the links to each specific quilt are here
Happy New Year, friends! I really like the new year. It's a good time to reflect on the past year and to look forward to what's ahead.
Looking back....
You know you made a lot of quilts when you can barely fit them into one mosaic.
I finished a total of 44 quilts last year. I'll be the first to admit: that. is. insane. If I weren't me, I don't think I'd like me very much. :)
Looking ahead....
This was a very hard decision to make, but this will be my last post on crazymomquilts. When I started this blog I had no idea where it would lead. It's been an amazing journey that has been exhilarating at times. It has provided me opportunities that I never would have dreamed of: working with moda on the bakeshop, being published, and teaching at a retreat in CO. It has also been a lot of work. Anyone who keeps a blog knows what I'm talking about. It's been such a big part of my life for over 3 years, but I know that it's time for me to move on. My husband and I joke that I am resigning from my full time unpaid position as quilt blogger, but that's what it feels like. I'm not sure what I'm going to do next, but I am excited about what's ahead. It really is bittersweet.
A few notes of business to wrap up...
I have closed my P.O. Box, so anything that has been mailed to me at that address will be forwarded to me, but it is no longer my current address.
I had many questions about the tide is high/lazy summer days quilt pattern. I haven't decided for certain yet, but I may share the instructions for the quilt over on flickr sometime after January 31.
I plan to keep my blog up as is as a resource. I'm not sure for how long, but I guess at this time, indefinitely.
I still plan to post my quilts on my flickr account.
So, for one last time...thank you for reading. thank you for commenting. thank you for being a part of my life. it means so much. big huge hugs to you.
amandajean
I am going to miss you...You are my favorite quilting blog. I'll be watching your Flickr account, so I don't feel totally abandoned. *wink*
ReplyDeleteI am so sorry to hear this, but I do understand! I have taken quite a blogging break this fall as well. Hope that your next adventure is a great one!
ReplyDeleteYou are my favorite quilting blog as well. Thank you for all the inspiration and information. My question is: is the blog, as it is now, going to still be available as a resource? I still want to make the star quilt and am wondering if I should print all those tutorials out!
ReplyDeleteBummer, but wish you the best of luck in your next adventures!
ReplyDeleteYou've been at the top of my blog list for over a year. I'll miss seeing your beautiful work, but I completely understand your decision. Good luck! :)
ReplyDeleteI'll miss you, as lurker, I've been so inspired by your talent and fun! Maybe a new blog will be in the picture for you in 2010.
ReplyDeleteoooh! I'm so sad. I'll sure miss your blog and YOU!
ReplyDeleteOh, you will be missed! I understand the decision, definitely. This must have been a big part of your life, in both meaning and time. Best of luck to you and your family in 2010 and the years to come. Thank you for sharing your love of quilting with us. You have inspired many, many people.
ReplyDeleteI've been a lurker but I've been reading for some time now. Good luck to you in the new year and beyond. I've bookmarked your flickr stream. You are truly an inspiration...thank you so much for this blog. I've learned so much and am finally working up the nerve to make my baby cousin a quilt. :)
ReplyDeleteI will miss seeing your beautiful quilts. Very sad news but completely understand. All the best to you...hope to continue seeing your work on flickr and moda bake shop at least.
ReplyDeleteBest wishes in 2010 and for all of your endeavors! I will sure miss all of the inspiration from your blog!
ReplyDeleteI'll miss you and your blog. :( It's always so inspiring to open up my reader and see new posts from you. You're such a creative person!
ReplyDeleteI will miss you as your blog is one of my favorites. Thanks for all the inspiration and sharing... and just your general sweetness. Best wishes for you and your family!
ReplyDelete**gasp**
ReplyDelete:0(
:0(
:0(
Enough said?
Sorry to see you go, but I enjoyed your blog immensely.
ReplyDeleteI look forward to seeing your future quilts on flickr!
Another lurker here who loves your quilts and will miss your blog, but happy that I can still find your quilts on flikr. Best of luck to you in whatever path you choose to take next.
ReplyDeleteI don't quilt-yet. You have inspired me to get started. While I completely understand the need to step back, please know that you will be missed, and much watched on flickr.
ReplyDeleteOH NO! I will definitely miss your blog and all the inspiration you have provided. Are you sure you won't reconsider?
ReplyDeleteI am in total awe of you and so impressed! 44 quilts in one year is amazing. I finished 4 and I was happy with that.
Good luck with whatever the future brings you. Be assured that we (I think I can speak for others) will always be here if you decide to return to our realm. Take care xoxo
I wish you the best of luck with whatever you decide to do in your future, Amanda Jean!
ReplyDeleteI am sorry to see you go but understand the need to devote the time to something else important to you. I have enjoyed your blog and you have had a big impact on my creative journey as a quilter this year.
ReplyDeleteBest wishes and thanks for all the inspiration. You will truly be missed.
ReplyDeleteI will really miss reading your blog. It was (and still is) always good for some eye candy! I wish you all the best in the future!
ReplyDeleteGood luck with your new ventures. Blogging does get in your blood. For a long time I posted daily on two blogs (different themes), then I relaxed and now I post when I feel like it.
ReplyDeleteMaybe you'll feel like it later. (I hope so.)
So sorry to see you go, but completely understand the need to focus your energies elsewhere. You are a real inspiration. 44 quilts you have quilted yourself (wow!) but the tally of quilts that you have inspired and encourage in those who read your blog soars way above that! Good luck, and take care.
ReplyDeleteno! no! NOOOO-!
