Hi Chris,
Good for you!! :thumbup: It is quite amazing to me how easy it has been to get sucked into the buying frenzy in the quilting world, and I am on a limited budget. I applaud your efforts, and your commitment to your accountability partner.
I think for many of us, we want to learn more about this hobby, so surely... the more books, patterns, tools, classes and even fabric we buy... the better quilter we'll become, right? :lol: :roll:
I knew this moment was coming for me soon too, but it was a comment that DH made that really got me to thinking. He said, should I "go before he does", he did NOT want to have the hassle of going through my things and dispersing them. Please understand that he is also disabled, and this would've been a very difficult thing for him to do. As well, we have no other quilters nor sewists in the family, so it would've been a tough matter for him.
Anyway, for the last few months, I've been selling off many of my books, patterns, fabric and a few tools to other members here who haven't reached this point yet. I cannot possibly read them all, use them all, etc. in my lifetime. Why not share with others than can get some use from them? Many of them were brand new or in near new shape. It was a very time consuming job for me to do this, and a bit painful too, as it reminded me of how careless I had become in my decision making in this area. With the sales proceeds I bought a new microwave and saved money to have my son's wedding quilt done by a LA'er. These are items that can be used right away, and hopefully enjoyed for a good many years.
I'm really glad you posted this topic and shared your thoughts with all of us. Much appreciated. Maybe some others will recognize that they too, may need to tighten their reins as well.
Hang in there, it does get easier. We just need to break the cycle! :wink: