I am not a wildlife person, but if you were my daughter in law, and you made me THAT quilt, I would be OVERWHELMED with awe and gratitude.
For just grabbing fabric here and there, and all the little set backs you had, you absolutely provided a wonderful quilt for your MIL and if you hadn't told me the story, I would have thought you had it planned all along.
It sounds to me like you and hubby are a pair to draw to.
Congratulations! <wave>