Floristry 2 Evening class begins Monday August 12. It is four nights a week for three wonderful exciting and creative evenings from 6:00 to 9:00.
Monday August 12
Tuesday August 13
Wednesday August 14
Thursday August 15
Monday August 19
Tuesday August 20
Wednesday August 21
Thursday August 22
Monday August 26
Tuesday August 27
Wednesday August 28
Thursday August 29
This is an advanced class where you will create design styles as Phoenix,Waterfall, tropical designs, centerpieces. The design style is discussed, the mexcanics and product are presented, then each student with the guidance of the instructor create finding each their own design style. The designs are taken home to keep, share or use as marketing tools for your business.
Call Cheryl at 612-362-3133 to sign up today to join .
Wednesday, July 31, 2013
State Fair Design Competition #2
State Fair Design Competition heading just before this post is information for you to create some designs for the State Fair.
Generally you as a designer have a few people to look at your designs and evaluate them so you can grow as a designer. Entering this competition will give tyou the venue to create and be evaluated , and possibly win ribbons. Many students of The Institute of Floristry have gone on to win many blue and other colorful ribbons.
Read the information on the web site, choose from many levels of design. Start at the beginning, design your way up.There are many categories at each level. Enter with a child or grandchild, there are several categories for young designers as well.
Then send me your picture with your design, wheather you win a ribbon or not, let's celebrate your creative spirit.
Generally you as a designer have a few people to look at your designs and evaluate them so you can grow as a designer. Entering this competition will give tyou the venue to create and be evaluated , and possibly win ribbons. Many students of The Institute of Floristry have gone on to win many blue and other colorful ribbons.
Read the information on the web site, choose from many levels of design. Start at the beginning, design your way up.There are many categories at each level. Enter with a child or grandchild, there are several categories for young designers as well.
Then send me your picture with your design, wheather you win a ribbon or not, let's celebrate your creative spirit.
State Fair Design Competition
Additional premium lists and entry forms may be obtained by:
downloading from the Minnesota State Fair website, www.mnstatefair.org (Competitions, Ag-Hort-Bee)
emailing the Competition Department at competition@mnstatefair.org
writing the Competition Department, Minnesota State Fair, 1265 Snelling Ave. N., St. Paul, MN 55108
calling the Competition Department at (651) 288-4417
Online registration! Registration for entries is available online at the Minnesota State Fair website,
www.mnstatefair.org for all divisions except Farm Crops, classes 103-111. See instructions at the beginning
of each division
downloading from the Minnesota State Fair website, www.mnstatefair.org (Competitions, Ag-Hort-Bee)
emailing the Competition Department at competition@mnstatefair.org
writing the Competition Department, Minnesota State Fair, 1265 Snelling Ave. N., St. Paul, MN 55108
calling the Competition Department at (651) 288-4417
Online registration! Registration for entries is available online at the Minnesota State Fair website,
www.mnstatefair.org for all divisions except Farm Crops, classes 103-111. See instructions at the beginning
of each division
Tuesday, July 2, 2013
Powdered Alum and Hydreangea Experiments
The question of dipping the end of hydrangea into Powdered Alum comes up at our programs here at Koehler & Dramm,florists ask about it all of the time. Does it really work? Will it help my hydrangea last longer?
It was time to experiment for my own, after all we have the most beautiful and fresh flowers, I bought the Powdered Alum everything was ready.
There were two vases of hydrator, two vases without hydrator, two vases with flower food, two vases without flower food, two vases with foam with flower food, two vases with foam without flower food. All vases were clearly marked; product was measured to the instructions. The experiment was done the same way two times. One stem of hydrangeas was cut, and then dipped in Powdered Alum; one was cut, and then put in the vase, with and without foam.
The conclusive evidence is that it is imperative to use a hydrator and flower food when processing hydrangeas. There was no strong evidence that the Powdered Alum was a defining factor in the lasting quality of the blossoms. The information that was reinforced to me is that one must use a hydrator and flower food, following the instructions on the label. Use fresh clean water, sharp clean tools, clean design and processing areas. Over and over this evidence came out strong and clear.
Water is different everywhere, even in your home, because of pipes and how far it travels, if it is well or city, with or without fluoride. The best advice that I can give you is to have your water tested. Contact one of the major flower food companies; find the contact information on the container. Ask them how to test your water so you are using the correct flower food, and then follow their instructions.
With the idea of water being different, some water may react more positively to Powdered Alum helping the flowers cognitively, and then for goodness sake use it.
Please contact me with questions. I will do my best to find answers. I don’t have all of them, but I know really smart people that will help both of us.
It was time to experiment for my own, after all we have the most beautiful and fresh flowers, I bought the Powdered Alum everything was ready.
There were two vases of hydrator, two vases without hydrator, two vases with flower food, two vases without flower food, two vases with foam with flower food, two vases with foam without flower food. All vases were clearly marked; product was measured to the instructions. The experiment was done the same way two times. One stem of hydrangeas was cut, and then dipped in Powdered Alum; one was cut, and then put in the vase, with and without foam.
