Thanks / giving

As quilters, we give abundantly and joyously the whole year through.

After reading Marie Kondo's book, The Magic of Tidying Up, I began following some of her simple guidelines.

By gathering all the towels and sheets in the house, washing and air drying every single item, I sorted by what I needed, what I wanted, and what could go.

Of course I need towels for me, towels for Dolly, towels to wash the truck, and most important, new towels for guests. (Have you ever visited a well-off friend and been handed "towels to wash the truck?")  Of course you have, so I for one believe it's important to welcome guests with fluffy new towels.

After 3 weeks of doing, I'm finally done.  But, what happened to all the rest?

Four, yes 4, tall kitchen waste bags were filled with towels, abundant sheets, new T-shirts, and hangers, which were then carted off to the women's shelter main office.

Sadly, most every town has one, a place where women must go to escape.  Can you imagine how difficult that must be?

Beforehand, I called the director of the shelter and asked specifically what they needed.  Imagine my surprise when discovering that the most urgent item was towels.

Yes, I could have donated to our local thrift store which supports spay and neuter programs for pets. That thrift store has helped over 2,000 cats and dogs have surgery in both 2015 and 2016.  However, I support that shop with other things.

Towels and sheets found a better home.

So as you prepare for holiday guests this year, may I  suggest you take inventory and think about what you're thankful for and if there is abundance, perhaps there's something else you can be giving.

Until then, keep stitchin' . . .