In Lila's Own Words
Do you have a life philosophy?
I always believe in doing the very best that I can, remaining true to myself, and being myself.
If someone really wanted to make you happy, what gift would they give you?
One of the best presents anyone can give me is a truckload of rocks or dirt. I just love to work with stones and concrete, and I've planted more than 20 trees in my backyard. And besides, I already have a truckload of fabric!
Do you have a hero?
I don't think of my Mom as a hero, but as a great influence in my life. She was a wonderful mother while working very hard as a farm wife. She was always cooking and baking for her family while she had a huge garden and all that entails. By profession she was a first grade teacher and she returned to that when I was in high school. She gave me the love of cooking and reading, but I wish I could have absorbed her patience. At some time in her life, she made some quilt blocks, though I never saw her doing it and I never remember seeing any quilt that she made. But after she died, I found the quilt blocks and that is what started me in the direction of quilting.
Are you a collector? What do you collect?
Through the years, I've collected bells, tea cups, paper weights, clocks and teapots. But over the past 15 years, my largest collection is fabric and I always make room for more.
How do you unwind?
There are so many ways. Walking or working in the flower garden, reading, driving my Mini-Cooper, designing or working on a quilt, watching TV while hand quilting in the evening.
Do you listen to music while you work? What do you listen to?
When I’m designing or working on a quilt, I listen to classic rock for creative energy.
What’s your idea of a perfect day?
Sunshine, flowers are in bloom, the house is clean, and I’m free to do whatever I choose. There are so many things I enjoy doing, so I have many options.
What did you want to be when you grew up?
I never really thought about what I wanted to be. I suppose I never set a goal for my life other than wanting a good life. That might sound strange, but throughout my life, little windows of opportunity have opened and I’ve been able to be watch for them and make choices. Throughout the years there was a "real job," then marriage, three children, and multiple moves across the country because of my husband's position. Along the way, I tried every hand craft that became popular. I once did pillow sewing for a boutique shop. But once I found quilting I stopped all the other crafts. When that window opened, I threw it wide open: two children were adults and the last was going off to college and I was ready. Then American Patchwork & Quilting entered through that big window and I have now found what I want to be when I grow up, (unless another window flies open).
What’s your most treasured possession?
My family.
More to check out:
Green Pinwheels
Four-Square Pillow
Dotty Stars |
