Been watching your quilting board for a few months. I live in NE Alabama and wanted to intro myself. The Wal-Mart quest interested me, so I e-mailed, got an overnight reply & after dancing around the subject of closing fabric depts they stated in some areas they don't feel it's needed. They are replacling FD's with new crafts and life celebrations (another phrase for b'days/holidays). Don't know what that will entail, but I'm thinking maybe something like a mini-Hobby Lobby or other more popular crafts. I e-mailed the lady who is over Operation Quiet Comfort about quilting for wounded/injured soldiers from a link posted this week. I'm an ex-Army wife & Civil Service worker myself. We were stationed in Germany, Missouri, San Francisco (Letterman, now closed), San Antonio where major US Army Medical Centers are located. Now live in rural area & operate Small Sewing Business from my home. Living alone can be lonely; however, if I stay busy I don't think about it so much. My son & his family live close by, so have them to check on me. Have worked 3 weeks on my 17 yo granddau's Prom dress, another young ladies dress for Prom & Miss C'ville Padgeant, & have 2 more to do before April Proms. I'll be checking in to read the board & will make comments at times. Thanks to everyone for encouraging each other. Sheila Elaine