1. Tell us about any group(s) you currently belong to. (e.g. book club, knitting circle, walking buddies, etc.)

I belong to a quilt guild, and within that to a quilting bee. We meet two evenings a month. I love both, for different reasons. The guild is large (about 75), the bee is small (about 6). I also belong to an ongoing block exchange group (about 12 ladies). I love that group too.

2. Do you feel energized or drained by being in a group situation? If the answer is “it depends,” on what does it depend?
After large guild meetings and the block exchange meetings I feel drained. After bee, sometimes energized sometimes drained. But that’s hard to evaluate, because it’s in the evening and I’m tired anyway. I’m a morning person and an introvert … so evening events and large groups are hard. Evening events and small groups are easier, but still …

3. Is there a role you naturally find yourself playing in group situations? That is, do you naturally fall into the leader role, or the one who always makes sure the new person feels welcome, or the quiet one who sits back and lets others shine, or the host?

I’m usually a leader because I’m a naturally bossy older sister type. It’s one of the more unsightly aspects of my personality.

4. Handshakes vs. hugs: discuss.

Handshakes because I’m from New England … but down here in the south everyone hugs all the time and it gives me the willys.

5. Ice breakers: a playful way to build community in a lighthearted manner, or a complete and utter hell of forced fun and awkwardness?

Utter hell of forced fun and awkwardness … unless I’m in charge and don’t have to play ;-).

Bonus: If you answered “playful and lighthearted,” share your favorite ice breaker.