I love this Christmas quilt. The pattern is an early Fig Tree called Simple Baskets. I have always been fond of basket blocks, and this was my first attempt at one. The fabrics are mostly from 3 Sisters for Moda. I can't recall the names of the groups I used, but there may have been two from 3 Sisters, and others from old Robyn Pandolf collections. I used what I had on hand in the stash that pleased me. The thing I learned when making this quilt is that black in a quilt makes things "sparkle". Your eyes dance over the quilt searching for the black. When you can, toss in a bit of black.
Also, this quilt involved applique, which had made me rather nervous in the past. 16 appliqued basket handles. Could I manage that? Evidently! I finished the quilt, and it has remained one of my favorite Christmas quilts, and as a matter of fact, I keep it out all year long!
Now for the story. There used to be a quilt shop in Cupertino called Whiffle Tree. It was a bit far out for me in terms of distance, but I used to go there fairly regularly. Their inventory wasn't as large as some other stores, but they offered dynamite classes. They had terrific teachers, and a very loyal customer following. This shop too has folded and is no longer in business, and their clientele scattered to the two remaining shops in the vicinity.
I discovered that there was a class offered for this particular quilt, and I signed up because the teacher was known to be very good and because I thought I might get some instruction on hand applique, which obviously, I needed. Also, I was in the hope that I might meet some new quilting friends, and perhaps join in a sewing group that met regularly. There is nothing so lovely as getting into a nice group of quilters. That particular joy and camaraderie is incomparable. This class met three times, so there would be an opportunity to get to know the other people in the class.
I turned up for the class and nearly every spot in the classroom was taken. Most of the women seemed to know each other, and sat together. I set up my machine and introduced myself to the women sitting nearest to me. There was an Indian woman who didn't speak much English and seemed very shy, and me, and this passel of gals who were all buddies.
The teacher turned out to be great, and I learned some good applique techniques. For example, did you know when you make a bias strip, the strip wants to bend in one direction or the other? It doesn't want to bend the same in both directions, it prefers one way of the other. So, when you curve your bias strip, try to get it to go the way of least resistance. It appeared to be true when I tried it.
My fantasy of making friends and joining in a quilting group? Not so successful. That clique of women was SO not interested in getting to know me, or the other newcomer in the group. At. All. Despite many many efforts on my part to join in their conversations, make little jokes, share pleasantries—nada. Zip. Zilch. I could have been a traffic cone setting in one section of the table. I was totally ignored. And the poor non-English speaking woman? She fared worse than I did. Have you ever introduced yourself to a group, telling them your name, and in all subsequent gatherings, never hear them speak it to you? They didn't care if I was Nicole or Noel or Michelle–they just didn't care.
It may not have been realistic of me to expect instant friendship, but it certainly did open my eyes to how I treat new people who join a group. Would it have killed them to ask me questions, compliment my fabric choice, share applique tips? Didn't they have any curiosity to get to know someone outside their little circle? Had they never had the experience of being new and uncertain in a situation? Good grief, it reminded me of high school and having the new kid move to town in the middle of the semester. All the friends were all ready taken. What nonsense.
So, next time your sewing group, book club, or bible study class meets, think about my little story. If there is a newcomer, bend over backwards to engage them. Use their name when you speak to them. They have an accent? Get over it. Try to talk to them anyway. If all you do is gesture and smile, you will make the occasion meaningful and memorable to them. And you know what? You might even make a friend for life.
Today is my dear departed mother's birthday. She was the most open-hearted woman ever. When she met someone new to town, before they knew it, they were sitting at her dining room table having beef stroganoff and sharing life stories. I can hardly remember a holiday where we didn't have some stranger at dinner who was far from home and had no place to go. Trust me, we kids met a lot of interesting people while we were growing up! I dedicate this post to Mom and the fact that she made many many friends in her rich life, mostly due to her making the first move. So go out there and make a new friend today. You won't regret it.
106 responses to “Christmas Baskets”
Oh I love the basket quilt. I hope that I can find that pattern still out there. Love reading your blog.
Oh I love the basket quilt. I hope that I can find that pattern still out there. Love reading your blog.
Your quilt is lovely. Been there, done that more times than I can count with your class experience. Sure makes you wonder, doesn’t it?
Your quilt is lovely. Been there, done that more times than I can count with your class experience. Sure makes you wonder, doesn’t it?
Great post, Nicole. A story with a moral, for sure. Wishing you all the best on your mother’s birthday – may her memory be for a blessing.
Great post, Nicole. A story with a moral, for sure. Wishing you all the best on your mother’s birthday – may her memory be for a blessing.
