Thank you everyone for sharing your stories. So much fun to take a look into everyones journey.
I started back in the 70's. Those who are seasoned enough to remember the time probably remember that there was a resurgence of all things hand crafted. I had been a garment sewer but more than anything loved colors and textures. Quilting was a natural. I made a few tied quilts and small items such as pieced pillows but as some of you have noted life kept getting in the way. That did not keep me from amassing a sizable stash, like a miser I would just spend time running my fingers through the fabric. In short I became a collector not a quilter. Two years ago I retired and now spend at least an hour a day quilting and at least an hour a day on this board. Life is good!