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Sunday, April 29, 2018

Bonnie’s Next Chapter: Quiltville Inn!

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For more information, visit the Quiltville Inn Web Page HERE.

This post was written when the house was first purchased in 2017.

In my hand I hold the keys to my next chapter – The soon to be Quiltville Inn Retreat Center.

It all started in December of 2016 after spending Thanksgiving on Key Largo in Florida.

The North Carolina cabin had just gone on the market.  We were looking a bit further afield for a place with more acreage (and no home owner’s association!) and had found a place we wanted to look at just across the NC/VA state line.

I remember that first trip up to Mouth of Wilson, Virginia vividly.  We loved the area, the whole feel of the place.  And after touring the cabin for the first time, we took a drive around the area to see what we could see.

It was on that first trip that I spied this wonderful old place with a “for sale by owner” sign in the front yard.  Dreams began.

I’d even taken a couple of photographs – posting them with a “Wouldn’t it be wonderful if?” or “Wouldn’t this make a great…”

Many times I drove by, and still the house was there, for sale sign in the yard.

We had been talking for years about the need for me to slow down. To have people come to ME. To LIVE LIFE instead of TRAVEL THROUGH LIFE.  I love the travel, don’t get me wrong..but I’m ready for a change.

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I toured the house last August after a long phone call with the owner.

Unlike the lost history of so many historic homes, the history for this special house is well known in this area. 

It is referred to by the locals as “The Old Fields Mansion” and was continuously occupied by members of the Fields family for over 100 years, from 1907 until 2009. 

Then it was purchased by the Floyd's, who had known the Fields family their entire life.

Over many years they meticulously engaged in a sensitive and complete renovation, with the dream of turning this Grand Dame into a bed & breakfast.  

But their “real life” jobs took a different turn, a family was started and they needed to sell and relocate.

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I catch my breath every time I see this place.

My first visit was followed by a very emotionally heavy and tumultuous summer and fall.

Dave spent most of his time in Oregon/Idaho with his two brothers caring for his beloved dad through end stage pancreatic cancer until he passed just before Thanksgiving. 

I couldn’t be of any help to him as I was locked in with contracts and traveling to lecture and teach for guilds, shows and events non-stop. I was sure Dad was going to pass while I was in China, luckily that didn’t happen until I had been back home for a few days.  But pass he did, and I never got a chance to see him in person and to hug him one last time due to my travel job.

My holidays were then hijacked by having to travel early December to make up for canceled guild events due to horrendous forest fires in Oregon. (It couldn’t be helped.)

I knew in my heart once January rolled around that I just needed to enter a new chapter.  Our consideration on purchasing this house to turn it into a retreat venue began to get more serious in earnest.

Could we really make this happen?

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Mouth of Wilson, VA – early 1900s.

Fields house in the forefront.

History of Mouth of Wilson

Passage from Community of Mouth of Wilson - History of Grayson County, Page 102-103
Mouth of Wilson is home. Regardless of where I may live, it will always be “home,” a most beloved spot. When I think of Mouth of Wilson, I think of spring and the smell of apple blossoms intermingled with those if newly-plowed ground and the fresh paint on the front porch.


Sounds also come to mind: the church bell, Oak Hill’s siren, the muffled tones of company visiting with my grandparents on the front porch at Rosemont during summer’s long summer evenings. And, I remember the soft, secure, and comforting sounds of the animals I loved so dearly. I remember watching the ice break up and move out on the New River in winter, and the warm sun glistening on Wilson Creek in summer.


The people of the community - many gone, some still there - pass by my mind’s eye as if in review. Mouth of Wilson people are special. They are loving, kind, and supportive. A triumph or grief experienced by one is felt and shared by all.


The memories go on and on and they are precious. I am thankful for the experience of growing up there, and for the memories of the place I shall always carry with me.

The name “Mouth of Wilson” is derived from the fact that the mouth of Wilson Creek empties into the New River at that location. 

The creek got its name from a surveyor named Wilson, a member of the Frye-Jefferson party, who died of a stomach disorder, and was buried on the creek bank. Henceforth, the spot was referred to as “Wilson Creek” by the party on their survey maps.


The first brick house in the area was constructed at Mouth of Wilson in 1800, by Revolutionary War veteran Robert Parson.


The first grist mill to be located on the banks of Wilson Creek was built by Robert’s son, John. In 1884, Colonel Fields J. McMillan built a woolen mill on Wilson Creek. W.C. Fields and Granville Hash purchased the mill from McMillan twelve years later. This partnership lasted until 1902, when Fields purchased Hash’s interest.


Electricity came into the community with the construction of the Fields Dam in 1927.

The Fields Motor Company was established early in the 1920’s, and the Fields family operated a general store at Mouth of Wilson for many years.


Oak Hill Academy and Young’s Chapel Baptist Church, located at Mouth of Wilson, have always played a prominent role in the community and its history.


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Fields House prior to 1907

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1907 remodel.

Notice the gingerbread is gone, and the columns are much simpler. There is no decorative gable over the front steps.

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Ruth & J. Cam Fields 

Ruth Phipps (1898-1932) daughter of Jake and Henrietta Hoffman Phipps, was married June 1920 to J. Cam Fields. They had one son, William Jackson Fields (1924). Ruth passed away when William was only 6 years old.

Ruth's photo was taken when she was a student at Virginia Intermont College. 

Cam Fields (1896-1987) son of W.C. and Josie Fields, became president of the Troutdale Bank and founded Fields Motor Company in 1922; constructed Fields Dam in 1927; was President, member of the board, and chairman of the Grayson National Bank; served 47 years on the Grayson County School Board; and was active in many political, church and community activities.


