Pages

Friday, January 01, 2010

quilts of 2009


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

566 comments:

  1. 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*

    ReplyDelete
  2. I 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!

    ReplyDelete
  3. You 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!

    ReplyDelete
  4. Bummer, but wish you the best of luck in your next adventures!

    ReplyDelete
  5. You'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! :)

    ReplyDelete
  6. I'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.

    ReplyDelete
  7. oooh! I'm so sad. I'll sure miss your blog and YOU!

    ReplyDelete
  8. Anonymous1:14 PM

    Oh, 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.

    ReplyDelete
  9. I'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. :)

    ReplyDelete
  10. I 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.

    ReplyDelete
  11. Best wishes in 2010 and for all of your endeavors! I will sure miss all of the inspiration from your blog!

    ReplyDelete
  12. I'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!

    ReplyDelete
  13. I 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
  14. **gasp**
    :0(
    :0(
    :0(

    Enough said?

    ReplyDelete
  15. Sorry to see you go, but I enjoyed your blog immensely.

    I look forward to seeing your future quilts on flickr!

    ReplyDelete
  16. 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.

    ReplyDelete
  17. Anonymous1:44 PM

    I 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.

    ReplyDelete
  18. OH NO! I will definitely miss your blog and all the inspiration you have provided. Are you sure you won't reconsider?

    I 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

    ReplyDelete
  19. I wish you the best of luck with whatever you decide to do in your future, Amanda Jean!

    ReplyDelete
  20. I 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.

    ReplyDelete
  21. Best wishes and thanks for all the inspiration. You will truly be missed.

    ReplyDelete
  22. I 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!

    ReplyDelete
  23. Good 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.

    Maybe you'll feel like it later. (I hope so.)

    ReplyDelete
  24. 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.

    ReplyDelete
  25. no! no! NOOOO-!
    oh 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.

    ReplyDelete
  26. Thanks for sharing with us for all that time. Happy 2010! And all the best! :)

    ReplyDelete
  27. Oh 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!

    ReplyDelete
  28. Best wishes for everything you choose to do from here on out. I look forward to watching your quilt collection grow on flickr.

    I 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.

    ReplyDelete
  29. Andrea de Haan1:54 PM

    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!

    Thank you, thank you, thank you!

    ReplyDelete
  30. *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.

    I'm really grateful that you're not shutting down your blog either, the information is valuable to me!

    ReplyDelete
  31. 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!

    Thanks for all you have done :)

    Shannon

    ReplyDelete
  32. 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.
    xoShawn

    ReplyDelete
  33. PS I will miss you!

    ReplyDelete
  34. Bah 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!

    ReplyDelete
  35. really 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.
    thanks 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!

    ReplyDelete
  36. 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....
    You were one of the very first blogs I followed...your quilt along..hmm glad you are leaving it up for awhile.

    ReplyDelete
  37. 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!

    Good luck with your endeavors! Hope to see more from you in the future!

    ReplyDelete
  38. This comment has been removed by the author.

    ReplyDelete
  39. Thank 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.

    ReplyDelete
  40. Happy New Year, and that is quite a crazy mosaic you've got! Especially since I know there are things you don't "count". :-)

    Will 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

    ReplyDelete
  41. 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!

    ReplyDelete
  42. Wow, 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...

    ReplyDelete
  43. I will miss your blog immensely. Thanks so much for the inspiration!

    ReplyDelete
  44. Thank you for all you've done. You've turned me into a quilter. I love your quilts. Good luck Amanda Jean.

    ReplyDelete
  45. All I can say is, "What the %#!$?*^%"?

    :~{ (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!

    ReplyDelete
  46. 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!!

    ReplyDelete
  47. I 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.

    And 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.

    ReplyDelete
  48. 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!

    ReplyDelete
  49. Oh 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!

    ReplyDelete
  50. While 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.

    Heather

    ReplyDelete
  51. I love and support you, dear friend! I toast you (with my coffee) and am excited for you for tucking in CMQ.

