by Great Joy Studio | May 2, 2010 | Field Trip
The last day of ME’s Home Companion Workshop, for me, began with one of those “God is in the Heavens” looking sky. This photo doesn’t truly depict it’s magnificence, however, the view on the drive into the city was an inspiring site to see and set the tone for the day ahead. The calm after the (last night’s) storm.

I was just going through the photos from the weekend and I decided that I’m much too tired to post them this evening. In total, it was a wonderful experience however, exhausting. When they said workshop, they were not kidding! Everyone in attendance was in complete agreement, it was a great time and we were glad to have taken part in this unique event.
by Great Joy Studio | May 1, 2010 | Field Trip
Today was the first full day of the ME workshops and seminars. My first class began at 8:00am and the last ended at 5:30PM. Whew, very long day, but lots FUN! I felt like a little kid again.

Now, back to the good stuff, the studio tour!

As you enter Mary’s office.


Her work table.

To her left.


To her right.

Neat supply room right outside her office.


On my out.

Hope you enjoyed sharing with me, the glimpse inside Mary’s world.
by Great Joy Studio | Apr 30, 2010 | Field Trip

Beautiful evening at the Chase Park Plaza – Over a hundred artsy/craftsy people from all over the country in the Starlight Room, 11th floor!

Guess who was standing right behind me after I walked in? We had a nice little chat. Both of us in the same big, linen, “artist” shirts from J-Jill, offered even more common ground for us to discuss. Then we talked about our shoes, LOL! Mary commented that she liked my Missouri cardinal bird name tag! It was a very nice reception that included shopping, cocktails & hors d’ oeuvres. Also lots of meeting and greeting. Very fun. Can you tell us apart? LOL, ME and me.

by Great Joy Studio | Apr 29, 2010 | Field Trip
Wow! My workshop weekend is underway. It began with a personalized tour of ME’s studio and offices. The Mary Engelbreit Home Companion Workshop event is local for me so, I drove to the very trending location on this gorgeous morning. Arrived early enough to enjoy a coffee in the breezy courtyard. Pretty neat.

I was greeted by Mary’s trade mark character, Anne Estelle. To my surprise I was the only one taking the studio tour in my scheduled time slot. What, all to myself? Yipeeeeeeee!

With my head pivoting in all directions and eyes moving at a frantic pace, I attempted to take absolutely everything in.

I only have a short time now to post some of the many photos I took. These are right inside the door at the front desk. As you can see, a lovely suite of offices. I’ll be heading back down for registration and festivities at the reception this evening.






My Gracious Guide was Jan-her apron pin collection
by Great Joy Studio | Apr 28, 2010 | Field Trip, Getting Started, Projects
Hi – This morning I’m multitasking, AS usual! Gathering some supplies for my first workshop, stocking up baked goods to help feed the church building group in June and a hair cut at nine. Crafting, baking and candlestick making!

I’m attending my first artsy, craftsy workshop which begins tomorrow. Several months ago I signed up for Mary Engelbreit’s Home Companion Workshops, which is where I’ll be for the next few days. Since this is a first for me, I’m not sure what to bring so, perhaps a little bit of everything?


I’m looking forward to learning some new techniques and having some FUN! Really, I’m not sure exactly what I’ve signed on for but, I’m filled with nervous excitement. Wish me luck? Eeks, do I really have time for fun? I think I need to gather some more crafty stuff, maybe some paint or more glue, er, um……. ribbon?
by Great Joy Studio | Apr 21, 2010 | Field Trip
“Get the Cranberry Sauce” was the subject line of the first E-mail I opened this morning. Poor turkey bird was the attachment. The pretty feathers shot, is from my fowl hunting son-in-law. Four and twenty blackbirds, I mean twenty four pounder! I know, Eeeeeewe!