Show & Tell at the Retreat

 Hello Everyone,

The big room at Snowflake Lodge was buzzing with energy, laughter, and the unmistakable joy of creative souls gathered together. Quilters filled every corner, each one bringing their own spark to the space. Just look at this stunning example: Enchanted Autumn captures the essence of fall in every stitch. It was one of Debra’s first forays into appliqué—and it’s absolutely gorgeous. Her craftsmanship and attention to detail shine through in every leaf and block.

Valery took my original Country Sampler pattern—which featured nine blocks—and gave it a bold new twist we're affectionately calling Country Sampler on Steroids! She stitched each of the original blocks not once, but twice, then dove into the bonus blocks from the back of my Patchwork Math book to expand the design even further. The result? A stunning quilt that’s bursting with creativity, precision, and heart.

Barbara lovingly restored a quilt that holds deep family and historical significance—originally stitched by her grandmother in the 1930s while at Napa State Hospital. As she shared the heartfelt story behind the quilt, her words moved many in the room, drawing quiet tears and a deep sense of connection. It was a powerful reminder of how stitches can carry memory, resilience, and love across generations. I've always said that quilters write their name in cloth.

I took a picture of one of the blocks and with Barbara's help, we made a quilt label.

Melissa scooped fabrics up from the free table at her guild and look at the gorgeous end result!

Linda made this quilt using a panel with bears.  That very evening a bear broke into her garage and raided her freezer. It took the dessert she made for the retreat! Maybe they were looking for this quilt to decorate their den.

Beth shared a beautiful Crabapple quilt which she made.  

This is Mary Sue's Lil' Orphan Scrappy.  This is so beautiful in so many different ways.

Some of the members of the Independence Hall Quilt Guild attended the retreat.  It is great fun getting to know everyone better.

The Sew Sisters made Sylvia and honorary member!

This lively trio was an absolute delight! New to the retreat, they jumped in with contagious laughter and a playful spirit that lit up the room. Their energy added a fresh spark to the group, reminding us all how joyful it is to welcome new faces into the Sew'n Wild Oaks quilting family.

I’ve got a treasure trove of photos to share with you this week—it’s going to feel like a mini quilt show unfolding each morning! Get ready for a daily dose of beauty, joy, and the incredible women behind these heartfelt creations.

Soon,

Lynn