ReplyDeleteoh well, you know what you need to do.
best of luck, you are an amazingly creative and talented woman and i will really miss your blog very much. it is a highlight in my day to see what you've been working on and i'm inspired to get going on quilt #2 soon.
Thanks for sharing with us for all that time. Happy 2010! And all the best! :)
ReplyDeleteOh I am going to miss you! I feel sad! But I understand that you come first as does your family! I really appreciate all that you have taught me....not directly but through your tutorials! Thank you!! I hope things will continue to go well in for you in the future!
ReplyDeleteBest wishes for everything you choose to do from here on out. I look forward to watching your quilt collection grow on flickr.
ReplyDeleteI don't know if I ever told you this, but you were the first commenter on my first (rather short-lived) blog. You wrote: 'welcome to blogland'. Thank you for that and take good care.
Thank you for all the inspiration over the years. You'll be missed.
Your blog was my favourite quilting site as well. I started quilting about a year and a half ago after coming across your blog and scouring it's archives. Informative and inspiring, it will continue to be a great resource even though you are no longer posting. (You will be missed though!) See you on Flickr!
ReplyDeleteThank you, thank you, thank you!
*sniff* You're so inspiring to me. Always the first blog I read on my list. You've shared so many ways to play with the stash and patterns to try out. I'll sure miss you.
ReplyDeleteI'm really grateful that you're not shutting down your blog either, the information is valuable to me!
Oh! You will be dearly missed! You have taught me so much about quilting and are a main source of inspiration for me. yours was one of the first blogs I ever truly loved! I hope life brings you many great blessings and lots of time for crafting!
ReplyDeleteThanks for all you have done :)
Shannon
Happy New Year Amanda! Good Luck to you and your future plans. You have definitely inspired me to try new quilting techniques and I thank you.
ReplyDeletexoShawn
PS I will miss you!
ReplyDeleteBah humbug! I love your blog. It has really inspired me to start trying new things with my beginner's quilting skills. You will be missed. Thanks for leaving things up so I can come back to them. There are many of your patterns and things that I want to attempt. Thanks for all the inspiration. I'll have to check things out on flickr!
ReplyDeletereally is bittersweet. I think changes are always good and although I'll miss read your blog a lot (but a lot!) (yours was the first blog of quilts that I discovered), I'm sure this decision will be well.
ReplyDeletethanks for sharing so much information, for letting us see your creative side! you are very talented and very generous!
I embrace you with love!
muchas gracias Amanda!
Huh? I didn't see that coming..but I understand. Blogging takes tons of time. I hope you have a wonderful 2010. I sincerely hope that it wasn't "one" person or negetive comment that caused this....
ReplyDeleteYou were one of the very first blogs I followed...your quilt along..hmm glad you are leaving it up for awhile.
I will miss your updates, but I can definitely understand. Sewing projects take enough time as it is -- to add the blogging angle almost seems to double it at times!
ReplyDeleteGood luck with your endeavors! Hope to see more from you in the future!
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeletewow.
ReplyDeleteThank you thank you. Your posts have been amazing and inspiring. I'm so sorry to see you go but I do understand. Thanks for thinking of us an leaving your blog up as a resource. I'm sure I'll be referring to it often. Good luck in all your future endeavors. Best wishes.
ReplyDeleteHappy New Year, and that is quite a crazy mosaic you've got! Especially since I know there are things you don't "count". :-)
ReplyDeleteWill miss your blog, for sure. But I'm glad you had it in the first place. It was great inspiration, and I'm glad it meant I got to meet you and open up a whole new world of quilting!
But I understand the decision. It kind of grows into its own thing, doesn't it?
Anyways, a very happy new year to you and the whole family. See you on Flickr. ;-)
Liz
I'm so sad that you won't be blogging anymore - yours was the first quilting blog I starting following, you and remain one of my favorites. That being said, I definitely understand the work that goes into it, and get that you can't do it forever. I'm glad I can still follow your work on flickr. :) Best of luck in the new year!
ReplyDeleteWow, bummer. I will totally miss you. I got excited every time I saw your name in my blog reader. Good luck with whatever the future holds...
ReplyDeleteI will miss your blog immensely. Thanks so much for the inspiration!
ReplyDeleteThank you for all you've done. You've turned me into a quilter. I love your quilts. Good luck Amanda Jean.
ReplyDeleteAll I can say is, "What the %#!$?*^%"?
ReplyDelete:~{ (where is the emoticon for angry eyes when you need it?)
Seriously though...blogging IS a commitment. Kudos to you for hanging in here for this long. You've inspired lots of quilters along the way.
Happy 2010!
You have made me a better quilter. Thank you for your humour, tutelage, generous sharing of ideas and getting a peek at your beautiful quilts! Best of luck with all your future endeavours - Happy New Year & God Bless!!
ReplyDeleteI really can't blame you AT ALL for quitting your charity blog! But I am so disappointed. I look forward to your blog updates every time I log on and will definitely miss them. I'm glad you're leaving the blog up as a resource... it is an amazing one - your quilting is inspirational.
ReplyDeleteAnd as an aside, I must thank your for recommending "The Modern Quilt Workshop" online. My mom (a total non-crafter in every sense) read your blog through mine and bought me the book for Christmas. I don't know where to start, but she's definitely getting a Christmas quilt out of it next year.
Enjoy your New Year. I will keep my eye out for your work in the quilting community. And thank you for all the beautiful quilts and colors.
You have been such an inspiration to me this year. Thank you so much for all your hard work, time and effort maintaining this blog. I never would have started quilting without it. Good luck and best wishes for all that is in store for you in the coming years; you deserve success beyond measure and a fabric stash with no limit!
