 minutes drive) offers plenty of charm and character. Tall oak panelled rooms with roaring log fires (we might need them in September), the property offers stunning grounds with beautifully kept gardens, it even has it's own lake with a replica Lucerne Bridge, it’s truly special and we will be very comfortable there I can assure you.

What’s Included –Arrive at 8am on Saturday finish at 16pm on Sunday. The price will include overnight single occupancy in a double bed, en-suite accommodation; all rooms have full WiFi access, satellite TV, trouser press, hair dryer, complimentary toiletries and refreshment trays. All meals starting with Breakfast on Saturday morning, tea/coffee break with home baked biscuits, 2 course hot Buffet Lunch, afternoon tea/coffee with home baked cakes/scones, 3 course fine dining menu at dinner. Breakfast on Sunday morning, tea/coffee and cake break and a 3 course Sunday Lunch.

Also included in the price is everything you will need to complete FIVE inspiring and Creative Classes most Retreats charge extra for their classes they are included in the price you see, each attendee will also receive a generous goody bag. Pajama Party on Saturday night complete with fun challenges, games, make n takes and all you can eat CANDY BAR!!!

You won’t need to bring any totes or bags with extra crafting supplies, everything you will need is provided for you. The projects will be a mixture suitable for all abilities and I will keep them under wraps, however two weeks before the Retreat I will release some information on colour schemes that will be relevant for some of the classes so you can better prepare.

Doesn't that sound fabulous???? I will be leaving the Thursday prior (9/20) and staying with Emily. Then we meet Monica at her house on Friday (9/21). Then all three of us go to the retreat (9/22 - 9/23). Then Emily and I go back to her house, where I stay until Tuesday afternoon to come back home (9/25). SO STINKIN' EXCITED!!!! I just ordered new jammies and slippers for the trip! I have to design and make my name badge! I have to try and stop squealing and jumping up and down!!!

QUEENIE JEANNIE IS GOING TO ENGLAND!!

And I'm totally bringing my tirara.....