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In 1884 a woolen mill was built in Mouth of Wilson, and at that time the back half of the house was built as the home for the mill’s superintendent. Then, in 1906, the mill’s owner, W. C. Fields, started construction on the front portion of the home and a year later moved his family into the greatly expanded structure. 

The same contractor who built the 1908 courthouse in Independence, Virginia, also built the front portion of the house.  I posted about the courthouse HERE.

I’m not sure when the woolen mill burned down, but I’m sure I’ll find out!


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From the front porch.

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This porch was meant for rockin’!

I absolutely fell in love with the history of this area, and the NEED to open a retreat center just would not let me go.  For the past nearly year and a half since I first saw this place I’ve been working on a way to make this dream a reality.  And it is happening!

The house has only been in the hands of two families up until now.  We are the 3rd family to own this property.

This 1880's renovated home has 5 very large bedrooms, 2.5 baths, 2 fireplaces, a detached workshop (Possible studio?) , a new kitchen that looks like it could have been original, and over 4,000 square feet of living space with more than 1600 square feet of covered porches running along three sides of the house. The rooms are light-filled and spacious enough for 16 retreaters!

Nearby Attractions:

  • 12 miles to Grayson Highlands State Park
  • ½ mile to the New River
  • Easily accessible on the corner of hwy 58 & hwy 16
  • 2.5 miles from New River State Park


My first visit - keys in hand - empty house, but oh, the possibilities!

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The Soon-to-be Quiltville Order Fulfillment Center!

The Old Post Office

Also on the Fields House property is the Old Mouth of Wilson Post Office (replaced by a new one up the road about a mile) and the old Fields General Store building, gone derelict and seen to the right of the post office in the photo above.

Perfect for my needs, the Old Post Office has new paint, new roofing, and the addition of large storefront window to let in loads of light.

The interior was completely gutted and remodeled with the addition of reclaimed hardwood flooring, drywall, paint, new bathroom, and installation of a new heat-pump system.

My "office" stuff goes in the Postmaster's office!

And the best part of all?  Quiltville Inn & Post Office is only 7 miles from our cabin where I plan on retiring.  

The wheels are in motion.  My exit plan from crazy travel is in place.


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My goal is to have The Quiltville Store moved into the Old Post Office building before the release of String Frenzy in December 2018!  I’ve got plans to expand the store with more fun merchandise, offering t-shirts, mugs, hats, and who knows what else.  I’ll have the space for it.

I will have the time I need to keep designing quilts, writing books, planning mysteries, leader & ender projects and challenges and sew-alongs.  More of all of the stuff you love.  And more Quilt-Cam! (I know we weren't able to fit it in this week - soon, I promise!)

Along with "sew on your own thing" retreats, retreaters will also be able to schedule in a workshop during their stay should the group want one.  More details on that - right now the ideas in my head are just spinning with all of the possibilities.

As to when the Quiltville Inn will open to retreaters?  This is part of the reason why I stopped taking bookings for 2020.  I have a full calendar for 2018 & 2019. The guilds I am visiting now were booked 5 years ago.

I’ve slimmed down what I could, but it’s going to be about a year or so before we are ready for our first guests.

I will still be doing SOME travel on a limited basis when 2020 rolls around.  I will keep some larger venues/shows – and my global travel with Craftours remains a highlight.  My friend Mona will be stepping in and helping me run the Inn as often as she can.  So many details to iron out.

In the mean time I’ll be working my tail off with a smile – There are 16 beds needed, sewing tables, lighting, comfy chairs, design walls, dining tables & chairs, dishes and kitchen wares, furniture for the comfy den, towels, pillows and bed linens and EVERYTHING that a group of quilters could need to make a memorable trip to my corner of the Blue Ridge Mountains in Southwest Virginia. 

I’m going to be happily pouring every dime into this place to get it ready for YOU.

There will be LOADS of antique mall shopping!  Whoowhooo!

Bathrooms are going to have to be remodeled for walk-in showers.  The half- bath also needs a corner shower. The house has 2 claw foot bathtubs…nice for “period authenticity” but not practical as far as middle aged quilters go. 

(No middle-aged naked and wet quilter is going to slip and fall and break their neck trying to get out of a claw foot tub!)

Over the next many months I hope you’ll enjoy reading the “making ready” posts as we set this up the way YOU would want it to be.


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Through the front door.

One of these days I hope you’ll walk through this door into the front foyer and make yourself at home!

What we’ve gone through to finally close on this place is a story in itself and I’ll post about that another time.  (We were at the attorney's office closing at 10pm last night!) 

We've got loads of time.

Right now, I’m just happy to wrap my fingers around this set of house keys (And post office keys) and call this place mine ---so it can soon be yours too.

If you are interested in being notified when we are ready to open for bookings, please join my mailing list – you may have noticed the new pop up the last few times you’ve visited the blog. 

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Quiltville Quote of the Day!

And they say that dreams don’t come true?

And off I go to Georgia with a smile on my face and so much hope in my heart.

Have a wonderful Sunday, everyone!



390 comments:

  1. Hip, Hip Hooray for you and us! It sounds like a win for everyone. I so wished I live closer to help you out on this adventure, it is right up my alley and expertise. I will be content to watch the progress and come visit you! Big hugs....

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  2. Congratulations, Bonnie, on this next chapter in your life! I'm sure that your many fans are thrilled for you. I see a road trip in my future.

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  3. Congratulations on the new venture. I've always thought that your calendar was/is nuts; I'm not sure how you manage it. Hopefully this will let you calm down some while still doing what you love.

