This week I made a quick trip to Texas to participate in a speaker forum for the Texas Association of Quilt Guilds – it was a fabulous day!
Having never done a speaker forum before, I wasn’t sure what to expect, and knowing that I would only have half a table to display information about our Q2EA 20/20 program, I traveled pretty light. With just a carry on full of fabric, patterns, donated community blocks, and finished projects, I was still able to create a fun little display.
After setting up, the speakers enjoyed a light lunch together. I was like a sponge, soaking up great ideas and suggestions from those who’ve been doing this much longer.
Every person I met was very kind and supportive, they answered so many questions for me, and their excitement in hearing about Quilt 2 End ALZ, Inc. was incredibly motivational. I was able to hear from their feedback that what we are doing is important.
I especially appreciated hearing their Alzheimer’s stories.
Unfortunately, almost every person I meet has a connection to this disease in some way, and I truly believe that building a community for us to share those experiences, is a powerful form of healing.
After lunch, each speaker had 5 minutes to explain their program. I described our non-profit and how we use quilting as a platform to advocate and educate to END ALZ, and gave a brief rundown of my presentation. Lastly, I shared materials from our 2019 program to illustrate what the optional add-on workshop looks like.
When every speaker had finished their 5-minute talk, representatives from over 30 guilds visited each table, meeting us speakers, picking up brochures, and asking questions. The guild reps were program chairs, board officers, and guild members.
Again, I was blown away by the interest and encouragement that every person shared when they came to my table.
In fact, 6 guilds asked to schedule my presentation!
My stretch goal of 20 shows in 2020 might not be that much of a stretch after all!
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My alarm clock went off at 3:30 to be at the airport by 5 o’clock for a 6 am flight, and my return flight was delayed…So when I walked back in the house at 12:48 am the next day, it had been a long day. But it was one of those I-feel-great exhaustions! I crawled into bed, snuggled up next to Coach, and exhaled a big sigh of peace and accomplishment.
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Now I’m off to put the finishing touches on my slideshow because I know January 2020 will be here in a quick minute.
I’d love to see you on the road, so please take a look at what is currently on the calendar, and please let your guild know that I’m still scheduling and eager to visit!
Love and hugs,
Ashli
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