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Thread: The Die is cast

  1. #1
    Jean Sewing Machine's Avatar Jean Sewing Machine is offline Senior Member
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    Default The Die is cast

    I've been a teacher for a long time, about 31 years as a professional teacher, after 20+ years as a volunteer teacher, Sunday School/Religious Ed teacher, Girl Scout leader, swim teacher. As far back as I can remember, I always wanted to be a teacher. I've been a preschool teacher, elementary school teacher and principal, college English as a Second Language teacher.

    But, as of today, I believe the die is cast for the end of this phase of my teaching career. Our college is suffering from a big downturn in enrollment, and my program has shrunk to a non-viable level. As of the end of this semester, I will be retiring from my job as college ESL teacher. My little program will probably retire with me.

    It has been a great career, even though there have been trying moments. But every fall, I've always gotten that energy in my soul to plan anew, greet new students, try new things. I am finding that feeling is missing this fall. I have been praying for a sign from God that I need to take this step away from the classroom, and I think He's given me that "ton of bricks on my head" sign, no students means no job!

    I have quilting to occupy my time, and I'm hoping that I can continue to teach by doing some teaching of quilting classes. I still have lots to learn, but I can get beginners started on the craft. I think I can introduce the love of quilting to students, and continue my own learning experience while I teach what I've learned.

    It's sort of a difficult thing to say goodbye to a career that I've loved. But life goes on, and when one door closes, another one opens, so they say. We'll see.

  2. #2
    auntiemern's Avatar auntiemern is online now Senior Member
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    Default Re: The Die is cast

    As long as you are happy with this, I am happy for you. Yes, you will have more time for quilting, and with time freed up you can work on little things to sell at craft shows or even on consignment. One door has already opened, your quilting class. You can also teach how to make pillow cases and tons of other things. You amaze me with your energy and gumption. God must have better plans for you .
    You should check out our FB Group

    The Quilting Cupboard https://www.facebook.com/groups/quiltingcupboard//

    Blankets wrap you in warmth, quilts wrap you in love

    Marilyn......

  3. #3
    lilmouse's Avatar lilmouse is offline Senior Member
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    Default Re: The Die is cast

    I agree totally with Marilyn.....as long as you are comfortable with this

  4. #4
    kelliedi's Avatar kelliedi is offline Senior Member
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    Default Re: The Die is cast

    Well Jean now that you have that long arm maybe you can continue to teach quilting and in-between times quilt others quilts... If not you can always come to little podunk California and teach ESL classes to elem school kids and adults too in nearby communities....(jeff city) ..... we would love to have you!!!!! I realize that would involve a move or a very long commute...
    Kellie

  5. #5
    Jean Sewing Machine's Avatar Jean Sewing Machine is offline Senior Member
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    Default Re: The Die is cast

    Kellie, I think the relatives of the Hispanic population in Cuba, Mo.(where I taught before the college gig) Live in California, Mo. From what I hear! Hope to turn that longarm into a money maker some day. But, (repeat after me), NO KING SIZE QUILTS!

  6. #6
    Jean Sewing Machine's Avatar Jean Sewing Machine is offline Senior Member
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    Default Re: The Die is cast

    Quote Originally Posted by auntiemern View Post
    As long as you are happy with this, I am happy for you. Yes, you will have more time for quilting, and with time freed up you can work on little things to sell at craft shows or even on consignment. One door has already opened, your quilting class. You can also teach how to make pillow cases and tons of other things. You amaze me with your energy and gumption. God must have better plans for you .
    I hope it will be a good decision for me.

  7. #7
    RiverMomm is online now Senior Member
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    Default Re: The Die is cast

    Jean, I know you will love teaching quilting! You have taught me so much already. If I lived close, I would be in that class.

    And, sometimes you need a gentle push-guess you got it. Would you have retired on your own? Prob not. Now you get to start the next phase of teaching. I am so excited for you.

    So, bone up on the answers: Why do we cut it this way? Does it have to be 2.5 inches? Do the strips really have to be even? Sew the edges on a slant or straight? Do I really have to cut that little white edge off? Is oiling an old machine all that important? Do I really have to buy the fabric here, after all, I have some polyester that my mom has in her garage? Where's the bathroom? Can my daughter come with me to watch, oh, and if she helps me, can she make a top for free? What colors go together? Will you make me one for $10 cause I really like how you do it? Do you mind if we drink and sew here at the shop? Oohhhh this list goes on and on!

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  9. #8
    Monique's Avatar Monique is online now Senior Member
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    Default Re: The Die is cast

    Good luck with whatever you decide to do. If it were possible, I sure would like to take one of your quilting classes.
    Blessed are the children of the piecemakers for they shall inherit the quilts!

  10. #9
    bkthomas's Avatar bkthomas is offline Senior Member
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    Default Re: The Die is cast

    Jean, whatever you do I know it will be great - and I wish you all the luck in the world!!!!
    ~Kathy~

  11. #10
    Lonna's Avatar Lonna is offline Senior Member
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    Default Re: The Die is cast

    Jean good luck with what ever you do. I know like others if possible I would take a quilting class from you. When you get ready to start making a little money with that long arm let me know I may have a top that needs to be done.

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