Our Dear Madrona Friends,

It’s been 20 years since the first Madrona. What a journey it has been, and many of you have been along for the wild ride. From the Inn at Gig Harbor and the first registrations by mail, the spirit of Madrona grew as we moved to the Hotel Murano. We’ve never lost the intimacy of Madrona, and we’ve loved nurturing the community. In that time, Cornie’s daughter Erin was in a stroller at Madrona, now she is beginning her sophomore year in college. Suzanne’s daughter Jennifer was not yet a mother, now her daughter attends classes at Madrona. You have given generously to our Madrona Charity Partners, and we’re proud of that legacy. We are grateful that you have let us into your hearts and allowed us to share Madrona with you.

Truly, we have just set the stage for what happens at Madrona. Each of you contributes your joy and eagerness to learn and share. Combine that with our incredible teachers over 20 years who feed all that eagerness, and the amazing market of vendors and the lovely Hotel Murano that treats us as family — Magic Happens!

You have all helped nurture this community. You brought your families, college roommates, and friends. There are those of you who have made lasting friendships as roommates and now return year after year. Teachers and vendors have become our dear friends.

In this spirit of celebration for what this has meant to each of you, we are announcing that this coming February, 2019 will be the last Madrona. We are both in our 70’s and ready to retire. We know you will miss this gathering and this has been an emotional decision for both of us. What a privilege it has been to be with each and every one of you over these 20 years. We will miss you as February rolls around each year.

Our last Madrona will be very special. Sally Melville, who was at the very first Madrona will give the talk at the banquet, and we are very pleased to announce that Vivian Hoxbro will return to teach and give the talk at the Teacher’s Gallery. All your favorite teachers through the years will join us, and you can watch for previews of spectacular classes.

Come join the fun in February, even if you are not registered for a class — the market, demonstrations, clinics and evening events are free. Come hang out for one last time in the Rotunda to knit, and spin, and share with friends in the spirit of Madrona.

On this, our 20th anniversary, we celebrate all of you as our family, and we are grateful for your loyalty and support. We want you to know that you all have made Madrona your own creation, and your joy in being at Madrona will be held in our hearts.

Stay well, and keep on being who you are — we will see you at Madrona.

February 14-17, 2019

Suzanne and Cornie
suzanneped@msn.com
425-222-3554