On a very cold December morning twelve members of the San Saba Sew-N-Sews Quilting group with three guests carpooled out to Joy Smith’s home for our 2012 Christmas party. She welcomed us into her beautifully decorated home featuring a quilted Santa and other special Santas. To begin our party, we wanted to see the award-winning quilts, including the birds quilt Joy’s mother made, plus the Log Cabin Christmas tree wall hanging. Both recently won blue ribbons in the Goldthwaithe Quilt Show. She continued into what quilters call a “bed turning.” As we viewed each quilt, Joy discussed the techniques and stitches, telling the quilt’s story. We marveled at the colors and many patterns for the blocks. For many of us, this was a first-time experience to enjoy a “bed-turning.” Some of the stories were funny while others were totally serious, depending on the traditional compared to modern designs. Kay Stewart also showed us her Red Poppies Quilt she pieced and her friend quilted on a long arm sewing machine.

We then gathered in her living room to have our Christmas exchange. Sharon Hayes presented Nancy Goss an appreciation quilt our group had tied last month. Pat Belk had given us the top, pieced in 6 sided blocks of many colors. We backed it with pink fabric, because pink is Nancy’s favorite color. Nancy coordinates our group, helping us remember dates, times and plans.

Joy’s mother and sister from Navasota, Texas then arrived surprising Joy. We are delighted to meet them because we have enjoyed her beautiful quilts as Joy has shared them with us over the years.

All the ladies had brought fat-quarters to the Christmas party, all stashed on the coffee table. Joy helped us with numbers and each lady chose the fabric she wanted when her number was called. We then gathered in the kitchen for our Christmas Treats and more visiting. Candy, cakes, breads and snacks filled the counter. Hot apple cider and coffee warmed us for the trip back to town.

Members attending were Martha Roe, Shirley, Dorothy, Louise, Imogene, Linda, Joanne, LaNell, Nancy, LouEtta, Sharon and Joy. Our guests were Pat Belk, Kay Stewart, Maude Ann Kuykendall, Betty Wilson, Joy’s mother and sister.

Nancy Goss, Joanne Hardy and Sharon Hayes started the San Saba Sew-N-Sews about 12 years ago, meeting Tuesday mornings at the Presbyterian Church. Will begin again in February and invite ladies to come share in the fun.