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Saturday, November 30, 2013

You Asked For It….Here it is.

cordova_AK2011 151_thumb[1]I want you to know that I have thought long and hard about this post before posting.

You guys know what my #1 rule is about mysteries, don’t you?

NO WHINING!

I have gone out of my way to offer up a gorgeous mystery quilt FREE to you.

I have written it in TWO sizes so you can choose what you want to do.

I have given you FOUR ways to piece these Tri-Rec units –either with the rulers, or with inklingo, or with printed templates, or with foundation paper piecing.

Questions I am getting repeatedly:

HOW MANY STRIPS OF BACKGROUND DO WE NEED TO CUT?!

The answer is simple – as many as it takes to get the job done.  If you want to know how many of YOUR strips you need to cut?  Simply cut one strip – and cut the units from that strip until the strip is gone.  Count your units.  Now you know what you can get from one strip – do some simple math.  Now how may strips do you need to get the number required?  Don’t wait around for someone else to provide you the answer.  You can do it.  I have faith in you! I know you can!  You can learn something new from every quilt you make.  Figuring it out yourself means less work for someone else ---

But the biggest Boo Hoo of all is folks complaining that they don’t like templates, they don’t like rulers, they don’t like paper piecing, and they don’t want to take the time to print on fabric. Please post regular rotary cutting directions ---my inbox is full of these unhappy whinings and requests.

If you want to know WHY there are no rotary cutting instructions for the tri recs units, it’s because the cutting looks like this:

rotarytrirec1

The star points can be cut from 4 1/4” X 2 1/8” rectangles.  This has been rounded up to the nearest 1/8” – I don’t know how accurate it is, but you have some major long dog ears and no way to know how to place this against your base triangle.

And the cutting of the base triangle? How many of you have a 63 degree line on your “regular” rotary cutting ruler? I know I don’t.  I have 60 degrees, but not 63 degrees.

It’s because of this that regular rotary cutting is NOT user-friendly in this instance.  But if you want to print it out, there is a pdf for it HERE.  I’ve added that for you.

What I don’t understand ---is why there is so much complaining on something I am offering up for you as a reader appreciation gift?

If it isn’t complaining about “not liking specialty rulers” or “not liking templates” or “not liking printing on fabric”  or “I really hate paper piecing” It’s complaining about how much printer paper and ink it takes to print each clue.

For a free mystery.

That is given as a gift.

We can be better than this.  We can be kinder than this.  We can be more gracious than this.

And you deserve the right tools on hand to make your quilting a better experience than this, you ARE worth it!

Much love --


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372 comments:

  1. katydidmax1:10 AM EST

    Bonnie: I am just thrilled to be doing a mystery with you online. I have even talked it up with fellow guild members. The funny side of it is I had the tri-rec rulers and didn't even know it, just goes to show you, you can learn something new every day. So THANK YOU for ALL of your efforts!! Kathy in Oregon

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  2. I'm not complaining. I think you are the best and I thank you very, very much. Your friend in Israel.

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  3. I really hope that all the "complainers" start to feel bad after your post Bonnie plus all of the positive comments from your fans. I for one have said many times that you are my "quilting hero"!! I know that you are too kind and proper to tell these complainers what for...so send them my way and I will set them straight! lol I will be the start of your "Bonnie's posse" and based on all the wonderful comments above...your posse will be quite large...lol hugs my dear... ;)

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  4. All have to say is NO ONE IS MAKING THEM DO IT. This is my first quilt and I find the the clues very well done and the quilt cam explained the clue very well.
    THANKS BONNIE!! Peg

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  5. Dear Bonnie, who gives us so much of her time. I would like to apologise for all the moaning minnies who can't think for themselves. Thank you, thank you for all you give us. I certainly appreciate it. Dorothy in Canberra, Australia.

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  6. Thank you for the free pattern and for everything you do for us quilters. We have to appreciate those quilters that don't complain and ignore the ones that do. You are terrific!!
    Etty in Israel

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  7. People will complain, even if you make the quilt for them.
    They will find something wrong with it. The color, the size, the theme, the simplicity, the complexity, whatever.
    Those are the people who can only see their own candle burning brighter, if they blow yours out.
    You are far more generous, and truthfully, more than a quilter. You are an artist.
    Shine up that crown and rock it like a demon. You're the boss.

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  8. No complaints here. I'm excited about doing my first Mystery Quilt.

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  9. Don't foist them off on the knitters -- we don't want them either!

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  10. Bonnie, I am sorry about the complaints but happy to see so many messages of support for you! You deserve every one, and more. Your patterns are easy for all levels of quilters to follow. You have put so much time and effort into this pattern, even supplying 4 different methods of piecing. I cannot believe someone found something to complain about. I love all you do for everyone. Maybe a generic email response about the information provided is all that is available and everyone if invited to make the quilt as is or make any changes they want by themselves without further assistance or just enjoy seeing how others participate instead! Then everyone gets the same response and you can reply without thinking about it any more. You have a warm and generous spirit and most of your followers appreciate that. I hope all these well wishers have conveyed the love and support for you from around the world. Love and hugs from Aust.

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  11. Dear Bonnie,

    Thank you for all you do. I enjoy your blog, quilt cams, and mystery quilts I realize how much time you put in to provide all these things at no cost to us. I am sure there are many others that feel as I do.

    Thanks,

    Avon

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  12. Four ways to do it, great videos to help! What else can you ask for? Sew the quilt for them? I don't think so!

    This is a learning experience, I love it!

    Thanks for doing it for us!!!

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  13. You sure have that right Subee! She recommended Easy Angle & Companion Angle for Easy Street last year and they made it so much easier! Bonnie is the expert, so of course I got the rulers and learned to use them. Now I just love them!! I can't imagine getting Easy Street done without them!

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  14. Good for you, Bonnie! I agree totally with all you said & you put it more politely than I might have! Please ignore the whiners, you just can't satisfy some people, even with a free gift!!! Love your patterns & quilts & appreciate all you do for us quilters! Who else posts so many free patterns on her website?? No one else that I know of!! Thank you, thank you, thank you!!!

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  15. Nancy in Michigan2:28 AM EST

    Bonnie don't let the whiners get to you, the vast majority of us appreciate what you do & love it that you do free mysteries.

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  16. Anonymous2:48 AM EST

    Thanks for this mystery Bonnie! I am excited, I have printed all if my instructions out but haven't started cutting. I am wanting these tri recs tools as they will be so useful. My problem is I need to be able to get them. As I need to go to Melbourne tomorrow I am hoping one of the quilt shops have them and I will start cutting. If not I will order on line and start cutting and sewing by weeks end. I am hoping to see you when you come to Melbourne in 2016 I may actually be able to show you this on person. Until quilt cam...and till I get my rulers I will keep on with my storm at sea quilt

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  17. Anonymous2:59 AM EST

    Thank you Bonnie! This is my first time commenting on a blog (I don't even have Facebook!) I love reading your blog and I am blown away by your genorisity. I am so excited about my first internet quilt along with people all over the world! Thank you! Gill in London, UK

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  18. Waou! I'm so not surprised!!! the more you give to certain people the more they ask: it's a shame!
    So let me tell you first that I'm so happy to do my first Bonnie Hunter quilt, I'm really grateful that you did it in 2 sizes (tiny houses here in France!)
    Second, I don't have a quilt shop around the corner and I manage to have the fabrics, the rulers,and all what I need and I undrestood all the instructions ( the video idea is brillant) so maybe you should threaten them to give all the instructions in centimeters ha,ha!!!!!