Nicole, I was so touched by your story – and especially your tribute to your mother. We can see her influence every day as we read your blog and see the closeness of your extended family and the kindess and thoughtfulness you display in your writing.
Nicole, I was so touched by your story – and especially your tribute to your mother. We can see her influence every day as we read your blog and see the closeness of your extended family and the kindess and thoughtfulness you display in your writing.
What a superb story. Wonderful writing, too. Your Standford educated self shines thru. And gosh, this quilt get’s a big huge “Wow!” What a truly beautiful quilt, truly. Thanks for sharing.
What a superb story. Wonderful writing, too. Your Standford educated self shines thru. And gosh, this quilt get’s a big huge “Wow!” What a truly beautiful quilt, truly. Thanks for sharing.
Love, love your quilt, and your story is a profound and good one for all of us to note. Thank you for sharing your thoughts…if I had been there, you would not have felt left out! We would have had a super time! I miss my Mom too…it is so great to hear of another great mom, yours!
Love, love your quilt, and your story is a profound and good one for all of us to note. Thank you for sharing your thoughts…if I had been there, you would not have felt left out! We would have had a super time! I miss my Mom too…it is so great to hear of another great mom, yours!
I really love that story, Nicole. It’s so true and I too have experienced exactly what you’re talking about. Once when I attempted to join a local guild. Obviously I didn’t join and once when joining a local Thimbleberries club. I have to say though that when I bought my Bernina and took that class there was a lady in there who was an absolute HOOT!! She made it fun for everyone and she talked to everyone. So I will keep trying. . .
I really love that story, Nicole. It’s so true and I too have experienced exactly what you’re talking about. Once when I attempted to join a local guild. Obviously I didn’t join and once when joining a local Thimbleberries club. I have to say though that when I bought my Bernina and took that class there was a lady in there who was an absolute HOOT!! She made it fun for everyone and she talked to everyone. So I will keep trying. . .
Good post in so many ways…
The three sisters collection is Hollywood & Vine, I think I have a quilt from the same era!
Good post in so many ways…
The three sisters collection is Hollywood & Vine, I think I have a quilt from the same era!
My quilting pal Terry and I went to an Open House for a large guild just east of us. Open House is apparently a relative term. They charged us $10 bucks a piece to get in and not one person said hello. They all sat in their little cliques and Terry said it reminded her of Jr.High School-not being one of the popular girls. A while after that, a woman we met who belonged to the guild asked us if we had attended and we explained what happened. She said she was sorry and that it had taken her a while to get people to chat. I’m not willing to waste my time with people who are un-friendly. The world is a harsh enough place lately. I’ll just hang with my two peeps on Thursday nights. We love each other and couldn’t possibly have more fun.
Your quilt is wonderful Nicole. I love me some pretty baskets.
My quilting pal Terry and I went to an Open House for a large guild just east of us. Open House is apparently a relative term. They charged us $10 bucks a piece to get in and not one person said hello. They all sat in their little cliques and Terry said it reminded her of Jr.High School-not being one of the popular girls. A while after that, a woman we met who belonged to the guild asked us if we had attended and we explained what happened. She said she was sorry and that it had taken her a while to get people to chat. I’m not willing to waste my time with people who are un-friendly. The world is a harsh enough place lately. I’ll just hang with my two peeps on Thursday nights. We love each other and couldn’t possibly have more fun.
Your quilt is wonderful Nicole. I love me some pretty baskets.
This was a fantastic post. I belonged to a quilt guild here for three years always feeling like the new kid. I’m so fed up with the cliques and some haven’t even a clue of my name…last May was the last meeting I attended. I’m done. It is a shame. I’ve found better friendship through blogging.
I wish you a happy day in memory of your mom. Your quilt is wonderful and the story you shared will touch many of our lifes. Thank you. In Friendship…Mary
This was a fantastic post. I belonged to a quilt guild here for three years always feeling like the new kid. I’m so fed up with the cliques and some haven’t even a clue of my name…last May was the last meeting I attended. I’m done. It is a shame. I’ve found better friendship through blogging.
I wish you a happy day in memory of your mom. Your quilt is wonderful and the story you shared will touch many of our lifes. Thank you. In Friendship…Mary
Great story. I’ll be moving to a small town in the mountains of Georgia in three weeks and I’m curious as to the reception I’ll get at the first few Tuesday morning quilt guilds I attend. Fortunately, there are quiet a few transplants in the area.
I’ve found the internet very helpful in finding new friends when in a new place. A lot of people just seem to busy and preoccupied to even make eye contact let alone smile or talk (gym experience).