    Happy 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

    ReplyDelete
  52. You will be missed. Hope whatever you venture into brings you happiness. Thanks for the inspiration.

    ReplyDelete
  53. This 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.

    Joanna

    ReplyDelete
  54. 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!)

    ReplyDelete
  55. Tricia2:41 PM

    I 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!
    Take 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

    ReplyDelete
  56. I will really miss your blog! I loved to see your work and read about all your quilts.

    I wish you the very best - and many quiltfun in 2010!

    ReplyDelete
  57. 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
  58. [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.

    But 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.

    ReplyDelete
  59. 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.

    ReplyDelete
  60. Marieke Bos2:49 PM

    I will miss your blog, it's been lovely reading it. Thank you!

    Marieke

    ReplyDelete
  61. 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!

    ReplyDelete
  62. I'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).

    Thanks for all the inspiration and more inspiration!

    ReplyDelete
  63. 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!

    ReplyDelete
  64. You 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

    ReplyDelete
  65. Happy New Year Wishes to you and your family. I've really enjoyed your creativity for some time now and you will definitely be missed.

    I 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!

    ReplyDelete
  66. 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!
    xox
    Amy

    ReplyDelete
  67. 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 :)

    ReplyDelete
  68. I 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!

    You will be missed!

    ReplyDelete
  69. 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!

    ReplyDelete
  70. All that freetime! Enjoy your blogless life.

    ReplyDelete
  71. P.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)
    Gosh look at me trying to convince you to stay!
    xox

    ReplyDelete
  72. 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..

    ReplyDelete
  73. Thank 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. :)

    ReplyDelete
  74. I want to thank you so much for your amazing blog.
    Your 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.

    ReplyDelete
  75. so sorry to see you go, as I just found you! but best wishes! hope to hear where it is you put your focus!

    ReplyDelete
  76. I'm a wee bit shocked, but so supportive of whatever you chose to do! Good Luck!

    For 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

    ReplyDelete
  77. Thanks for all the inspiration. I'll really miss you! Hope whatever comes next makes you smile.

    Best wishes,

    Jean
    aka Quilted Cupcake.

    ReplyDelete
  78. Will miss you in blog land and wish you all the best in the future! Thanks for being so inspirational. . . .

    ReplyDelete
  79. Thank 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!

    ReplyDelete
  80. You KNOW I'm going to miss you, BUT I know we will stay in touch, twin. We BETTER stay in touch.

    All good things must come to and end ...

    ReplyDelete
  81. 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.

    Good luck, and like someone above me in the comments... maybe you could make some $$$ from it. You deserve to!

    ReplyDelete
  82. 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.

    ReplyDelete
  83. Melissa3:50 PM

    Your 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!

    ReplyDelete
  84. How 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.

    ReplyDelete
  85. i 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.

    ReplyDelete
  86. Good 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!

    ReplyDelete
  87. AliceR3:59 PM

    I 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.

    ReplyDelete
  88. Thanks for everything, I wish you the best!

    I have made 4 quilts this year. All four learnt from your blog. Thanks for putting me on the right track.

    Thanks a lot. Biquiños

    ReplyDelete
  89. I am going to miss you!!! So long friend, I'll definitely keep checking flickr.

    ReplyDelete
  90. I 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. :(

    ReplyDelete
  91. I 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.

    You 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.

    ReplyDelete
  92. 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. ;-)

    ReplyDelete
  93. I 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.

    ReplyDelete
  94. Thanks so much for all the info and inspiration - you will be missed!!!

    ReplyDelete
  95. AmandaJean
    I 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

    ReplyDelete
  96. 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!

    ReplyDelete
  97. I've really enjoyed it! I hope big great things are on the horizon for you. Thanks for the 3 years.

    ReplyDelete
  98. I 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.

    ReplyDelete
  99. Best of luck in your next adventure! Your blog content has always been wonderful! Take good care and thank you!

    ReplyDelete
  100. I am going to miss you!!! Thank you for sharing and good luck!

    ReplyDelete
  101. Thank 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.

    I wish you and your family well!

    ReplyDelete
  102. 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...

