my winter retreat

Its that time of year. I get to spend an entire weekend focused on creating along with a group of about 50 other women. I get to chat with friends I do not see often enough, I get to teach a class (first time for doing this particular craft), and I have my next fiber art project in mind.
I plan to take advantage of the weekend to explore a bit more on the quilt techniques I am developing and documenting it all along the way.
I am planning on applying for an arts grant and I need pictures of the work I do. the pictures I have on hand are not really ones that work for such an application.
It will be a very busy weekend but also energizing and a chance to let my creativity flow while surrounded by positive energy and immediate feedback and support.
I am a bit of a black sheep at this event. So many of my fellow stitchers follow patterns and assemble the hundreds of triangles, squares and strips at the direction of kits and classes.
I am teaching a class about a quilting technique that can be applied to other quilt patterns to make them more unique.
So much quilting is about color and shape now I want to add texture.
If I can get the arts grant I will be able to do even more creative efforts in the coming year.

Happy New year

Rather than resolving to do things I am unlikely to do, I am resolved only to teach and learn this year.
I had the chance to teach somebody how to use a sewing machine recently and it was a very rewarding experience for both of us. I am teaching a class on my quilting techniques at the retreat in January. So already I know I will succeed.
As far as learning goes. 
My job working with special needs kids is always challenging me to learn new ways of working with them and teaching them as well. 
I have a project I am doing with 4,5,6 th grade kids doing some engineering and design work. 
So as I said it will be a good year. I am determined on that score.