The conclusive evidence is that it is imperative to use a hydrator and flower food when processing hydrangeas. There was no strong evidence that the Powdered Alum was a defining factor in the lasting quality of the blossoms. The information that was reinforced to me is that one must use a hydrator and flower food, following the instructions on the label. Use fresh clean water, sharp clean tools, clean design and processing areas. Over and over this evidence came out strong and clear.
Water is different everywhere, even in your home, because of pipes and how far it travels, if it is well or city, with or without fluoride. The best advice that I can give you is to have your water tested. Contact one of the major flower food companies; find the contact information on the container. Ask them how to test your water so you are using the correct flower food, and then follow their instructions.
With the idea of water being different, some water may react more positively to Powdered Alum helping the flowers cognitively, and then for goodness sake use it.
Please contact me with questions. I will do my best to find answers. I don’t have all of them, but I know really smart people that will help both of us.
Tuesday, June 25, 2013
Society of American Florists
When you are a member of Society of American Florists you will receive a message each week, Sales Wake Up. It is always full of interesting important information for the floral industry more important for your business.
This morning I reposted the article on how to make sure your hydreangeas are fully hydrated, it is priceless information,very timely with the summer weddings and events.
Go to www.safnow website, or call Society of American Florists at 1-800-336-4743. Ask about becoming a member, the benefits,publications, meetings and networking. This is about the business of being a grower,wholesaler and retailer,all together, helping each other. Call me at 1-612-362-3102 if you like ,I will talk with you about SAF and what it is to me personally.
This morning I reposted the article on how to make sure your hydreangeas are fully hydrated, it is priceless information,very timely with the summer weddings and events.
Go to www.safnow website, or call Society of American Florists at 1-800-336-4743. Ask about becoming a member, the benefits,publications, meetings and networking. This is about the business of being a grower,wholesaler and retailer,all together, helping each other. Call me at 1-612-362-3102 if you like ,I will talk with you about SAF and what it is to me personally.
SAF Information on Hydreangea care
Select LanguageEnglishAfrikaansAlbanianArabicArmenianAzerbaijaniBasqueBelarusianBulgarianCatalanChinese (Simplified)Chinese (Traditional)CroatianCzechDanishDutchEstonianFilipinoFinnishFrenchGalicianGeorgianGermanGreekHaitian CreoleHebrewHindiHungarianIcelandicIndonesianIrishItalianJapaneseKoreanLatvianLithuanianMacedonianMalayMalteseNorwegianPersianPolishPortugueseRomanianRussianSerbianSlovakSlovenianSpanishSwahiliSwedishThaiTurkishUkrainianUrduVietnameseWelshYiddish Flattened Hydrangea? Drink Up
Submitted by Sheila Santiago on June 20, 2013
in Industry News
Dahlias, hydrangeas and other of the floral industry’s more “fleeting” blooms go under the microscope at SAF Phoenix 2013, when two leading care and handling experts show attendees how to “Overcome Your Fear of Difficult Blooms.”
Industry members can learn care and handling techniques for challenging blooms during the live-demo workshop "Overcome Your Fear of Difficult Flowers" at SAF's 129th annual convention Sept 19-21 in Phoenix.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Gay Smith, technical consulting manager of Chrysal USA, and Jim Daly, president of Floralife, Inc., will lead the 90-minute live-demo workshop focused on care and handling techniques for some of the industry’s most finicky exotic and specialty cut flowers. A sneak preview of the type of info they’ll share:
“Hydrangea blooms may look like a mastodon sat on them when you open the box, but handled correctly they’ll plump up fast,” said Gay Smith of Chrysal USA. When you give the stems a fresh cut, “take off at least an inch and don’t leave any old stem tissue,” she said. Put the stems in a clean bucket of fresh hydration solution, let them sit outside the cooler for 30 minutes to allow condensation on the florets to evaporate, then place them in the cooler and let them have a good long drink (at least overnight and up to three days). Be sure to top off the bucket with fresh solution often. “It’s common for hydrangeas to drink a bucket dry overnight or during a weekend,” Smith said. “Make sure you let flowers fully hydrate in fresh solution overnight so the blooms fully harden-off before using them in a design.”
SAF Phoenix 2013 takes place Sept. 18-21 at the Sheraton Wild Horse Pass in Chandler, Ariz. See the complete program and register online or download the brochure
Submitted by Sheila Santiago on June 20, 2013
in Industry News
Dahlias, hydrangeas and other of the floral industry’s more “fleeting” blooms go under the microscope at SAF Phoenix 2013, when two leading care and handling experts show attendees how to “Overcome Your Fear of Difficult Blooms.”
