My complements to all of the folks who put effort into making the NCOWS convention work. None of us has a lot of spare time (Even if we are "retired") to spend on Volunteering but to Me it was a great and glorius success. My Wive and I left better dressed and heeled than when we came.
My heart realy goes out to the vendors who pack and unpack everything during the days prior to and after the rest of us have left with full minds and empty wallets. I have in the past done my share of antique shows, and swap meets, both as a vendor and a visitor. I met some very nice and informative vendors and they to a person where all very kind and informative as well as period correct. I pray that they all made a bit of a profit to make it "worth their while.
It always seems like the odds are stacked against the folks selling their wares when the weather is not kind. I believe that all of those who were NCOWS members left as broke as I did. But if we do not support the vendors, while at the shows they have no reason to return. I for one believe that with out the well infomed vendors and their great products, it would realy be tough to justify making the trip.
I will step off my soap box now, but thanks everone one who came and set up their wares. I believe my wife and I personaly left a little green sovineir with almost every vendor. I guess I will have to work another year before I retire just to pay for the convention. "Oh well, I probably would have wasted the money (I left) on things I needed anyway" to quote my old cartoon favorite, Deputy Dawg.
Vaya Con Dios, Amigos