    ReplyDelete
  103. I 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

    ReplyDelete
  104. ooh nooooooooooo who am I going to click onto first thing in the morning. Good luck and will check out flickr.

    ReplyDelete
  105. Stunned 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.
    But 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!!

    ReplyDelete
  106. 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.

    ReplyDelete
  107. Congratulations on hvaing such a good year of quilting. Best Wishes for every success in whatever you move on to.

    ReplyDelete
  108. I am so sad right now! But- I completely understand. Good luck in all you do and thank you for the wonderful inspiration and resources!!!

    xoxo

    ReplyDelete
  109. 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.
    Good 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.

    ReplyDelete
  110. 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.

    http://rainytuesdaymornings.blogspot.com/2009/12/just-in-time.html

    P.S. There will be a purple one too for my daughter :)

    ReplyDelete
  111. ¡¡¡¡¡¡Feliz 2010!!!
    Bendiciones para tu hogar, felicidad, dicha y amor hoy y siempre.
    Besitos

    ReplyDelete
  112. Kristen in OK5:18 PM

    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.

    Best 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!

    ReplyDelete
  113. This comment has been removed by the author.

    ReplyDelete
  114. I 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!

    ReplyDelete
  115. aj 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.

    ReplyDelete
  116. Karen Andjelic5:25 PM

    I'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.

    I 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

    ReplyDelete
  117. 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.

    Best,
    Laura

    ReplyDelete
  118. 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.

    The quilt mosaic is a wonderful finale of your quilt blogging life.

    Good luck with the future.

    ReplyDelete
  119. 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!

    ReplyDelete
  120. I'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.
    All the best to you, and thank you!

    ReplyDelete
  121. I've joined in late, but I totally understand. I quit blogging this year too. I have learned so much from your blog.
    Thanks for sharing!!

    ReplyDelete
  122. Anonymous6:11 PM

    I'm sad to hear you're leaving blogland but I will be looking forward to viewing your beautiful quilts on flickr!
    Jaclyn

    ReplyDelete
  123. I totally understand...reading blogs is almost a full time job...and I am going to cut back also.

    You are so talented and have been such an inspiration...I will miss you so much!!!

    Hugs and good luck...Mary Jo in Iowa

    ReplyDelete
  124. This is sad news, but I understand where you're coming from.
    Good luck with all your new ventures.
    I hope we can keep in touch!

    ReplyDelete
  125. Anonymous6:22 PM

    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!

    I 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

    ReplyDelete
  126. 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!

    Thanks for the memories!

    ReplyDelete
  127. 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.

    ReplyDelete
  128. Kathleen, Troon, Scotland6:37 PM

    So long....and thanks for all the quilts XXXXXX

    ReplyDelete
  129. I 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!

    ReplyDelete
  130. Hard 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!?

    Thanks 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

    ReplyDelete
  131. 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
  132. :O

    I'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!

    ReplyDelete
  133. 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!

    ReplyDelete
  134. Amandajean,

    this 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

    ReplyDelete
  135. Anonymous7:00 PM

    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.

    ReplyDelete
  136. You'll be missed, thank you for all that you've shared.

    ReplyDelete
  137. Oh 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!

    ReplyDelete
  138. Amandajean, 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!!

    ReplyDelete
  139. Well, 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.
    I'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

    ReplyDelete
  140. Nooooooooo! Dont leave us!

    You 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.

    ReplyDelete
  141. 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!!

    ReplyDelete
  142. I 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!

    ReplyDelete
  143. I'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!

    And 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!

    ReplyDelete
  144. 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!

    ReplyDelete
  145. I 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.

    ReplyDelete
  146. Anonymous7:20 PM

    Aw 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!

    Three things that made it worth getting out of bed for - your blog, my quilty friend Cindi's multiple emails, and coffee.

    Peggi

    ReplyDelete
  147. 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.

    ReplyDelete
  148. I 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.

    Hugs and Thank You.

    See you on flickr!

    ReplyDelete
  149. Nooooo...I just found you! You can't leave me yet!!