Industry members can learn care and handling techniques for challenging blooms during the live-demo workshop "Overcome Your Fear of Difficult Flowers" at SAF's 129th annual convention Sept 19-21 in Phoenix.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Gay Smith, technical consulting manager of Chrysal USA, and Jim Daly, president of Floralife, Inc., will lead the 90-minute live-demo workshop focused on care and handling techniques for some of the industry’s most finicky exotic and specialty cut flowers. A sneak preview of the type of info they’ll share:
“Hydrangea blooms may look like a mastodon sat on them when you open the box, but handled correctly they’ll plump up fast,” said Gay Smith of Chrysal USA. When you give the stems a fresh cut, “take off at least an inch and don’t leave any old stem tissue,” she said. Put the stems in a clean bucket of fresh hydration solution, let them sit outside the cooler for 30 minutes to allow condensation on the florets to evaporate, then place them in the cooler and let them have a good long drink (at least overnight and up to three days). Be sure to top off the bucket with fresh solution often. “It’s common for hydrangeas to drink a bucket dry overnight or during a weekend,” Smith said. “Make sure you let flowers fully hydrate in fresh solution overnight so the blooms fully harden-off before using them in a design.”
SAF Phoenix 2013 takes place Sept. 18-21 at the Sheraton Wild Horse Pass in Chandler, Ariz. See the complete program and register online or download the brochure
Wednesday, June 12, 2013
Special Event Class
The Special Event Class will be Jully 22-26 , 2013.Want to build yoyur event business? Here is how.
This class is created and designed for that person that advertises and creates events for their customers. Events of 4 people at a special dinner party, a birthday party,graduation ,wedding of 4 to a thousand guests.
As part of the class we will take a couple of field trips,one to an event site and another to an event provider. They will tour us around their facility plus have a question and answer session to learn more what they expect from the florist and what you can count on them for.
We will have a lesson in draping a room from Grand Designs, Michael Weinmeyer will speak with us about ordering fresh products,Jacquie Knutson will talk with us on special ordering from supply department and how to help us serve you .A major event company will be here sharing with you advertising,marketing,selling,permotions.
Come with questions,ideas,concerns and a sharp knife.
The class has design time to create table event settings, with flowers,candles,glass and decorative accents.
Friday, May 24, 2013
Creating and Designing with Decorative Wires
This has been an exceptional week in the Learning Resource Center at the Institute of Floristry,I mean amazing.
Deb Schwarze, soon to be AIFD is teaching the class on The Wonderful World of Wire,all sizes,shapes,ideas,so much. This is the first class, a new offering from The Institute of Floristry.
Many of our customers and staff talk about wire,using it, how to identify it, what to callthe sizes whe ordering, and what do you do with it. Many designers see it at the shows and programs that Koehler & Dramm offers,they purchase it, then want and need ways to use it and make money in the process. That is what this class,and all of them are for,learning,sharing and using for a higher profit.
We,Debi, the class and I are in the process of writing a hand book about wires,the ones we have available,a glossary of terms and techmiques and tools,yes wonderful tools that make the process enjoyable and easy.
Look at some of these examples that the class created with Debi's exquise talent
and patience. Of coarse we sell all of the products,except the Swaroski chrystals, those are a generous gift to the students by Debi. We will offer this class again next year.
We are now in the process of creating the 2014 schedule,any requests for classes or Hands on Wednesday subjects...lets keep this to floral design!!!!
Many of our customers and staff talk about wire,using it, how to identify it, what to callthe sizes whe ordering, and what do you do with it. Many designers see it at the shows and programs that Koehler & Dramm offers,they purchase it, then want and need ways to use it and make money in the process. That is what this class,and all of them are for,learning,sharing and using for a higher profit.
We,Debi, the class and I are in the process of writing a hand book about wires,the ones we have available,a glossary of terms and techmiques and tools,yes wonderful tools that make the process enjoyable and easy.
Look at some of these examples that the class created with Debi's exquise talent
We are now in the process of creating the 2014 schedule,any requests for classes or Hands on Wednesday subjects...lets keep this to floral design!!!!
Wednesday, May 1, 2013
"The Bouquet " Art In Bloom 2013 Special Event Design Team
From Left to right:
Dixie Nelson,Susie Andler,Keiko Sandri CPFD, Ardith Beveridge AIFD, Co-Chair Marge Jacobson CPFD, Jessie Thompson, Maureen DeBruyn, Mary Andler, Jeanine Greenfield, Cheryl Stanius-Deiman, Irene Alton, Peggy Britton
Friday April 19,2013
Off to class after another good breakfast.
Petra is the instructor today for bridal bouquet designs. Great ideas and techniques,she is very good.
Lunch,breaks,wine for graduation was wonderful.
Petra is the instructor today for bridal bouquet designs. Great ideas and techniques,she is very good.
Lunch,breaks,wine for graduation was wonderful.
Happy May Day
Happy May Day to all of you.
Remember those fun May Days when we were in school,the sweet May Baskets that we delivered to family and friends? Bring that celebration of Spring back into your life.
Give flowers ,celebrate with flowers! Put some fresh blossoms in a vase,a hand tie and show up with them at home,at work,at the sitters or the groomers.
We have a the opportunity to brighten up your day and everyone you know.
