I am feeling terribly guilty** about not having posted the Sow-A-Long blocks and missing the deadlines I self-imposed that I'm going to offer a give-a-way which will hopefully permit you to forgive me. I got back late Monday and only started to unpack at 3 AM this morning when I woke up and wasn't able to get back to sleep. I'm getting Ryan today so I will finally be able to sit down at the machine tomorrow.
So, in lieu of Sow-A-Long blocks, how would you like to win the pattern "Christmas Pickle" by Nancy Smith and Lynda Milligan? It's part NY Beauty, and part pinwheels. It's a lovely pattern. http://www.amazon.com/The-Christmas-Pickle-Quilt-Pattern/sim/188097262X/2
Please leave me a comment by Monday when I'll pick the winner. Be sure you leave your email address, too, please.
Love to you all,
Randy
**Guilt is something I was born with. But let me clarify why I've been plagued even more so on this issue: there have been 3 comments criticizing me very severely because I failed to deliver when I said I would. One anonymous person even went so far as to indicate that she was "leaving me" because I basically lied. So while I know I shouldn't feel bad for having taken July off thus far, those few have really made me feel pretty bad.
Its OK for you to have time off for a trip to Sisters, y'know. Thanks for the wonderful giveaway!
ReplyDeleteHi Randy! No worries, you don't have to feel guilty at all. I appreciate you posting all of these blocks and the fun you have given me! thanks for the fifer of the giveaway.
ReplyDeleteDeb
Going to Sisters is a wonderful opportunity. Appreciate the giveaway but DON'T FORGET the blocks..eventually when you have recovered. I am enjoying them.
ReplyDeleteDiann/KY kyquiltymama@hotmail.com
No problem ~ you definitely deserved the break and it looks like you had a great time!! The pattern looks like a challenge and fun ... I would love to win it! Linda (Canends@Hotmail.com)
ReplyDeleteI think we all agree...don't feel a bit bad about not posting blocks! I, for one, am enjoying the break!
ReplyDeleteIsn't it terrible when life gets in the way of quilting. :) I so understand your priorities. Gives us all a chance to catch up with you. Love this Pickle Quilt pattern.
ReplyDeleteI'd also love the Pickle pattern. Sorry things have been so hectic for you.
ReplyDeletewindyyyyyyy@yahoo.com
What a charming pattern! Thanks for the giveaway!
ReplyDeleteI love how you feel guilty.....A give-away! td5970@yahoo.com
ReplyDeleteI've been enjoying the Sow-A-Long, whenever you post them. Love the Pickle Quilt patten!
ReplyDeleteThanks for letting us know that you won't be posting them for awhile! I will check back in a few days. Amy in Wisconsin
ReplyDeleteI am sorry some people are so mean. I love the fact that I am really caught up for once!! But since you are feeling guilty I would love to wind the Pickle Quilt pattern as my daughter had a pickle ornament for our christmas tree and I would make it for her as a christmas quilt.
ReplyDeletePlease enjoy your well deserved time off.
Don't feel guilty - family and life come first!!!! And if people can't understand that it's a shame. Your loyal followers will be there whenever the blocks are ready. I look daily and when they get there, they get there - gives me something to look forward to. God Bless and take care. Debra - quiltingprettyquilts@cox.net - I would also love to be the winner of the "Pickle" giveaway. ;o)
ReplyDeleteThen the ones who gave you the crap are ones who don't have a life. And you don't need them in yours. I look at the blogs I follow everyday, if it's not been updated for a week, so be it, they bloggers have lives outside blog world. Keep up the good work. I like to follow you around. ninepatch@hotmail.com
ReplyDeleteHow is it that WE benefit from your guilt trip? LOL I'd love to win the Pickle pattern!
ReplyDeletedyeing2hook@msn.com
Don't feel guilty, stuff happens... I love that pattern and would be delighted to win it. So, be it if it makes you feel better have the giveaway.