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  4. So excited for you and your new chapter. The Quiltville Inn looks so inviting. The possibilities are endless. Congratulations to you both and thankyou for sharing this wonderful news.

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  5. Fantastic and Congratulations! Looking forward to many updates and pics.

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  6. Congratulations Bonnie! I will turn 50 in 2020 and a visit to see uou sounds like a perfect birthday gift to myself!

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  7. I'm going to start saving my money right now! This is such a great idea and one that I know you will love producing. Congratulations!

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  8. Anonymous7:34 AM EDT

    Congratulations Bonnie it is absolutely beautiful. Thank you for sharing the history as well. I look forward to coming to one of your retreats in the future.

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  9. What wonderful news! I definitely want to be on the list for a reservation - I was born in VA and grew up in NC and can't wait to retreat there! Best of luck on this - your newest venture!

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  10. This is awesome news for you and your family. You are living my dream. I must get a move on. Can't wait to watch your progress towards Quiltville Retreat.

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  11. This is going to be so amazing! I am over the moon happy for you and I am positive you will make it a quilter's "bucket list" destination.

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  12. This is such exciting news!!! I imagine it will be easier to get a bed at the White House than it will be to get one at Quiltville Retreat House 😏

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  13. A big congratulations to you! This will be a quilting theme park for us all thanks to you and hubby. Looking forward to vacationing at Quiltville.

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  14. Such wonderful news!!!! I think people forget your human and constant travel isnt fun. After awhile it burns a person out!!! Wonderful news. Your retreat will not be far, its one I could drive too. Very exciting!

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  15. Oh this is awesome! I'm telling dh today that for my 55th birthday I want a quilt retreat with you!!!

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  16. This looks so right for you, Bonnie! Congratulations! Waiting to hear more about this gorgeous place!

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  17. What a wild and exciting adventure.. and what planning! Excellent!!! Can't wait to see and hear all about it!! WOW!!!

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  18. Oh my I will so look forward to coming to your Retreat Inn I have patience. From what I can see on your photos, it looks stunning. Along the way we will enjoy your shopping from the antique malls to make this place feels like home.

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  19. Congratulations. I am glad you will be slowing down some and enjoying life more. You are an inspiration to us all in many ways. I hope I will be able to go to your retreat when it opens.

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  20. So very happy for you and your family. Adventure and fun await you all. Can't wait to come "retreat!"

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  21. Fabulous news to wake up to this beautiful spring day! So happy you can do—so perfectly—what you need to do to slow your pace. It’s a win - win for you and for us! Congrats!

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  22. I am so happy for you and I love the quote from the end of the posting. I wish you the best for this next mile in your journey.

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  23. Wow! Just wow! Such exciting news. I remember having a conversation with you last December in Rogue River in which we touched on this subject. I will be following the progress of your new adventure with glee. I am incredibly happy for you! Congratulations!

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  24. What a wonderful future you are making for yourselves. A dream come true and a beautiful house...love it and would love to visit from Australia. You never know eh?. I wish you luck....thankyou for sharing Bonnie x

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  25. Congratulations Bonnie! May God continue to guide and bless you on this amazing journey!!!

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  26. How exciting. On my list of places to go.

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  27. Bonnie, I'm just thrilled for you! I hope I can come visit when you've got it open.

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  28. Hooray for you. I remember you mentioning this idea YEARS ago but thought it had gone by the wayside when you started re-homing sewing machines. Just a thought - I’ve been to several retreats where we brought our own bedding and towels. That idea would save you a lot of money and time doing laundry and making beds!!! Good luck in your new venture

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  29. Congratulations Bonnie! So happy for you! Going to start saving to come visit. It would be a dream to both see you and see that beautiful retreat. Can't wait.

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  30. This is great!!! And, actually, for many of us, it just might be easier to come to you than for you to come to us!! count me in!

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  31. Wow! When you go big, you really go BIG! Congrats on this new venture; I'm sure it will be lovely and quilters are really going to enjoy visiting. I know I'd love to just sit on that porch and rock the afternoon away :)

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  32. Congrats to you Bonnie.....Quilters will come and fill up all your retreats. So glad Mona can assist.

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  33. Congratulations, Bonnie! I think this is going to be an awesome new adventure! I look forward to the possibility of checking in and enjoying this beautiful retreat!

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  34. This is like a dream come true for you. Couldn’t happen to a better person. My daughter lives in a house from the 1800s and the craftsmanship is something else. A step back in time. Enjoy the journey Bonnie.

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  35. Congratulations, Bonnie. It's also beautiful. If I can ever come visit you I will. Love to follow all that you do. Rosanne in Albuquerque

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  36. So very happy for you, for the good changes to your life that this retreat center will allow!

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  37. Congratulations!! I remember when you first posted about this place. I knew you would make it happen!! So happy for you! Enjoy this new chapter to the fullest...you already are! Can't wait to visit Quiltville Inn. Thanks for bring us along in your adventure!

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  38. Sounds like a great plan. I hope I will get the chance to come and visit in the future.

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  39. I'm so happy for you I can hardly stand it! What an amazing place. And your own post office!? That is the best thing ever! I bet I say at least once per day that I need a shipping room! I dream of it. How cool to have that little PO on your property. SO EXCITING!!!!!!!

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  40. I can't believe it!!! I'm so happy to have the opportunity to come to the Quiltville Inn!! It would be a dream come true for me. Bonnie, sometimes the best decisions in life are the hardest and most fearful. I'm so glad you're doing this. You will be a success! No worries there!!

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  41. I knew you were up to something! :-) Congratulations on this journey of making your dreams come true. You've worked so hard on this quilting pathway of yours and most certainly have earned this dramatic change in your teaching/publishing life AND the time to enjoy this precious thing called life. And back in a small town just like your Idaho roots :-)

    Congratulations and Sweet Dreams!!!

