The Aloha Spirit

All I can say is the Aloha Spirit is alive and well in Hawaii—especially in Cindy Baughman’s downline and at her Workshop of a Lifetime. Both Sterling and I got in the car after the workshop last night, looked at each other, and said, “That was FUN!”

Cindy has been a demonstrator with Stampin’ Up! for more than 10 years. She served on the Advisory Board, and I know her fairly well. I haven’t seen her for awhile—and I’ve never been to her house—but I felt like I was coming home last night as we hugged and connected again. She is one of the most gracious women I know; you can’t help but love her!

The workshop went well. There were several stamping newbies, as well as some experienced stampers. One of the Make & Takes featured the watercolor technique—I probably wouldn’t do that again for a Make & Take at an event with new stampers (one of those lessons you learn as a demonstrator). Everyone did a great job (and a few guests did order the AquaPainter), but I could tell it was harder to get the knack of watercoloring when you’re not familiar with stamping to begin with.

The other project went over well though, and the whole atmosphere was incredibly warm and friendly.  I think Cindy got three bookings (I didn’t find out for sure, but there were three note cards gone from my bookings basket, so I’m hoping. . . ), and I’m not sure about sales.

And the food . . .holy cow! Because many of her guests had come straight from work, Cindy (and several of her customers) set out quite a feast. Sterling and I didn’t have time to eat during the workshop, but before we left to catch our flight (the red-eye back to California), we filled up a plate. We ate as Sterling drove to the airport, and we wished we’d taken more!  There were several things I’d never tried before, and one thing in particular (a cranberry salsa) I’d love the recipe for (hint, hint, Cindy).

Cindy went all out for her demonstrator event, which included fabulous food, a program with island dances, and valuable time to get to know her downline. Cindy told her group that she had set a goal to earn a Workshop of a Lifetime because she wanted the demonstrators in her group to have the opportunity to meet me; because they live in Hawaii, many of them don’t make it to convention or leadership. I felt very special—and was thrilled with the opportunity to meet everyone!

Aloha to all of my Hawaiian friends—I will miss you!

Comments

[Lisa Martin]

Looks lovely Shelli! The cards are gorgeous! Looks like Cindy had alot of support for her 'Workshop of a lifetime', which is awesome!

[Liz Collett]

I'd just like to say how inspirational the cards you have made with the Sale a Bration Sets are and thank you so much for sharing them. I have been directing quite a few of my friends/customers to your blog to see what they can make with the sets - fortunately Australia shares the same stamp sets! I love your beautiful & elegant cards, which you can realistically make, even if you are time challenged! Just to let you know, if you ever find yourself with spare time (I hear you laughing) in Australia, we would be honored to have you at our workshops. I know this is probably not realistic, but just wanted you to know we'd love to have you. It must be an amazing experience, almost 'walking a day in another demonstrator's shoes/location'. It's one of the things I most love about demonstrating - meeting new people, seeing new places I wouldn't normally go, learning new things & making new friends. Good luck with the rest of the workshops & we look forward to seeing you in Australia in May for Convention.
love & best wishes
Liz Collett (Australia)

[Cindy Baughman]

I had an amazing time these past couple of days. My downline and customers are still talking about how special it was to have you and Sterling here. Thank you again for being such an inspiration to us all.

I'm glad you liked the salsa. Here is the recipe for you to enjoy.


CRANBERRY SALSA

1 bag (12 oz) fresh or frozen cranberries (no need to thaw)
1 granny smith apple, peeled, cored and cut into eighths
1/2 large red pepper, cut into large chunks
1/2 medium red onion, cut into large chunks
3/4 cup sugar
1/3 cup apple juice
3 TBS chopped fresh cilantro
2 TBS chopped pickled jalapeno pepper
1 tsp grated lime zest OR juice of one lime

Put Cranberries, apple, red pepper, and onion in a food processor. Pulse till chopped. Transfer to a large glass bowl. Stir in remaining ingredients until blended. Cover and refrigerate until serving.

[SHH]

I was just going to comment to hint that we all may like that Cranberry Salsa recipe. Tanks for sharing, Cindy. Sounds yummy!

Shelli, you are an inspiration. Just reading your blog is good for the soul. Thank you for your positive example and love of people and life. Best of luck for the rest of your travels. Enjoy your family times this weekend and then w/ the shower & wedding.

[Jill]

I've enjoyed each of your Workshop cards so much, Shelli! It's such a treat to be able to read your blog and 'participate' in each workshop this way. Thank you! (and thanks for posting the cranberry salsa recipe, too!)

[Jenifer hart]

I clicked on comments to ask that you post the recipe for all of us tyo enjoy and there it was! Thank you! Sounds really yummy

[Ronda Wade]

Shelli, you are so right, Cindy is one of the most wonderful, gracious people that I have ever met.
Serving with her on the Advisory board was such an honor. Thanks for sharing your time with us and your make n takes, as they are awesome! That flight to Hawaii is tough! Take care of youself!
Love,
Ronda

[Ann & the Dog]

Cindy & I seem to shop the same stores when on Stampin' Up! trips. She's da bomb. I tried to crash the party. They have quarantine laws for dogs, so Stamper insisted I stay home & stamp with our own friends instead.

Wishing I was there, but doing my best to duplicate the fun!

[Joy Willinger]

I am totally enjoying reading about these workshops. Shelli, I appreciate you sharing these with us.

[Marilyn Schlueter]

Each time I read what you are doing it is like a ray of sunshine and that is hard to come by here in New York especially upstate. Thanks for the show and tells. :)

[Kim Evans]

Cindy is one of the sweetest girls ever!! I'm sure her demo was wonderful & the girls were a lot of fun to be with. Thank you, Shelli, for still putting so much HEART into SU! :-)
Kim Evans

[Mary Cargill]

Now you know Shelli, why I, being one of Cindy's downline love her as an upline. She's not only a real blessing; but, when I'm in Hawaii it's so much fun to be apart of her life, the "Stamped with Aloha" group meetings, her workshops and events! Sorry I couldn't make the trip to be there, too!

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