ReplyDeleteHave a fun time with your Grandson!
Are you kidding??? People actually complained because you failed to put up the Sow A-Long?? Life happens!
ReplyDeleteWell heaven forbid you should have a life or even worse some fun quilty time with your friends!!! ;) Some people need to chill. It makes the world a happier place.
ReplyDeleteThat is a fabulous pattern.
Some people need to get a life! You shouldn't feel guilty about taking some time off. Thanks for doing the sow- along and for the giveaway.
ReplyDeletePlease don't feel guilty. You are doing this sow along to share your passion of quilting. It is a service that you are offering for free and those of us that follow you are benefiting from it. Try not to focus on the few negative comments. My husband gave me some good advice during my first year of teaching. I am an elementary librarian and I see 31 classes a week, that is about 675 students a week. I was very upset after a long week because several students were misbehaving. My husband asked me how many students were misbehaving and I said 5 or 6. Then he asked me how many students were doing what they were supposed to be doing. This made me stop and really think because that meant that 650 students were on task and I was focusing on the 5 or 6 that were not. This caused me to re-evaluate the way I think. I know it is not easy but try to focus on those of us who are very happy about the sow along. It is your blog, you make the rules, therefore you can break the rules. Life happens. Keep sharing your passion for quilting.
ReplyDeleteOh, wow, Randy, I can't believe how nasty people can be over something that is just for fun! Personally, it has been a hectic month and I have given a little sigh of relief each time I saw you HADN'T posted the blocks yet. I knew I wouldn't have time and this way I didn't fall behind.
ReplyDeleteI heap guilt on myself all the time, so I feel your pain, but know that your "true" followers are still with you. : )
Anyway, even though we are not in school, isn't there something to be said for summer vacation?
It is sad that people take things so personally. They must have other things going on in their lives and this took on more importance for them than it should. I hope they are better and your guilt is gone.
ReplyDeleteI have long admired this pattern without ever thinking it would be something I would undertake. If I won the pattern, that thinking would have to change. Thanks for the chance!
Nice come-back. Count me in on that very difficult looking pattern. I love the challenge of patterns that take a long time to make.
ReplyDeleteI have been loving your sew a long - and while I look forward to each set of blocks, I also understand that you have a life! Enjoy your time, this is supposed to be fun. Plus, the bonus blocks have more than made up for the ones that have been delayed. Don't feel guilty! I am making two versions of the Barrister's Quilt - one in shirtings, and one in cheerful moda fabrics. Not all the way caught up with all the blocks yet, but you have to be in the mood. I'm also treating them as long term projects - I have lots of other short term projects already started, lol.
ReplyDeleteEl
P.S. Would love to be included in the drawing! I've been working on a pickle quilt in my spare quilting time. . . :-)
I so enjoy piecing the blocks you give us, but it sure doesn't matter when I get them. I appreciate what you do for us. Just keep on being you, ohhh, guess that's a given.
ReplyDeleteBetty
bgk 44@msn.com
I'm not sure we should be benefitting from your guilt, or actually why you should be feeling guilty. Although I do love give-aways. I have been totally enjoying doing the Barristers SAL, and this break gave metime to catch up. Enjoy your visit with your grandson, and forget about the nasties. raydeer@memlane.com
ReplyDeleteWow! I can't imagine what makes some people so mean... so sorry that you were treated that way... Life just gets in the way sometimes, and that's just the way it is, and that's okay... Thank you for the chance to win this amazing pattern--- LOVE it! :-)
ReplyDeleteIt is your blog, and I have been reading Bonnies Blog s I know how busy you have been.......don't fret.....it is July, It is hot, and I am about 6 weeks behind, so when ever you get them posted with me is just fine!!!!! I am sure we all love a giveaway, but trust me it is not nessesary. And for all the grumps, let them go do something else, like knit or crochet, we won't miss them!!! And neither will you. I would love to get caught up before you post the next ones, so no hurry.
