Tuesday, June 7, 2011

Straight talk................

Okay - I love what I do, and I am so grateful for the talents that God has given me. I enjoy creating - I love drawing a quilt, piecing it together and then quilting it. I can do all of it and I love it. I do it because it keeps me sane, but lately I think I have been going INSANE if you can believe it. Well - if you know me well, then that wouldn't surprise you.

Anyway - I guess I am just sick of all the crap! Crap being the "competitive, rude, jealous" women that pretend to be my friends and then I find out from my own mother - 'cause it's gone through the most random gossip grapevine - that they are just talking untrue crap about me! WHY PEOPLE???? Do we have to do this - it's getting really old, seriously. It takes all the fun out of creating and trying to be good at something.

I love what I do and I love to share what I do, and it seems the minute I have a bit of success - then the claws come out - like I am in competition with anyone - I am not, I simply want to share what I know and hopefully everyone out there wanting to be better at their own thing can use some hints or inspiration from me. Truth is - I design and we (Clint and I) have a business because we just want to provide a good living for our kids and we want to be home with our kids - we are in our little world minding our own business - trying to run a business. So - get a grip!

I am not saying that everyone out there is like this - it's just a select few people who choose to be ornery! So - now that's out - it makes me feel better just to say it because it has been stewing in my brain for a couple weeks now and I feel like I am going to explode!

Now - back to creating - 2 done - 5 to go and the time line is going to kill me - I hope I can get this book done asap so my kids no longer think I am a crazy stressed out mom!

80 comments:

Tracey Jacobsen said...

jealousy is all I can think... grrrr...

You do beautiful amazing work... be proud, and enjoy that you have something that stays done! :) ;) And your plate is definitely full!

Camille said...

I occasionally complain to my husband how freaking awesome you are at quilting. Is that allowed? It is always in the nicest, most complimentary way, if that makes a difference. He gets tired of hearing, "Okay, you HAVE to see this quilt Judy quilted". But he always agrees with me.

Hang in there, don't let the bad creep in. Just keep keepin' on keepin' on!

Jodi-JoJoMia's Place said...

Well, all I know is that your quilting is some of the most amazing stuff I have EVER seen and unfortunately for me, I haven't gotten to see it in person.

Keep up the good work and try to let that stuff slide off if you can, I know it is hard, especially if you know them personally. Just do what you love and it will show.

Dirt Road Quilter said...

Oh Girl! Just breathe and keep doing what you are doing. Some people never seem to leave junior high and spend their lives picking on others. I'm sorry you've been hurt. Kow that there are a lot of people pulling for you and wishing you all the success in the world.

Unknown said...

be a mom...i think that is God's greatest gift.

Anonymous said...

I'm jealous of your mad skillz but thats a compliment. Be successful and happy!

Melissa said...

Seriously, people who talk behind others' backs need to get a life. As long as you are doing what is right for you and yours, you can rest assured you are in the right place! I love checking out your blog...it's always so uplifting!

Ruth B said...

Just people doing what people do...picking apart someone they are jealous of. Sorry to hear its happening to you but just know that the majority of us know you are an amazing family and your quilting skills are beyond amazing. To do all you do while raising children....you are a very special person. That makes some people mean. Mean people suck. Don't let them grind you down.

Beth said...

Hang in there! Just tune out those jealous people who cannot be happy for someone else's success. Just imagine how nasty it would be to BE that person! UGH! Your happy personality can been seen in your quilting and your lovely family. How about a set of blinders so you cannot see those crabby jealous people???!?

Quiltjane said...

Remember there will always be mean people but how you let their hollow words affect you will determine your happiness. You inspired me with your amazing talent to quilt to become a long arm quilter. You are a great mother, quilter and person. Toss the negativity aside and turn it into creative energy.

Paula said...

Just do what you do and what you love, and forget the turkeys. They are everywhere. :) Hang in there.

Unknown said...

This sort of thing happens everywhere (even within families, for no apparent reason) - remember whatever you do you will NOT please everyone, be true to yourself and enjoy your journey in you family and craft. These are the gifts you have been given and if others can't see, find or accept their gifts, whatever they are, it's their problem, and they are the ones missing out on possibly sharing in your gift, as no doubt you'll be protecting yourself from them.

Sunnybec said...

You have to remember these people must be very unhappy if they have to spend their time thinking and speaking negative thoughts. You just carry on doing what you do, look after you, your family and friends and the rest can go jump in a lake.. Hugs x

Jan Maree said...

As my Mum would say - chewy on yer boot - to those that are being negative of dishonest with their friendships. Ignore them. There is probably something missing in their lives and you can deal with them best by just doing what you love and what you are good at and doing it well!

Happy stitching!

Juels said...

Aw, Judi, you are amazing! That is all you need to remember.

Cristina said...