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  19. I'm so sorry you have to "listen to" people whining about your wonderful free mystery pattern! It seems like people lack imagination and turn their brain off and just want to blindly follow a pattern. Due to current life difficulties I'm not participating in the mystery. That hasn't stopped me from reading the posts and knowing next year will be different. You inspire me even when I can't sew. Thanks for the time and effort you put into your blog and patterns.

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  20. Here is the math. In 4 hours you have had 200 supportive comments so in 24 hours you should have over 1000 positive messages. I am sure that way out weighs the whiners. Thank you Bonnie for your generosity. Kathy, Dublin, Ireland.

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  21. The comment above is great. Delete the whiner comments. It is your blog to do as you wish. They are abusing your generous spirit by sending those comments. Keep on designing, love your work.

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  22. I have been reading your blog for just over a year now and really enjoy it. I was a bit apprehensive about doing the Easy Street mystery as I wasn't sure if I would like the result, but I printed it out to keep nonetheless. I then came to realise that as I like all of your work I should take the plunge and do this one. I was so excited gathering all my colours and couldn't wait for it to start, and am half way through step 1. I know, from reading comments here and on facebook that there are hundreds of quilters enjoying the experience just as much as me. I was unaware that people were whining to you and am extremely sorry that folk seem to think that they have the right to do that. To them I would like to say - Get a Life. If you dont like or appreciate what Bonnie does for the quilting community then don't participate at all. Go find something else to do that does make you happy.

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  23. Hi Bonnie. BIG THANKS for all your free quilts! I have 4 of your books and I'm currently working on a quilt from String fling. Made a quilt from one of your free patterns too, which is now keeoing my father, who who has MS, warm and comfy. I've introduced many people to your books and site, because i think your instructions are so clear and concise. Please don't let the whiners spoil your and our fun. I never did a mystery before, watched as orca bay was in progress and was so sorry i didn't when i saw the complete quilt. I decided that, no matter what, i would take part in the next mystery. I love it so far. And i yave an extra cutting option for other people maybe. The accuquilt go has a die for this block that will finish in 3".
    Thanks again for all Bonnie!

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  24. OMG seriously...people complain that much for something free....I would like to use some curse words but I will be a good girl and behave myself. I remember your first mystery and how wonderful it was..so easy to follow...I have bragged about Bonnie Hunter since then to my Aussie friends and to any of my quilting friends for that matter online and off. I know a mystery can be "mysterious" and throw surprises but you have always been so good with warning ahead of time and making things so easy. I cant say I am doing this mystery quilt and know what these whingers are on about but I know that anything I have made or read of yours has always been made as easy as possible with your fantastic step by step directions. Thank you for the time you give to everybody Bonnie and know that you really are appreciated. xxx

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  25. I can't believe people STILL WINGE despite all that you give them - really I'm almost speechless!!!! I just want to say THANK YOU for all you do and all you share with us. You've made my quilt life more enjoyable and more efficient with everything I've learnt from you :)

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  26. OMG Bonnie. FOUR methods and you still have whiners? !!!!!

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  27. something i learned in a visit with friends today is that children in elementary schools aren't being taught to add, multiply, subtract, and divide like we were. Instead they have pre-calculated answer sheets where the math is done for them.
    so instead of learning how to do the actual math to calculate for themselves, all they have learned do now is count over so many columns in the answer sheet for the first figure in a problem, and then count down the requisite second number of times in that column to find the answer.
    Each math process (add, subtract, multiply, divide) has it's own master answer sheet, but the 'problem solving' involves the identical search process for each type of math.
    So yes, kids today will not know how many strips are required for the background because they haven't been taught the process of how to find the answers. they can't prove that the answer they get by using the tables is correct or not, because they haven't been taught or expected to learn how to reason it out for themselves. so sad.

    Just want to add a thanks Bonnie, for all that you do for us quilters, and to reassure you that the problems that people are venting on the blog aren't your fault at all, but they do expose a glaring failure of our education system to prepare our kids to become independent, functional thinking adults in the future.

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  28. OhNo! Don't mind too much of whining people! This is my FIRST time that I'm seriously going to sew your exciting mystery quilt! I have followed your mysteries for many years and seen many, many lovely quilts made of them! So I don't understand, why people have to be nasty and whine everything. They just don't understand that you do a huge job for giving us extra excitement to our life... and all for free!

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  29. Thank you for all the fun you give us. And it is our own choice to do or drop this mystery.

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  30. You don't deserve all this complaining Bonnie, and it is alright that you come out and write about it on your blog. If people don't like the way you suggest to do it (in more then one variation) they'd better don't make that quilt. I am sorry for you that you must deal with this, I hope it doesn't stop you in your enthusiasm and all those beautifull quilts/patterns that I love so much on your blog! Kind regards from the Netherlands, Conny

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  31. Bitching about how much ink it takes to print the clues? Oh wow, you already do printer friendly and I for one appreciate that a lot. Basically, if they do not want to print, they should buy the book once it is out. Bah!!!

    I am still thinking about my colors, but I think it is a wonderful thing for you to provide us a free pattern and I love seeing what everyone else is doing. So sad these sour pusses will take the fun out of the hard work you are putting in!

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  32. I've jumped through the comments and I don't see the complainers justifying their reason to whine! Bonnie, you are the best for giving us all a chance to be the "first" to make one of your patterns. For that, I thank you. No whining from my house in NJ! If you need a certain tool to do the mystery, go buy it! Don't whine because you don't have what you need! We're all thankful for all you do for us!

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  33. Thank you Bonnie for all the work you do to give us a free gift. For those complainers, I would say, If you don't like, just don't do it. This is my 4th mystery and I've love every one. THANK YOU!

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  34. Amy Cotham6:46 AM EST

    I'm a pattern designer and I never get the positive feedback, only the negative finger pointing comments. I used to get really upset until I found the delete button.

    Thank you so much for what I believe will be a fabulous quilt. I've never attempted a mystery quilt before, much less a Bonnie Hunter quilt. I've been a lurker over your stunning books, drooling and dreaming. Now I'm actually doing it! I've already finished my first blocks and am anxiously awaiting my next instruction. Props to you for calling out the whiners. You are my kind of quilter!!

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  35. Time and time again, stupid people ruin it for the rest. How anyone can complain about any aspect of a pattern given FREE OF CHARGE, at great time and effort expense on behalf of the creator!!!!!!!! Just shut up and tune into another channel!!!
    I don't know many people who give as does Bonnie!!! Just refuse to listen to all the ignorant comments. DELETE DELETE DELETE.

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  36. Just writing to add my total thanks for your whole history of supporting all quilters and the amazing work you do for the art of quilting. I find your positive energy gives me such a boost to try new things or even change things ala Bonnie Hunter. You and Gwen Marston are my most important inspirational quilters. Thank you.

    Always remember that the vast majority of your readers would probably give you all our stash (a very important possession)at any time to get you to continue your inspirational work. :-)

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  37. My first try w the new rulers and my block was dead on...thanks for making me stretch.

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  38. I bought the Tri-rec rulers and am enjoying using them - thank you for teaching me something new! If somebody doesn't like something I am doing, I tell them not to let the door hit them on the arse on their way out......

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  39. I haven't even started this yet. I bought the tri-recs yesterday. I am always willing to try something new and I am grateful to be able to try a free pattern. Thank you very much for your time and effort.

