Hey!!! I received a notification!!!!!
I also have looked at LBB but am finishing up PH and plodding along with AOTH so should resist starting anything as involved as LBB but that does not mean I would not consider it, or something similar, down the track.
A quilt retreat sounds like a wonderful opportunity to get some quality sewing time in. How long is the retreat for?
Now you do know that I reeeaallllllly want to see a pic of the applique quilt you are considering, don't you.