Welcome to 2022! I have to keep reminding myself that it isn’t the beginning of 2021 since in some ways it seems as if nothing has changed in the past year. The days have dragged on but at the same time the year has flown by. Even though the pandemic lingers on and Covid doesn’t seem to be in a hurry to relinquish it’s hold on the world, there certainly has been much progress made in understanding and fighting the virus. Vaccinations (and subsequent booster shots) are helping us move forward and out of the pandemic.

Apart from January being the time for making resolutions, it is the portal into the coming year. How appropriate that the name of this month is derived from the Roman god, Janus, who represented doors, gates and transitions. I’m sure that we are all anticipating going through this year’s doorway to brighter days ahead as we transition back to ‘normal’ - whatever that might look like. I don’t think that things will be exactly as before but some aspects of life might even be better. It’s hard to realize that we are entering the third year of the Pandemic. We are all so weary but I truly believe that we just need to be cautious and patient a while longer.

As Omicron has shown us, there are definitely uncertainties in the evolving nature of Covid and none of us wants to take down our guard prematurely. That being said, after extensive discussions, the guild executive feels that in consideration of the health and safety of all the members, we will not meet in-person until May at the earliest. It is very disappointing for all of us and this decision was not taken lightly. By then the weather will likely be warmer so we will be able to open the doors for more fresh air. With June being our ‘Social’ meeting, we are working on plans to have something fun and different - stay tuned for details!

While staying connected virtually has had its challenges and drawbacks, there is much that has been positive. We’ve been able to have speakers and workshop instructors from near and far, no lugging of heavy machines and supplies to classes and (as I heard from several of you), a better opportunity to visit and get to know one another. Going forward and with technological assistance, I would love to see the guild have a blend of Zoom and in-person. I’m not sure how this might work but I feel there might be an opportunity which we could consider.

Even though our AGM in February will be by Zoom, the content will be the same as in-person. In addition to voting on the Financial Statements (delivered to members by Feb. 1/22), there will be the election of 6 executive members. As I write this, there are still 3 positions waiting for someone to step forward and volunteer - Vice-President, Programs coordinator and Communications coordinator. Even if you are new to the guild, I encourage you to consider one of these positions. It’s a great way to get to know more of the members - I certainly know this from personal experience. The guild is able to function only because of the efforts of the many volunteers. My sincere thanks to Carolann Fraenkel and Annilene Hayman who have volunteered to be Librarian and Member-at-large, respectively - we look forward to your joining our executive team.

With Spring around the corner, we can also look forward to the Extravaganza. Shauna is working out the details for a fun day of sewing and socializing. Watch for details to register for this event - it’s sure to be a great day!

With COPs, Penny is planning on some really interesting ‘1 o'clock somethings’ - sign up for the whole day or just the mid-day drop in. Also, don’t forget about the ‘Sew-cial’ on meeting days.

Last but not least, I look forward to seeing everyone at the general meeting on January 25.

Suzanne

Headliners

January Extravaganza NEWFLASH UPDATE

(now via ZOOM) Saturday, March 26, 2022 10am-4pm

Join us for a fun day of virtual

• Socializing with guild members,

• Sewing (either your own projects or the pattern that is on the website-it’ll be fun to see individual interpretations of the same pattern)

• Games

• Door prizes

In Other News - HELP Wanted

A lady is looking for someone to repair a much loved small quilt she wishes to pass on to her daughter. If you are willing to help please contact me for more info and pictures.

-Judy Walkey

Thinking of You...Members-at-Large would love to send cards to members who would benefit from knowing the Guild is thinking of her/him. Please email the Members-at-Large if you would like a thoughtful card sent to a guild member.