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  42. Oh Honey, I'm so happy for you! I know this has been your dream for years! The house looks wonderful and the "office" too.. I wonder what you will call it? The adventure awaits! It will be fun to be on the sidelines and cheer you on!

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  43. Ugh...bringing us along on your adventure! The place is beautiful!

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  44. Congratulations! I loved seeing this house when you first posted about it and am hopeful I am one of the quilters who will get to visit it when you are open. What a wonderful dream come true for you.

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  45. Wow! So excited for you and hope to visit Quiltville Inn!

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  46. Congratulations Bonnie! You dream big, girl!
    My family are the Young's of Grayson county, so I have deep roots and love for the area!
    Hopefully I will get my quilting girlfriends to come down to retreat. I retired to Smith Mtn Lake, and love it.
    Best wishes on your grand adventure! Ann Young

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  47. Oh My Gosh!!! Congratulations!!! A dream come true for you! And for me! The whole time I was reading your blog I kept thinking about the stories in Elm Creek Quilts! Always wishing there would be such a place to go to a quilt retreat. Now, there will be! You've made a lot of people happy today by fulfilling your dream! Hopefully we'll be lucky enough to see it some day! Let the new adventures begin!

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  48. I am so very very happy for you! It's going to be fabulous!

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  49. How exciting that you hold the keys to a new chapter in your life, right in your hands!! So happy that you can really begin now! I want to be one of your quests for sure! Hope you take individuals for quilting weekend getaways along with groups so I can come! A little hike from PA, but I'll be there! Once again, congrats! I am doing a happy dance for you!! Hugs!

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  50. Congratulations Bonnie. What a treat it will be to be coming to you instead of you travelling the country. I can't wait

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  51. Can't wait!! This will be the perfect spot for friends to get together!!

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  52. I am so very happy for you Bonnie, you certainly deserve this. The home is gorgeous, what an exciting time indeed. I love how you turn wishes and dreams into reality, you are my guru for sure, WWBD! When I look at the photos of your lovely retreat to be I can't help but think of the Jennifer Chiaverini's Elm Creek Quilts books. I look forward to seeing posts as you transform the space into a quilter's dream.

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  53. I'm so happy for you! Looks like you have a plan...we'll be watching for your progress and wishing you the best!

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  54. I have been suspecting this for quite awhile now. So glad to see it happen. Hope I will be able to come visit in the future. Wish I lived closer so I could come help. Congratulations.

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  55. Awesome! This is so perfect for you! Congratulations!

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  56. Very happy for you!! Can feel the glee and smile in your post!!!

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  57. Congratulations, Bonnie! There is no one who is more caring nor capable to pull this off! Sign us up for some of your first visitors! Reminds me of the Jennifer Chiaverini books...so much history and devotion to the craft of quilting! You truly amaze and inspire! 😁♥️

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  58. Oh my goodness!!!! This is AWESOME news!!!!! The house is to die for and I envision great success :) cant wait to one day be there :) !!!!!

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  59. Congratulations!!! I was hoping so hard that this was the "big thing" you have been hinting at for a while! As someone who doesn't belong to a guild I found it so difficult to be able to take classes with you. I seriously sent out 5 emails this year trying to get into classes to be turned down. Even after I offered to join their guilds! The ONLY way I can get classes is to go to Mary's in Pennsylvania. Which is a 8 hour drive for me. Now you will be half that and I won't be turned down unless you are already booked! I seriously squee'd when I read this! So excited to be able to come stay at this amazing place!

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  60. OMG! Where do I sign up?! (I know, get on the email list!) I have read and re-read and loved all of the Elm Creek Quilts books and always wished there was somewhere like that to go! Yay! Now it's here! Just can't wait!

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  61. I'm so happy for you!!! You must be on cloud 9 or more likely, cloud 1,000! Onward and upward, Bonnie. Enjoy.

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  62. Just checked, only 490 miles from Indianapolis to Mouth of Wilson, Va. Sounds like a great trip to make. Looking forward to it. Will plan for 2022 vacation.

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  63. congratulations, a dream comes true, I'm so happy for you, and maybe, one day for me too.... ;)

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  64. Oh, Bonnie.... I am so very happy for you.....and for all of us!! Sign me up!! You have always amazed me with your energy and the seemingly effortless way you do all that you do. I just don’t know how you do everything! How wonderful for you to have such an exciting future...... and now you have even MORE planning, but I know it’s one that will give you such pleasure..... and how you love those antique shops..... now you can really go crazy! I truly am so excited for you! And this home looks gorgeous! Much love and happiness for you...... can’t wait o watch the progress..... thanks for sharing! Betsy D in Virginia

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  65. Oh I forgot to mention I am LOVING that string frenzy cover quilt!!!!! Looks like a cute snake quilt and I NEED that book! Cant wait :)

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  66. I will start saving $ now. Looks like a great place to spend time.

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  67. Oh Baby! Sign me up!So very happy for you, Bonnie. It will be a lot of work but you will be able to enjoy family and your own surroundings more often.
    Will sign up for the newsletter!

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  68. What exciting news. So happy for you as your start to write the next chapter of your life. Congratulations!

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  69. What a perfect place! Congratulations! I've been thinking about you since you posted on IG about the next phase. While reading this, I kept thinking of the movie Field of Dreams -- build it and they will come. Ha! I hope I get the opportunity to attend a retreat there and rock on the porch with you. :-)

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  70. So so happy for you, Bonnie! Cannot wait to see the results of this huge leap of faith! You GO, GIRL!