Great story. I’ll be moving to a small town in the mountains of Georgia in three weeks and I’m curious as to the reception I’ll get at the first few Tuesday morning quilt guilds I attend. Fortunately, there are quiet a few transplants in the area.
I’ve found the internet very helpful in finding new friends when in a new place. A lot of people just seem to busy and preoccupied to even make eye contact let alone smile or talk (gym experience).
I’ve been a member of a quilt guild now for over a year. Still don’t think anyone really knows my name despite my multiple attempts to engage with them. The show-n-tell at the end of the night is what keeps me going back now and then. The guild does have some amazing quilters. Your quilt is lovely by the way. Good job.
I’ve been a member of a quilt guild now for over a year. Still don’t think anyone really knows my name despite my multiple attempts to engage with them. The show-n-tell at the end of the night is what keeps me going back now and then. The guild does have some amazing quilters. Your quilt is lovely by the way. Good job.
Your basket quilt is gorgeous. Thanks so much for sharing with us. Been there, done that… your story brought back some painful memories of similar experiences.
Your basket quilt is gorgeous. Thanks so much for sharing with us. Been there, done that… your story brought back some painful memories of similar experiences.
Your quilts are beautiful. I wish I had a Christmas quilt to show off, but alas I don’t. maybe next year. People are strange and until they are in the situation you were, they just don’t get it. I have been the newbie, many times and have encountered the same thing. Now I always make an effort to talk to the newbie or person on their own. I know how they feel.
Your quilts are beautiful. I wish I had a Christmas quilt to show off, but alas I don’t. maybe next year. People are strange and until they are in the situation you were, they just don’t get it. I have been the newbie, many times and have encountered the same thing. Now I always make an effort to talk to the newbie or person on their own. I know how they feel.
People can be so stupid. And mean. And the saddest part of it is, they usually know they’re doing it. Just once, I wish one of the ladies behaving like this would explain to me what purpose it serves. Do they feel better? Do they feel superior? Grrrrrr.
I think you can see from the comments that this is one of those situations where we’ve all “been there… felt that”. And if your writing about this means that we’ll all make a point of welcoming and getting to know the newcomers, then it’s a worthwhile experience.
If it makes you feel any better, I would have talked to you. At least once. Noel, did you say? 🙂
People can be so stupid. And mean. And the saddest part of it is, they usually know they’re doing it. Just once, I wish one of the ladies behaving like this would explain to me what purpose it serves. Do they feel better? Do they feel superior? Grrrrrr.
I think you can see from the comments that this is one of those situations where we’ve all “been there… felt that”. And if your writing about this means that we’ll all make a point of welcoming and getting to know the newcomers, then it’s a worthwhile experience.
If it makes you feel any better, I would have talked to you. At least once. Noel, did you say? 🙂
When I read your blog, I was just crying… thinking this is sooooooo truth. I have been living in so many countries thanks to my husbands work, and I have been always feeling this way, you know, a stranger to your country, to your customes, so I remember this very much and now when return to my hometown trying to be more patient to “newcomers”.
Jana
When I read your blog, I was just crying… thinking this is sooooooo truth. I have been living in so many countries thanks to my husbands work, and I have been always feeling this way, you know, a stranger to your country, to your customes, so I remember this very much and now when return to my hometown trying to be more patient to “newcomers”.
Jana
What a great post…I went to a local guild for a while and made many attempts to become part of their “group”…never happened. They could have cared less, I gave up, it was no fun! When I had my shop, and we had classes I always worked very hard to have everyone included in the conversation. Even if the teacher didn’t do it, I made sure it happened. I absolutely love this quilt…I thought yesterday’s was my favorite, but today I think this is my favorite!
What a great post…I went to a local guild for a while and made many attempts to become part of their “group”…never happened. They could have cared less, I gave up, it was no fun! When I had my shop, and we had classes I always worked very hard to have everyone included in the conversation. Even if the teacher didn’t do it, I made sure it happened. I absolutely love this quilt…I thought yesterday’s was my favorite, but today I think this is my favorite!
Nicole, I’m quite enjoying your quilt show, and I hope you’ve gotten your camera to behave so it can continue. Interesting story about taking a class where just about everyone already knew one another–it gives me something to think about with the classes I teach.
Nicole, I’m quite enjoying your quilt show, and I hope you’ve gotten your camera to behave so it can continue. Interesting story about taking a class where just about everyone already knew one another–it gives me something to think about with the classes I teach.
One of my best buddies came from a class. She did not know many quilters, neither did I, and she took the initiative and got my number from the shop, called to ask if I wanted to do a local shop hop and we have been great buds ever since. In Sept we did a quilters get away for 5 days together. SO listen to Nicole, be open, be friendly. You never know who you may meet.