ReplyDeleteIf people don't understand that you are entitled to do things your way then maybe they need to get the book and figure them out on their own. I have no patience for mean, snotty or self-absorbed people. On the other hand, I do love that pattern!!
ReplyDeleteRandy, thank you so much for having the SAL. I love it. I'm behind in making my blocks, so I sure can't complain if you are too busy to post; I'm just thankful you are doing it. Please don't let the unhappy people mess up any of your day. brewersd@juno.com
ReplyDeleteWOW, people can be terribly rude! There is no reason for you to feel guilty about taking time off. This is your blog, you post what you want when you want. Sometime things come up and it can't be helped! Other times, you just need a break. I'm sure we all understand, and those that don't can go somewhere else for another Sew along or do it on their own.
ReplyDeleteI am sorry you were treated so rudely.
-Lucretia
No need for apologies...I'm just happy as a clam that you have a blog with such interesting stuff. Have a great day. When you post those blocks I'll be watching.
ReplyDeleteARE YOU KIDDING ME!!!!!!! What a bunch of BOZOs!!!! I for one Randy, and thrilled beyond measure that you have not posted any blocks. I am five blocks behind because LIFE has gotten in the way and hope to catch up tomorrow on all of them.
ReplyDeleteI would come to check to see if you had new blocks posted...and then I'd breath a sign of relief that there were none!!! Don't feel bad....life is WAY too short to sit at home and worry about posting blocks to a sew a long....seriously!!! Life is about having fun....sewing is just a small part!!!
I just wish I had been with you guys!!! That was and still is my only wish!!!
Don't feel BAD!!! AT ALL!!! I am just shaking my head at the crazies that surround us all!!
I have not been in the "sow along" as i finished my Farmers Wife just before you began. I have really enjoyed seeing your blocks as you present them. I have equally enjoyed your posts from the sisters retreat. Bah humbug to those selfish people that begrudge you some "time out"
ReplyDeleteThis is my first sew-a-long and im so glad and greatful you are taking the time to share with us! Thank you for all you are doing and sharing with us. Im enjoying every block!!!
ReplyDeleteWOW I KNOW ALL ABOUT THE GUILT THING ! I live with it regularly. I thought the "vacation" from the sew along was a great idea for those of us that needed to get caught up. Some people really need to "get a life". Keep up the good work and remember that most of us are just happy that you are taking the time out of your busy life to guide us through this.
ReplyDeletething will get better soon thanks for the giveaway
ReplyDeleteOMG Randy!!! You are truly a gift to all of us. The fact that you share your creativity and your life with us all though your blog is amazing. I am definitely not that generous with my personal life. Thank you so much for leading the Sow-Along. I'm so thrilled to be on the journey with you and so many creative folks. I think it's sad how few people realize the true power their words carry. So dispense with the "Grumpo's"... Everyone is entitled to a personal life, and frankly...the Sow-Along is a voluntary GIFT that you give, not an entitlement. (On a personal note...LOVE LOVE LOVE the Christmas Pickle pattern. I'm trying to coordinate a round robin among 3 other quilting friends that live all over the country. This may be the perfect project for us!) terrilynch88@gmail.com
ReplyDeleteok, maybe I'll get a chance to catch up! Don't let 'em make you feel guilty or bad or anything else. Let them make the blocks on their own instead. Really, we all have enough projects to just pick something else up and work on it in the meantime! [ok, "I" have enough projects ...]
ReplyDeleteNo pattern for me, please!! LOL! I just wanted to write to thank you for giving us all a deserved rest. And let us catch up on other commitments! I, too, was raised with the "guilt bug". Isn't it lovely??!! Tricia
ReplyDeleteHey, Life happens! Jeezze Glad it was for a fun time in Sisters! I really do not understand why people look at most of the blogs as a business that had a product w/ a delivery deadline.... I appreciate y'all sharing your thoughts, ideas and talents. I thank you for the giveaway but am sorry for what prompted it.
