I have sat here and read all these stories- they are amazing.
My mother sewed a little for us when I was growing up. I took home ec in 8th grade and was NOT impressed. I think I might have sewed my shirt to whatever project I was supposed to be doing.
A good friend of mine introduced me to cross stitch and plastic canvas needlework right after I got married. I did both for years. After my dd was born, for whatever reason I decided I would try sewing again. Got myself a cheap Singer and made my dd some clothes.
Life got busy, then we moved into a big house with a LOT of windows. Well I just decided I wouldn't pay a lot of money for nice curtains, I would just make them. Keep in mind that the window in my "formal" living room is 24 feet high! By this time I had upgraded to a Babylock Espire. Now I know that was a good machine because I put that poor thing through hell.
I would make crafty type things now and then, tote bags, made myself some clothing (by this time my dd was a teenager and wouldn't be caught dead in something homemade). Then I had the surprise of my life when I ended up pregnant at age 41.
About a year ago I decided to make a quilt out of my ds's baby blankets (he's 2 1/2 now). And the rest is history- I love to quilt!
And I'm so so SO glad I found this board- so much wonderful advice, inspiration, and encouragement!