Happy Spring!

As this year began to unfold I had the opportunity to give myself the gift of time to reflect on the things that I would like to accomplish in 2009. All the usual things came up as they always do. And as usual, the wish for time to experiment with cloth is always in my top 5 "if only I had or could find the time". This year along with my promise to spend quality time with my family and fabulous grandson, my desire for more opportunities to spend time with others who share my passion for sewing is stronger than ever. The chance to join a group for a few days and share all that I love seems to be what I need right now.

My friend, Mac Berg, related this same need to spend some time in a group of like-minded sewers for the sake of creativity. We got together and discussed this mutual need and came up with a solution. Mac is affiliated with Vogue Fabrics in Evanston, Illinois, and after talking with the owners, got permission to hold a sewing retreat at the store. Not just AT the store but IN the store. Think about it-a chance to be locked in a city block of fabric and notions all day, after hours and with a discount! How is that for nirvana?

Mac and I decided it would be fun to put together a retreat experience and have named it "Sew Vogue." We have designed a "signature" exercise, have planned to share the things we love to teach, have set aside time to be creative and work on personal projects, and have left lots of space just to eat, drink, talk, and reflect on the reasons we sew and our need to be together.

This notice may seem short, but there is still time to come and join us in this relaxing group retreat. The dates available at Vogue are April 30-May 2. We want to establish this as an annual event. Space will be limited to keep the atmosphere intimate. Email one of us, macberg@sbcglobal.net or nancy@contemporarysashiko.com, to check out the wonderful things we want to share with you. You can also check the Vogue Fabrics website http://www.myvoguefabrics.com for information.

I wish each one of you a beautiful spring season.

Nancy

nancy@contemporarysashiko.com