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  40. Bonnie, thanks so much for all you do for us. I am stunned that people are complaining. You offer us an opportunity to try new things to stretch ourselves as quilters. How is that a problem. This year we even have the opportunity to have a Facebook group to share ideas. It's a blessing! A gift. I agree with others who have said Nobody is forcing anybody to do this mystery. If they are having issues they can ask for help in the FB group but whining! No! Send those whiners to their rooms without their sewing machines. Bad behaviour! They can come back out when they can play nicely with others. Please know, these whiners must be the minority. There are posters who are laughing at themselves for doing things wrong which is so great. It frees us all to be human and mess up. Mostly, I see excitement and encouragement and appreciation of your wonderful gift. Thank you Bonnie, from the bottom of my heart for your talent, time and teaching!

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  41. We should be thanking you for posting a "free" mystery quilt. I say to all who wine, if you don't like the techniques offered..then don't do this particular quilt. Isn't it enough she offered two sizes this time? Thank you Bonnie for the opportunity to do this. quilt. Is

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  42. No whining here at all! I´m a grown up girl and can think myself. (And it´s the first time, I found a good reason to use that special rulers). Your mysteries are always beautyful. I have to do some math, because I want different sizes, but this is no problem, no reason to whine.
    There is a button for this on your keyboard: DELETE! Have a good time!

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  43. Thank you Bonnie for the gift you have provided. The time, energy and creative mojo from this mystery quilt is appreciated by me. The best part? The virtual quilt experience allows me to not have to listen to the whining and complaining that normally accompanies classes at a LQS. On-line I can just scroll through the negativity and its like having an "off" button for those individuals. THANK YOU for this secondary gift too. I am loving this project!!

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  44. to me, if they don't like all the templates rulers ect.... they really just don't like to quilt. I for one thank you with all my heart.

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  45. Normally if there are 20+ responses I don't bother specially when most seem to echo my senitments.
    But Bonnie you are wonderful! you don't have to do this. And there is a mystrey Facebook group and people who quilt more or might be able to answer some of those questions, like "How many strips to cut?" (how many units do you get/strip? it varies) They are so numerous they can easliy get back to someone.
    love you B
    onnie!

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  46. So sorry you are getting so many complaints. I just don't understand why people are so selfish.
    I appreciate all of your free patterns and love your books. I've promoted you at my quilt guild and a bunch of them are now fans. We're going to make this years mystery.

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  47. Thanks for all your work, Bonnie. Working in retail let you see how rude som e people are. don't understand why, but this time of the year it's getting worse.
    Have a great time in Germany and visit Christkind markets, they are awesome and drink a Gluehwein for me
    Big hug
    Gunda

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  48. I am looking forward to this opportunity, and like the challenge, I have found that I will never grow without letting what was in the past, stay the past, and move forward thru trial and error until it becomes what I want it to be, and that is usually never perfect, but that is ok. By the way, I have a sign in my kitchen that reads "$5 charge for whining!"

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  49. Love this posting, "if you decide to whine, please do it somewhere else". I love your mysteries and am greatfull for all the work you put in to them. Have a nice sunday!

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  50. I think the people who complain don't seem to realise that by doing so, they could end up without your wonderful efforts and time in supplying these projects. I am sure there are lots of other things you could be doing if you didn't do this for us. I for one would miss all your efforts and help etc.
    Linda in England

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  51. I am having SEW much fun with the new mystery. Words cannot express my thanks for such a generous gift. Projects like this can provide a valuable learning experience if one will just read the instruction (which are great) and just proceed step by step. My Tri Rec hadn't gotten much attention before now, but because of this experience I see that it will not be a neglected tool any longer. THANK YOU Bonnie

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  52. No whining here. I am loving cutting into the fabrics. I thank you so much for doing this. It is my first mystery and I am going to love it.
    suebennett1975@gmail.com

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  53. The internet has changed the way we communicate. There seems to be no restraint on what people will say on a blog as opposed to saying it in person. We have a tendency to be short with our comments and therefore, come off curt. It is so hard to read someone on line. I much prefer to talk in person, but when I can not I read and reread what I have written thiking about how I would feel if someone wrote this to me. May we be gracious always no matter what the medium is that we use.

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  54. Good grief! You whiners out there, use your brains and quit complaining. It's a mystery quilt! It's a scrappy mystery quilt! When Bonnie says cut "x" number of a particular shape in a particular color pick up a piece of that color, cut as many as you can and then pick up another piece and do it again until you get to the required number. It's as easy as that. If you want it really scrappy then limit the number you cut from any one piece and use more pieces. Bonnie, don't let the turkeys get you down. The vast majority of us really enjoy the mystery quilts (by the way, thanks for the option of a smaller size this year) and appreciate the work you put into it.

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  55. thanks bonnie for this mystery. i haven't been this excited since i was a child at christmas. i've never made a quilt using anything except squares. i have three of your books but thought i would NEVER be able to make one of your quilts - just love looking at your pix. well, i bought the tri-rex rulers and after i put the tape on the back i was able to cut without the ruler sliding. know what? my squares come out 3-12" square!!!!!! you have opened new doors for me. thank you, thank you, thank you.

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  56. Your grandson and his bride will love the quilt just knowing the love you put into making it. Congratulations to you and your family!

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  57. Well said Bonnie and I might add, much nicer than I probably would have said it. Remember for every complainer, there are a thousand happily working away!
    I count the mystery as one of my Christmas gifts and am grateful to have that gift spread out thru the season. Thank you for the incredible job you do and know that I think you really went above and beyond with as much detail as you could w/o giving anything away.
    From a grateful quilter.

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  58. oy. Will never understand people. My parents taught that if you dont like something, find something else to do. I see 50 things a day, or more, that I would love to make. I pick what I have the skill for and be done.
    Don't let the bad mannered people ruin your fun. For every whiny little brat, there are 50 people who love these blocks and are happy to participate without requiring changes made to suit them. Unfortunately, the whiners are usually the most vocal, so it is hard to find the happy people sometimes.

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  59. The problem with the whiners are that they are so vocal. If you do the math they are a very small percentage. The rest of us who are not whiners need to speak up with our positive comments. Those tri-recs rulers are fantastic. My units are perfect everytime. Thanks Bonnie.

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  60. I cannot believe the rudeness of some of your readers....
    I support all that you do and the different ways that you get to the units that need to make up the quilt. I'm sorry you have to be the recipient of the rudeness. Most of us are just happy that you share so much. Quilt on!

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  61. This is my 4th Bonnie Mystery. I love all of the ones I have made. If you will follow Bonnie's instructions and use the rulers/techniques she gives, you will have a wonderful quilt.........no whinning............just use the info she has given and DO IT!
    Paula in KY

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  62. Bonnie, thanks for all you do and how you do it. You are extremely generous and I appreciate you so much. I guess there are always complainers out there, but it's probably best to ignore them as much as we can. Sometimes it's hard to do. Please know that you have tons of people who are very happy with all that you give us. And we know you don't have to do any of this at all. I know this is a gift from you and it's totally received with love and admiration of you, Bonnie! Have a blessed day!

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  63. Thank you for this mystery quilt instructions. I have the tri rec rulers and had not used them until now. It is nice to know how to use them and it does make the piecing easier.
    Thanks again.

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  64. I have done mysteries that have you do much of the cutting in advance and there are always the people who have to ruin the surprise by figuring it out from the pre-cuts. I am happy to being offered a wonderful opportunity to make a quilt that I know will only be limited by my skills, not Bonnie's...Now, it's time to get back to my cutting and then I can start sewing!