ReplyDeletePlease don't feel guilty because of some nasty comments. If anything, just feel pity for those folks, they have nothing better to do than send nasty grams anonymously?? Really, it speaks volumes about them, not a thing about you. Most of us are really grateful for the time and energy you devote to GIVING us a GIFT on a regular basis. Now carry on with your life and focus on the positive! I for one am a huge fan of yours, even if I am insanely jealous of the way you've been spending your time lately!! :)
ReplyDeleteAll I can say is ....ANNOYING!
DeleteSeriously, these people need to lighten up and have some fun!
Please let go of the guilt and consider the source. They obviously have too much time on their hands.
I enjoy your blog and I know it takes a lot of time. Whenever you post anything is your decision.(and fine with me)
Thanks for all you do!
Terri
Tgeesey@charter.net
Those people need to get a life! Do they really expect that you are going to spend all your time giving them something to do? Life Happens to people that have one, and sometimes that means changes in our schedules. They can either be patient and get what they want or go elsewhere and make someone else miserable.
ReplyDeleteWhy is it that a couple of people can make us feel so bad.Just think about all of us that do appreciate the time you give us with your blog. Thank you
ReplyDeleteWow! I think the warm weather got some people grumpy.
ReplyDeletePlease enjoy what you do and we will benefit from your happiness.
We love you,
cy from Canada
OMG! When am I going to stop being surprised at how nasty/vicious/mean some people can be??? I love what you're doing Randy! Thank you. mdmontalvo@yahoo.com
ReplyDeleteLove the pattern. You can take as much time as you want to post the blocks. It gives me time to catch up and get to the half a million other things I should be doing. Congrats on your quilt at Sisters.
ReplyDeleteGood Night Nurse! Some people need to get a life. Randy, never,never, ever feel quilty about not posting the blocks. You are doing this out of the kindness of your heart and I for one think you are great. I've never had a chance to go to the show in Sisters but now I feel as though I have from seeing your and Bonnie's blogs. Thank you.
ReplyDeleteI can't believe that some people are so mean. This is supposed to be fun, isn't it? Well, it is for me. Can't stand those anonymous people who criticise. Thanks so much for the blocks, and thanks for the give-away.
ReplyDeleteReally that is shocking! We all have a life after all and that must come first! Guilt is a horrible state to feel and I hope you can relax and enjoy the people who support you :)
ReplyDeleteThat is a beautiful pattern and I'd love to win it. However, you've no cause for guilt-- think quilt instead of guilt. One little letter makes a big difference!
ReplyDeleteNo guilt should come from people who think you OWE them something when you are generously offering them a gift--good riddance to such people! Thank you for what you offer.
ReplyDeleteDon't feel guilty. We're doing this for fun aren't we? I'm always behind and even if I wasn't I have enough projects to keep me busy, both quilting and non quilting! Don't let what a few sour pusses say get you down. The majority of us love your blog and appreciate the time you put into making the blocks and sharing them with us. Thank you for your fun blog!
ReplyDeleteI find it very refreshing that a "professional" quilter struggles with the same issues the rest of us do! I've only managed one block on my FWSQ since the beginning of the year but when I do get going I'll be referring to your blog to help me. Lose a few readers, but know you have the support of many! (info@myowncreations.com)
ReplyDeleteI sure would wonder if "meany girl" ever missed a deadline. But then realize I don't want to lower myself to her level. Let's just hope that one day she finally becomes a happy person.
ReplyDeleteTaking care of YOU first is more important than US. But we do appreciate your kindness.
I ditto all of the positive comments - I love following along with your sow along and all of your other adventures - anyway when you are retired you're suppose to be on your own schedule - who ever was critical of you must see her glass as half empty -
ReplyDeleteOh my word! You have got to be kidding? I would never criticize someone who is giving me something FOR FREE!!! How rude. In my opinion, it has been nice to kinda have a little time off to catch everything up and take a few breaths. I am so grateful to you for doing this Sow Along and I appreciate all your hard work.
