My mother taught me things that aren't taught to sewers anymore unless they pursue it as a profession. I am still in awe of the things she made over the years. Her determination was inspiring. She showed me how to design and how to make the most of the fabric etc- something few know how to do now. Her skills extended way beyond the sewing machine. She managed on a small church pastor's budget. We never heard her complain, she stood beside my father and found ways to make the ministry shine. the new fraze of recycling was ingrained in her and we learned to turn trash into treasures constantly. We never went with out the basic needs although I'm sure we moaned over many things.