National Doll Convention Wraps Up in Kansas City

My final day at the National Doll Convention started out with a wonderful 3-hour seminar by Anita Ladensack, the author of The History and Art of Googlies. I learned so much about Googlies that I have a new appreciation for their round-eyed adorableness.

For lunch I was treated to a "Sewing For Grandmother's Dolls" luncheon with a fascinating program on sewing for dolls by expert Susan Sirkiss and a miniature reproduction china doll in a display case (displayed with tiny sewing notitons, of course) by Rosemarie Snyder.

I had a true moment of excitement when, for the first time in 8 years I won not 1, but 3 Convention Helpers! More on this in the full report. Helpers are raffle items that are donated by clubs and collectors and shops, and sale of the raffle tickets helps financially support the convention.

The rest of my day was spent saying goodbye to new and old friends. The convention wrapped up with a festive Oktoberfest banquet, complete with brass band and dancing. The convention doll was a delight--a papier mache and cloth dollhouse doll by the Kathe Kruse doll company in its own trunk with clothing. It has been many years since the company has released a dollhouse doll, and this one delighted all.

I'm travelling back home today; look for my wrap up and more next week. The convention was a huge success and I'm already looking forward to next year in Philadelphia.