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  65. AND if you don't like it, don't do it! Simple! Thanks for this!

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  66. So sorry, Bonnie, that some of your followers are so rude and ungrateful. The majority of us are not that way. In fact I order every book from you in appreciation and admiration. Can't wait for Quilt Cam. Once again, thanks for all you do for all of us - even the rude ones. LOL

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  67. Bonnie, I love your blog and everything you do for the quilting world. I appreciate the time you have taken to design, write, and post a mystery quilt every year. You are right! Why do people complain when it is FREE?! As I cut strips yesterday for the mystery quilt, I was wondering how many strips I should cut. I thought exactly as you said today, I could cut a strip and figure it out, but I didn't. I just cut as many strips as I could from the fabric I pulled. I hope that if I don't use them all for this part of the Mystery, I might need them for another part of it. Thank you for being so generous with your patterns on your blog. I have used several of them. You do a wonderful job! Please, keep it up!

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  68. :-) LOVE this!!

    I am not participating BECAUSE I am not willing to put the time into figuring all this out. I am a fairly new quilter and this is a BUSY season!

    That said - at the right season of my life, this would be perfect - and a wonderful gracious GIFT.

    I don't understand whiners either! Why not just choose what you want to do and either sit back and watch and enjoy.... or go play elsewhere? Life is too short!

    I can't wait to see what you all create!

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  69. I have done mysteries that have you do much of the cutting in advance and there are always the people who have to ruin the surprise by figuring it out from the pre-cuts. I am happy to being offered a wonderful opportunity to make a quilt that I know will only be limited by my skills, not Bonnie's...Now, it's time to get back to my cutting and then I can start sewing!

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  70. Quilty Gal9:32 AM EST

    We love you Bonnie! Plain simple and spoken from the heart. I found you though Linda's site and I'm here every morning with my coffee and cats and pups curled under my chair. So this post is just another affirmation of how we feel about you and filled with thankfulness and admiration ... I've learned so much from just sitting next to you via your website for the last couple of weeks. Thank you, thank you, thank you!

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  71. Anonymous9:35 AM EST

    Good for you Bonnie! Though I'm not doing this mystery quilt at the moment as I really need to work on other projects already started I am eagerly following others process. Thank you for all your instructions and generosity..

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  72. I'm really enjoying this fantastic gift that you have so kindly given to us for FREE. Thank you for all the hard work you have put into this which we are being given for FREE. Personally I love the whole learning process which again you are providing for FREE. It's just such a shame that people don't consider what they do have rather than whinge and moan about what they don't. Thank you again and again and again.

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  73. Thank you Bonnie. I have had the tri recs sitting unopened on a shelf for two years. I have been quilting for 20 years and I appreciate what I am learning from you. I want to be more productive and am now switching from make big and trim down to make accurate the first time based on what you said in one of your quilt cams. I love quilt cam and have gone through all the archived ones at least twice. If the complainers need
    all the information ahead of time and things done their way then they need to make a quilt from a book.

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  74. Honestly girlfriend I'm surprised you continue to do this year after year with all the whining and complaining you have to put up with. The time it takes you to draft, piece, quilt and type up the posts is priceless. Please know that there are many of us who do appreciate your work and your time. Love you!

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  75. Some people can just rip the joy out of everything, can't they? I've done a little bit of pattern writing and I know that it isn't as easy as people think it is. You are giving us TWO sizes, and FOUR ways to piece the blocks! Wow! For what it's worth - I really appreciate and look forward to your mysteries. THANK YOU! And, as a friend of mine says, "if they don't like it - TDB!" (too d*** bad)

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  76. Anonymous10:11 AM EST

    Bonnie: You've been far too kind in your reply to these complainers......especially when you're the one who's gone out of your way to supply us with a quilt that I'm sure is going to be beautiful when complete.

    I would have just told these complainers to "DON'T DO THE MYSTERY IF YOU DON'T LIKE ANYTHING ABOUT IT." Some people from my own experience want you to supply EVERYTHING even the labour and then they want to walk away with the goods and claim it as their own.

    Please keep being your happy upbeat self and ignore those people who don't know how to appreciate you for who you are and what you do for us other souls out here who really know how to appreciate your goodness.

    Thanks for the mystery this year. It's my first and I'm really, really looking forward to the next clue and darn it................I have to wait six more days for it.

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  77. Oh Bonnie, Easy to say and hard to do but don't let these whiners get to you. You do so much for us and the majority are thankful and appreciative. Don't let them dishearten you! As for me, I so enjoy your site. I care for my mother so have little sewing time but I live vicariously through your daily postings. I dream through the visuals and hoard your freebies (as well as all of your books) for the day when I will have more sewing time. Most of us can't thank you enough so tune out those perpetual unhappy complainers. Enjoy your upcoming trip, your cabin and the holiday season. May it refresh you!

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  78. I think that some people should close their laptop covers and get out in the real world and then they would be appreciative of something like this. I couldn't believe a comment that someone wrote that they couldn't sleep the night before the first clue came out....Really? Relax and enjoy this or don't do it. Thank you Bonnie for all of your hard work.

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  79. Anonymous10:14 AM EST

    I am very thankful for all the work you put into everything on your blog. I am soooo excited to be doing my first mystery with you. This is my first time using the tri recs rulers. I have had them in my quilting arsenal and have never used them! Now I can...what an adventure!!! Thanks for all your hard work. You are awesome beyond words. Much love from Maine...Linda

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  80. Let go of the negative....surround yourself with positive....and laugh, laugh, laugh!!

    You are the BEST, Bonnie!

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  81. I tried my new TriRecs yesterday for the very first time and my block was dead on perfect. Please don't fret over the little quilters who are unable to stretch outside their self imposed boundaries. This is my first Bonnie mystery and hope it's not my last due to the whiners.

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  82. I agree with you about whining. That is one of my peeves. I appreciate all you do for us and thank you from the bottom of my heart. For those that are whining, you are not true quilters - you are just copiers. A true quilter can use their brain to figure things out. If you don't like the way something is done, change it yourself; don't whine for someone to change it for you. I've never used TriRecs rulers, but bought them just for this mystery and am looking forward to using them. Thanks Bonnie for the video tutorial on the TriRecs!!

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  83. I'm making my third mystery quilt that you have graciously designed and given to us for FREE with DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS. Whiners are whiners and we can't change them. They write their worthless comments every year while the rest of us are celebrating our Bonnie. The only thing you could do to make them happy is to make the quilt and give it to them. Whiners suck up energy and bring everyone down. YOU GO GIRL - your cheering section will always be 100 times stronger than they are.

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  84. Good for you Bonnie, we choose to do your wonderful mystery and it is all there in black and white! Seems there are whiners all over the world wanting it done for them without thinking at all! I for one LOVE your mystery's...this is only #2 for me. If I saw the pattern first I would never have attempted it, but I did and look forward to Thanksgiving USA now :) I purchased the rulers and oh my what a difference they make :) Have a great day and thank you so very much for providing us with these great patterns.

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  85. This is my fourth Bonnie mystery quilt and I LOVE IT. The only thing I can whine about is having to work instead of sew! THANKS BONNIE

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  86. Has anyone asked you to come and sew it for them? LOL Thank you Bonnie for all your hard work. Love you girl!

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  87. Thank you for all your hard work. Has anyone asked that you come and sew it for them? LOL Love you girl.

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  88. Thank you! I am excited!