ReplyDeleteOh we will miss your blog so much but I can't wait to see all your quilts on Flikr - you are such an inspiration and a great "teacher" - thanks so much for that - have a wonderful 2010!
ReplyDeleteWhile I'm sad you aren't blogging anymore, as I just found you recently, I will follow your feed on Flickr, and hope you leave the blog intact for those of us who use it for inspiration in our quilt journeys.
ReplyDeleteHeather
I love and support you, dear friend! I toast you (with my coffee) and am excited for you for tucking in CMQ.
ReplyDeleteHappy 2010 and all that it will bring - and I'm grateful for 2009 - the year we became friends! Thank you for your friendship, inspiration, the stash busting, the fabric shopping, the long walks while we talked (I couldn't help that) and being a major factor in turning so many on to quilting!
Thank you dear friend,
xoxo, m
You will be missed. Hope whatever you venture into brings you happiness. Thanks for the inspiration.
ReplyDeleteThis breaks my heart. You have been such an inspiration to me, and I will miss you and all your wonderful projects. I hope you have a fantastic year, and I hope you keep this blog up for reference for a long time. Thank you so much for all the ideas and help.
ReplyDeleteJoanna
I will miss your blog so much! I wish you the best in 2010. Thanks for all the inspiration! (And I'll always silently root for your return!)
ReplyDeleteI see that I am not the only one who is sorry to see you go! Thank you for all the wonderful posts and pictures! And thank you for keeping the site up as a resource for all of us out here in Blogland!
ReplyDeleteTake care of yourself and maybe you will even want to check-in once in a while...a quick post full of all the quilts you have made with all your spare time!
Tricia
I will really miss your blog! I loved to see your work and read about all your quilts.
ReplyDeleteI wish you the very best - and many quiltfun in 2010!
You truly are the reason I started quilting again. I stumbled onto your quilt after googling binding tips, as I couldn't remember how to after a 10 year break in quilting. From there I started reading your blog and others and have become hooked on quilting again. I loved your blog and all its useful information and will be sad not to see new and inspiring ideas. Are you sure you want to leave us all hanging....maybe once a month updates...please...hate to see you leave but understand at the same time. Good luck with your future endeavours, may you continue to create and inspire many more, enjoy your family too!
ReplyDelete[sharp intake of breath] O my goodness!!! What will I do without CrazyMomQuilts? You have been such a source of inspiration for me in recent months in my quilting journey; when I found your blog a few months ago, I went back and read ALL of your blog posts.
ReplyDeleteBut I certainly understand that you must do what is best for you and your family. I am guessing you will continue to do things like contribute to Moda Bakeshop, teach at retreats, and publish. I will add you as a contact over on flickr.
Blessings.
oh wow! i am going to really miss your blog. your posts have been so helpful and inspiring. best of luck to you in the future. i hope your new found free time is productive and you are able to enjoy it immensely.
ReplyDeleteI will miss your blog, it's been lovely reading it. Thank you!
ReplyDeleteMarieke
So sad to hear that you won't be blogging anymore...yours was the first quilting blog I followed and you were such a great support while I made my first quilts...I have since used many of your tutorials to help me along the way. Thank you so much for your time! Thanks also for keeping your blog up as a resource for us!
ReplyDeleteI'm going to miss you but I totally understand. Real life takes over .... I'm happy for you that you are taking more time for yourself and your family. I have many tutorials saved in my favorites so I'm sure I'll be back many, many times even though you won't be here (sniff, sniff).
ReplyDeleteThanks for all the inspiration and more inspiration!
Happy New Year, Amanda Jean! I've loved reading your blog the past couple years and will miss it. Best luck with whatever may come!
ReplyDeleteYou have been an inspiration for me in quilt design but even more so in quilt finishing. I appreciate your work in quilting and in blogging! DonnaG
ReplyDeleteHappy New Year Wishes to you and your family. I've really enjoyed your creativity for some time now and you will definitely be missed.
ReplyDeleteI can totally understand and relate to your decision. I myself find it really hard to keep up with family, church, work, friends, cooking, cleaning, laundry, quilting, creating, and blogging.
All the best in your future endeavors! Hugs!
Wow... this makes me so very sad! I will miss your blog very much, it is always such an inspiration to me! I totally understand that you would want more time for your family though, quilt making is one hard and time consuming thing to do and you really do churn those babies out!!! Not to mention what it must be doing to your shoulders/wrists! thank you so much Amandajean... I have been reading your blog since you started it and you have inspired me more than I can say! Best wishes to you in whatever you decide to do!
ReplyDeletexox
Amy
Thank you so much for all the blogging you have done! Just seeing the amount of stuff you're able to accomplish is motivating for me. And, of course, I love getting new ideas here. Thanks again :)
ReplyDeleteI loved all your posts! I usually read via google reader so not a huge commenter but I will miss your blog, best wishes for 2010!
ReplyDeleteYou will be missed!
Thank you for all the work you have put into your blog. I have learned so much about quilting from your tutorials and directions you have given. God Bless as you move in a new direction!
ReplyDeleteAll that freetime! Enjoy your blogless life.
ReplyDeleteP.S- Amandajean have you considered doing a blog in a more commercial fashion, with paid advertising and sponsers etc? I would think you would definitely have enough traffic on your blog to make a decent amount of money out of it? You have the most amazing quilt blog on the net and it would be such a shame to see it go (people wouldn't love you any less if you wanted to make some money from it- or if you wanted to update less frequently)
ReplyDeleteGosh look at me trying to convince you to stay!
xox
oh no..you have been such a wonderful inspiration and help in my quest to get better at quilting. thank you for all the work you did put in. you will be missed..