Just living is not enough...One must have love,sunshine and a little flower.Hans Christian Anderson
Remember those fun May Days when we were in school,the sweet May Baskets that we delivered to family and friends? Bring that celebration of Spring back into your life.
Give flowers ,celebrate with flowers! Put some fresh blossoms in a vase,a hand tie and show up with them at home,at work,at the sitters or the groomers.
We have a the opportunity to brighten up your day and everyone you know.
Just living is not enough...One must have love,sunshine and a little flower.Hans Christian Anderson
Monday, April 22, 2013
Monday April 22, 2013 Dutch Masters
To all of the Best Dutch Masters in The United States;
Thank you all for sharing this phenominal experience and trip.
Thank you for the Pandora Charms. I will put a picture on the blog when I learn how, really soon. I will kep the card and your words for me forever.
My heart is full of joy, gratitude,thanks for the great time. I know I hiccuped a couple of times,thank you for understanding and jumping in to help, all of you. You are amazing people,designers,friends. I will always remember you and this trip. The yellow tulip will be in the classroom in a special place to thank you when you come to class and visit me. I will see it every day and relive the advanture with deep gratitude for each of you
Love AA
Thank you all for sharing this phenominal experience and trip.
Thank you for the Pandora Charms. I will put a picture on the blog when I learn how, really soon. I will kep the card and your words for me forever.
My heart is full of joy, gratitude,thanks for the great time. I know I hiccuped a couple of times,thank you for understanding and jumping in to help, all of you. You are amazing people,designers,friends. I will always remember you and this trip. The yellow tulip will be in the classroom in a special place to thank you when you come to class and visit me. I will see it every day and relive the advanture with deep gratitude for each of you
Love AA
Friday, April 19, 2013
Thursday ,April 18,2013
We were up and on the bus early to travel to the float barn to design on the floats for the 66th annual flower parade car floats. The bus took us on a delightful drive through the country side,telling is about his country for 45 minutes to Sassenheim.
The float barn was full of the sweet fragrance of all spring bulb flowers. The flowers are cut from the bulbs,and not uses. The bulbs are then sold on the market.The flowers are grown for the bulbs.
It was wonderful,just wonderful.
There were lots of designers workers,visitors and very important people,as thy will love to tell you.
This is a mini Rose Bowl parade ,sort of. The pictures on Facebook page Koehler trip will give you a nice look at our assignments and creative work.
Jacqueline brought us all lunch,thank you for that Jacqueline and Claus.
We left the barn for Amsterdam. Amsterdam is open Thursday evenings until 9:00. We split in many groups. Dawn,James and I went off to look at flea rackets ,local selling places,all fun spots. We walked and walked and walked and walked,ate some and walked more. It was so windy,but NO SNO W.
The bus ride to the hotel was quiet and relaxing.
The float barn was full of the sweet fragrance of all spring bulb flowers. The flowers are cut from the bulbs,and not uses. The bulbs are then sold on the market.The flowers are grown for the bulbs.
It was wonderful,just wonderful.
There were lots of designers workers,visitors and very important people,as thy will love to tell you.
This is a mini Rose Bowl parade ,sort of. The pictures on Facebook page Koehler trip will give you a nice look at our assignments and creative work.
Jacqueline brought us all lunch,thank you for that Jacqueline and Claus.
We left the barn for Amsterdam. Amsterdam is open Thursday evenings until 9:00. We split in many groups. Dawn,James and I went off to look at flea rackets ,local selling places,all fun spots. We walked and walked and walked and walked,ate some and walked more. It was so windy,but NO SNO W.
The bus ride to the hotel was quiet and relaxing.
Wednesday April 17,2013
Today ,April 17 is my sweet daughters birthday. Happy Birthday Crisi with all of my love.
On the bus,all on time at 9:30am for coffee at school.
The instructor today was Erma Mus. Erma demonstrated the morning with European style centerpiece,some chair design .
After another delightful lunch we entered the design area to make the design. The afternoon was filled with creative renditions of the demonstrated deigns. Every one was very creative,learning and sharing.
There was an afternoon break each day. I am anxious that my students know that some places give breaks....they do not know that in my classes...oops. Now thy want a kitchen and lunch area at K&D. We ,at work ,have wanted that for years.
We went back to the hotel for free afternoon.
Many of the students bring their deigns to the hotel with them. Many took the hand ties to the Senior high rise apartments close to the hotel to share. Some gave theirs to passerby,the bus driver,the hotel,staff at the school,the town is full of flowers.
Els stopped by for a few minutes,Dawn gave Els her deign. They were both delighted ,giving and receiving flowers.
Els and I went for tea,to share precious time together. We could of talked forever. I all of a sudden after setting down became very relaxed. I went to my room,to organize ,and reorganize my luggage. I sat on the bed, laid down and slept or a coupe of hours. Felt great.
On the bus,all on time at 9:30am for coffee at school.
The instructor today was Erma Mus. Erma demonstrated the morning with European style centerpiece,some chair design .
After another delightful lunch we entered the design area to make the design. The afternoon was filled with creative renditions of the demonstrated deigns. Every one was very creative,learning and sharing.