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  71. Wow this is great. So happy for you. Can’t wait to read all about it.

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  72. Just love running retreats in Williamsburg, Va. Best wishes on your new endeavor. So happy for you.

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  73. Good luck with your new venture, an absolutely fantastic idea! The house looks wonderful and I envy any quilter that goes there on retreat!

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  74. What fantastic news!! I was so hoping that this was what you were hinting at!! I will definitely want to be on the list ... probably more than once lol!! This will be a perfect setup for you!! Can’t wait!!

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  75. How very exciting for you, your family, your friends, and your devoted following!! And a big thank you for the economic good you will do for your rural community. I have followed your blog for about a year now and been both in awe at the energy you have for a truly crazy schedule and in fear that you will burn yourself out. This seems like the perfect next step and I wish you all the best during the transition time. Now, I need to figure out a journey from NE Kansas to SW Virginia and start putting aside some money!! I am sure it will be worth every effort to spend a retreat at this beautiful home in a gorgeous setting.

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  76. Oh My Goodness!!! Oh, oh, oh, I am so excited! This is wonderful. Best wishes in this new and exciting adventure. 😊

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  77. amazing!! congratulations this looks fantastic

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  78. 674 miles from St. Louis. 10 hours driving time. Woo! Hoo!

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  79. Congratulations Bonnie!!! I AM SO INN ON Your Project and anything I can do to help. I know the area and have seen your new place in my travels to and from Smith Mountain Lake. Cant wait to be there for the opening!!!!! Im definitely INN. Please please keep me posted!

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  80. Congratulations Bonnie!! This is only 4 hours from me so just maybe someday I'll get to visit.

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  81. Oh my, this is so exciting! You definitely deserve to stay closer to home and enjoy the fruits of your tireless but loving labor for quilters all over the world! What a beautiful place!

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  82. That is wonderful! I really want to be one of your first guests. We have friends in Fries, VA, and have camped at Grayson Highlands and Hungry Mother State Parks. We love to visit the area, and I am always wishing I would just run into you at a store. I met you and took a class in Wellsboro, PA, a few years ago. You have inspired me in so many ways! So happy for you that you are living your dream! You go girl!

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  83. I am so excited about this. I have wanted to attend one of your workshops or lectures but you are never in this area or anyplace near by. Now I can dream and plan.....thank you Bonnie and Congratulations.

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  84. Thank you for sharing this wonderful news with us! And we'll also get to enjoy the 'getting the place ready' with you through the photos and stories on your blog - I can't wait! Congratulations on your next adventure!

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  85. How exciting!!! The house is beautiful, I know you will make this work! And I hope I can come and visit!

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  86. I knew the first time you posted that house, you weren't going to walk away from it. it is beautiful! Big congratulations to you!

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  87. What a great space for a retreat. So exciting

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  88. I am so thrilled for you. It is always wonderful when a good "what if?" comes true. Looking forward to being in your Garden Party class in Hershey.

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  89. Congratulations! I am so glad your dream is coming to life. I know you have wanted this for a long time. Enjoy the journey this will be. Can't wait to visit your dream retreat center.

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  90. I have tears in my eyes and my heart is full for you! I got goose bumps looking at every picture. Bonnie, your dreams are always big ones and I so admire your zest for living life, sharing your passion for quilts and your giving, loving soul. Quilt on, lady. You so inspire me.

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  91. Oh, Bonnie, I'm so excited for you! What grand news! Your new retreat center looks amazing and I hope to be visiting you some day. I'm so glad you will be able to cut back on travel and live and work on your beautiful mountain. Hugs!!!

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  92. Bonnie! I’m so thrilled for you! And I can’t wait to come and stay one day!

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  93. I'm excited for you, but really excited for the rest of us. I can't wait to visit.

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  94. So happy for you and all the best on this new adventure! Sign me up!!

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  95. Congratulations Bonnie, I am so happy for you! look forward to the day you are open!

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  96. I was hoping that this was what you have been hinting at. This will be such a wonderful adventure for you and your family. I hope to be able to visit one day but know that the journey you are going to take us on will be amazing. Enjoy your next chapter to the fullest as I know all your followers will. Just have to figure out how many miles from Utah. You go girl! Make your dream real.

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  97. Way to go Bonnie! Can't wait to visit!

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  98. I'm so excited for you! This will be the best retreat center ever!

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  99. Oh, this is thrilling! I am so happy you found this and are able to make a dream come true.

    Sandy

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  100. wOW- GO BIG OR GO HOME! Sounds like a great idea and I'm happy for you! The post office building sounds perfect too. It takes a lot of courage to do tis but you sound like the one who can do it. Congradulations.
    mary in Az

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  101. I am so happy for you, and admittedly, somewhat envious! I love old houses and history, just as you do. It has long been a dream of mine to own an old house, renovate it and share it with others.

    Best wishes and I can't wait to walk through your front door to a workshop or retreat, and a chance to explore a little!

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  102. Oh, I'm so excited! I can't wait for my quilting group to do a workshop at the new center!

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  103. Whoo Hoo. I am sew happy for you and can't wait to see your dreams come to fruition.

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  104. Oh my! Most happy congratulations to you, your family, and friends in this endeavor! Blessings follow honest work and an open heart. Hope to join you some day!

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  105. Congratulations! I have wondered how you could slow down and this is the perfect solution! What a lovely venue for a quilt retreat!

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  106. This is absolutely fabulous news! What a great way to continue your passion without having to travel away from home so much. As I'm a total home body...(as in if I can't walk there with my dog, do I really want to go? Ha!)... so I'm kind of relieved for you :-) and hope I can be one to enjoy a retreat quilting session with you someday!
    Great idea, Bonnie! I pray the prepping and time till you open goes well and swift!

