The story “Everyday Use” and the quilt reminded me of the importance of quilts. The quilts were made with love and given as gifts in memory of one or more events and the person who created the quilt. The segment of this story brought back thoughts and memories from years ago. On June 20, 1981, even at the young age of 19, I knew in my heart that this was a huge mistake. I'm afraid of what will happen. I don't want to go through with it, but my parents taught us to be responsible for our actions. All my relatives are waiting and I didn't want to shame or embarrass my family. So on this day; I was married. It was the start of a valuable learning experience that took many years to recover from and another story for a different time. My new husband quickly opened and put away the gifts. He was eagerly waiting to open the cards and find the "cash"! One of the gifts was a handmade quilt given to us by my grandmother. With a smile on my face, I picked up the heavy quilt and hugged it! I hadn't thought about why I had embraced the quilt until recently. I believe it was the intense connection and love felt for the woman who lovingly created the quilt. The quilt my grandmother made was one of the beautiful things that occurred as a result of this event. I didn't see my grandmother often because she lived in West Virginia. The times we spent together were fun and created lasting memories. He had a unique perspective on seeing everyday life and people. My brave grandmother was honest; and always sharing his thoughts. Spunky may have been an understatement! She loved a bit of shock value and was always up for a debate. In her later years she looked a lot like "Maxine" on the hallmark...middle of the paper...came home to make phone calls and took care of what I could. I always have in my mind the memory of my grandmother, the memories, the laughter and the quilt she lovingly made for me. As in Wangero (Dee) statement from the story “Everyday Use”. "Maggie can't appreciate these quilts!" he said. “It would probably be backward enough to put them into everyday use.” Consider me back! I disagree, as quilts were made to be used. They are created with love and given in memory of an event and the person who created the quilt. My quilt has stood the test of time and looks almost perfect with some worn and torn areas. For 32 years, this quilt has been used to keep me warm on cold winter nights and it gives me comfort every time I use it. It's as if Grandma is here with her arms wrapped around me providing comfort, support and love.