ReplyDeleteThank you for blogging and thank you for your inspiration! I'm glad someone admits how much work it really is. Hope you enjoy lots of quality time with your children and husband. :)
ReplyDeleteI want to thank you so much for your amazing blog.
ReplyDeleteYour blog was the first I visited and you have been so inspiring. You are one of the reasons why I started quilting. You are so tallented at writing, teaching, and design.
I wish you well. And thanks again.
so sorry to see you go, as I just found you! but best wishes! hope to hear where it is you put your focus!
ReplyDeleteI'm a wee bit shocked, but so supportive of whatever you chose to do! Good Luck!
ReplyDeleteFor the record...I'd love to see you try and make some money off your quilting, too. It's time you get a little for what you've given to all of us!
xoxo
Thanks for all the inspiration. I'll really miss you! Hope whatever comes next makes you smile.
ReplyDeleteBest wishes,
Jean
aka Quilted Cupcake.
Will miss you in blog land and wish you all the best in the future! Thanks for being so inspirational. . . .
ReplyDeleteThank you for your blog. It has, over time, become my one-stop shop for ideas, patterns, color schemes, and general quilting inspiration. Thanks for all your hard work and for being so devoted to your loyal fans. We should each make a block to thank you!
ReplyDeleteYou KNOW I'm going to miss you, BUT I know we will stay in touch, twin. We BETTER stay in touch.
ReplyDeleteAll good things must come to and end ...
What a shame... but fair enough. You've got to do what you've got to do. I'd like to thank you for getting me started on the whole quilting thing... you were one of the first quilting blogs I stumbled across and you inspired me to get a machine and try this whole weird quilting thing out.
ReplyDeleteGood luck, and like someone above me in the comments... maybe you could make some $$$ from it. You deserve to!
Yup, me too. As a longtime reader, you've just become a part of my life! :) I always click on you first and reread everytime, your humor comes through...besides I wouldn't have that sweet pink FMF if it weren't for you! My daughter and I "talk" about you all the time...ie.'did you see that cool quilt on crazymom today?', etc. I'd love to be able to come to Colorado this year, I found out my brother lives only 10 minutes from there! Thanks AmandaJean.
ReplyDeleteYour blog was the very first quilting blog I ever read, and totally inspired me to start quilting. You opened my eyes to the world of "cool" quilts! Thank you SO MUCH for sharing with us!
ReplyDeleteHow sad for us, I really enjoyed your fresh young quilts however I understand your decision, especially as you have a young family. All the best for the future and thank you for sharing your lovely quilts with us.
ReplyDeletei am in tears, literally. i have learned so much from you. thank you for all you've done for us. i am speechless and sad.
ReplyDeleteGood luck in 2010! You have been a wonderful inspiration to me, and I am so sad to see you go, but cannot begin to imagine how hard this blog is. You are great at it, but your family is loads more important. I'm bookmarking your flickr account and will look in on you from time to time ... adios!
ReplyDeleteI certainly understand, but boy, am I sad. I just found you in December, and have been reading my way through past posts as an enormous inspiration...was going to get you put in my guild newsletter as a favorite thing so others would know about you. I'm a mostly traditional quilter, but you are really making me rethink that...I love your work, and find I am thinking in new ways, in new colors and solids, and with new energy. Thank you so much from the bottom of my heart and the top of my creativity.
ReplyDeleteThanks for everything, I wish you the best!
ReplyDeleteI have made 4 quilts this year. All four learnt from your blog. Thanks for putting me on the right track.
Thanks a lot. Biquiños
I am going to miss you!!! So long friend, I'll definitely keep checking flickr.
ReplyDeleteI really wish you the very best in 2010, I'm sad you have made this choie but wish you well in your new endevours. You have been very inspirational and I love you use of colour and style. You and your blog will be missed. :(
ReplyDeleteI am so very sad. You are LITERALLY my favorite blog! I get on the computer every morning and the first thing I do is check to see if you have any new posts up. I feel like there is going to be a gaping hole that you filled.
ReplyDeleteYou inspired me, I used to think I was just too busy and that there was no way I could find time to quilt, but you showed me that a little here and a little there, great things can be accomplished.
I will miss the inspiration and the humor. Thanks for the year that I have "Known" you. I will miss you.
Oh my! That was a very unexpected announcement! I've loved your blog, and your quilts, and I'll be very sorry to see you go. Thanks for all the inspiration, and enjoy your blogging retirement. ;-)
ReplyDeleteI have enjoyed reading your blog and will miss seeing your updates. Best of luck in your future quilting and I hope I will see some of your creations on Flickr.
ReplyDeleteThanks so much for all the info and inspiration - you will be missed!!!
ReplyDeleteAmandaJean
ReplyDeleteI too will throw in my hat for "I have loved your blog". Altho I have remained blogless I have been an avid follower and you have been a terrific source of inspiration for me (or is that to me??). I will continue to follow you on Flicker..if I can figure our just how to do that but i wish you all the best and will look forward to what you will show us in the future.
Best of everything,
Ann
Oh, Amandajean, I feel like I've lost my best friend! I will surely miss you, but you know what's best for you. Thanks for the inspiration - I'll still keep your page on my list of favorites so I can refer back as needed. Good luck in all you do!
ReplyDeleteI've really enjoyed it! I hope big great things are on the horizon for you. Thanks for the 3 years.
ReplyDeleteI have followed your blog every day for the last year! You have some very inspirational quilts and your designs are doable. I will miss you, AmandaJean. I'll certainly be following your flickr account.
