I agree with all the good thoughts here. I know there are some who are not interested in what I do, but the other side of it is that many people who come to my house are in awe of quilting. People who don't do it consider it almost magical - "I could never do that!" is what I often hear. I know they probably could if they just tried, but not everyone has the patience to stick with it. I am proud of my work, but I also know I am not a prize winner. As I was working on my current project today, quilting away with a borrowed Sweet Sixteen, I was aware my lines were not perfect, my points not all precise. But I am having so much fun with it. I stopped and pulled out a bunch of quilting because it was really off, but I know we will love having this on our bed. I'm going to put it into a local quilt show fully knowing it is not a prize contender, but still wanting to share my artistry. Feel sad? Not a bit. It is the joy of the process and satisfaction in my own work. I know I have improved a lot and have far to go. Perfection is impossible, so just enjoy the journey!