There's been some talk lately on the forum about quilt guilds, so I'd like to tell you about my experiences. I have been going to Guild A for about 5 months. They have lots of great speakers and programs and workshops. They have a wonderful lending library. They put on a fantastic show every year. The quilters there are amazingly talented, judging by the quilt show and from show and tell. But in all the times I've gone, hardly anyone has talked to me. I have had to make first (and second and third) contact with others there. I come home a bit discouraged from every meeting. I have gotten involved in the quilt show planning and hope to meet and get to know some of the quilters there more personally. I'm not saying there aren't very nice women there, just that it's been hard to break in, though I am determined to and will keep trying.

I just yesterday went to Guild B. I went to a show they held and was personally invited to come to their guild and was offered a ride by someone in my town, 1/2 hour away from the guild meeting. As soon as I walked in the door I was greeted by one person, who introduced me to two more people, who introduced me to even more people. As I walked through the room strangers approached me, asked if this was my first time there and welcomed me. As I waited in line for snacks (it was actually a full-on luncheon!) everyone around me spoke to me. I dared to bring my Batik Stars quilt for show and tell and I got applause. But so did everyone else! From the most amazing quilts to beginner quilts, they encouraged everyone. After show and tell women came up to me to talk to me about my quilt. They hold meetings twice a month for 4 hours each meeting. Before I went I wondered what they could possibly do for that long. Now I know! They make friends!

I always wished I could find a guild full of quilters as welcoming and friendly as you all are here on the forum. I can hardly believe it, but I think I have! Can you see my smile? I can hardly wait for the next meeting!