ReplyDeleteBest of luck in your next adventure! Your blog content has always been wonderful! Take good care and thank you!
ReplyDeleteI am going to miss you!!! Thank you for sharing and good luck!
ReplyDeleteThank you for being a part of my daily reading for the last few years! I have learned so much from you and have been inspired to start projects I never would have begun otherwise.
ReplyDeleteI wish you and your family well!
I understand completely but I am so sad! I will miss you. Thanks for all of the lovely hours and wonderful resource. Thanks for giving yourself to us and letting us share with you. Take care...
ReplyDeleteI will miss your blog but I do understand the "work" involved and the pressure. Thank you for inspiring my own quilting adventures and good luck in '10! I'm sure I'll keep in touch (a.k.a. bug you) here and there! -Allison
ReplyDeleteooh nooooooooooo who am I going to click onto first thing in the morning. Good luck and will check out flickr.
ReplyDeleteStunned and totally excited for you by this bold move. As much as I am sad about losing one of my favourite 'goto' places for quilting inspiration, I'm thrilled at the thought of how freeing it will feel for you.
ReplyDeleteBut I wonder if you'll be back. You're too 'famous' out there. I wonder if you've got something up your sleeve. Look forward to viewing your quilts on flickr. Take care...good luck, and way to go!!
I feel like I am losing my favorite co-worker. I don't post nearly as often as you and didn't make nearly as many quilts as you did so I can only imagine what a relief it will be for you to not have to 'show up for work every day'. I'm definitely make sure I have your flikr info because your quilts are always so beautiful and an inspiration. Good luck in your future endeavorers.
ReplyDeleteCongratulations on hvaing such a good year of quilting. Best Wishes for every success in whatever you move on to.
ReplyDeleteI am so sad right now! But- I completely understand. Good luck in all you do and thank you for the wonderful inspiration and resources!!!
ReplyDeletexoxo
I am so sad and completely stunned. I always look forward to your posts. Each and every one was great!! You are truly an inspiration to many and will be sorely missed in the blogosphere.
ReplyDeleteGood luck.
Oh, and I can't forget to mention that I LOVED the collage of quilts...they are beautiful. Hopefully someday I'll be half as prolific as you are.
Goodbye friend.
Thank you so much for the WONDERFUL blog!! I just wanted to "show" you the 2 quilts I made for my boys based on your "Ragged Square Quilt" tutorial. Thank you so much for being my inspiration.
ReplyDeletehttp://rainytuesdaymornings.blogspot.com/2009/12/just-in-time.html
P.S. There will be a purple one too for my daughter :)
¡¡¡¡¡¡Feliz 2010!!!
ReplyDeleteBendiciones para tu hogar, felicidad, dicha y amor hoy y siempre.
Besitos
AJ, You will be sorely missed. I know you made a HUGE impact on me when I first began quilting about a year and a half ago...took the time to answer my questions via email about machines and such, and I learned so much looking at your tutorials.
ReplyDeleteBest of luck to you -- you are a great inspiration and your blog is one I check ALL the time!
Any chance you would come back if you got a sponsor or two?? :)
Good luck, and God Bless!
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteI was suprised to read your blog today, but totally understand. It has been fun to read that you have inspired so many people who had the same reaction I did!! I first came across your blog a little more than a year ago. I was so inspired that I have used a few of your tutorials and have loved looking at what you have done. My first quilt was with Old Red Barn this summer. I'm happy to see you will be adding photos to flickr and I wonder, too, will you still have this blog as a resource?? Best wishes to you as you move on!
ReplyDeleteaj i'm in shock... i know how hard it is.. and i respect your choice.. i'm just gonna miss you lots!!! you have had such an impact on all of us.
ReplyDeleteI'm very sorry to hear that you are shutting the blog down - you have been a huge guide for me in my fledgling quilting adventure. I constantly refer to your tutorials as I've never found a clearer set of instructions anywhere. You think like I do so they all just make sense.
ReplyDeleteI wish you nothing but luck from here on in, guess I will have to keep more up to date on my flickr account so I can still see your progress.
All the best,
Karen A
I was very sad when I read this post, but understand that you need to do what is best/right for you and your family. I've found your blog so inspirational, and do hope you're able to keep it up as a resource. I just finished my first coin quilt following your tutorial instructions, and am so happy with how it turned out! Good luck with your quilting this year! I look forward to seeing your new projects on flickr.
ReplyDeleteBest,
Laura
So sad to hear, but you have to do what is right for you and your family. Would love to hear if you're ever going to be teaching at any retreats or shows.
ReplyDeleteThe quilt mosaic is a wonderful finale of your quilt blogging life.
Good luck with the future.
Ditto to many of the other comments. You're style one I love and you are my favorite quilting blog but I respect your choice and wish you all the best. I'm excited to continue to see what you post to flikr. Best wishes in the new year!
ReplyDeleteI'll miss you- I've really enjoyed your blog posts and found a lot of inspiration in your quilts and tutorials. Thank you, thank you, thank you for taking all the time for three years to share all of this with us. I understand the need to end it too- you have been so very generous with your time and ideas and pictures for years, and it would be awful for it to become a source of burnout for you.
ReplyDeleteAll the best to you, and thank you!
I've joined in late, but I totally understand. I quit blogging this year too. I have learned so much from your blog.
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing!!
I'm sad to hear you're leaving blogland but I will be looking forward to viewing your beautiful quilts on flickr!
ReplyDeleteJaclyn
I totally understand...reading blogs is almost a full time job...and I am going to cut back also.