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  107. Congratulations Bonnie!!! I'm so happy for you and your family. The retreat house is beautiful, I love that porch!!! I hope to visit!!!

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  108. Your retreat center will be a welcome addition to quilting in Southwest Virginia. Just 40 miles to Batiks Etcetera! We will have to coordinate some happenings! Carol Britt

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  109. Wow!!!!! So happy for you! A new, exciting adventure begins. This will definitely have to be on my bucket list!!

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  110. So excited for you Bonnie! The house is gorgeous and I hope someday to come and visit. Congrats!

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  111. If there was ever a house that said "Bonnie" this is it! What a fabulous home and you'll create the best retreat location for quilters. Congrats on this next big chapter. I wish you all the best and hope to see it one day. So glad your dream is coming true.

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  112. Congratulations, Bonnie!

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  113. Please build in lots of help so you can just "be" and not wear yourself down. Can't wait to come there!

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  114. Reading this made me think of the Elm Creek Books by Jennifer Chiaverini too. What a wonderful adventure in the works!!! Dreams really do come true! I love that you'll be close to Quiltvilla in Virginia'state cabin. 2020 will be a Banner year! Happy to watch it evolve.

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  115. Congratulations! Your followers are thrilled for you. What a beautiful place you have chosen, or did it choose you? You both saw the potential in each other! You did drop a hint about new beginnings and how it caused sleeplessness. I could think of nothing other than a retreat center since you have done everything else! I knew that you would let us know when the time was right. I am sure that so many of us have thought "I must visit that part of the country" after seeing it through your eyes. So happy for you, the house is spectacular!

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  116. Mouth Of Wilson becomes Quiltville!!! My heart sings for you. Many people have big dreams...and you went for yours! God had a plan and he gave it to you and you soared!

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  117. This is wonderful news. Congratulations!

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  118. I am so excited for you and your family. There is no better feeling to have a dream turn into a plan and then reality. I checked out closest airports and mileage and have started a scheme for a trip to Quiltville Inn. Thanks for bringing us along on this journey.

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  119. What a lucky town! Are they ready for the influx of tourists??? Move over Missouri Star. Have your read the Jennifer Chiaverini Elm Creek Quilt books?

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  120. I got the chills reading this...I read your excitement..so happy for you that your dream has come true..I hope that I can walk thru those doors one day..congratulations!!!

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  121. Add me to the list of quilters whom are already figuring mileage (around 600 miles) and started to save to get there! LOL I am soooo excited for you and will be looking forward to all the pictures, antique shopping, and just general informing us how things are going. Having worked as a Part Time Flexible Schedule Clerk and as a Postmaster for 30+ years, I was thrilled about the PO building. Scrolling down the first thing I notice was the bars on the window and thought "looks like a PO" before I read about it. Congrats to your business endeavor. Once finished it will be go good for you! Luv ya, Bonnie. We all do!

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  122. Looks like a fabulous place for a retreat. Congratulations!

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  123. How absolutely wonderful for you and your family... ironically brought about because you couldn't live with the homeowners association. The Universe always has a plan!
    I very much hope that I'll live long enough and stay healthy enough to visit one day.
    Warmest congratulations to you.

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  124. So happy for you and what a beautiful place. I have never traveled or went on a vacation. If the money was there the time wasn't, but if I did ever go anywhere I would want to go there. What a beautiful home and sewing to boot. Congrats again I am really glad to see you slowing down. I worried about you, you do so much. I always include you and yours in my prayers and will continue to do so. You have enriched my life in ways you just can't imagine and I have learned so much just by watching and listening to you. Thanks again Bonnie for all you have given and I am so looking forward to watching this part of your life unfold, it's a quilt in itself. And I love the new book cover

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  125. Bonnie - I'm blown away. So happy for you. You are truly an inspiration for me and everyone for your drive. What a great location for retreats. I hope I will be able to plan a trip there. I feel very fortunate that I will get to attend your workshops in September 2018 in Missoula, MT and previously in 2016 in Helena, MT.

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  126. I am so excited for you. You didn't tell us your secret for signing your name while jumping up and down with joy. I've already checked, and it's only a little over 1,500 miles from me, so I can hardly wait to start planning a road trip. Congratulations

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  127. This is exciting! I kind of wondered if this is what was up your sleeve, but I had no idea that you could find such an amazing place! The history is fascinating and that little post office? This was meant to be!!! CONGRATULATIONS!!! Sign me up as a future visitor! <3

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  128. Congratulations! An incredible and exciting new chapter in you and your family's life! Enjoy!

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  129. Congratulations, so happy for you. You work so hard, you deserve this opportunity.

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  130. Oh my! This post gave me butterflies and goosebumps (the good kind)!! I'm so happy for you Bonnie! What an exciting new chapter! Prayers and good blessing wished for you, the Hubster and all involved! Congrats!

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  131. .I have just started doing string blocks and love them, need your new book, waiting impatiently. Also ready to pack my bag for a retreat. Congratulations on your new part of your life.

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  132. Warmest congratulations, Bonnie! With past posts of places that would make a great retreat center, your wanting to slow down, and the situation with your eyes, when you first mentioned you'd be having a BIG ANNOUNCEMENT, my first thought was definitely... "Hmmm, I wonder if...". Bonnie, I'm thrilled for you and look forward to hearing about your adventures the next year or so.

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  133. Oh Bonnie!! Such exciting news! Congratulations! What a dream come true.

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  134. So, so happy for you. Saving up to come see you when this is a reality. Good to see dreams coming true.

