This is my brother-in-law Greg opening the quilt I gave him for Christmas. There was a bit of a delay after the actual holiday until the family could get together for a gift exchange. Unfortunately, I couldn't be there because I can't leave my husband for very long just yet. I had given the quilt to my sister Andrea and she agreed to deliver it to Greg when the family got together to celebrate.
Greg had told me several months ago how much my sister Trish (his wife, now deceased) had loved the quilts I had given her. In particular, there was one they had on their bed that was a favorite. Unfortunately, one of their dogs chewed on it a bit and thus started its decline. Greg was very sad about this, as the quilt held special memories for him. He mentioned on a number of occasions how much he (and Trish) had enjoyed the quilt and how saddened he was that it was spoiled. Hint hint. He really would love a replacement.
How often do we as quilters, have people truly appreciate the effort and love that goes into making and gifting a quilt to a friend or family member? When someone expresses that appreciation and desire for more, it is pretty irresistible. So, I made Greg a replacement quilt.
The quilt pattern was a simple one called Take It Easy by Primitive Gatherings. I made it without any changes to the pattern with a red and white fabric collection, also by Primitive Gatherings.
I sure do wish I could have been there to see him open this gift. In the photo above he is reading the quilt label I attached to the quilt. He always mentioned that the labels were so important. My sisters tell me he was very touched. I think I would have shed tears for sure.
Greg is a guy's guy, and doesn't express a lot of emotion, although at his core I think he is a softie. He sent me a thank you note and this is what he said:
"Thank you so much for the quilt. It’s awesome. Best gift I've had in years "
And you know what? I believe him, and I am so happy in my heart.
21 Responses
What a gem Greg is!
My tissue grab for the day! I remember you mentioning this. I’m so happy its done and he is so appreciative. He’s a gem and so are you for putting in all the effort and love.
Isn’t it wonderful when someone loves their quilt and says so? I made a quilt for my brothers granddaughter and mailed it. I got a phone call thank you as well as a video of the baby playing peek-a-boo. How amazing is that?
My heart breaks for friends who make lovely handmade projects and never even get a thank you or knowledge of the gift being received! Thanks for sharing
Just this past week I gifted two quilts. One went to a gal that is doing a lot of thankless work at church and the other to a friend with a new diagnosis of chronic illness. They were appreciative and I felt so happy gifting the quilts. I really like the pattern you used. It’s not fussy to do but still very attractive.
I love it that he loves your gift of the quilt. I always appreciate it when I gift a quilt and it touches someone special. It is a beautiful quilt and I love the colorway that you used. I have always wanted to make a red and white quilt. Maybe once some of the WIP are completed. I have the fabic.
So nice!
I think that is wonderful! Happy days!
How wonderful! Bless you both. ♥️
Made my day! Wonderful! Bless you!
Tearing up here…happy for Greg & happy for you! It’s truly touching when a quilt is appreciated & loved by the recipient! And, it’s so nice of your sisters to take pictures for you to see how much he loved it!
I got teary eyed too thinking how you must miss your sister.
💕❤🙌😘
What a beautiful story! I think I can see all the emotion in his eyes, just from the picture. I think I’m going to cry!! xox
So glad to see Greg appreciate your quilt! Sounds like it was just the right fit all the way around. It’s wonderful to have great family members that are all “sympatico” (a great word my grandpa used to use) with each other.
This is so special. So glad Greg loved his quilt and sent you a thank you card. So joyful.
Very sweet story. This is what quilting is about. ❤️
What a great story. So nice to have your work appreciated, isn’t it?
Was the quilt you replaced also red and white?
Glad you made Greg another quilt! I love it too when someone appreciates a quilt!
What an awesome thank you, so simple but so meaningful! For a man to write that makes me cry!
To have your quilt appreciated is the best. Thanks for sharing.
What a special gift!