The first thing I consider when I attend these shows is that most but not all of the people who enter these contests are professional quilters and do it as a fulltime job. I work a full time job and take care of my home. I only have a few hours a week to devote to quilting. Now, I could spend three years on one fabulous over the top quilt that no one will want to touch or I could make a dozen happy fun quilts that are loved and used. these quilts are very beautiful and I appreciate the hard work and devotion that is in them. I just have to be realistic. I do aspire to one day make a quilt that is contest worthy. That is what drives me to improve my skills all the time even if it would never be entered in a contest. I simply view the shows like going to an art gallery and if something inspires me, great.