Originally Posted by feline fanatic
First of all please explain to your DD and BFF that it brings you pleasure and therefore is not a waste of time. If she still doesn't get it, maybe explain in terms of food. We prefer to eat stuff that we like the flavor of. Otherwise we would just eat for only sustenance. Does this make sense? If eating certain things simply bring us pleasure as well as nutrition, well then, why aren't we all eating gruel with tofu (or something equally void of flavor but nutritious) for every meal? If a thing brings us pleasure or a measure of happiness it is NOT, IMHO a waste of time (nor money).
Quilting is my passion as well and I would not give it up because someone, even someone I loved dearly, thought it was a waste of time and money. Something that brings pleasure, contentment, a sense of self worth and accomplishment does indeed have value and is not a waste of time.
As far as there being a "glut" of quilts in the charity market, I sincerely doubt this. There are calls everywhere for quilt donations. Quilts for Kids, Quilts of Valor, our very own Green Fairy collects quilts every year for orphans in Romania and all it takes is a look at her blog to see how much they are needed and appreciated. Homeless shelters, Churches, Guilds, Women's shelters and countless other organizations can all attest to there being a need. You can also give quilts to friends.
I have lots of quilts, quilting projects and a very large stash. I am still buying more. I have gifted all of my family members and every baby I ever knew about. I still have more. Some who have received quilts have loved them, others think it is just another coverlet. Not everyone "gets it" But I won't stop doing what I love. There is and always will be a market for our quilts, whether we sell them or gift them. Give your daughter a kiss on the top of her head and send her home. Then write a letter directing what you want done with your stash and quilts after you are gone, seal it in an envelope and enjoy your work. There have been many precious threads on this Board from quilters who have been blessed by someone who has passed away that they didn't even know. Hugs to you....now go quilt something!