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  89. Bonnie, thank you for the very detailed instructions. They are long but so worth printing out. The videos are awesome and so helpful and I have watched them several times to make sure I am doing it correctly as a lefty. The extra time that you put put into writing a pattern for us as your gift to us is very much appreciated. I think you take the time to answer questions before they are even asked. It is a mystery and I am enjoying it very much. If other people don't like how you do your mystery then it is the wrong mystery and pattern for them. I loved last years mystery and how it was presented and I finished it and Wednesday I will be watching you and putting binding on it for my daughter's christmas present. I even made pillow cases for it and I have one extra large block that I am going to try to make a pillow sham out of. So thank you for sharing your life, family, patterns and quilting expertise with all of us. Most of us appreciate all you do.

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  90. Anonymous11:02 AM EST

    Bonnie, you are the best. Thanks for all the work you did on this pattern to offer to your followers. It sounded a bit much for me right now, so I will wait for another day. No complaining here.....only tons of thanks for ALL that you offer us! I am a "my cup is half full" kinda girl. Life is easier that way. I have just started to catch your web cam and I love it! Thank you so much! Blessings to you and yours!

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  91. I'm sure you're being flooded with positive comments now!!! There will always be the complainers!!!! I don't understand them. I don't know if they realize how negative they are - I don't know if they realize that they ruin good things.....

    What I do know is there is a balance in life - and all of us can choose where we focus. I focus on good energy.

    This is the energy you provide!!!

    You are so amazing -----

    Thank you from the bottom of my heart for leading this fun time.

    I look forward to your mystery. I don't have an extra life--- just this one.... And you alone have added to my life...

    All my love and appreciation for all you are and do.
    Christina

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  92. Thank you! I am excited.

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  93. L2P!!!! My new favorite Acronym.

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  94. I have loved every mystery quilt you've offered. If I don't have a tool I will purchase it or forgo making the pattern. As for the tri-recs tool let me just say that if it's a cost issue it can be purchased at Hobby Lobby using a 40% coupon. Now I'm not advocating Hobby Lobby over an LQS but for some like me there is no LQS around (it closed) so remember that if you have an LQS and patronize it because the Hobby Lobby fabric is sub par and they don't have the same tools. Okay I digress, the point is to buy a cheap tri-recs tool that you WILL use over and over is definitely worth the investment. I bought my first one because of a pattern you had years ago that required it and I have used it a lot since then and not just on your patterns. Thanks for sharing with us, Bonnie. I for one really appreciate it.

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  95. High five Bonnie! Yes, I thank you for the gift and the inspiration. Yes, I endorse the "No Whining" policy--in more than quilting even!!! Guess what whiners? You do not have to make this quilt. You can make another quilt. You can buy a quilt. You can do whatever you choose to do with your scraps. You are adults. You are expected to act as such. Now go play nice!!!

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  96. p.s. I hate paper piecing too so you know what I did on a mystery quilt that had a huge portion of blocks paper pieced. I substituted something else and made do.

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  97. Oh, Bonnie....why, why, why? Why must people be so negative, ungracious, and unwilling to try something new? No one is telling them that they must complete the quilt. I so very much appreciate your giving us this mystery for free. I KNOW that it is a ton of work for you, and I think it is awesome that you do it for us. I also give you kudos for standing up for yourself here on the blog. A bunch of friends and I in a fb quilting group are doing the mystery together, which is making it all that much more fun. THANK YOU!!!

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  98. Dear Bonnie, you are awesome and thank you so much for this blog and all the patterns, the freebies and of course the mystery! I often read your blog before my bedtime and I enjoy it so often and every time. Living in area with very little quilting and possibility you open a door to get aquinted and see other quilters and their beautiful quilts. Or realise that there are other crazy people with the tendency of hording and enjoying it. Fabricaholics and others (-;
    Mentally emotionaly poor people envy the rich ones because of their creativity, ideas, brain, love passion and empathy to share all their knowledge like you do. Thank you again and I do hope to meet you some day.
    Big hugs from Switzerland Barbara
    Ps
    I just figured out that maybe Accuquilt 55027 might be a help for those who shy away from the cutting......

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  99. Dear Bonnie, you are awesome and thank you so much for this blog and all the patterns, the freebies and of course the mystery! I often read your blog before my bedtime and I enjoy it so often and every time. Living in area with very little quilting and possibility you open a door to get aquinted and see other quilters and their beautiful quilts. Or realise that there are other crazy people with the tendency of hording and enjoying it. Fabricaholics and others (-;
    Mentally emotionaly poor people envy the rich ones because of their creativity, ideas, brain, love passion and empathy to share all their knowledge like you do. Thank you again and I do hope to meet you some day.
    Big hugs from Switzerland Barbara
    Ps
    I just figured out that maybe Accuquilt 55027 might be a help for those who shy away from the cutting......

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  100. Bonnie.....I've done almost ALL of your mysteries...some I loved...some...well, not so much....but I've enjoyed them! But I have NEVER seen the amount of WHINING as I've seen in this one! And from the FIRST clue! I don't know if this is because there seems to be many more newbies this time or what. But the majority of us quilters here in cyberland love to do your mysteries and truly appreciate all you do for us! Please don't stop because of a few people who do not understand how mysteries work! The rest of us LOVE you and really do appreciate your dedication to making mysteries fun!

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  101. No one is twisting those whiners' arms and forcing them to make a mystery quilt. I think some people see whining as a form of entertainment. They don't seem to understand that it's just not all that entertaining to the rest of us :-(

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  102. Amen, Lee! My thoughts exactly...no one is being forced to participate! Thanks, Bonnie, for being so generous and for giving us this opportunity to have so much quilty fun to distract us from the pressures of the holidays. I think it's clear from the activity on Facebook that the vast majority of us are having a great time and not whining!!

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  103. Anonymous12:29 PM EST

    Very well said, my dear. With all that bitching, do those gals REALLY like to quilt??????

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  104. Thank you for being you, you are such a ray of sunshine. I look forward to each step and a new direction you are taking us on. Its like taking a trip and not leaving the room. Much appreciated by so many....Keep up the great work...

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  105. Just wanted to say Thank You for all the time you put into planning, sewing, writing the directions, and posting about this mystery quilt. I'm happy to be participating in my first Bonnie mystery quilt-along. You told us upfront what rulers/methods would be used in this quilt, so folks could choose to participate using their "favorite" method of those available (or they could choose not to participate). I'm sorry there are complainers. There are loads of ways to economize with printing the directions (double sided, only print the pages you "need") and ways to make the cutting go more quickly (multiple layers), so hopefully folks will figure those things out for themselves. Gotta go piece some of those units now. Thanks again!

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  106. Maybe some of the "WHINERS" need to find a new project! You have done everything Bonnie! I will not have a sewing machine for 2 months but I am downloading and printing off the directions. Guess what, I am going to make hexies by hand sewing. "A" for Appreciation comes at the first of the alphabet and "W" for Whiners comes at the end! Guess where we should all be?? Thanks so much from Maine, Bonnie!!

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  107. OMG what is the matter with people. They need to get a grip. I bet these people complain about EVERYTHING not just tri-recs for the Celtic Solstice Mystery Quilt. Seriously, if they don't like how this quilt is done, don't make the quilt and make another quilt that is easier and makes them happier..........sheesh it's not like you are forcing them to make it. There, that's off my chest.
    Thanks Bonnie for all the wonderful things you do and thanks so much for your free mystery. I am printing each step out as it is posted and saving it up for another time when I am not so busy trying to make everyone a quilty present for Christmas - this is the first time I have done this - plus my son a 21st birthday present for 3 January and a simple baby quilt.
    Helen

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  108. Anonymous1:05 PM EST

    I just read through a selection of the comments about your post about whiners, and I have to add my paltry two cents worth: you were very restrained in your post considering the provocation!!! Everyone has already said it, but - what the hell?!?!! Do it or don't do it - but don't complain!!!! Love your posts and love your projects. Thanks a million, Bonnie the best!

