Hi Charming Girls! Can you believe it - today marks the two year anniversary of the Charming Girls' Quilt Club. And I'm sad to say, today also marks the closing of the club! The club has been such fun, so inspirational, and I've been blessed to meet so many Charming Women - so it is hard to say goodbye.
Yet, life changes, we learn more and more who we are, and what gifts we have to offer to the world - and after much thoughtful consideration, I realize that it is time to close this chapter - and to embark on a new one!
I think one of the greatest gifts I've been given in this life is a sense the time is short, life is short - and that it is incredibly important that we think outside the box to find what it is that truly gives our lives meaning and joy - and then really live it! So often, we find ourselves trapped in conventional notions - and we find ourselves saying "I have to do this, I have to do that, life sucks, that's just the way life is" - not realizing that life was really meant to be filled with love and happiness and peace and joy!
And, often times we make our lives, our relationships (and even our sewing) so complicated and pressure-filled - not realizing that it truly is the simple life that brings the most joy!
Out of a desire to "really live", I've spent much of my time reading various books about life and how to live it - books about women and men, about marriage and relationships, books about pleasure, simplicity, and the meaning of life - not only in the hope that I will live the best life I possibly can - but also out of a hope to share the things I've learned, and to inspire others to do the same!
And, so, with this new chapter comes a whole new look for the blog - and there is one new category that I will be writing posts about! Of course, there will still be LOTS of posts on sewing, cooking, our family, home decor . . . . But, there will be a new category of posts to share with you a bit of what I call "Soul Food" - inspiring posts about being women and the joys and challenges of our "feminity", about relationships, and about living more joyful, simple, meaningful lives!
How do we deal with difficulties in relationships, with pain, failure, guilt, and regret - and get back to the joy of really living? How do we not let our present and future be ruined by the past? In the Soul Food posts, I'll be sharing with you what I've learned from those wiser than me - and how I've applied (or am trying to apply) those lessons in my life!
Because, the truth is girls
Here's to really living!
It is my hope that through this blog we will share much joy and laughter - and maybe even a few tears! It is my hope that this new chapter will inspire you, not just in the sewing room, but also in life!
And so it begins: "Charming Chatter: Sweet Talk About The Joys of a Simple Life!"
TTFN,
Kelly
What a pretty post, Kelly. And I love your blog makeover. I want to thank you for 2 great years of the club. I have really enjoyed it, especially the friends and bonds we have all made.
Looking forward to keeping up with you on your blog, Kris
Posted by: Dandelion Quilts | July 01, 2011 at 02:33 PM
Kelly this is the most amazing post...you are such an inspiration. Thank you for all that you give...I'm so looking forward to the next chapter.
Posted by: Carol | July 01, 2011 at 03:09 PM
Good luck in the next chapter, you are a truly beautiful soul :)
Posted by: Rene B | July 01, 2011 at 03:11 PM
I love this post! I love your new look!!!
I look forward to the next chapter...(BIG SMILE!)
Posted by: Michelle | July 01, 2011 at 03:21 PM
Love your new look Kelly and all the work you put into it! Love the quote and addition to your blog title! I'll be back for inspiration, consolation, and laughs! Thanks so much for all you've done for Charming Girls and me. :-) {{hugs}}
Posted by: Sandie ~call me crazy | July 01, 2011 at 03:55 PM
Oh Kelly....it was so much more than a club. So many times you and the girls were the wind beneath my wings that held me up!!!! I hope I was that for a few people too.
So to new begginings....and I will continue to walk beside you because it is such a joy to do so!!! XXX
Posted by: annie | July 01, 2011 at 04:22 PM
Congratualtions on not only recognising the need for change in your life, but also for DOING it!
Looking forward to reading great posts!
Posted by: Pauline | July 01, 2011 at 05:45 PM
When the face of the blog started to change I knew there was a new path chosen. It has been fun with the Charming Girls and I am sure many of use will still be here for you and for each other.
Posted by: Sharon | July 01, 2011 at 06:26 PM
I love your blog and will miss charming girls, but I totally understand the life thing, we really need to live, this is not a dress rehearsal. Take care and I will enjoy checking in!
Dorothy in IL
Posted by: Dorothy | July 01, 2011 at 06:41 PM
Kelly, my time with Charming Girls was truly charmed. I've gained new skills and got a ton of inspiration, but most importantly, made some very good friends. Thank you for your part in that, and good luck with your new venture.
Posted by: Sunny | July 01, 2011 at 06:46 PM
I completely understand. I'm happy for you because you are living your life to the fullest and enjoying being with your family. Good for you making a change. Life is full of do many wonderful things, enjoy every minute of it. I love your new header too. Hugs to you Kelly. I've totally enjoyed the club if not for your club I would have never gotten to know you and your such an amazing person.
Posted by: Carol Lewis | July 01, 2011 at 06:48 PM
We must be on the same wavelength. I woke up wed. and realized life was too short to keep working and not living. I announced my retirement thur and tomorrow is my last day to work. Now the real work begins about the business of community service, making quilts, giving back and passing it forward. Life is good and I am now free to live it. Yahoo!!! Yes, my budget will be tighter, but money is NOT the joy of life, it just makes life easier. I will be doing things that require time,love,patience and service, not money. I will wager life will be much more rewarding. Good luck w/your venture. Keep up the beautiful blog.
Posted by: Hilary McDaniel | July 01, 2011 at 06:48 PM
Kelly, I so appreciate all the time and effort you put into this. I wish I'd been better about participating, unfortunately, life does sometimes have other plans. I look forward to continuing to follow you and your wonderful posts (and pictures)!! Hugs!! :)
Posted by: Denise :) | July 01, 2011 at 07:19 PM
The journey we traveled through The Charming Girls Club is full of fabulous memories. Thank you, Kelly!