ReplyDeleteYou are so talented and have been such an inspiration...I will miss you so much!!!
Hugs and good luck...Mary Jo in Iowa
This is sad news, but I understand where you're coming from.
ReplyDeleteGood luck with all your new ventures.
I hope we can keep in touch!
You are AMAZING - 44 beautiful quilts. I made one quilt in 2009 and was so proud of myself, I don't know how I would feel if I had made 44!
ReplyDeleteI wish I had started reading your blog earlier as I only found you 2009 and loved reading and being inspired by your quilty goodness.
I just had the conversation with my DH about whether or not to keep blogging as I am not sure if I could dedicate the time to my study, my stitching and my blog with 2 teenagers, their study, their hobbies and their social life too. So I understand where you are coming from.
Anyhow, it has been good to 'know' you.
Hugs from Downunder
Tessa in Adelaide, South Australia
Sorry to see you go, but family and real life must come first. You have been inspirational to me, but just because there are no new posts doesn't mean I won't be thinking about what came before. I have studied and learned so much from all of your quilts. Now when I go to a LQS, I am disappointed because so many of the patterns lack your freshness and modern asthetic. You've spoiled me!
ReplyDeleteThanks for the memories!
Oh, I understand that this is something you need to do, but I will say that I am disappointed. I have loved reading your blog, and am a better quilter for it.
ReplyDeleteSo long....and thanks for all the quilts XXXXXX
ReplyDeleteI don't think I've ever commented before, just lurked for several months, but just had to say I'm sorry to see you go! I can understand, though. :) Good luck!
ReplyDeleteHard to imagine blogland without you, but I can understand your decision! I'll look forward to keeping up with you on flickr - maybe you can play on twitter!?
ReplyDeleteThanks so much for all you've done for so many of us quilters - you are inspiration!
Your collage of quilts is AMAZING - that's almost a quilt a week!!
Big hugs & keep in touch - Amy
Wow, I am so happy for you!! I really wish you all the best in 2010. You are so genersous and kind to have shared your life and knowledge with us for the past few years. Thank you for all you have shared! hugs... Jessica
ReplyDelete:O
ReplyDeleteI'm stunned! Slightly hurt (wink, wink) but completely understand! Blogs take up so much time! I am so sorry to see you won't be blogging anymore but hope to see your things posted on flikr.
Thanks for doing some truly GREAT work and posting for us to see!!!!!
Thanks!
I am very bummed that you aren't going to be posting on here any more! I hope life takes you where you want to go!
ReplyDeleteAmandajean,
ReplyDeletethis last post is simply the saddest way to start my new year!!
your blog is the FIRST blog of many i check each day; it's been like an addiction to see what your amazingly creative mind (and hands) have created each day.
if there is anything i (or any of us) can do to get you to change your mind....PLEASE let this pile of comments be the beginning of many reasons for you to NOT stop your blog.
i can't imagine the blogger world without "crazymomquilts" i think the whole world of quilting bloggers have at the very least heard of you - even if they may not be dedicated followers of yours...
i am sorry!!
i am selfish!!
i don't want to you to stop!!
xo
eva
I will miss your inspiring blog more than I can say. You've put so much thought and time into each post that I can only hope that letting it go will free you to stitch more (although it's hard to imagine how you do as much as you do much less how you could do more- amazing!). Thank you for sharing your creativity with all of us and all the very best in future.
ReplyDeleteYou'll be missed, thank you for all that you've shared.
ReplyDeleteOh Amandajean I'll be sad to see you not blogging, but I can certainly understand. Blogging is a lot of work. I'll be sure to keep up with you on flickr. Best of luck in your next adventures!
ReplyDeleteAmandajean, Thanks for the inspiration from your blog. I too was a loyal reader/lurker. I have a blog that I barely pay attention to so I understand the time it takes. I just have to say what I loved about your blog was that it was really about quilting! You were selfless in your posts because you didn't try to promote anything but the love of quilting. I would still read your blog if you did make money from it though! I can tell you have your priorities in the right place and I really admire you for that! 44 quilts in one year is amazing! I have trouble finishing one without a deadline! Good luck in 2010. I will be watching for your quilts on flickr. Thanks!!
ReplyDeleteWell, I literately have tears :( I'm going to miss you soooo much. You've continually inspired me. I'd always wanted to learn to quilt and finally, after finding your blog, I started. I was just gathering my fabrics to start your star quilt so I'm really happy to know you'll leave the blog up for now.
ReplyDeleteI'm sure the future holds many great opportunities for you as you are so very creative and talented. Thank you for all that you have shared {hugs}
Karen
Nooooooooo! Dont leave us!
ReplyDeleteYou have been an inspiration to me. Your generosity in sharing your beautiful quilts and "how to" tutorials has given me the confidence to try new things and I'm going to miss you so much.
I feel like I'm losing a friend!
Best of luck with whatever you do in the future.
Happy New Year!! You're words will be missed. I hope to catch your quilts from time to time through flickr. Good luck with your next adventure where ever life takes you!!
ReplyDeleteI will really miss your blog... best of luck in all your new endeavors. Feel free to change your mind and come back to blogging... you will be missed!
ReplyDeleteI'm going to miss you! Yours is the blog I visit everyday, and I've enjoyed your words of wisdom as I've begun my journey as a quilter. Best of luck to you and your future endeavors! I'll follow you on flickr!
ReplyDeleteAnd please, Please, PLEASE leave the blog up as a resource for as long as you can! I need to download all of your tips/tricks/patterns onto my hard drive!