    Liz
    boltonia55@yahoo.com

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  109. Anonymous1:05 PM EST

    Bonnie, I appreciate what you do for all of us with sharing this free, fun mystery. I am so sorry to hear of all the complaining you have had to listen to. So far from what I had seen on the FaceBook page, it seemed like a really fun, kind, caring group of quilters participating. Please don't let the whiners spoil it for the rest of us. I am having a blast! So let's all give three cheers for Bonnie! Thank you, thank you, thank you

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  110. All I can say is thanks for your generosity and I for one can say I have made several of your mystery quilts and look forward to the next one year after year.
    Thanks Bonnie















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  111. Oh my goodness. I'm so sorry you're getting so many whines. Just remember, for every whiner there are at least 100 non-whiners - just take a look at the Facebook page "Bonnie Hunter's Celtic Solstice" that Charlotte Cronkhite set up. We're having a ball!! I've got all my pieces cut out and have sewn 10 of each unit. This is my first year to do your mystery. Thank you so much for all your generosity! Don't let them get you down. Have a safe trip to Germany.

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  112. So sorry to hear about all the whiners! I don't have much patience for them and my comment would be, "no one is forcing you to make this quilt" Maybe a little harsh, but really? I have never used the Tri Recs before and am loving them! I am sure you know that most of the people who follow and admire you do not whine. I certainly appreciate all that you do for us! THANK YOU!

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  113. Thank you for all that you offer to quilters! I can't imagine that anyone would complain about something that is given to them...FREE!! Where are your manners? Ignore complainers and whiners, please......we appreciate you.

    Gloria

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  114. As is often the case, the squeaking wheel gets the grease. There a lots of people who are just grateful that you are generous enough to give away the pattern. And many like me, who sometimes forget to say THANK YOU!!! I often think my thank you won't mean much, but I should remember it is important to say it anyway.

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  115. I appreciate the time and effort taken to provide your mystery quilt. It takes a lot to get something like this together. And for free - who could beat that! Thanks and ignore the whiners - they always find something.

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  116. Thank you for posting this. I can believe that this is happening. People must feel some sort of shield of immunity when posting (complaining) on line. They say things they would never say in person.
    And, you are exactly right, try and figure things out for yourself. The only way to really learn, really experience something.
    It looks as though you have again shown kindness and generosity and deleted these posts of complaint.
    You have a true fan here, and a true believer in your work. Thank you for everything.

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  117. Bonnie, This is the third mystery quilt of yours that I am doing. It seems like the squeaky wheels always get to much time and energy spent on them. I enjoy your mysteries and sincerely hope you do not become disheartened by those with a complete lack of understanding for the amount of time it takes to design a pattern, write the directions, and make the model. Sincerely keep up what you are doing!! Here are a bunch of hugs --------

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  118. I had seen something on the CS facebook page about whining,but had missed this post! Next one who whines, refer them to the nearest liquor store for some WINE to soften their mood and maybe they have some cheese in the refrig to go with it! A gift is a gift-you don't whine about how you wanted something else! If need be, you quietly exchange it (find a different pattern to make) and the rest of us enjoy our gift with graditude! (get real, people, or we may lose our source of fun!)

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  119. Anonymous2:36 PM EST

    Way to go Bonnie! It's a gift...be gracious.

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  120. I will never understand what some people are thinking...

    Everyone should love what you do for your readers and appreciate the time, work and creativityy that you put into this mystery.

    Some people in this world can't be satisfied with anything (and yes, I know at least one person who is never satisfied with anything, even if it's free...) - those people can be a real pain.
    It's too bad that there is no email spam filtering function for such annoying mails - you shouldn't be bothered by the people who are complaining about your mystery.
    You deserve tons of "Thank you" mails!

    I can't wait to start sewing. It's my plan to start tomorrow evening.

    I love what all you do for your readers and fans - I just wish I could give you something back for everything that I learned from you so far...

    Greetings from cold Germany.
    Janina

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  121. Margaret Burnett2:59 PM EST

    Dear Bonnie:

    I love all your patterns - you are definitely the queen of scrappy quilts.
    This is the 1st mystery quilt I'm participating in, & I'm all excited to get started. I've got a collection of scraps, as well as whole cuts, fat 1/4's, etc., & I really appreciate this freebie pattern. It is so good of you to do this. Good on you for not putting up with the B.S. coming from complainers!

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  122. Bonnie, I've done everyone of your mysteries. They are GORGEOUS. Thank you. I KNOW what to expect...a lot of hard work, learning something new every time and that horribly looooooong wait 'til start of mystery and then again 'til every Friday comes. LOL! I am grateful for this distraction from holiday stress (and, it IS a de-stressor for me), and the beautiful works I'd never have attempted without Bonnie. Your quilts draw AHHHHHs from my guild when I show them and I know of HUNDREDS of women that would like to have one of these. And, they are MINE to bless my kids or myself with. I am making this one from shirts in your colors and it will be a gift to my 19yo son who has been saving for years for a long trip to Ireland. How cool is that? He'll be grateful too, I am sure. I have my first steps done and am unpatiently counting down the days to next Friday. NOTHING else gets me so excited like a kid at Christmas. This is utter delight! Yes, I DO at times, think "how can Bonnie do this to us" when I'm making SO many little blocks or learning string piecing. Now, I love string piecing and my little blocks are addictive and CU-TE! Bonnie knows and I am SO glad I trusted her and started cutting...and cutting...and cutting! LOL. Bonnie, EVERY day, I thank you. For the beautiful quilts I just had to do, for giving me inspiration and skills, for finding a way to make detailed hard work fun and enticing. You are a blessing. Thank you a million times over and, when my quilts outlast me, I thank you from my offspring. If I could teach ONE person to enjoy quilting like you've, um, corrupted me into enjoying the needle to fabrics, I'd be VERY happy about that...and, you've touched so very many. Love you,
    Lucy (in IN)

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  123. Thank you, Bonnie, for this wonderful free mystery pattern and all of the wonderful freebies you have on your site ... and for teaching how to use new quilting methods. No whining here! ... :) Pat

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  124. Anonymous3:22 PM EST

    I agree totally. I use the opportunity to buy new tools to use. Gives me a valid reason to tell dh I have to have this ruler to make the quilt. Bonnie says......you get the picture. Works every time. Right now I don't have time to start this mystery. But you can bet that I am printing/saving the clues for next year. God bless you for the many wonderful things you do for us quilters.

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  125. Thank You Bonnie for all your hard work. This year you went over the top doing the extra sizes and the extra ways of putting them together. If they don't like the free options, they can wait and buy the book and deal with the one way it says to do it, or move on to a happier place for them. Hold your head high I am sure there are 50 of us very grateful and happy followers out here for every one of those drama queen whiners that need to get a life. Keep up the good work Bonnie, hold your head high, LOTS of us love what you do!!!!!

