This year we had two Sleep-in-Your-Own-Bed retreats at Immaculate Conception Church, 3778 West 28th Ave., Vancouver.  They were a great opportunity for members to have fun, work on their own projects, learn something new and enjoy getting to know each other.

Many, many quilts were cut, stitched, sandwiched, quilted, admired, handled and discussed.
Quilters came and went according to their own schedules. They shared quilting tips, suggestions, reconnected and met for the first time.
There was lots of space, with cutting & sandwiching tables, irons, etc – as well treat and free tables.
Some of us finished several quilts, while some of us made more modest progress.  Several quilts from the “All Stacked Up” workshop were assembled and much admired.

We’re hoping to have another SIYOB Retreat in the Spring of 2025.

The guild holds an annual retreat.  Because of COVID, two retreats were held in 2024.  In 2025 we will return to one annual retreat.  The retreat is organized by a member and membership in the guild is required for attendance.

The retreats are held in the spring at a local camp – in 2024 the retreats were at Charis Camp in Chilliwack.  The 2025 retreat will be in April at Camp Luther in Mission.  At the retreat members work on their own projects and share quilting ideas and tips with each other.  The retreat is four days and three nights of fun where we quilt, shop, share meals, take walks, and generally have a good time with fellow quilters.

Our retreat is over for another year and was very successful. Everyone seemed to have a good time and we were very happy to be together, sew, be creative and exchange ideas. We had 16 people attend this year and the Charis Camp Chalet was a good size for that number, rooms were comfortable and the lighting was very good. Carola brought her pop up shop on Tuesday and we had a shopping frenzy (because we all needed more fabric, right?). The weather cooperated nicely and the walk to the dining room not only gave us a chance for some fresh air and exercise but it was actually enjoyable! Now I’m looking forward to next year’s retreat which Alison will be organizing. — Carol K

Our next retreat is planned for March 7 -10, 2022 at Edenvale Retreat Centre and there is only one space left.  If you are interest in attending, please contact Carol K to secure your space or to get your name on the waiting list if that space gets filled.  We all know how circumstances can change and no deposit is required until a space becomes available.  

Retreats are so much fun and even if you aren’t successful in getting a spot in 2022 you might want to consider signing up early for 2023 (anytime after March 10, 2022).