One of my best buddies came from a class. She did not know many quilters, neither did I, and she took the initiative and got my number from the shop, called to ask if I wanted to do a local shop hop and we have been great buds ever since. In Sept we did a quilters get away for 5 days together. SO listen to Nicole, be open, be friendly. You never know who you may meet.
Your basket quilt is beautiful, but not half as beautiful as the tribute to your mother. I’m sure you are missing her. Hugs!
Your basket quilt is beautiful, but not half as beautiful as the tribute to your mother. I’m sure you are missing her. Hugs!
I love your baskets and the fabric. I too have been in that situation, and attempted to join two quilt guilds with no success. It is just exhausting to be the only one who wants to engage conversation with someone new. It felt like a scene out of “Groundhog Day” every month trying to chat with people, and getting the same lukewarm/negative response. And as my kids can attest I never have a problem chatting with anyone, whether in the line at the grocery store or coffee shop. Such a shame as most quilters seem to be known as friendly warm people… I still continue to try as you just never know when a like minded person will comment on your fabric choices or help with that pesky corner setting.
I love your baskets and the fabric. I too have been in that situation, and attempted to join two quilt guilds with no success. It is just exhausting to be the only one who wants to engage conversation with someone new. It felt like a scene out of “Groundhog Day” every month trying to chat with people, and getting the same lukewarm/negative response. And as my kids can attest I never have a problem chatting with anyone, whether in the line at the grocery store or coffee shop. Such a shame as most quilters seem to be known as friendly warm people… I still continue to try as you just never know when a like minded person will comment on your fabric choices or help with that pesky corner setting.
Oh, Nicole, what a lovely post. I am positive “the lady with the accent” remembers you, as well. She remembers the woman who took the time to introduce herself and say hi. It is lonely and difficult to be in a room full of people who don’t care about you. A number of times I have noticed you will meet a “new blogger” and will suggest we go and say “Hi”. Your warmth and friendliness come through your blog and I appreciate that! Due to chronic illness I am homebound most of the time. So, part of my world is taking “outings” through quilting blogs. I don’t have a blog but visit yours almost daily. I love quilting and your work is beautiful.Thank you for all you put into your blog. Sounds like your mom was a great model of warmth, friendliness and hospitality. A wonderful way to remember her on her special day.
Have a great weekend!
Beverly
Oh, Nicole, what a lovely post. I am positive “the lady with the accent” remembers you, as well. She remembers the woman who took the time to introduce herself and say hi. It is lonely and difficult to be in a room full of people who don’t care about you. A number of times I have noticed you will meet a “new blogger” and will suggest we go and say “Hi”. Your warmth and friendliness come through your blog and I appreciate that! Due to chronic illness I am homebound most of the time. So, part of my world is taking “outings” through quilting blogs. I don’t have a blog but visit yours almost daily. I love quilting and your work is beautiful.Thank you for all you put into your blog. Sounds like your mom was a great model of warmth, friendliness and hospitality. A wonderful way to remember her on her special day.
Have a great weekend!
Beverly
And you remember your mom by being open to all. How wonderful!
I, too, have experienced the clique. They really can put a killjoy on things.
And you remember your mom by being open to all. How wonderful!
I, too, have experienced the clique. They really can put a killjoy on things.
What a gorgeous quilt (baskets are my favorites), and what a disgusting story of your experience in that quilting group. I have NEVER experienced that with quilters, not as the newcomer or as a veteran. My quilting friends LOVE to get newbies. Fresh meat. This all sounds like one of those Twilight Zone stories, like where the couple stops at a diner late in the night on a lonely road and everyone is an alien or something, I bet they were–aliens, I mean. You were probably lucky they didn’t wrap you up in a pod and beam you up to the mother ship.
What a gorgeous quilt (baskets are my favorites), and what a disgusting story of your experience in that quilting group. I have NEVER experienced that with quilters, not as the newcomer or as a veteran. My quilting friends LOVE to get newbies. Fresh meat. This all sounds like one of those Twilight Zone stories, like where the couple stops at a diner late in the night on a lonely road and everyone is an alien or something, I bet they were–aliens, I mean. You were probably lucky they didn’t wrap you up in a pod and beam you up to the mother ship.