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  126. Hi Bonnie----I just got back home from a short Thanksgiving trip and haven't had the chance to start on this new Mystery, but when I saw this post, I just had to write. I want to thank you for all of the time and thought you have put into these yearly Mystery Quilts. I love the chance to try something new and would NEVER even THINK about whinning!!! Just so grateful to you for all you do and are always so willing to share with us. So please accept this {{{pat}}} on your back for a job well done!!

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  127. Shelley Gardner3:47 PM EST

    There are two groups on FB following along with this mystery- IMHO, problems an individual is having should be worked out in a group setting where the wide range of people doing it is going to provide a solution for the someone who "doesn't like this part"- (I saw it too, someone whining about having to touch one piece of fabric multiple times, and sometimes there just isn't an answer to the individual being anal....). But bi-otching directly at you...for providing a FREE pattern and help...that's just rude and uncalled for. I personally thank you for this quilt pattern, and how it's bringing groups TOGETHER in the true spirit of quilting.

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  128. There are people who can't find anything nice to say about a sunny day. I've never understood that attitude. Whiners, you are so 'outta here'. Bonnie has given us this wonderful free gift, and I for one am thoroughly grateful for it. Thank you, Bonnie, for the daily blog I look forward to every evening, the MANY free patterns on your site, and the terrific methods for storing and using our scraps, which I have been using for some time now.

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  129. For Pete's sake, people! It's free! And guess what else? Nobody is making you do it. You can and will, or you won't and don't. Simple as that. Thank you Bonnie for putting in so much time, effort, and skill to provide something free to so many who do appreciate it and will choose to participate WITHOUT WHINING.

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  130. Oh, Bonnie I am so sorry that the whiners got you down!!! Please believe that there are more of us who appreciate all that you do for us than them.
    I have one thing to say to all the whiners out there: if you can't figure out one of the several ways to cut out your fabric pieces, you should just sit this one out. Save yourself the stress of several options given to you for free!!!!

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  131. To the whiners out there,since you can't figure it out, sit it out!! The rest of us are learning new things and look forward to all Bonnie graciously gives us with thanks.

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  132. I might be wine-ing, but I'm not whining! This is my first BH mystery, my first time using Tri Recs, and my first time using orange. Lottsa cutting, but also lottsa fun. To the whiners: as we used to say back in the 60's, "may the lice of a thousand camels make a home on your head".

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  133. Kudos to you. Just can't please some people. Let them design their own patterns if they don't like FREE and can't follow a pattern.

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  134. Thank you again for posting a new mystery quilt for us to try and I LOVE that it takes me out of my comfort zone and enables me to use those rulers I bought sometime ago for some forgotten project! lol. As the kids used to say You Rock!

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  135. Bonnie is such an amazingly good teacher. I've never had the good fortune to take a class from her in person, But her online tutorials are so clearly written and so well illustrated with photos that I feel like I have my own private tutor working with me. Plus, she does videos -- not just with this mystery, but in the past too. I am very grateful that she is so generous with her time and talent.

    So I'm flabbergasted that there are people who are whining for more, more, more or who want Bonnie to rework this mystery to fit their own preferences. Where does such a feeling of entitlement come from?

    All I can say is, "Please, Bonnie, don't let a few whiners ruin it for you (or the rest of us.) Thank you, thank you, thank you!

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  136. I have been 'browsing' your blog for a few months now (every day & just love it) I would not do this type of a challenge (never have I mean) as a rule, but - I'm up for this one. I have decided to have a go @ paper piecing & can't wait to get started, thank you for doing this, cause I feel a part of a little (or large) group & it's nice. Deb M (from QLD Australia)

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  137. No, Bonnie, not really? Judy L. has been having similar complaints. Some people are unbelievable, even quilters.

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  138. Oh Bonnie - I used to work in Human Resources for 25 years and we used to say all the time "No good deed goes unpunished" but I DIDN'T REALLY BELIEVE IT. I hear what you are saying about whining but PLEASE KEEP DOING YOUR GOOD DEEDS. It's the only way you know how to live your life - and you provide such joy - not just all your freebies but your sharing of your spirit and enthusiasm for quilting for life. I THANK YOU for all you do - no whining from me - ever. It's an honor and a asset in my life to "know you."

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  139. Bonnie, Thank you so much for the FREE Mystery Quilt pattern and the time you have devoted to this. I am a newbie teaching myself how to quilt and sew. I am so excited to learn some new and different techniques. I don't have the time to travel miles to go to classes, live out in the boondocks. I am so grateful for your blog, I have learned quite a bit from you. My quilts may never be in shows but I am having a great time. Sorry for the ungrateful ones…..very sad that there are folks like that.
    A very big Thank you to all that you do Bonnie!!!! You do make a difference to some of us!! YOU ROCK!

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  140. Sorry that people are whining and complaining.Thank you so much for this free quilt mystery.

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  141. Oh, bonnie, I wish I could smack the stupid out of all the whiners for you. You are one of the hardest working women on this earth, and what you do is such a gift to the quilting community!!!!
    I'm a runner and a fitness instructor. When my class starts whining, they know my immediate response will be "SUCK IT UP, BUTTERCUP!" When other runners in our group whine, they hear the same thing. Whining doesn't get you anywhere in life.
    Please know you have the rest of the non-whiners on your side- we love and adore you, and ever so grateful for EVERYTHING you do!!!!!!!!!

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  142. next they will be wanting you to make it for them~ lol ~ :)
    thanks Bonnie for all you do,,,,, you rock girl~ :)

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  143. next they will be wanting you to make it for them~ lol ~ :)
    thanks Bonnie for all you do you rock girl~ :)

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  144. Anonymous6:57 PM EST

    Well Bonnie. ..you should not have to deal with whiners...I love thw tri recs...I love this mystery quilt..truly is keeping me in the mood to sew..just so I can be ready for the next clue. I love it...and I thank you so much for an interesting way to learn something new and create something only we can imagine!

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  145. OMG! This is supposed to be fun, just go with the flow people and stop whining! If you do not like the mystery then do not do it, this is a wonderful learning opportunity by a national quilt teacher do please do not spoil it for the rest of us by whining. :-)

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  146. Hi Bonnie,
    I think the most valuable part of your mysteries, besides the fun, cameraderie, and suspense, is that the directions are written so very well. Where else do you find such detailed instructions with step by step photos and even tutorial videos? I've learned so much from the mysteries. I hope the unpleasantness you've received at the start of this one doesn't cause you to reconsider why you even bother with this huge annual free project! I would miss it terribly!
    Using the Tri Recs ruler is just like using the other commonly used rulers, like the easy angle and the companion angle. Inexpensive and very useful. I was vaguely aware of Inkglo, but was a little timid. Thanks for showing it to us, and giving us a good link to get started with it. I hope you enjoy your trip to Germany, and if you can post while you're there, great, and if not, we'll be here when you return.
    Affectionately,
    Leslie Kemberling

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  147. I thank you Bonnie! This is fun and I do just as you suggested! lol. just keep plugging along until I get what I need!
    I have not done one of your mysteries before, but my sister has and loved it, so.....
    here we go! ;)

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  148. Anonymous9:06 PM EST

    I feel really bad for you that you had to post this. I know it was hard for you.
    This isn't the first time I have seen this kind of behavior. I have seen it in my own quilt guild, which is really ashame. It seems these days that a lot of people have an "entitlement" issue. Other people call it being selfish. Whatever it is, it needs to stop.
    I, too, appreciate all of the hard work you have gone through to giving us options (and the instructions to those options). I can't imagine the time it has taken to write the instructions, create the videos, and get your posts ready. And tomorrow you are setting up a Mr. Linky for everyone.
    Thank you for everything!

