I’ve finally finished my 2013 Quilts to Make list and this list leaves me thinking about “inspiration”. As I poured over the project bags, boxes, books, bookmarked magazines, I pondered my criteria. Why did three wonderfully modern quilts, one really complex hand applique and several hand embroidery quilts make this year’s list? Where did this eclectic mix originate?  Thus, my “inspiration” question.

Do you scan Pinterest for hours? Do you clip from quilting magazines? Bookmark blogs and websites? Do you have the latest quilting book published? Are you fascinated by a favorite technique? Do you have a favorite instructor or famous quilter you are inspired by? Leave a comment, let me know.

Of all these resources, I can say without hesitation or doubt my greatest inspiration, month after month, is our Show and Tell. I see the work of “My Ladies,” (my affectionate term for my fellow guild members), and I’m moved to create, repeat, try, start, or just do something with fabric. There are months when I only enter my quilt room to iron a shirt, yet I’m suddenly there on the third Saturday after a guild meeting, trying to get my bearings or start yet another new project. With all the books, blogs and and quilting magazines overwhelming my senses without fail, “my ladies” shine above as inspiration and for that I’m ever grateful.

Happy 2013! It is my pleasure and honor to lead Uhuru into 2013. For many of us January is a time of reflection, evaluation and goal setting; well it is no exception for Uhuru. Your Executive Board, committee chairs, and faithful volunteers have met and planned an exciting 2013 for the Guild. I can't wait until our January meeting to share the exciting details.

I'll be honest, I've not yet completed my personal quilting goals for 2013, but I do know that more time quilting and with my quilting friends is at the top of my list. I've also thought of the areas where I've fallen short over the last year, and I realized that I have not done my part in community service. Several of our members are so very passionate and dedicated to the Guild's community service efforts and that passion has inspired me for 2013.

Again, Happy New Year Uhuru! And if you are a quilter in the suburban Washington area, looking for a "quilters home", please join us for our next meeting.

Ciao,
Cornelia