There was an afternoon break each day. I am anxious that my students know that some places give breaks....they do not know that in my classes...oops. Now thy want a kitchen and lunch area at K&D. We ,at work ,have wanted that for years.
We went back to the hotel for free afternoon.
Many of the students bring their deigns to the hotel with them. Many took the hand ties to the Senior high rise apartments close to the hotel to share. Some gave theirs to passerby,the bus driver,the hotel,staff at the school,the town is full of flowers.
Els stopped by for a few minutes,Dawn gave Els her deign. They were both delighted ,giving and receiving flowers.
Els and I went for tea,to share precious time together. We could of talked forever. I all of a sudden after setting down became very relaxed. I went to my room,to organize ,and reorganize my luggage. I sat on the bed, laid down and slept or a coupe of hours. Felt great.
Monday, April 15
The Continental Breakfast at the hotel was very good...so European...
The bus arrived at 9:am,we arrived at the school at 9:45 , had coffee.
The class began with Jacqueline welcoming everyone,telling about the schedule . She introduced us to our instructor Petra van der Veen is charming. She demonstrated the remaining morning European Hand Tied designs, many styles and techniques,in and out of armatures .
There is a lovely bar and eating area on site,with an outdoor patio for fresh air and sun. Again it was a bit overcast ,and around 65 degrees. Lunch each day is included in the cost which is always homemade so sandwiches,great bread and drink of coffee,tea,milk juices.there are Dutch cookies and cheeses.
After lunch the students helped divide the products for the practical part of the lass.They all began with the same products and ended with beautiful custom designs. they each experimented with the styles and flowers provided which were so fresh and beautiful. At 4:00 we rushed to clean up, jump on the bus for the hotel. The structured part of the trip was over for one day,they were on their own. The students split in many groups,different Mose every day. They all made instant friends with each other.
The bus arrived at 9:am,we arrived at the school at 9:45 , had coffee.
The class began with Jacqueline welcoming everyone,telling about the schedule . She introduced us to our instructor Petra van der Veen is charming. She demonstrated the remaining morning European Hand Tied designs, many styles and techniques,in and out of armatures .
There is a lovely bar and eating area on site,with an outdoor patio for fresh air and sun. Again it was a bit overcast ,and around 65 degrees. Lunch each day is included in the cost which is always homemade so sandwiches,great bread and drink of coffee,tea,milk juices.there are Dutch cookies and cheeses.
After lunch the students helped divide the products for the practical part of the lass.They all began with the same products and ended with beautiful custom designs. they each experimented with the styles and flowers provided which were so fresh and beautiful. At 4:00 we rushed to clean up, jump on the bus for the hotel. The structured part of the trip was over for one day,they were on their own. The students split in many groups,different Mose every day. They all made instant friends with each other.
Friday,April 19,2013. Dutch Masters Tour/ Class
WOW is the one word to tell you about our trip.
I will begin at the airport in Minneapolis .We began gathering before 10:00am for the 1:00 flight to Chicago,O'Hare
. It was a marvelous reunion and meeting of friends new and old.Stories,laughing and of coarse eating...we are florists first!
The flight took off on time ,easy flight to Chicago. We left our plane,had to leave the secured area into the train to the International terminal. Jenni bought her Mountain Dew in Minneapolis as they do not sell it in Holland.She had to give it away to go through security again...She did it with good humor.
We meet Kae,Jan,Audrey in Chicago ,left on time for Amsterdam. The seats were cozy. It is easy for me to sleep, which I did most of the way. Also thank goodness for Yoga. I think I used a couple of positions that are not in the practices.
Arrival at Schiphol Amsterdam airport was sweet and so easy. We departed the plane,picked up our luggage. Some exchanged money,others picked up their per ordered travel tickets. I called the bus company,which picked us up about 15 minutes after we called . We went directly to the charming hotel in Aalsmeer,unloaded. All of our rooms were ready for us. We arrived at the airport at 6:45.ten minutes early. We checked into the hotel around 8:45 am . The hotel is lovely,with a restaurant right on site. It is as close to a bed and breakfast as can be without calling it that. It is small enough to be personal and homey,large enough to give privacy.
10:30 am we all meet in the lobby to walk about 400 meters to the dock to meet Hank. EZ Flower grower , Matin is the president which we at Koehler &Dramm buy flowers from gifted and sponsored the canal boat trip for our group. There were two boats,seating 16 people each. Jacqueline and Els Hazenberg meet us at the hotel to walk with us and talk the tour. It was a bit overcast,sort of chilly and wonderful. Hank and Maryann were our drivers, both native in the area gave a play by play for us,pointing out the cultural,horticultural,floricultural highlights. Again charming.
We traveled through the canals,where the lilac are growing.We stopped at a grower where they treated us to great coffee and treats.We received a tour from the seed to the shipped product. The fragrance was astounding,color from the fresh new green of the plant o the open white,purple and lavender colors and varieties.Many varieties of precious Lilac and Holly were growing in the fields.
