Every summer, I jump on a plane with my hubby and daughters to take our annual trip to Omaha, Nebraska. When I tell people how much I look forward to spending time in Omaha, I often detect that “really, Laura?” look on their faces. But it’s true. In addition to having a great time visiting with the relatives and eating way too much food, one highlight of the trip has become the wild and crazy pie fight. Yes, you heard me right. Those of us wanting to stay clean and who prefer sitting on the sidelines and taking photos (that would be me!) scoop Cool Whip onto hundreds of small paper plates while the rest of the crew dress themselves in large trash bags and shower caps and wait patiently for the whistle that signals the start of the “games.”
Chaos waiting to happen.
Here’s a photo of the aftermath of a fun-filled afternoon. Yes, my family is crazy. What can I say?
During our short stay, we always make time to visit the capital city of Lincoln. While my husband spends time at the Natural History Museum, I head straight for the International Quilt Study Center and Museum.
The International Quilt Study Center and Museum was founded in 1997 when native Nebraskans Ardis and Robert James donated their collection of nearly 1000 quilts to the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Their contribution became the centerpiece of what is now the largest publicly held quilt collection in the world. Through private funds from the University of Nebraska Foundation and a lead gift from the James family, the center opened in its new location in 2008. The glass and brick, environmentally sustainable building was awarded silver level LEED (Leadership in Energy and environmental Design) certification.
The 3500+ items currently in the IQSC&M collection date from the early 1700s to the present, and 25 nations are represented. This is an area of special focus as the center works toward its goal of collecting, preserving and sharing quilts from all cultures, locations, and eras.
While checking the website to see what special exhibits would be available during my visit, I was delighted to see that I will have the privilege of seeing a a variety of pieces from the Jean Ray Laury collection. I will share photos and details of the show when I return.
Thank you to the museum for allowing us to include the above information and photos. Be sure to visit their website for more information.
Until next time, I wish you lots of fun with your families and friends.