    ReplyDelete
  150. I have enjoyed reading your blog; however, I totally understand your decision. Best wishes in all you do!

    ReplyDelete
  151. I 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.

    I 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!

    ReplyDelete
  152. Just can't thank you enough for sharing your immense talent and beautiful soul with us these past three years. You will be missed :-(

    ReplyDelete
  153. Bye 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.

    ReplyDelete
  154. I'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!

    ReplyDelete
  155. I 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!!!
    Mandy

    ReplyDelete
  156. Sorry to see you go! Good Luck, and Happy 2010!

    ReplyDelete
  157. Good 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.

    Thanks for everything, and all the best for 2010 and beyond!

    ReplyDelete
  158. You're the best. You'll be missed. I can't wait to see what's next for you. Big things, I am sure!

    ReplyDelete
  159. Good luck! You are blog is amazing! I think you'll be great!

    Best Wishes to you
    xxx

    ReplyDelete
  160. Dear Crazy Mom,
    I 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

    ReplyDelete
  161. 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!

    ReplyDelete
  162. Oh no!! I so, so look forward to seeing what you're working on. Thanks for sharing with us!!

    ReplyDelete
  163. So 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.

    ReplyDelete
  164. I 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.

    ReplyDelete
  165. I'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

    ReplyDelete
  166. Anonymous8:34 PM

    wow, i too just discovered you this fall -- thanks for being an inspiration ....

    happy sewing ... i'm gonna miss my daily dose of "crazy mom" ---

    ReplyDelete
  167. Anonymous8:35 PM

    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.

    ReplyDelete
  168. Thank 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.

    ReplyDelete
  169. Anonymous8:45 PM

    I 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.
    Rebecca O of Buffalo

    ReplyDelete
  170. Awwwww ........
    I'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! :(

    ReplyDelete
  171. I am heartbroken. You have been such a big part of my craft life. Best wishes to you.

    ReplyDelete
  172. Linda9:04 PM

    I'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!
    Big, huge hugs to you, too.

    ReplyDelete
  173. Thank you for sharing all of your beautiful work... I have been inspired.

    ReplyDelete
  174. Feel 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!

    ReplyDelete
  175. Anonymous9:23 PM

    Thank 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.

    ReplyDelete
  176. HUGE 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

    erin

    ReplyDelete
  177. 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!

    ReplyDelete
  178. I'll miss your blog, but I'll look forward to seeing more of your beautiful quilts on Flickr!

    ReplyDelete
  179. I am sorry to see you go! You are really an inspiration, thank you for everything :)

    ReplyDelete
  180. Amanda, 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.

    Thank 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

    ReplyDelete
  181. 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.

    ReplyDelete
  182. Thanks for sharing your wonderful talent and expertise with all of us. Best wishes and God bless you and your family in 2010!!

    Will 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.

    ReplyDelete
  183. Thank you for the all the info!! It is a wonderful blog & I wish you the best.

    ReplyDelete
  184. Good luck to you in whatever you choose to do.

    ReplyDelete
  185. I 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!

    ReplyDelete
  186. Oh, I am so sad. This was not the best thing to read first thing in the morning, that was why I didn't earlier.
    I 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

    ReplyDelete
  187. 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!

    ReplyDelete
  188. AmandaJean,

    You will certainly be missed. Thanks for all the quilting goodness over the years. You inspire us all!

    Best of Luck,

    Camille

    ReplyDelete
  189. 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!
    Becky

    ReplyDelete
  190. 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.

    Your neighbor,
    Karen

    ReplyDelete
  191. 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

    ReplyDelete
  192. Amanda Jean,
    Take 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

    ReplyDelete
  193. Good luck Amanda Jean! I'll miss you...

    ReplyDelete
  194. I 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.
    Best wishes and much success to you!

    ReplyDelete
  195. 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.
    All the best,
    Tegan

    ReplyDelete
  196. 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.

    ReplyDelete
  197. Wow, 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!

    ReplyDelete
  198. Amanda 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

    ReplyDelete
  199. Thank 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