The PC Quilters completed a receiving blanket project for West Valley Hospitals Auxiliary.
Cathy Howell
This spring Wendy Gilbert had a great idea for the quilters that would be spending summer here in the valley; how about a cooler climate in which to perfect their craft? In searching for the ideal place (not too far away, comfortable accommodations, milder temps, quilter friendly) she discovered a place in Sierra Vista, Ritter Ranch Retreat. It turns out this is a very popular place and the only dates open in 2014 were mid-July and later November. After sending out inquires, she found 11 other willing participants and booked the July 17 to 20 dates and put a hold on the November block of days.
A pre-retreat luncheon was held to organize carpools, routes, projects and, of course, how much wine to bring! This done, we all started out early the morning of the 17th; timing ourselves to be in Tucson by the time the quilt shops opened and have lunch. Cars now laden down with even more projects, we headed south to Sierra Vista and the ranch.
The host couple made our stay so enjoyable. They had converted their home into a three bedroom retreat with four beds to each room plus a well lit work space with everything we needed. A big treat for all was the home cooked meals—all delicious.
Our day started out with cool mornings. Many of us would go outside, listen to the birds sing and have our coffee. Others slipped on their walking shoes and got in some exercise before sitting down to a day of quilting.
One group project we completed was to make receiving blankets for the West Valley Hospitals Auxiliary. These blankets will be added to a newborn take-home kit for indigent families.
But it was not all work. After sewing and eating and sewing and eating, at around 8:30 p.m. each evening we played games; Quilt BINGO, Tenzi, Mah-Jongg and Left/Right/Center with fat quarters of fabric and there was always a puzzle going somewhere.
A great time was had by all and the November dates have been secured for another group of quilters to head south to Ritter Ranch—and yes—the July group will be going back next year and even adding a day to our stay!