I’m sorry to hear of this experience. I guess I’ve experienced that a bit too. But my take is this: if they’re that unfriendly, I’m not so sure I really want to be intimate friends. I wouldn’t want to be tagged as “one of them”. I am always trying to say “Hi” and even sit next to someone new. If we don’t talk the rest of the night, then it’s because they didn’t finish it. This is too bad. You ALWAYS hear that quilters are the nicest people ever. Well, if you’re friends. My friend lives in the complete boonies of Alaska and called the Juneau quilt store for some advice and help. The owner will now act as my friend’s personal shopper matching thread and fabrics. She even said she’d pick her up at the airport next time she flew in. Now, that’s what I’m talking about.
What a nice sweet tribute to your mom. I’m sorry you don’t get to enjoy her company any longer but she would be proud of your honoring of her memory.
Keep your Christmas quilts coming. Inspiration.
I’m sorry to hear of this experience. I guess I’ve experienced that a bit too. But my take is this: if they’re that unfriendly, I’m not so sure I really want to be intimate friends. I wouldn’t want to be tagged as “one of them”. I am always trying to say “Hi” and even sit next to someone new. If we don’t talk the rest of the night, then it’s because they didn’t finish it. This is too bad. You ALWAYS hear that quilters are the nicest people ever. Well, if you’re friends. My friend lives in the complete boonies of Alaska and called the Juneau quilt store for some advice and help. The owner will now act as my friend’s personal shopper matching thread and fabrics. She even said she’d pick her up at the airport next time she flew in. Now, that’s what I’m talking about.
What a nice sweet tribute to your mom. I’m sorry you don’t get to enjoy her company any longer but she would be proud of your honoring of her memory.
Keep your Christmas quilts coming. Inspiration.
As we can see from all the comments, we’ve all been there. Sad, but true. On the other hand, though, I did have a good experience. My friend and I went to a guild meeting not far from here to hear their guest speaker (famous designer that you know….). So we were not really there to meet friends and join, just to listen to the speaker. When I sat down one of the older ladies came by and introduced herself. When she found out we were “new” she sat with us so we wouldn’t be alone. Bless her heart. Nicole, you can tell from your stories and your heart that your Mother raised you right and that she was a true gem.
As for your Christmas quilts? Fabulous as always!!
As we can see from all the comments, we’ve all been there. Sad, but true. On the other hand, though, I did have a good experience. My friend and I went to a guild meeting not far from here to hear their guest speaker (famous designer that you know….). So we were not really there to meet friends and join, just to listen to the speaker. When I sat down one of the older ladies came by and introduced herself. When she found out we were “new” she sat with us so we wouldn’t be alone. Bless her heart. Nicole, you can tell from your stories and your heart that your Mother raised you right and that she was a true gem.
As for your Christmas quilts? Fabulous as always!!
Excellent post. I, too, have been on the receiving end of a situation similar to that, and it was really difficult. Being a young quilter, you don’t exactly “fit in”. That is one thing I love about the online quilting community- so many wonderful, friendly faces.
Such a wonderful tribute to your mother. She would be so proud that you are following in her footsteps.
And, as always- a lovely quilt. You amaze me!
Excellent post. I, too, have been on the receiving end of a situation similar to that, and it was really difficult. Being a young quilter, you don’t exactly “fit in”. That is one thing I love about the online quilting community- so many wonderful, friendly faces.
Such a wonderful tribute to your mother. She would be so proud that you are following in her footsteps.
And, as always- a lovely quilt. You amaze me!
I second your motion!!! I myself have moved around several times in my 13 years of marriage and I find it hardest to make friends when you move into the smaller sized towns – simply b/c the people in small towns have been there all their life and all ready have all the friends they need… when I try to talk and get to know them they are very intimidating as they stare at me like I have a 2nd nose in the middle of my forehead. :/
Like you I feel the same way – and try to be outgoing to new people – my mom use to tell me that friendship is a lot like love – just b/c you give it to one person doesn’t mean that you won’t have enough for another. You can never have too many friends!
Great post! and I hope a lot of quilting bee members will read it and take note!!!
Georgous quilt too by the way 😉 another of yours that I’m saving into my “inspiration folder”
Love from Texas! ~bonnie
I second your motion!!! I myself have moved around several times in my 13 years of marriage and I find it hardest to make friends when you move into the smaller sized towns – simply b/c the people in small towns have been there all their life and all ready have all the friends they need… when I try to talk and get to know them they are very intimidating as they stare at me like I have a 2nd nose in the middle of my forehead. :/
Like you I feel the same way – and try to be outgoing to new people – my mom use to tell me that friendship is a lot like love – just b/c you give it to one person doesn’t mean that you won’t have enough for another. You can never have too many friends!
Great post! and I hope a lot of quilting bee members will read it and take note!!!