When we returned everyone went their way. Some into Amsterdam,other walked around Aalsmeer,some went to eat and others to bed.
I will begin at the airport in Minneapolis .We began gathering before 10:00am for the 1:00 flight to Chicago,O'Hare
. It was a marvelous reunion and meeting of friends new and old.Stories,laughing and of coarse eating...we are florists first!
The flight took off on time ,easy flight to Chicago. We left our plane,had to leave the secured area into the train to the International terminal. Jenni bought her Mountain Dew in Minneapolis as they do not sell it in Holland.She had to give it away to go through security again...She did it with good humor.
We meet Kae,Jan,Audrey in Chicago ,left on time for Amsterdam. The seats were cozy. It is easy for me to sleep, which I did most of the way. Also thank goodness for Yoga. I think I used a couple of positions that are not in the practices.
Arrival at Schiphol Amsterdam airport was sweet and so easy. We departed the plane,picked up our luggage. Some exchanged money,others picked up their per ordered travel tickets. I called the bus company,which picked us up about 15 minutes after we called . We went directly to the charming hotel in Aalsmeer,unloaded. All of our rooms were ready for us. We arrived at the airport at 6:45.ten minutes early. We checked into the hotel around 8:45 am . The hotel is lovely,with a restaurant right on site. It is as close to a bed and breakfast as can be without calling it that. It is small enough to be personal and homey,large enough to give privacy.
10:30 am we all meet in the lobby to walk about 400 meters to the dock to meet Hank. EZ Flower grower , Matin is the president which we at Koehler &Dramm buy flowers from gifted and sponsored the canal boat trip for our group. There were two boats,seating 16 people each. Jacqueline and Els Hazenberg meet us at the hotel to walk with us and talk the tour. It was a bit overcast,sort of chilly and wonderful. Hank and Maryann were our drivers, both native in the area gave a play by play for us,pointing out the cultural,horticultural,floricultural highlights. Again charming.
We traveled through the canals,where the lilac are growing.We stopped at a grower where they treated us to great coffee and treats.We received a tour from the seed to the shipped product. The fragrance was astounding,color from the fresh new green of the plant o the open white,purple and lavender colors and varieties.Many varieties of precious Lilac and Holly were growing in the fields.
When we returned everyone went their way. Some into Amsterdam,other walked around Aalsmeer,some went to eat and others to bed.
Friday, April 12, 2013
April 12 Dutch Masters
Good Morning before,
Be sure to check in to your flight today at 1:05 PM, 24 hours before the flight departs from Minneapolis for Chicago. The site will give you instructions how to do this. You may print your ticket or wait until you are at the airport.
For you first international travelers and a reminder for anyone: Go into the airport at any of the Delta doors. Go to a kiosk,enter your passport in the machine. There are always friendly Delta people to help you. Then take your ticket and luggage to a counter person to check your well marked luggage. Do not lock your luggage as they sometimes open them to check and break the lock.
Pack any liquids in a tight zip lock bag, squeeze the air out of the bag so it will not pop in the altitude.Do not pack good jewelry, leave it all at home. Do not pack computer or any expensive equipment. Carry it with you.
Carry on one set of undies, your meds,snacks, anything you may want or need if your luggage is misplaced.
The weather in Amsterdam is to be 66 on Sunday. Hooray.
Go to the security line, it moves fast. Have your ticket and passport out.Meet you at the gate.
In Chicago we change planes,there is plenty of time. We will meet out of the plane away from the line of other people departing. Then we will go to our gate.I suggest you find your roommate and do the buddy system as it will be a challenge for me to find everyone. Remember the flights will not wait for anyone,use your time wisely. I cant make them keep the doors open.
Once in Holland,we will depart the plane,go to luggage carousel,collect our luggage ,meet at one place. We will all go to the Coach area together, call the company which will pick us up for the hotel.
They serve meals on the flight from Chicago to Amsterdam,and snacks to pay for,coffee,water,juice. There will be a pillow and a light blanket.Drink lots of water,walk around to keep flex able and your blood working good. Stretch out often.Be patient with everyone,all of the "other" travelers. Sometimes people are anxious ( none of us) and display it in various ways.
This is my first experience of not traveling with a group. I am used to being alone.Ask me what you like. I may not have the answer ,I will find it.
This is also a time for us to meet and enjoy a variety of people with the same passions.You are my friends,it is nice to share you with each other.I am a plane sleeper, there are movies,many things and people. Make this your adventure,go out of your boundaries,have fun, experience the journey with joy. If you don't feel well,or have a headache, ask for help, never suffer alone. Someone may have the tools to help us.
See you tomorrow. I will be the one with a big yellow tulip bigger than my head.
AA
Sat, 13 Apr 2013
13Apr2013
13Apr2013
1 day from departure MSP ► ORD : DL 3419
FLIGHT STATUS: ON TIME Depart: 1:05 PM Arrive: 2:31 PM Economy (T)
09C
View Seats Operated by: Pinnacle DBA Delta Connection STEP UP TO ECONOMY COMFORTEnjoy more legroom and Priority Boarding for as low as $9.
