Love everyone's answers. My mother made just about everything, suits for my brothers, all my clothes, the curtains at the windows, etc. So it was natural for me to sew. I started sewing at about 5 and by high school was making my own clothes and making all my Christmas presents for aunts, and making baby layettes for the orphans home in my town. I made all my children's clothes too. Then after my DH passed and I moved out here in the sticks, my dear neighbor (now deceased) convinced me to try quilting. I am sure she is looking down and smiling at the "monster" she created. Quilting is my sanity on a tough day, and my relaxation on a quiet evening. I was given a "gift" and I feel it is my duty to pass it on by making quilts for those who have been struck down by some tragedy. Everyone needs a hug at some time in their lives, so I am trying to spread my hugs throughout the land.