Living in the Now. Create and Gather.

The kind of afternoon we all need

I’ve been thinking a lot lately about how important it is to gather with friends, make things with our hands, feather our nests, breathe deep, cook good food, be outside, and talk face to face.

The world feels overwhelming right now. The news, the noise — there is always something to fret about. We need to express ourselves through our creative outlets, which in turn support our well-being.

I have been listening to ’70s folk music and reminding myself of the mantra, “Love is more powerful than hate.” It’s a daily practice to remind myself to see the good in the world.

A Birthday, a View, and Some Wonderful Women

Recently, a friend and I hosted an impromptu gathering at my home to celebrate another friend’s birthday. It was one of those perfect California spring days where the valley glowed, carpeted in vibrant green, and the air was so fresh. I covered the lawn with quilts — some old, worn favorites and some new ones that had yet to be washed. We lounged on the quilts talking, eating, laughing, sharing, crying, and catching up.

There was no big agenda… just friendship and time.

And honestly, it was exactly what we all needed. These connections are not small things. These are big things, mindfully gathered in seconds and minutes that expand into hours we rely upon to keep our cups full.

I covered the grass on some of my favorite quilts to lay on and I remember the phase my old friend Mary Ellen Hopkins used to say, "It's OK if you sit on my quilts" It's also ok if you picnic on them too :) They wash easily! 

Bright Clothes, Good Times

We invited everyone to come dressed in wacky, joyful clothes — the kind of outfits that make you smile when you put them on. Everyone showed up in full spirit — bold colors, big jewelry, patterns, hats, scarves. We were like a walking color wheel. Sitting on quilts in those outfits felt like we were part of the quilts themselves.

Color changes everything — mood, energy, conversation. This palette invites a certain playfulness.

Quilts, Food, and Handmade Things

We put together a buffet of food — nothing fancy, just good stuff made and shared. We let the afternoon unfold under the magnificent oak tree as the breeze blew the banners in a hypnotic dance.

Fabric Banners...Make them for your next gathering!

I made the fabric banners I hung across the yard a few years back using some of my Spring Shimmer fabrics, SKY Ombrés, and Chalk & Charcoal. The banners get used every year for different events. They moved with the wind and added so much color and happiness to the yard. Fabric is not just for quilts - it can completely transform a space and make a gathering feel special.

They are easy, colorful, and a great way to use smaller cuts of fabric.