Thank you, Bev, for posting this topic here. I think maybe we should all take what has been said to another level--we need to make sure our beloved machines and tools, etc. go to those who would love and appreciate them. My mother has done that for us kids already. She moved from her big house into a small "Granny" house and had to downsize a lot of her things. I was given one of her treadle machines, and my older sister was given another one. My sister and I are the only ones of the siblings who quilt. I don't think our mother has ever used these treadle machines--in fact, she may have bought them at antique auctions herself. But they were hers, whether she used them or not, and she wanted us to have them. She has given other things to the other kids too. She has graciously asked each of us if there is anything that we would like to have of hers when she is gone. I have started doing that with my kids too. My daughters in particular, have asked for certain things. For example, recently, I made a quilt for myself in pinks and greens. It matches my youngest daughter's nursery for her new baby perfectly. My oldest daughter has always loved that color combination. I have "loaned" the quilt to the youngest daughter to use in her nursery with the promise that it will go to my oldest daughter at some point in the future.
I guess what it all boils down to is good communication. Without it, there is bound to be disappointment.
So, thanks again, Bev, for helping us all see how important this is!