From Our President, Sharon Aposhian Wright

 I LOVE January. The Kids have all gone back to school. The Christmas decorations are put away. I've lost a couple of those holiday pounds. It's too cold to do any yard work (except shoveling). I can hunker down in my sewing room and really create. 

 A part of January that I love is the chance to continue a tradition I started abut ten years ago of getting away to quilt with friends. As I write this article, I am listening to the happy hum of several sewing machines. Four different conversations are going on at once as sewing techniques, politics, foods, kids, happy memories, etc. are being discussed. Occasionally a burst of raucous laughter will indicate that I missed something really funny. Creativity electrifies the air. Eight women, all of whom are gifted quilt-makers, are sharing ideas, improving skills, finishing projects, offering advice, laughing often, crying occasionally, solving the world's problems and recharging their spirits. We have sewn, shopped, sewn, eaten, sewn, exercised, sewn, and sewn. We will return to our families in a few days with a resolve to be better wives and mothers, more creative, more productive, and  . . . practically perfect in every way. All this because we have found friends who share our passion for fabric, color, patterns, designs, skills, beauty, and a good challenge. Isn't quilt-making a great hobby?!!!

Here are a few pieces of wisdom I have gained from these quilting friends:

Finish a UFO, do a creative challenge, and then do a quilt to give away. Then repeat the process. 

Take a friend to the store. If you don't have money, live vicariously through her as you help her choose fabrics.

Watch what others do well and learn from them.

No matter how experienced you are, there's aways more to learn.

 Don't be afraid to ask questions or try new ideas.

 Share your skills.

 It may feel like quilting. It's really about friendship.

 Quilt-making is as much about enjoying the process as finishing the project.

 Beware of the sales. You may have to rent a U-Haul to get home.

I'd like to thank Crystal North and the 2011 UQG Board for a great year. Countless hours of service have been spent to further the art of quilting in our guild. Crystal accepted the challenge of heading our annual Quilt Fest a year before her time and did a masterful job. She has most ably kept our guild moving in a very positive direction. Thank you Crystal. We love you.

I have been a member of the Utah Quilt Guild since I first began quilting in 1990. I have learned from experienced quilters, been inspired by beautiful quilt shows, eagerly attended Quilt Fest, gained friends, and felt accepted into this vast group of talented people who share my passion. I feel privileged to serve this year as your President. This allows me the opportunity to give back to the Guild from whom I have received so much. I hope that you will feel free to call me with ideas, suggestions, and concerns. Together we will have a great year.

                    Sharon Aposhian Wright

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