My role as a caregiver began in 1991 when Mama had a very severe stroke after an angioplasty surgery. From there my sister, brother, and myself, along with our 3 spouses, became official members of the “Sandwich Generation”. Prior to that from 1986-1987 our daddy suffered from Lung Cancer. Mama was the primary caregiver for him, however we were part of the care and in the process learned about the toll of radiation treatments, and the special care of Hospice. At various times in the past 20 years my husband, William, and I have cared for all 4 of our parents. My mother is the only one still living. From this we know that it is important to keep a sense of humor, to hug lots, and make life a little better each day.   Professionally I have been an elementary teacher, an arts and crafts instructor, arts consultant, Employee Assistance Program Consultant, store manager, cooking instructor, Textile Conservator, and I have been a seamstress since the first grade. Design and sewing have always been a passion of mine. I remember picking cotton on our farm and then making my granny and my mama pin cushions stuffed with the cotton. My Barbie's even had an entire house created for them complete with bedspreads and curtains.   My love of sewing became a real plus when Mama needed aprons after her stroke. I also found it necessary to adapt Mama’s slacks to make dressing easier when she couldn’t stand on her own. As Mama’s needs changed I would create different items to make life a little easier for her, and for us as caregivers. From there I began to sew for friends and other family members who had special needs. These projects always produced a smile. Then I decided that others should benefit from the lessons I had learned from other’s difficulties.   A book of patterns soon took over our house and my family was sucked into the project. They have been wonderful cheerleaders! My husband, William, the owner of Battleground Antiques, Inc./www.civilwarshop.com helped with his computer knowledge. Chris, a recent graduate of UNC-Chapel Hill, edited the book. Mark, a sophomore at UNC-Wilmington, became the webpage editor/designer. Our daughter, Nora, a sophomore at New Bern High School, helped select colors and trims that might be appealing to others.   I am sure that many of you have your own story about caregiving and how it has transformed your life and the life of your family.