Georgous quilt too by the way 😉 another of yours that I’m saving into my “inspiration folder”
Love from Texas! ~bonnie
What a beautiful quilt and an equally beautiful post. I love the dedication and the story…what a great reminder for each and all to be kind and friendly and reach out to others!
What a beautiful quilt and an equally beautiful post. I love the dedication and the story…what a great reminder for each and all to be kind and friendly and reach out to others!
Your quilt is beautiful, Nicole!
Situations like cliques etc is the biggest reason I have very serious hermit-like tendencies. I simply don’t understand that type of behavior and have gotten tired of extending my hand in friendship only to have it slapped away. Sigh! Blogging has provided so many wonderful friends – works for me.
Wonderful tribute to your mom – Happy Birthday to her!
Your quilt is beautiful, Nicole!
Situations like cliques etc is the biggest reason I have very serious hermit-like tendencies. I simply don’t understand that type of behavior and have gotten tired of extending my hand in friendship only to have it slapped away. Sigh! Blogging has provided so many wonderful friends – works for me.
Wonderful tribute to your mom – Happy Birthday to her!
A beautiful basket quilt.
Thank you for the hint about using a bit of black in quilts.
Lovely tribute to your Mum.
A beautiful basket quilt.
Thank you for the hint about using a bit of black in quilts.
Lovely tribute to your Mum.
Aww! Happy birthday to your Mom! She sounds like a lovely woman.
Aww! Happy birthday to your Mom! She sounds like a lovely woman.
What a great post! I think so many of us start quilting in part to make some new friends, but how easy it is to be the new one! My bee has welcomed two new members in the past few months and I love the spark they bring to the group.
What a great post! I think so many of us start quilting in part to make some new friends, but how easy it is to be the new one! My bee has welcomed two new members in the past few months and I love the spark they bring to the group.
We can all use new friends… I found two friends at a redwork club to sew with once a month…we didn’t know each other from adam when we showed up at the group…. Now one of the them is moving back to Australia…wish she could stay…
Wish you lived here…we would embrace you in a second..
We can all use new friends… I found two friends at a redwork club to sew with once a month…we didn’t know each other from adam when we showed up at the group…. Now one of the them is moving back to Australia…wish she could stay…
Wish you lived here…we would embrace you in a second..
Beautiful quilt, even IF you did it in a class with a bunch of ZERO’s!! lol I find it hard to strike up a conversation with someone I don’t know but I do try (and it’s easier when they reciprocate). But when you have QUILTING in common, there’s ALWAYS something to talk about. And today is my son’s 22nd b-day so we have a common link there.
Beautiful quilt, even IF you did it in a class with a bunch of ZERO’s!! lol I find it hard to strike up a conversation with someone I don’t know but I do try (and it’s easier when they reciprocate). But when you have QUILTING in common, there’s ALWAYS something to talk about. And today is my son’s 22nd b-day so we have a common link there.
What a great post and reminder to us all that how we treat others, no matter how short a time we are together, can have such a big impact. You were blessed to have such a wonderful mother that taught you so much about love and the human condition.
When I read a post like this, it reminds me of one of the sayings of Mother Teresa ““Let no one ever come to you without leaving better and happier. Be the living expression of God’s kindness: kindness in your face, kindness in your eyes, kindness in your smile.” You have that kindness, Nicole.
What a great post and reminder to us all that how we treat others, no matter how short a time we are together, can have such a big impact. You were blessed to have such a wonderful mother that taught you so much about love and the human condition.
When I read a post like this, it reminds me of one of the sayings of Mother Teresa ““Let no one ever come to you without leaving better and happier. Be the living expression of God’s kindness: kindness in your face, kindness in your eyes, kindness in your smile.” You have that kindness, Nicole.
This is my favorite Christmas quilt so far. What beautiful fabrics! I have experienced the same left out feeling, but now I just figure people can learn to love me eventially. I suspect almost everyone feels like this at times, and sometimes the seemingly unfriendly folks really just lack social skills
This is my favorite Christmas quilt so far. What beautiful fabrics! I have experienced the same left out feeling, but now I just figure people can learn to love me eventially. I suspect almost everyone feels like this at times, and sometimes the seemingly unfriendly folks really just lack social skills
I think it’s sad that you and so many others have such experiences in classes and guilds. I was so fortunete to sit next to a group of lovely women at my first guild meeting, and had a great time. I have now served almost 4 years as a board member, and currently as the leader, and gotten to know pretty much everybody in the guild. Being a part of the board is a wonderful way to get to know people – if you have the time and the energy.
Oh, I almost forgot; your Christmas quilt is beautiful!