Aw...you will be missed! Thanks for all of your blogging and quilting help though! I learned a lot from you. I totally understand the need to move on. Blogging is a ton of work! Happy New Year!
ReplyDeleteI am sad to read that you are done blogging here, but I can understand why you decided to. You will be missed! I am glad you are leaving the blog up. It has helped so many people, myself included.
ReplyDeleteAw nuts. Well, we're all out here feeling sorry for ourselves, but hopefully you have some other sneaky thing waiting in the wings that you can't tell us about, like a book or a tv show or something really, totally awesome!
ReplyDeleteThree things that made it worth getting out of bed for - your blog, my quilty friend Cindi's multiple emails, and coffee.
Peggi
Amanda Jean, I wanted to let you know you have been a great inspiration to me. I ran across your blog last year over Christmas, and saw all the lovely projects you had posted. Your blog encouraged me to stretch my quilting skills and gave me a reason to smile each day. God Bless you as you take a season of rest...and thank you for your generosity to share your love of quilting.
ReplyDeleteI echo everything that has already been said. Your blog with all your beautiful quilts and your tutorials has been such an inspiration. I wish you much success and happiness in whatever comes next....we'll still hear about your work in the quilt world, I know.
ReplyDeleteHugs and Thank You.
See you on flickr!
Nooooo...I just found you! You can't leave me yet!!
ReplyDeleteI have enjoyed reading your blog; however, I totally understand your decision. Best wishes in all you do!
ReplyDeleteI totally understand, though I'm sad. You are one of those blogs on my toolbar and you have inspired me to quilt. I actually made a Bento Box similar to the one you made for your bed. I just love it.
ReplyDeleteI would request that you keep this blog available. There is so much yet for so many of us to glean from. Besides, how will I ever make a snippets quilt if you take it down?
Blessings to you!
Just can't thank you enough for sharing your immense talent and beautiful soul with us these past three years. You will be missed :-(
ReplyDeleteBye bye, I'll really miss your posts. Thank you so much for all of the inspiration that you have given me over the last couple of years.
ReplyDeleteI'll add my voice to those that will really miss your blog posts. But I know now how much time a blog can eat! Thank you for all that you have shared, and I'll be hoping to find you in my area teaching at some point. Happy New Year!
ReplyDeleteI have sure loved following your blog this year...thanks for the inspiration and thanks for the quilt pattern I won in one of your giveaways....I just finished it last night! I made if for my son who LOVES orange. I'm happy to know that you'll be leaving your blog up for awhile - I come to it often for inspiration and tips. Thanks!!!
ReplyDeleteMandy
Sorry to see you go! Good Luck, and Happy 2010!
ReplyDeleteGood luck on the next step, AmandaJean! I have really enjoyed reading your blog since I discovered it, and I just added you as a contact on our flickr account so I can follow your quilting, which I love.
ReplyDeleteThanks for everything, and all the best for 2010 and beyond!
You're the best. You'll be missed. I can't wait to see what's next for you. Big things, I am sure!
ReplyDeleteGood luck! You are blog is amazing! I think you'll be great!
ReplyDeleteBest Wishes to you
xxx
Dear Crazy Mom,
ReplyDeleteI just got into this crazy world of quilting and blogging and love following you. I wrote a post on my blog about your blog just a few days ago. I'm so bummed!
Now... As a marketer and a business woman, I certainly hope that resigning from your non-profit full time position is because you've found a way to take your talent for writing and quilting to a money making venture!
Good Luck to you. I will visit your blog frequently for tips and help.
Best wishes in 2010,
WendyB @ www.ThatSeamsFun.com
I'll miss you - I love stopping by to see what you've been up to. Best wishes in the year ahead - I'm sure you'll find something to fill up all your new time!
ReplyDeleteOh no!! I so, so look forward to seeing what you're working on. Thanks for sharing with us!!
ReplyDeleteSo sorry to see you go. Your blog was part of my day for many months. I will really miss you. Thanks for agreeing to leave the blog open. All the best to you. You have so much talent and I am sure we will see you again.
ReplyDeleteI hope you know how much you will be missed! I have loved your blog and thanks to you, I'm not even ashamed of my stippling. Thanks for all the encouragment and inspiration! I'll miss your blog so much. Good luck to you and your family.
ReplyDeleteI've been a reader for a long time. I've never posted a comment, but I just had to tell you how much you're inspired me. I have learned so much from you. Thanks you. Lisa~ www.livingmybestlifeii-lisa.blogspot.com
ReplyDeletewow, i too just discovered you this fall -- thanks for being an inspiration ....
ReplyDeletehappy sewing ... i'm gonna miss my daily dose of "crazy mom" ---
Good luck with the future! I will miss your blog posts and the inspiration your quilting gives. Thanks for letting us out here in blog land share you for a while.
ReplyDeleteThank you, thank you so much. I just began quilting this year and you have been a source of inspiration to me so many times. Best of luck to you.
ReplyDeleteI am so sad to hear this although I don't know how you have kept up with this blog for so long. Good luck and I will miss you terribly.
ReplyDeleteRebecca O of Buffalo
Awwwww ........
ReplyDeleteI'm so sorry for me,
I mean us,
but really ME!!!
And you were one of my biggest quilteros, too. (that's QUILT + HERO = Yeah, you get it.)
I will miss you! :(
I am heartbroken. You have been such a big part of my craft life. Best wishes to you.
ReplyDeleteI'm a brand new quilter, and in the past few months I've been so inspired by your designs, your work, and your love for life and family! I'll really miss you, and I pray all blessings for you in your next endeavors!
