DH and I moved to this area 3 years ago, so not exactly new, but don't know many people. We have always been one another's best friend but at this age especially, with no family in the area, I think it is important that we both have interests and friends in common and independent of one another. Reality is that we won't both be around one of these days. I have attended quilt guilds in Phoenix, AZ where we were originally from and the Phoenix Area Quilters Association there was absolutely wonderful and I loved attending. I didn't find them snooty at all.
I have attended two local guilds here but not enough to really get a feel for the attitudes. What I find very interesting is that, with one exception, everyone I have met here at the meetings is from out of state. We are all "damn Yankees" from what I have been able to ascertain. I am hoping to make some friends. The guild that I dropped into on Monday to introduce myself does Quilts of Valor for the closest Veterans Administration Hospital. I would definitely like to be a part of that. There is another in a nearby community that doesn't start up again until Sept that has some wonderful programs that I would like to attend also. My experience with guilds and new churches is that you need to get involved! Jump in with both feet and put yourself out there. You haven't lost anything if it doesn't work. It has taken me a LOT of years to get to this point. I was extremely shy when in HS so I do understand the people who are uncomfortable with sticking their neck out. The "snooty pitooties" as my granddaughter calls them are still around but I have gotten past them being able to have any effect on my attitude. At this age I am just as apt to stop, look them in the eye, and let them know that I don't appreciate their comments. Ann in TN