I think it’s sad that you and so many others have such experiences in classes and guilds. I was so fortunete to sit next to a group of lovely women at my first guild meeting, and had a great time. I have now served almost 4 years as a board member, and currently as the leader, and gotten to know pretty much everybody in the guild. Being a part of the board is a wonderful way to get to know people – if you have the time and the energy.
Oh, I almost forgot; your Christmas quilt is beautiful!
I love your basket quilt–making a basket block quilt has been on my list for a long time and yours is a great proportion. Thanks for sharing!
Your “being ignored” story is what has kept me from joining a guild. Not only do I not know any other quilters, the guild I’m interested in is in a town 40 minutes away. So I’ve tabled the idea for now…
My parents have always had an open door policy too and we’ve had lots of fun visitors and extras at holidays and all year round. Your friendliness is certainly a way to honor your mom’s memory. Oh, and the awesome quilts you make!
I love your basket quilt–making a basket block quilt has been on my list for a long time and yours is a great proportion. Thanks for sharing!
Your “being ignored” story is what has kept me from joining a guild. Not only do I not know any other quilters, the guild I’m interested in is in a town 40 minutes away. So I’ve tabled the idea for now…
My parents have always had an open door policy too and we’ve had lots of fun visitors and extras at holidays and all year round. Your friendliness is certainly a way to honor your mom’s memory. Oh, and the awesome quilts you make!
You made an excellent point with your quilt class story. I invited a friend to join a quilt group I belong to; and even though the women are friendly, she just didn’t seem to connect. Privately she told me she wouldn’t be coming back to the group but that she would like to continue quilting and visiting with me. She emailed everyone else, and not one person from the group responded to her. Basically, it underscored her feeling that no one really cared if she participated or not. I felt terrible for her.
I have learned, though, that I get out of the group what I put into it. I think you made every effort to do the same with your classmates. They lost in this situation; your blog is wonderful, and you come shining through with each post.
You made an excellent point with your quilt class story. I invited a friend to join a quilt group I belong to; and even though the women are friendly, she just didn’t seem to connect. Privately she told me she wouldn’t be coming back to the group but that she would like to continue quilting and visiting with me. She emailed everyone else, and not one person from the group responded to her. Basically, it underscored her feeling that no one really cared if she participated or not. I felt terrible for her.
I have learned, though, that I get out of the group what I put into it. I think you made every effort to do the same with your classmates. They lost in this situation; your blog is wonderful, and you come shining through with each post.
What a beautiful quilt! Your story of trying to find a good quilting group was touching. My mom had a saying, there were no strangers in life, only friends she hadn’t met yet! We could be anywhere and she would strike up a conversation with anyone – people in the elevator, in line, anyplace we went.
What a beautiful quilt! Your story of trying to find a good quilting group was touching. My mom had a saying, there were no strangers in life, only friends she hadn’t met yet! We could be anywhere and she would strike up a conversation with anyone – people in the elevator, in line, anyplace we went.
What a wonderful tribute to your Mom. I love the quilt.
I’m going to make my first basket quilt next year, thanks so much for the handle tip!!
What a wonderful tribute to your Mom. I love the quilt.
I’m going to make my first basket quilt next year, thanks so much for the handle tip!!
Bummer Nicole. I’m sorry to hear of your experience with the “quilt clique”.
I am probably on the other end of the spectrum from those kind of people…I talk to everyone and make them my friend whether or not they want to be, lol!
Bummer Nicole. I’m sorry to hear of your experience with the “quilt clique”.
I am probably on the other end of the spectrum from those kind of people…I talk to everyone and make them my friend whether or not they want to be, lol!
I find quilters very friendly, at the guild meetings, but not much outside of that. And my being shy doesn’t help. I enjoy seeing what others have made and showing my quilts, but friendship has not happened and that’s ok. I had hoped it would be different but, you know, I keep myself so busy that I am not lonely or unhappy.
I find quilters very friendly, at the guild meetings, but not much outside of that. And my being shy doesn’t help. I enjoy seeing what others have made and showing my quilts, but friendship has not happened and that’s ok. I had hoped it would be different but, you know, I keep myself so busy that I am not lonely or unhappy.
Gorgeous quilt and what you say is so true sometimes. At one of the LP groups I use to sit on the “no friends” table, started by some other newcomers to the group and reserved for all newcomers. Your mother sounds like a wonderful woman.
Gorgeous quilt and what you say is so true sometimes. At one of the LP groups I use to sit on the “no friends” table, started by some other newcomers to the group and reserved for all newcomers. Your mother sounds like a wonderful woman.