A new chapter to write - another journey to travel and enjoy.
Your post is very inspirational - thank you!
Posted by: Darlene | July 01, 2011 at 08:05 PM
Oh Kelly, You speak my language...this post has been truly innspiring to get back to basics for me... the joys of that simple life...I want it too!... Your blog echo's the New Venture...'Truly Simple'..
Many Blessings ahead...
Hugs Dawn x x
Posted by: Dawn | July 01, 2011 at 08:49 PM
As sad as I am to see the closing of the Charming girls, I am amazed and inspired by the new direction you have chosen for yourself.
So many times we attempt to make changes, but don't find the strength to do so. You have grasped a new meaning in and for yourself, your life, your family. I applaud all you have chosen to take to heart.
I love the look of the new blog and will continue to follow you and your insightful posts. I've let life get away from me multiple times and will look forward to more inspiring posts that bring me back to center.
There is much to be said about leading a simple life!
Posted by: Karen | July 02, 2011 at 05:17 AM
I have so enjoyed belonging to your Charming Girls Club. To become the truly wonderful person we are meant to be, we must look inside. I would like to share with you - my "to live by" poem.
The Masterpiece by Javan
We are born into the world like a blank canvas and each person that crosses our path takes up the brush and makes his mark upon our surface - So it is that we develop - But we must realize there comes a day that we must take up the brush and finish the work. For only we can determine if we are to be just another painting or a Masterpiece.
Judy C sends only her very best and looks forward to what is ahead.
Posted by: Judy C in NC | July 02, 2011 at 05:47 AM
Life is a journey with many chapters, some long, some short, some good, and some not so good. This is the learning and the wisdon that comes with age. It is what makes us all special individuals each unique in our own way. Thank you for sharing your journey so that we may all learn from it. You are giving a true gift.
Wishing you the best for now and for the future on you new journey. I look forward to reading you blog and learning from it.
Have a super great sewing, stitching, and learning day.
Posted by: Miss Nancy | July 02, 2011 at 08:46 AM
What an wonderful post...so well written and full of so much thought and emotion. Being part of the Charming Girls Club has been so wonderful. I have learned so much from you and the other Charming Gals!! I am so excited for you and looking forward to this next chapter and the Soul Food posts. Thanks for all you have done and all the inspiration you have given us. Big hugs and the my very best wishes to you!!!
Posted by: Cheryl | July 02, 2011 at 08:54 AM
I have to agree...we really have to remember to enjoy what we're doing and not have it all be such a competition, whether it's sewing or anything else in life. I'm looking forward to your "soul food" posts! :0)
Posted by: Terry | July 02, 2011 at 09:11 AM
Kelly-girl, I can't tell you how I enjoy sharing this journey with you, love ya sweetie, you're an incredible lady!
Posted by: Allie | July 02, 2011 at 11:22 AM
Wow!! How great! I will be sad to see Charming Girls Quilt Club go but I totally understand were you are going. I think most women find that they like renewals. I can't wait to see what you have going on next! Hang in there!
Posted by: Shannon | July 02, 2011 at 11:43 AM
Kelly, I admire your choice in life to simplify and really live. I will miss the Charming Girls Club but will still look forward to your fun, inspiring, and thought provoking blog posts. ~dawn
Posted by: dawn | July 02, 2011 at 01:25 PM
I am sorry I missed out on the quilt club - late to the party again, I guess, but I wish you the best in your new venture. Is there a pattern for the quilt block with the pinwheel center, at the top of your 7/1 post? It's so pretty. Thanks!
Posted by: Nancy S. | July 02, 2011 at 03:26 PM
Thank you Kelly for the opportunity to be a part of the Charming Girls. You have been an inspiration and an encouragement to me. May you be blessed this new chapter of your life:)
Posted by: Sandra | July 02, 2011 at 05:41 PM
Kelly, I'm grateful for the day God lead me to your blog. I'm even more grateful that you continue to share your joy and passion in all you have with us through your blog. How inspiring it is and truly uplifting to come and see that there is happiness in the world, even if that happiness comes either after hard times or at a chosen cost. You are a gift for which I am extremely grateful. Thank you!
Posted by: WendyMT | July 02, 2011 at 05:52 PM
Thank you so much for 2 fantastic years and I look forward to reading all your future posts! I read Amish Peace after you reccomended it and it was truely an eye opener and would love to know other books you have found inspirational :)
Posted by: Erin | July 02, 2011 at 10:22 PM
Your are an amazing person. I have been feeling the same way and realizing that all the stress in my life was making me sick so I cut out alot of things and really concentrate on enjoying life with my family. You are truly an inspiration and I love your new blog look.
Thanks for hosting the quilt club.
Posted by: Kim | July 03, 2011 at 08:32 AM
Love your post! I agree with you! Thanks for all your inspiration, in sewing, quilting and living simply. Seems many of us want more of a joyous simple life and way of living in our daily lives. Surrounding ourselves with those we love and whom love us is really what life is about.
Posted by: Karen, aka mom and Yaya | July 03, 2011 at 08:47 AM
Kelly, I wish you all the best on your new journey. I was just getting started in the blogging world when I became part of the CGQC, and am forever grateful. I have made some great bloggy friends, and have learned a lot from the CG. I look foward to reading your new blog, and reading about all your interests.
Posted by: annieb | July 04, 2011 at 06:12 PM