Conversation with Madelyn van der Hoogt

Jane Patrick and Madelyn van der Hoogt after dinner at the historic Boulderado Hotel in Boulder.

I had the pleasure of spending the evening with the soon-to-be past editor of Handwoven magazine, Madelyn van der Hoogt. She's been at the helm of Handwoven for 12 years and is "retiring" to devote more time to her Weavers' School, volunteer in her community, and...weave! I asked Madelyn how she was feeling about the transition and she responded that all she knows is that her "to-do" list was very long and is much, much shorter today. She really thinks she'll get it all done by December 31st, her last day on the job. What a great way to start the new year, deadline free!

As a past editor of Handwoven, I had no idea the sense of freedom I'd feel when I put my last magazine to bed, cleaned out my desk, and drove home, but it was refreshingly liberating. (And I had no idea how much those deadlines were part my life--though looking back I have no regrets, as being Handwoven editor was one of the very special opportunities in my life).

So, Madelyn, I thank you for all your energy, good humour, hard work, and devotion to the craft--and all this brought to Handwoven. I wish you at least a few carefree days before you launch into the next thing, whether it's a book, a new course, or a fine double weave cloth. I'll miss seeing your touch in the magazine, but know absolutely that I'll be seeing you around!