Sometimes we don't know.......

[Sharyn J]

We all sew quilts and other projects, most times for others. Sometimes we don't know how much people appreciate our skills. Last year I made some microwave cozy bowls and gave them out for gifts. Little did I know how much people loved them, my DIL's father being one of them. He loved that he didn't burn his hands on the bowl.

My DIL's father was at home in hospice care and asked if I would make a dozen so he could send them to his friends for a Christmas gift. He loved them that much! When asked how much I would charge, I replied that a nice box of dark chocolates would work nicely for me! Oh, such a nice deal. He was way too generous with boxes of chocolate but I sewed them with love and was happy that he liked them that much!

Fast forward to July. With sadness, he passed away last week, but once again, those bowls were truly loved by the nurses involved with his care and feeding. Once again I was asked to make a few to give to the nurses. They are such hard working men & women and this little token of appreciation goes a long way to thank those who care so selflessly for others.

So, the next time that I get annoyed with someone who did not appreciate my work, I will forever remember how much these little bowls meant to a few.

[Ginny B]

Re: Sometimes we don't know.......

You are right, we sometimes just don't know how much people appreciate the work. I have found that something as relatively simple but so useful is one of the things that people request from me to make as gifts. I am sure that everyone that received microwave cozies from your dil's dad surely appreciated them as well as his thoughtfulness in giving them such a great gift.

[Carolyn]

Re: Sometimes we don't know.......

Just think of all the times your DIL's father will be remembered by so many people each time the pick up one of your cozies. Heartwarming thoughts indeed.

[Caroline T.]

Re: Sometimes we don't know.......

Amazing how one little bowl cozy can touch so many hearts: The maker, the giver, and the recipient, just to name a few .
This is why we sew, you never know who will get so much out of what we do.

Sending condolences to your DIL and the rest of the family.

[Heather]

Re: Sometimes we don't know.......

Great story. It's nice to hear they were appreciated, as you said often as makers we don't.
I had one of your bowl cozy fabrics, you have such good taste.

[Heather]

Re: Sometimes we don't know.......

Great story. It's nice to hear they were appreciated, as you said often as makers we don't ever know.
I had one of your bowl cozy fabrics, you have such good taste.

[geegeequilts]

Re: Sometimes we don't know.......

Sharyn, this brought tears to my eyes. I make quilts for the joy of it & always give them away. You did a good thing & brought joy to others specially to your DIL's father. My prayers with their family.
Keep up the good work.

Gina

[grammaterry]

Re: Sometimes we don't know.......

Oh yes, you have brought joy. Good girl

[Rhonda K]

Re: Sometimes we don't know.......

The kindness of strangers. You never know how far it reaches. Your story of the little bowl cozies brings heart smiles to me.

[Nesie]

Re: Sometimes we don't know.......

Beautiful job on the bowls!

[GuitarGramma]

Re: Sometimes we don't know.......

Thank you for sharing this with us. I, too, am a bit teary reading this. What beautiful gifts you made.

[Lyndaj]

Re: Sometimes we don't know.......

That's just awesome.

[KarenC]

Re: Sometimes we don't know.......

Such a touching story. Sorry for the loss in your extended family. Your DIL's father sounds like a sweet/caring person. So nice of you to make those cozies for him. I may have to learn how to make them one day. That would be a nice gift for the office folks at Christmas.

[kensington]

Re: Sometimes we don't know.......

You made me remember.... One of the first quilts I made ... I made four that first summer... I intended for me. Pink and blue flowers on a cream background, a simple strip pieced quilt. I loved that fabric, I was so excited when I was making it, making sure seams nested etc. When it was all done and came back from the quilter.... $55.00 for back, batting, quilted and bound... Full Size. I was so proud.

My husband asked me to give it to his mother.... and I did. She called not to thank me, but to ask me if I could make it bigger. I was blown away. I gave my honest answer for my skill set at that time... NO.

Rarely do I get that reaction... but 2 years ago I gave my niece a Christmas quilt and I called and told her I had something for her, and when I got there and she opened it, she cried tears and said, "I was hoping I would get one of these." Totally worth it.

We gotta keep growing!!

[Monique]

Re: Sometimes we don't know.......

I loved your story, thank you for sharing with us. It is the little things that mean so much.