ReplyDeleteBig, huge hugs to you, too.
Thank you for sharing all of your beautiful work... I have been inspired.
ReplyDeleteFeel the love!!! Amazing!! You've given so much wonderfulness, that it's time to get some wonderfulness back for yourself! You surely deserve it, my friend! Thank you for everything!!! I'm here if you need me. Big hugs!
ReplyDeleteThank you for creating this blog. I discovered it just a few months ago and you have really inspired me to do so much more with my quilts. I hope that you're able to keep the blog open for those of us who like to keep coming back to look at what you've done for inspiration.
ReplyDeleteHUGE bummer! I understand your need to stop, but you will be sorely missed! I've gotten so much inspiration from you! (& patterns!) Yes, please leave up your blog-we'd appreciate it so much! I'm really sad that there won't be any more new posts. :( Maybe after you take a long break you'll feel like coming back? :D
ReplyDeleteerin
Bummer, I have loved your blog and seeing the neat ways you put quilts together. Maybe you will miss it so much, that you will come back like once a month or so? if not - enjoy all that you do!
ReplyDeleteI'll miss your blog, but I'll look forward to seeing more of your beautiful quilts on Flickr!
ReplyDeleteI am sorry to see you go! You are really an inspiration, thank you for everything :)
ReplyDeleteAmanda, so sorry to see that you will no longer be blogging, although I fully understand that being a "full time unpaid quilt blogger" is incredibly hard work, and almost not sustainable. You are a wonderful inspiration, and I know that you will find a way to make the most of all the opportunities that have come your way over the last 3 years, and I hope continue to share in your quilting journey through your Flickr Account.
ReplyDeleteThank you for your contribution to all things quilting, and sharing information so selflessly.
I wish you a fantastic 2010, it is the beginning of a new and exciting chapter for you!
Rita
You will be sorely missed but I'm glad you're doing what's right for you. I appreciate all the work and the sharing not to mention the huge inspiration you've given. I'm thankful you'll keep the blog up for awhile and we can see your wonderful quilts on flickr. All the very best for all your future endeavours.
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing your wonderful talent and expertise with all of us. Best wishes and God bless you and your family in 2010!!
ReplyDeleteWill miss reading your blog, but your family and real life activities are more important to focus on than providing my "quilting fix" for the day/week.
Again, thanks so much for sharing yourself and also for leaving the blog as a resource.
Thank you for the all the info!! It is a wonderful blog & I wish you the best.
ReplyDeleteGood luck to you in whatever you choose to do.
ReplyDeleteI know how hard of a decision this was for you my friend. We will have to keep up with each other outside of the blogosphere now. I will miss your inspiration and your enthusiasm that you have shared here. Love ya friend!
ReplyDeleteOh, I am so sad. This was not the best thing to read first thing in the morning, that was why I didn't earlier.
ReplyDeleteI want to thank you for keeping your blog up to this point. You have inspired me so much, I will miss that encouragement.
God bless you and your future endeavors.
Wendy
So sad to see you're closing the blog. I will miss seeing what your working on. My best to you with where ever you decide to take your quilting, your blog, and your new connections. Thanks for the all the inspiration!
ReplyDeleteAmandaJean,
ReplyDeleteYou will certainly be missed. Thanks for all the quilting goodness over the years. You inspire us all!
Best of Luck,
Camille
I have to say, first, that I have never seen so many comments in one day, on a blog without a giveaway. I think it goes to show that you are loved and we love to see what you are up to next. You will be missed!
ReplyDeleteBecky
I will most certainly miss your blog and your inspiration but certainly understand. I have always marveled at your voracious quilting speed! I wish you the best for whatever quilting holds for you next... I do look forward to following you on flickr and getting together sometime.
ReplyDeleteYour neighbor,
Karen
So sad to see you are closing your blog. Thanks for your inspiration, information and help. I will miss reading about the progress of your quilts. All the best with whatever you decide to do in the future. Good luck Carol
ReplyDeleteAmanda Jean,
ReplyDeleteTake care of you and your family - I've learned and enjoyed lots from what I've read here.
You have amazing talent.
Best of everything.
Mary
Good luck Amanda Jean! I'll miss you...
ReplyDeleteI am mostly a lurker, occassional commentor, but loyal reader! I always enjoy seeing what you have made. I hope there will be some way to know if you will be doing more workshops. I would really enjoy attending one.
ReplyDeleteBest wishes and much success to you!
Wishing you all the best for 2010 and any new endeavors you pursue. I actually just happened upon your blog yesterday for the first time. I've been wanting to make our first child a handmade quilt and after exploring your blog, feel inspired and confident enough to give it a try. :) Thank you for this resource and for the inspiration found on these pages.
ReplyDeleteAll the best,
Tegan
Wow - to add to my already melancholy feeling. Is it just the holidays? Anyway, Amanda even though I really hate the feeling of not reading your blog posts, I wish you all the best for your future undertakings.
ReplyDeleteWow, what s shocker. I love to quilt vicariously though you. Thanks for all the inspiration you have given, you are truly amazing. I can't imagine the pressure that all of us readers put on you. I am sure that we will still see you in the quilt world!
ReplyDeleteAmanda you will be missed. A lot. Thanks so much for all your inspiration and quilting wisdom. You know I think you're amazing! I'll look forward to seeing your pretty quilts on flickr.May 2010 bring you and your family much happiness. xxxx
ReplyDeleteThank you Amandajean, your selfless blogging has meant a great deal to me. I shall miss your blog, but am glad I will be able to see your wonderful quilts on Flickr. Take care. X Mandy
ReplyDelete