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  135. Funny, I was just thinking about your old cabin and what happened to the idea of a retreat center! Congratulations on the phase. Life is an adventure, meant to be lived!

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  136. How exciting, I am so happy for you. I would love to come to your retreat.
    You deserve all your dreams.

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  137. Yay for you and for us! This is going to be a win-win for everyone. I'm so pleased for you to make this dream happen for yourself and for the rest of us. Congrats on owning such a wonderful piece of history and God bless you for being willing to share it with the rest of us by opening it up for a retreat. I hope to see you there someday.

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  138. I am so thrilled for you!! It all looks amazing.

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  139. Oh Bonnie, I am thrilled for you (and can’t wait to visit!). What a beautiful property! Sounds amazing!

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  140. Congratulations! I cannot wait to sit and rock on that front porch with you with some hexies or binding in my hands. I already put the first dollar into my Bonnie retreat jar. What airport is nearest for a traveler from Arizona?

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    1. I found the airport information on your post 3/3/17 when you first posted a picture about this house: The closest airport to Mouth of Wilson is Roanoke, VA. a 2 hour drive away. The airport in Greensboro, a bit bigger, is 2 1/2 hours away, and Charlotte NC is about the same at 2 1/2 hours away.

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  141. This is wonderful news, you must be looking forward to slowing down a bit. And what a lovely property, it will just be a fabulous retreat spot. Best wishes for your success in this venture.

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  142. WOW!!!! I sure do pray that I will be able to visit. Congratulations and Thank You.

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    1. I really enjoyed the History you shared too.

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  143. So so excited to go at this new place for a retreat with you Bonnie.....congratatulations 💕

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  144. Wow! So exciting! That place is beautiful! What a blessing to have found it and had everything fall into place for you. I really look forward to your “in progress” posts and photos. I am hoping to be on the same type of adventure in the next few years. :)

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  145. That is quite an announcement. Congratulations.

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  146. So excited for you! I hope one of the things you do is run a multi day workshop on one quilt, like they had in California. I'm taking a class at Hershey, but would love the opportunity to work on one project with you for more than a day.

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  147. How AWESOME this will be. I’m sewwwww happy for you. I know this will be a dream come true for you...and US. CONGRATS!

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  148. How wonderful for you and your family,and for all of us!!! Sounds like the town is going to be in for some great expansion. Good for you!!!!!!!

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  149. Oh my goodness...CONGRATULATIONS Bonnie! Isn't it amazing when dreams are realized???? I can't wait to see the process pics, the new purchases and the decorating process! I will be here, cheering you on! Congratulations again...you have surely earned this!

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  150. Oh Bonnie!!! Congratulations to you!!! How wonderful and I can't think of another person more deserving of this kind of happiness! Dreams do come true! My lifelong dream of owning 5 acres in a peaceful setting came true for me 3 years ago!

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  151. I'm an so, sooo happy for you. A deam come true. I'm hoping I'll be able to cone for a retreat, that is my kind of house and dream. Love, love, love it!!!

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  152. Oh Bonnie,
    This is wonderful for you. I can’t wait to visit, slow down and be with other quilters. True life, better than Jennifer Chiaverini fiction. Praying for you in this endeavor.
    Janet

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  153. Dancin' on the dunes of the So. OR coast with the thrill of this new adventure/chapter in your journey....

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  154. Such a fabulous next step Bonnie! Congratulations. If you are looking for some great ideas for work rooms talk with Ann Sandler of Stitch Supply Company in WI. Her space is fabulous. Cutting tables that adjust up and down! Tons of design wall space and a fun collection of mugs to chose from every AM. Looking forward to seeing it all come together!

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  155. Bonnie I’m so happy for you! As I read your post tears came to my eyes as I could feel your heart and all the emotions leading up to this. My heart caught when you spoke of your Dear Father-In-Law and I could relate on some level as I too lost my Pa (father-in-law) after a battle with lung and brain cancer. God is watching out for you Bonnie and HE has big plans for you! Much Love and Congratulations to you!

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  156. What wonderful news, congratulations on a dream come true !!
    I only hope that one day I can attend a retreat in your new home !!

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  157. OHHHH how exciting.. I would love to travel to virginia, would be a first adventure for me to... congratulations, breathe, all will fall into place :)

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  158. Soooo thrilled for you Bonnie!! You have done what I bet tons of quilters have asked for and maybe even thought about doing themselves!!! Congrats and WOW, this is awesome to say the least!! I can't imagine how this will change your life soon and let you slow down some!!! I can't wait to see more pics of the place and some before & afters too!!! xox

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  159. I remember your posting a picture of this place, and thinking how much it reminded me of my grandparents house.

    This home has found the best new owner, your love of history and the land, and preserving things is going to make this place amazing.

    And to able to say, I went to Bonnie's place for a quilt retreat.

    WAHOO for you and WAHOO for us.

    Can't wait to read the blogs as you make this your own!!!

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  160. Just gorgeous! How wonderful to live in history. Glad you will have some time to enjoy your new place. I was born in Richmond, so I have some knowledge of the history. I live in TX now and haven't been back for a while. Hmmm....

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  161. Congratulations, Bonnie! You are going to have so much fun furnishing the Quiltville Inn - look out antique shops - Bonnie is coming.

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  162. So happy for you. The house is beautiful. Enjoy every minute of this journey.
    Couldn't help thinking about the Elm Creek quilters as I read your story. Keep your wonderful stories and updates coming.....please.

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  163. Congratulations, Bonnie! So happy for you, spilling some tears of joy. I can’t wait to hear about your adventures!