    Amanda

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  149. Focus on the positive: there are many more delighted and silent Celtic Soltice readers than complainers; we are ever so grateful for this opportunity to make this quilt (before it comes out in a book we will buy); we support you, appreciate you, and back you up in all you do; we love you.
    So, complainers, drop off and go elsewhere, you don't have to make this mystery. I know...preaching to the silent majority choir.

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  150. Hi Bonnie,
    Just worked on cutting out my orange and blues. Boy do I love them (remind me of SU colors). Found my rulers yesterday at Joanne's and it was the last one and on sale, yahoo!!!! Can't wait to sew them, it couldn't come at a better time. Lost my dad last week and had spent a week in Florida with my sisters. This project and watching Christmas dvd's keeps my mind occupied. This will be my 3rd mystery and learning more and more. Thanks, Rea

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  151. I was so excited to see the Tri-Recs ruler clue. I've made 2 quilts using these rulers and I loved them. Thanks for sharing your mystery quilts, I can only imagine how much time they take. No whining here :).

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  152. SWP - that is the best excuse!! What a family treasure you are creating for your grandson and his family... WOW. Sketching your quilt will be scary, frustrating, exciting all at once lol. I sketched (if I could call it that) a quilt for my daughter... and it turned out!! Eeeek hehe. Congratulations on your grandson's upcoming nuptuals and enjoy the making of this amazing quilt. You do realise that having told everyone about this, that we, (me) will be hoping to see photos :)

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  153. Hi Bonnie!! First I want to say a huge THANK YOU!!! I have not done a MYSTERY QUILT.....yet. I will at some point in time I am sure, so I thank you in advance! I have been following your blog for several years follow FB, have all of your books, watch quilt cam...even my three year old grandson, Thomas, is a Bonnie fan!!! So, for anyone to whine and complain makes me furious!! You can't please all of the people all of the time, we all know that, but there are some people that the more you do for them, the more they expect. Please know that for every whining person, there are several hundred happy campers!! I have learned a lot from you, and very much appreciate the time that you spend sharing with all of us out of the goodness of your heart and for the love of your craft!! I hope that the whiners don't run you off!!!! Thanks for all you do!!! Sherri

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  154. I receive your blogs by email every day and read them and love them. I truly love QuiltCam. I bought the rulers and love the challenge of a new method. As soon as I get brave I'm going to print the Inklingo! I've read the site and am excited to try. It's my 1st mystery quilt. All of this is because of you and your willingness to share with we quilters. Thank you. Bobbie from CA

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  155. Anonymous12:20 AM EST

    You are so astoundingly generous, to the benefit of all of us, that I can only believe those who want to be spoon-fed really aren't quilters who've ever attempted to write a pattern. Your instructions are clear. THANK YOU! for all you do in so many ways!

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  156. Bonnie I wish I was as talented as you. You take scraps and make them beautiful and I for one would give my eyeteeth to be able to just take one of your classes but in the meantime a free mystery quilt is an amazing gift. Thank you, thank you from the bottom of my heart for all you share with us.

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  157. My only whine is a want no NEED a BONNIE APP!!!! :)

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  158. No whining here! I love using these rulers, I'm having fun. No one "made" me do this. Thanks for this fun, free mystery quilt pattern!

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  159. He Bonnie, please go sewing and let those complaining complain. You have given much more then we need and there are multiple choices. Please don't let them get to you and just keep going, go, sew and have some fun :-)!

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  160. Wow. Well, you know what they say: "No good deed goes unpunished!"
    My ex-husband's family had a saying: "Play the course!" They used it when playing sports or games as a way to say no whining; we are all playing on the same playing field so quit complaining!
    You are incredibly generous with your time and talent. Please don't let those turkeys get you down.

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  161. Tell them all to pull up their big girl panties and get on with it. What do they want...for you to MAKE the quilt for them?

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  162. How about some personal responsibility here, people!
    We have known for over a month that the Tri-Recs ruler was going to be used, along with the various options of PDF templates, Inklingo, finished sizes, fabric requirements & Bonnie's colors. If all of that info wasn't enough for you to decide if you could take the plunge & do this mystery, then you could have quietly dropped out after the first installment of instructions - no one would have thought less of you.

    The rest of us are taking this mystery quilt on as a challenge. Celtic Solstice may not be our colors or our usual quilt style or size or even in our skill level comfort zone but we are forging ahead and making this OUR quilt!
    That means NO WHINING, making color choices, gathering our fabrics, prepping our tools, tuning up our machines, finding time in our schedules, overcoming physical issues, getting down to business and being GRATEFUL that Bonnie has given us this wonderful gift!

    If you can't do this, please take your bucket of whining and go back to your own sandbox. We are planning on having a great time over here and don't need you dragging down the party. We are too busy following our Fearless Leader Bonnie into the Celtic Solstice Mystery and sharing our journey along the way.
    And YES - there may be math involved!

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  163. Anonymous12:17 PM EST

    Selah!!! Amen!!!

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  164. A friend of mine did her blocks with the square in a square ruler. They look perfect.

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  165. I find the paper pieced method very easy when working with scraps of odd sizes - very accurate, etc. however, I was away during the Thanksgiving weekend...with no printer, no special rulers... so I just DREW the sewing lines on the back of the "63 degree" pieces and used a borrowed sewing machine (a 60's era Morse). It worked great! I am glad to be home now and using the rulers, but for a few pieces to get the ball rolling during the trip - it was really worth it!

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  166. Bonnie, ignore the complaints--they aren't worth your time. My first experience with you was the Carolina Christmas mystery, and you taught me sooo much. I've been pretty much self-taught, with what I've picked up online, and you have my undying gratitude. Even guild-sponsored workshops are still pricey, and you're offering detailed instruction and a forum for Q&A through the group. It's fun, it's free, and we'll end up with a great guilt at the end. I didn't even whine when I found my Tri but not the matching Rec (Can I whine a little bit here?)! Just went out and bought another with my Joann's coupon before we started the mystery. What if we whined so much Bonnie stopped offering mysteries?! Let's all enjoy.

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  167. The whiners are a very small percent of the mystery folks. There are thousands of us who are happy as clams. I rolled over Friday morning, grabbed my phone to see the first clue and I've been happily sewing ever since. I am making the king size and have all my first clue done. Should I whine that I want the next clue? Maybe I'll just relax and enjoy anticipating the next one. I send a big thank you with every stitch I take!

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  168. Oh, I just want to say THANK YOU! I just purchased my tri recs about a month ago and have yet to use them! I have been slowly adding items to my collection and I'm psyched to get to use them! Squeal! I cant wait for all the fun clues!

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  169. I think you should just repost the "no whining" post once a week and let it go at that. You know that people are going to say all those things because they always have. I do, too, while I am cutting all those little pieces. And I did this week when I couldn't find my Tri Rex rulers. And I complained again today when I finally drove 200 miles to buy a new set (went to 5 shops before I could find them). But these are all my problems, not yours. The only reason I have complaints is because I have decided to challenge myself, again, to make one of your wonderful quilts. So, laugh at us whiners, and get on with your own life. You are more productive and share more of yourself than most of the rest of us so don't let us get you down. AND, have fun on your trip, it sounds wonderful.

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  170. Personally the tri rec's are my FAV rulers to use over any others and your Mystery Quilts are ALWAYS awesome. Thank You. Period. Thank You! And doing a mystery quilt with a friend is fun, maybe they should try that and get help from their friends, which is also free!

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