Get it now. Find Sky Club Locations:Minneapolis-St Paul Intl O Hare International Airport AIRPORT MAP MSP ► ORD BAGGAGE & SERVICE FEES FLIGHT TIME: 1h 26m Status: Confirmed Meal Service : No Meal Service *In-Flight services and amenities may vary and are subject to change.About your Aircraft:Canadair (Bombardier) Regional Jet 900 and Challenger 890 MILES FLOWN: 333 ON TIME % : 74
Details Details Layover in Chicago-Ohare, IL 1h 39m
Sat, 13 Apr 2013
13Apr2013
13Apr2013
1 day from departure ORD ► AMS : KL 612
FLIGHT STATUS: STATUS NOT AVAILABLE Depart: 4:10 PM Arrive: 6:55 AM This flight arrives - Sun, 14 Apr 2013. Coach (R)
View Seat
Be sure to check in to your flight today at 1:05 PM, 24 hours before the flight departs from Minneapolis for Chicago. The site will give you instructions how to do this. You may print your ticket or wait until you are at the airport.
For you first international travelers and a reminder for anyone: Go into the airport at any of the Delta doors. Go to a kiosk,enter your passport in the machine. There are always friendly Delta people to help you. Then take your ticket and luggage to a counter person to check your well marked luggage. Do not lock your luggage as they sometimes open them to check and break the lock.
Pack any liquids in a tight zip lock bag, squeeze the air out of the bag so it will not pop in the altitude.Do not pack good jewelry, leave it all at home. Do not pack computer or any expensive equipment. Carry it with you.
Carry on one set of undies, your meds,snacks, anything you may want or need if your luggage is misplaced.
The weather in Amsterdam is to be 66 on Sunday. Hooray.
Go to the security line, it moves fast. Have your ticket and passport out.Meet you at the gate.
In Chicago we change planes,there is plenty of time. We will meet out of the plane away from the line of other people departing. Then we will go to our gate.I suggest you find your roommate and do the buddy system as it will be a challenge for me to find everyone. Remember the flights will not wait for anyone,use your time wisely. I cant make them keep the doors open.
Once in Holland,we will depart the plane,go to luggage carousel,collect our luggage ,meet at one place. We will all go to the Coach area together, call the company which will pick us up for the hotel.
They serve meals on the flight from Chicago to Amsterdam,and snacks to pay for,coffee,water,juice. There will be a pillow and a light blanket.Drink lots of water,walk around to keep flex able and your blood working good. Stretch out often.Be patient with everyone,all of the "other" travelers. Sometimes people are anxious ( none of us) and display it in various ways.
This is my first experience of not traveling with a group. I am used to being alone.Ask me what you like. I may not have the answer ,I will find it.
This is also a time for us to meet and enjoy a variety of people with the same passions.You are my friends,it is nice to share you with each other.I am a plane sleeper, there are movies,many things and people. Make this your adventure,go out of your boundaries,have fun, experience the journey with joy. If you don't feel well,or have a headache, ask for help, never suffer alone. Someone may have the tools to help us.
See you tomorrow. I will be the one with a big yellow tulip bigger than my head.
AA
Sat, 13 Apr 2013
13Apr2013
13Apr2013
1 day from departure MSP ► ORD : DL 3419
FLIGHT STATUS: ON TIME Depart: 1:05 PM Arrive: 2:31 PM Economy (T)
09C
View Seats Operated by: Pinnacle DBA Delta Connection STEP UP TO ECONOMY COMFORTEnjoy more legroom and Priority Boarding for as low as $9.
Get it now. Find Sky Club Locations:Minneapolis-St Paul Intl O Hare International Airport AIRPORT MAP MSP ► ORD BAGGAGE & SERVICE FEES FLIGHT TIME: 1h 26m Status: Confirmed Meal Service : No Meal Service *In-Flight services and amenities may vary and are subject to change.About your Aircraft:Canadair (Bombardier) Regional Jet 900 and Challenger 890 MILES FLOWN: 333 ON TIME % : 74
Details Details Layover in Chicago-Ohare, IL 1h 39m
Sat, 13 Apr 2013
13Apr2013
13Apr2013
1 day from departure ORD ► AMS : KL 612
FLIGHT STATUS: STATUS NOT AVAILABLE Depart: 4:10 PM Arrive: 6:55 AM This flight arrives - Sun, 14 Apr 2013. Coach (R)
View Seat
Thursday, April 11, 2013
April 11 #2 Dutch Masters
Hi,
Message from Jacqueline this morning. AA
Hi A,
The rooms have private bathrooms with shower and toilet.
ATM machines are in town near the hotel. The hotel does not have one. ATM machines are mentioned in the brochure is sent you.
There are some hot spots in the restaurants in Aalsmeer but not everywhere.
Boerma Instituut(r) has free WiFi and hotel Aalsmeer also has it since February.
We also have a Facebook page www.facebook.com/boerma.instituut and for our bar www.facebook.com/CafeDeMijnen also has one.