I am a “reader” not a “commenter” but your post touched me. I do not take classes for exactly the reason your experience in this fantastic quilt class revealed. I speak to strangers on the street and am constantly asked why. “It may be the only person who speaks kindly to that person today”. I can still hear my mother’s words. Bless you and your late mother.
I am a “reader” not a “commenter” but your post touched me. I do not take classes for exactly the reason your experience in this fantastic quilt class revealed. I speak to strangers on the street and am constantly asked why. “It may be the only person who speaks kindly to that person today”. I can still hear my mother’s words. Bless you and your late mother.
Attempt 10. I keep trying to leave messages, but it never works. I’m trying not to be a lurker.
Attempt 10. I keep trying to leave messages, but it never works. I’m trying not to be a lurker.
Nicole,
I look at this quilt and think of it as a Basket of Friendship quilt. Your mother sounds like my mom- I have never been anywhere where my mom didn’t make others feel welcome in her home- even people that were total strangers to her. When I was a teenager and young adult,She accepted and invited our friends into our home for meals and would often go out of her way to make something special for them.
I am more reticent in new groups but she was very good at asking questions and welcoming others. Whenever I am out with her shopping, the same thing still happens.
Your blog is like that Nicole- it is warm and welcoming. I hope that you never experience that same unfriendliness cliquiness again. You and others deserve better. Thanks for sharing your story.
Warmest regards,
Anna
Nicole,
I look at this quilt and think of it as a Basket of Friendship quilt. Your mother sounds like my mom- I have never been anywhere where my mom didn’t make others feel welcome in her home- even people that were total strangers to her. When I was a teenager and young adult,She accepted and invited our friends into our home for meals and would often go out of her way to make something special for them.
I am more reticent in new groups but she was very good at asking questions and welcoming others. Whenever I am out with her shopping, the same thing still happens.
Your blog is like that Nicole- it is warm and welcoming. I hope that you never experience that same unfriendliness cliquiness again. You and others deserve better. Thanks for sharing your story.
Warmest regards,
Anna
Nicole . . . I love this quilt . . . wonderful !!
all I can say about those quilters . . . is that they certainly did not show the spirit of most quilters . . . and it sure was their loss to have not gotten to know you !!
my thoughts are with you as you remember your mother today, my friend . . .
Nicole . . . I love this quilt . . . wonderful !!
all I can say about those quilters . . . is that they certainly did not show the spirit of most quilters . . . and it sure was their loss to have not gotten to know you !!
my thoughts are with you as you remember your mother today, my friend . . .
Not only are the guilds unfriendly, but so are the shop owners! We only have one quilt shop in our area and the woman who owns it is a *****! (Sorry!) If you don’t belong to her guild, she treats you like dirt under her feet. My quilting friend and I try not to go there unless it’s absolutely necessary. We usually drive 30 miles to another store or buy our fabric online. I really don’t know how she stays in business only selling to her guild! Who wants to be ignored or sneered at while forking over our money? I’m so glad to know I wasn’t being paranoid about this issue. (Okay…I’m through ranting now!)
Not only are the guilds unfriendly, but so are the shop owners! We only have one quilt shop in our area and the woman who owns it is a *****! (Sorry!) If you don’t belong to her guild, she treats you like dirt under her feet. My quilting friend and I try not to go there unless it’s absolutely necessary. We usually drive 30 miles to another store or buy our fabric online. I really don’t know how she stays in business only selling to her guild! Who wants to be ignored or sneered at while forking over our money? I’m so glad to know I wasn’t being paranoid about this issue. (Okay…I’m through ranting now!)
Good Monday…. I just read the comments about the not-so-friendly quilt groups. I have to say, that I experienced that too. Having moved to a new area, and knowing many of the women near my new home, I was certain I would be able to “fit right in”. Wrong. I was told “we don’t have room”, or “this group is closed”, etc. I was so disappointed in my old friends. It’s been 6 years, and I still don’t feel welcome. I teach, reach out, invite and help… but it’s still the same story. We should be ashamed. B
Good Monday…. I just read the comments about the not-so-friendly quilt groups. I have to say, that I experienced that too. Having moved to a new area, and knowing many of the women near my new home, I was certain I would be able to “fit right in”. Wrong. I was told “we don’t have room”, or “this group is closed”, etc. I was so disappointed in my old friends. It’s been 6 years, and I still don’t feel welcome. I teach, reach out, invite and help… but it’s still the same story. We should be ashamed. B
I love that pattern — I believe it’s out of print, I asked about it a couple of months ago. Thanks for sharing the story.
I love that pattern — I believe it’s out of print, I asked about it a couple of months ago. Thanks for sharing the story.
Thank you for this important reminder!
Thank you for this important reminder!