I just realized that I have not posted this week and I need to stick with my goal of at least one post per week. Nothing has really happened in my quilt world. I have practiced some surface techniques using resist and thickened dye. I need to get the thermofax machine running. It would be much easier than trying to cut stencils. I am trying to create a piece for "Text into Textile" exhibit. I think I have 2 more weeks before the deadline. My job hunt is taking a lot of my time. I am putting first things first and quilting is definitely taking a back seat for now. I miss teaching children and I NEED to get back into the classroom.

Not Much Time to Create

For the past week I have not had nearly as much time to create as I wish. Last Monday I attended the Milwaukee Art Quilters meeting. It was the first meeting that I ever attended. I was a little nervous to go, but the other artists were so friendly I just laugh at myself for ever being so silly. That is who I am though. I am a person who tends to shy away from new experiences because of fear, fear of the unknown.

The meeting was inspiring. I want to create quilts that travel. I want to enter competitions. I want to teach. After the meeting however, the rest of my life has gotten in the way. Important stuff that needs to be worked through so I can have the financial base I need to make art.

I am currently looking for a job as an art teacher. I am currently looking in Wisconsin, Colorado and Texas. If anyone out there has any suggestions as to how to make myself stand out from the other applicants, I would love to hear your ideas. Teaching children art is the one area of my life where I have no fear.

Later this week off to Chicago for festival! I can't wait!

Why Quilting with the Dog

All of the quilters I know love their pets and I am no exception. Our pets sleep at our feet while we sew, curl up on fabric that we leave out and occasionally step on the foot control at the least opportune moment. Our pets are our friends and companions who don't criticize when we spend way too much time doing what we love. My dogs have always been my silent support, being there in the solitude of the studio adding to my experiences and making me laugh instead of curse as I pick out misplaced stitches. My dogs and my quilts, two things that add to the joy of my life.