With friendly regards,
Jacqueline
Wednesday, April 10, 2013
April 11 Dutch Masters Tour
Oh My, it is almost here, we are almost there.
I called Verizon, my phone server . the number to call Verizon to talk to someone about service out of the country is 1-800-922-0204. You will ask them to activate your SIM card . They can do it over the phone,activate for a month at a time. Mine starts on midnight of April 11.
I also purchased the Global Data Package for $25.00 for the same time period.This way I can call in Holland and to US.It allows me to e mail. To text when out of the country is additional 50 cents to send and five cents to receive. Calls are $2.49 a minute.Remember this is my server, you will need to check yours.
To purchase a Mobil HotSpot is $20.00 for hook up and $50.00 for service. I asked the young man what he will suggest for his mother to purchase, he said definitely the $25.00 the Global Data Package.
I sent a note to our contact in Holland and asked questions about wifi in the hotel and school. If there is and if there is a cost and what that cost is. I also asked about free wifi at cafes.
There are ATM's all over Holland. I also asked if there is one at the hotel or near.
Keep reading and asking questions.
AA
I called Verizon, my phone server . the number to call Verizon to talk to someone about service out of the country is 1-800-922-0204. You will ask them to activate your SIM card . They can do it over the phone,activate for a month at a time. Mine starts on midnight of April 11.
I also purchased the Global Data Package for $25.00 for the same time period.This way I can call in Holland and to US.It allows me to e mail. To text when out of the country is additional 50 cents to send and five cents to receive. Calls are $2.49 a minute.Remember this is my server, you will need to check yours.
To purchase a Mobil HotSpot is $20.00 for hook up and $50.00 for service. I asked the young man what he will suggest for his mother to purchase, he said definitely the $25.00 the Global Data Package.
I sent a note to our contact in Holland and asked questions about wifi in the hotel and school. If there is and if there is a cost and what that cost is. I also asked about free wifi at cafes.
There are ATM's all over Holland. I also asked if there is one at the hotel or near.
Keep reading and asking questions.
AA
Art in Bloom Project 2013
Hi everyone,
WE are well on the way to making this a great Institute of Floristry Art In Bloom project.
A few years ago I visited Latvia where I was involved in a street carpet festival in Ventspils, Latvia. There were 25 at least street carpets 10 meters x20 meters. Each followed the set theme for the cities annal celebration. It was amazing and fun working as a grout on this huge project. There were 15 countries in the competition.I was also one of the invited judges and no my country did not win that year.
I wanted to do something like that here at home. MIA was willing to give KDIOF a chance to create on the front step of the MIA. That's right right out in front for everyone to walk by and enjoy. In the past we have had amazing ,creative and fun displays.Thank you to all that have been involved throughout the years.
The Institute of Floristry is the sponsor,the students, florists anyone that wants to help is welcome. Tris is your chance to work on a very large design/project with others. To meet, enjoy,learn from and have fun.
Marge Jacobson and Mary Andler are the co-chairs last year and this year. Wonderful talented designers, Thank you both for heading the project.
We are making a HUGE hand tied bouquet. The mechanics are almost finished. This part will be delivered on Wednesday morning to the MIA front. We will water the foam,and begin placing the flowers. This is where you can be of great help.Mary and Marge will send out a sign up sheet with instructions. You respond to them, not me when you can come to help.We will post the times when we have that information.
Your name and shop name will be included on the card that is displayed on the bouquet.
This will be a follow the leader, anyone will be able to help from beginners to established designers and business owners.
Do something larger than life with us.
WE are well on the way to making this a great Institute of Floristry Art In Bloom project.
A few years ago I visited Latvia where I was involved in a street carpet festival in Ventspils, Latvia. There were 25 at least street carpets 10 meters x20 meters. Each followed the set theme for the cities annal celebration. It was amazing and fun working as a grout on this huge project. There were 15 countries in the competition.I was also one of the invited judges and no my country did not win that year.
I wanted to do something like that here at home. MIA was willing to give KDIOF a chance to create on the front step of the MIA. That's right right out in front for everyone to walk by and enjoy. In the past we have had amazing ,creative and fun displays.Thank you to all that have been involved throughout the years.
The Institute of Floristry is the sponsor,the students, florists anyone that wants to help is welcome. Tris is your chance to work on a very large design/project with others. To meet, enjoy,learn from and have fun.
Marge Jacobson and Mary Andler are the co-chairs last year and this year. Wonderful talented designers, Thank you both for heading the project.
We are making a HUGE hand tied bouquet. The mechanics are almost finished. This part will be delivered on Wednesday morning to the MIA front. We will water the foam,and begin placing the flowers. This is where you can be of great help.Mary and Marge will send out a sign up sheet with instructions. You respond to them, not me when you can come to help.We will post the times when we have that information.
Your name and shop name will be included on the card that is displayed on the bouquet.
This will be a follow the leader, anyone will be able to help from beginners to established designers and business owners.
Do something larger than life with us.
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