As I have talked about in earlier blog posts, in these past two years, I have just pursued things that I normally wouldn’t and was grateful for what came my way and worked out. This meant applying to shows to teach, getting my name out there by social media (it is a very time consuming thing!!), and writing letters to guilds, potential shows, etc. It is a lot of work. My philosophy has been that the worse that can happen is that I am told “No”….and what difference does it make. I would rather try and be told “no” than to never have tried and always wonder what would have happened.
So, I just finished teaching at my first major show at MQX. I am contracted to teach this July for AQS Syracuse, and am always filling out proposals to teach at other shows. For those of you who have never done this, it is a time consuming process and a never ending process as every show has different proposal guidelines and deadlines. And in reality, I would rather be quilting than doing paperwork!!!
So, now for my big news that I hinted at in my last post……..
Last Fall, I had decided to write a letter to HandiQuilter (the maker of the machines that I quilt on), and introduce myself. I never heard back, but didn’t really stop too long to think about it, as my goal is always to move forward. It isn’t unusual to hear back from a teaching proposal with a typical…… “thank you for your proposal/email and we will keep you in mind” …..type of thing.
Anyway…..when you are teaching in a HandiQuilter equipped, hands on classroom, there is a HandiQuilter Educator in that room with you. I have to tell you that this made me extremely nervous, but they (Diane & Susan) were so nice that I instantly felt like we could be fast friends. After my second day of teaching (this was my long day of classes), I got back to my room and had an email from HandiQuilter Corporate asking me to contact them that evening. I was terrified……but no need for that….lol!!! As I was talking to HandiQuilter, they said that I was coming to them as very highly recommended and that they would love to have me join their team as a HandiQuilter Educator and travel for them to attend events that they schedule. Oh my gosh!!! I couldn’t even answer that night, as I was exhausted, but after giving it thought for a couple of days, I told them yes!!!! So, not only will I be able to quilt and teach personally, but I will also get to travel to HandiQuilter events when needed and represent the machines that I love so much!!
I have already met the CEO of the company and several Educators, and have been welcomed with open arms, and on the 24th I leave for three days of training in Salt Lake City. I am so excited and thankful for this opportunity!!
So…..my advice to everyone….persevere!!!!
Happy Quilting!!
Congratulations! I knew you were going places, you are very good at what you do and you will be a great educator. Ramona
Ramona – thank you so much for your continued encouragement and support!!
I am sooooo happy for you. A new chapter, new experiences. Hugs, Jane!!!
Thanks, Gina!!! Hugs to you too!!
Congratulations Jane. I am so happy for you. HandiQuilter is lucky to have you and your expertise. Safe travels.
Thank you, Jamie!!!
Oh my gosh is right!! The things you can do…..the list goes on and on. So happy/proud for you. And, love reaping the beauty of your quilting.
As much as I love quilting all of your beautiful quilts!!! Thank you!!
Congrats, Jane, way to persevere. What a great opportunity for you, I’m thrilled for you.
Thanks, Janet!! I appreciate that!!
I was a student in your advanced class at mqx. I told all my friends that this was the best class I took.. Congrats, Jane. You deserve it!!
Norma Ippolito
Norma – It was a pleasure having you in my class and thank you so much for the compliment!! I am glad that you liked the class and I hope that I am chosen to teach there again next year!!