ReplyDeleteDon't feel guilty. Everyone deserves time for themselves every now and then. As for the giveaway----I've been threatening to do a "pointy thing". Just have to find the right pattern.
ReplyDeleteMary K
imqltr@q.com
It's a lovely giveaway - such a complicated pattern - would be wonderful to accomplish!
ReplyDeleteAbout the guilt part - really don't even bother to think about it! There are people out there that do need to get a life ;-)
The pattern would be fun to win.
ReplyDeleteYou are doing so much for us with all the blocks. Yikes some people really are just plain #**^#. :) My Mom always said "consider the source" so if they are not playing nice just ignore them.
Some people are down right selfish. You give from your heart, then if it isn't on someone elses time frame, they swawk. I hope you had a wonderful Sunriver vacation. I would love to be in the drawing. I enoy your blog, thanks for sharing.
ReplyDeleteOMG, I am way down here! Coming late to this party! Randy, don't let a few people get you down. It is refreshing to me to see that there is someone else that has a challenge with deadlines, even self-imposed ones! Thanks for the giveaway opportunity. I love the pattern and it'd be a great chance for me to try a ny beauty! Thanks! Keep your chin up . . .
ReplyDeleteCynthia in metro Portland, Oregon area where it was beauteous today!
sigourney.toto@frontier.com
What a cool pattern. I have never heard of it or seen it anywhere in northern WI. I'd love to win so please enter me. You are forgiven for being human and making a mistake. Don't sweat it.
ReplyDeleteRandy, I personally would like to thank you, for going to all the work
ReplyDeletethat you have put in, so that we can share in making this quilt with you.
It is just apalling, that some can be so inconsiderate, and down out
rude, to think that you are putting them out by not posting more additions
to the quilt. You have nothing to feel guilty about, and hope that you
don't give it anymore anxiety and thought.
We are all so fortunate that you wanted to take on this challenge and
share it with those of us that appreciate traditional blocks, and frankly
not talented enough to do it on our own. Patience is a virtue and these
ladies need to take a step back and see to appreciate things that you have
done for so many of us. My sincere thanks for all the time and entertaining posts. Do what makes you happy and those that are so rude
and inconsiderate can find other ways, as in supporting pattern designers
with their funds, for instant gratification.
Keep doing what you love, and I for one will be there, when time is on your side
Thanks again. Gwen
Hit send before I mentioned, please do not include
ReplyDeleteme in the giveaway, I just wanted to reassure your
doing great things, despite what a few don't appreciate. It looks like a great pattern, but
not something that, I would want to attempt. Thanks though.
I enjoyed watching you have a very fuJuly!
ReplyDeleteYou don't owe anybody anything....if they are unhappy
let'em leave.....you did this for fun and gave it for free.
Your blog, your terms, like it or well....leave it!
Don't give these negative people the power to make you feel badly,
just move forward and do what you can.
Life is just too short for strangers to make you feel bad!
Happy Sewing, and yes, I'd like a chance to win but will not write hate mail if I don't :0) big Hugs
Really they sound "noying"! :0)
ReplyDeleteI am just getting to blog reading~ summer is crazy! I know you must've been really busy and honestly, when someone posts free patterns~ others should not be criticizing you for taking a break! :-o did no one teach them manners?! Don't give them any power. You should not be feeling guilty! I love the Sow-along, even if I am wayyyyy behind. ;-) Thanks for the fun!
ReplyDeleteIt sounds to me that the real BIG BRAT here is the one doing the complaining. I can't believe anyone would be so rude.
ReplyDeleteI have always liked that Christmas Pickle pattern and regret not buying it when I saw it in a local shop.
Randy, shake it off! Some people are never happy! I truly enjoy the blocks whenever they appear!
ReplyDelete