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  164. Congratulations! I just drove through that area yesterday coming home from a retreat in east TN. I love driving down rt. 81 and the mountains - so beautiful! Can't wait to see what you do with the place!

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  165. If you ever feel the need for volunteers you can check with me. I have friends and family not too far away and have helped my daughter with the idiosyncrasies of a preparing an older home for sale kind of the same as for moving in. I won't expect anything in return, your gifts are already more than most give in a lifetime and you have many years yet to share with the quilting world.

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  166. I surely hope to someday spend some time at your lovely new adventure! Here's hoping the plan goes as smoothly as possible, meanwhile I get to take a class with you later this year in Indianapolis.

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  167. Huge congratulations to you, Dave and family on your newest adventure. Such anticipation until I can walk through that front door and experience the main foyer for my first retreat at the Quiltville Inn...be still my ❤️

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  168. Congratulations Bonnie! I'm going to start saving now! I've always wanted to see you and join in on the fun AND I've never been on a retreat either! It will be a first! Which means I will have to do it "afraid!" Lol big crowds are a fear of mine and I didn't use to be that way....its a development with my difficulty to walk at times I think. I don't want to impose my difficulties on others. But for THIS,....I'll have to try and do it afraid! Plane, travel and meeting everyone! Can't wait to see the progress and hope to meet you one of these days!💕💕💕💕

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  169. So happy for you. Best wishes from Israel

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  170. Congratulations Bonnie! I guess that means I'll be making a road trip from Massachusetts to set on that gorgeous porch!

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  171. Congratulations! This is so great!

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  172. Wow wow wow wow wow! Congratulations, Bonnie!

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  173. Chasing dreams and now you make them come true. Congratulations Bonnie with this great house. I 'm sorry that for me of it is half a world away. But I wil enjoy your stories about realising this dream of yours.Greetings from the Netherlands.

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  174. Congratulations! This is a wonderful dream and I hope it will be so full-filling for you! New adventures are always promising.

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  175. Where do I sign up??? Congratulations Bonnie!

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  176. Wow! I can't wait to visit! Just the other day, something you posted made me wonder if something like a retreat center was in the works. Sharing the travel load with your fans is a great solution!

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  177. A DREAM!! Heartfelt congratulations to you!!👏💕

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  178. This is amazing and wonderful news!! You will have people lined up and ready to play as soon as you are ready. The house is already beautiful. Put me on the list of contacts, as I will be visiting you.

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  179. I think it is the most wonderful thing in the world, congratulations to all who helped pull this together, thank you ever so much. I will be to old in 2020 to go but I know all who goes through these doors will be welcome and have a great time, thank you Bonnie, it will be great for them to come to you so you can be at home. I am so happy for you. Your dreams are coming true.

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  180. How great it is to have a dream and then to realize it. So happy for you and your family. They will have you home more(kind of) Looking forward to seeing what you will do and how things will happen!

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  181. I'm so happy for you! Congratulations on your next great adventure.

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  182. Congratulations, Bonnie! What a beautiful treasure that you've had the opportunity to purchase. Can't wait for this to come on line. Wish you could sign me up now! Got any job openings? LOL Looking forward to seeing how everything progresses.

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  183. Congratulations Bonnie! I am so happy for you!!! I got goose bumps when I read this post. I hope I get to visit you in this new venture. WOW! I am so excited for you and for all of us to be able to visit you in the future!

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  184. I am So Excited about this new chapter in your life!! I want to be among the first to retreat there with you when it's ready! It is an amazing property! Love the history and I am looking forward to learning and seeing much more as it all comes together! Huge hugs to my Sloth Sister! Missing you in Napa. Jamie

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  185. I'm so excited for you! As I was reading about your new adventure, you had me in happy tears! Thanks for always taking us along on all of your adventures. I know the house is just as happy that you have it as you are to have it because you will treasure it's history as you make new memories in it and what house wouldn't love that?!

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  186. CONGRATULATIONS, Bonnie!!!!!!! Your wonderful journey continues!!!!

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  187. Congratulations! I've been hoping that you would do this eventually - it makes sense to have the quilters come to you! I'm signing up for your list right now!

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  188. Congratulations Bonnie! SEW HAPPY for you~and us! Count me in! Sign me up!! This is on my Bucket List! Can't WAIT to visit!!! Way to go, Bonnie!

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  189. Congratulations!!!!! Your excitement is certainly contagious! I'm so happy for you and your new chapter! Best of luck to you!

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  190. Congratulations, Bonnie! So happy for you, spilling some tears of joy. I can’t wait to hear about your adventures!

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  191. My heart is singing for you. Well done to all the hard work it has taken so far.That hot tub is going to be well loved during the readying for the grand opening.

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  192. Sew Happy for you! looks like it will be a wonderful retreat!

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  193. Oh! Such joyous news, Bonnie! My eyes filled with joyful tears at the thoughts of your new adventure. It is wonderful to see you, who have blessed so many of us with love, knowledge and happiness, be blessed in return.

    I look forward to your progress reports and the to the time when I can come visit your Quiltville Retreat.

    I wish you much well-deserved success.

    Loretta McGinn

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  194. Bonnie, I am so pleased for you! This sounds like a very wise move that is well thought out - good for you and good for your family. I am glad that Mona will be giving you a hand with it. I took two of your workshops at the Quiltmaker block party in Williamsburg, Virginia in 2012 - flying in from Canada. I have been wondering how I might be able to take another class from you sometime again - this might be it! Take care.

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  195. Absolutely awesome!! You should only have success in all that you do.

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  196. Fantastic news, Bonnie! Congratulations to you and the quilting community is celebrating!

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