I am a very optimistic person, I try to find the best in everything, no matter how difficult or how disgusting may be. I think you can be somehow pleased you hear such bad words, because it's a clear indication you are succesful! :-))) Don't, however, let this poison enter your heart. We in Romania, Europe, have a saying: the dogs bark, the caravan keeps going! So, keep your caravan on track! Good luck! A warm hug!

Leeanne said...

Think of 'them' as tiny specks of dust....IF you do think of them...not important, irrelevant!
You are a gem and we love to see what you have created, keep doing what you do so well with a sparkle and stuff the pain in the butt people!

Debbie B Sam said...

Judi - SCREW them :) I love this saying - If you didn't see it with your own eyes, or heart it with your own ears, don't invent it with your small mind and share it with your big mouth! Mean people suck, if you let them get to you. I love your blog, your stories and most certainly your quilting! I wanna be like you when I grow up :) Smile!!!

Michelle said...

These people are just jealous of you, wishing for what you have, or the success. Sad little people. Obviously, these people are not your friends, so don't let them bother you. Friends love you for whatever you do, and support you. Poo poo the rest! Stand tall and proud, and pray that some day, they will find a loving heart.

Gene Black said...

Try to remember that the problem is theirs, not yours. It can only be yours if you accept it and let it be your problem.
Other than that say "God, please deal with this, I don't know how and I know that vengeance is yours."

Dorian said...

((Hugs)) Judi, I'm sorry there has to be these mean spirited people in the world. Just continue to do what you enjoy, enjoy your talents from God, and surround yourself with those who enjoy you, just for you. Those who encourage, laugh, cry and love with you...It's a wonderful thing to have Mommy and Daddy at home, raising their children :)

Kathy said...

Judi, there are mean spirited people everywhere. I am a teacher and you would think that all other teachers would be supportive of each other. Oh no!! My principal once told me, "Kathy, you could be Jesus walking on water and you still wouldn't make them happy so just keep on doing what your doing and know you're successful." Please don't let the Debbie downers get to you. They are jealous, plain and simple. As long as you are happy, you are in the right place. And, your work is amazing! You go girl!!!

Sherry said...

We all love what you do and what you to keep doing it. I enjoy seeing what your working on and I dream to grow up to quilt ike you do. Kepp up the great work.

Donna said...

Your talent is amazing! Remember insecurity is often the basis for jealousy, which seems to be the issue here. Keep doing what you do so well. Happy quilting!

bj.lj said...

As the comments say above...your talent is amazing and you use it to glorify God and display the awesome abilities He has bestowed on you.

Long story very short, I, too, was a "victim" last week of a scathing retort from someone who presented themselves as a talented, happy go-lucky, loving individual! I was absolutely blown away and disheartened by their negative attitude, plus the fact that they thought I had infringed on "their" talent.

However, I soon began to see how other people are stressed, unhappy and just do not know or have the Love of the Lord in their lives. Much to their pity.

So, Praise God you use your talents for His Glory...and You Go Girl!

Linda Sue Johnson

Melissa Corry said...

I am so sorry you have been hurt by others. Know that we all love what you do. You are truly an inspiration, and I think it is amazing that you and your husband support your family on your talents. Good luck on the book :) I am moving to Cedar City on Monday, I would love to meet you some time when I am in St. George :)

Patty Benner Young said...

Judi, the older I get, the more I am amazed by how hurtful and insensitive people can be. Jealousy is truly a green headed monster that infiltrates a person's soul...and talent like yours, unfortunately, attracts jealousy. Brings out the worst in some people. You'll find that you'll keep to yourself more...don't let the haters into your life, and keep those you love close. I try to take the high road, and have compassion for those you behave badly. Good luck, for me, people's actions have been a life long struggle.

Megan said...

Haters gonna hate. Just keep at it and take pride in the skills and the drive you've been blessed with! I'm very excited to see your book!

Lynette said...

Pooh! Have a good rant (this'll do - good job!), let it out, then let it go. As others have said, pathetic people exist in every sphere, and unfortunately, they can't resist sniping at people who have created a good thing.

:) Now hold your head back up knowing that many of us adore what you do and share. Thank you, thank you, for being who you are and providing the inspiration that makes us aspire to gain skills and the designs that make us smile.

Can't wait to see your book. (I'll be buying it!) What a huge pressure on you, though! Once that is squared away, I bet your equilibrium will be so much easier to maintain. :)

Forget the miserable few who snipe - think of the hundreds of us who adore. :)

Craft Geek said...

Hold your head high. You have a beautiful gift. Don't let catty people get you down.
Think of their jealousy as a compliment. They want to be like you, but can't. So, to make themselves feel better, they try to bring you down to their level by gossiping.
Just ignore the old hens! Keep doing what you do best!

Barb said...

I just don't get it....it is beyond me why someone would do that to you. It does have to be jealousy, that is all. You are so amazing. Please dont let this dull creativity or sadden your life. Keep on doing what you love and just turn your ears to this nonesense. I don't know why people have to be so mean.

Tangos Treasures said...

Wow!! How crazy!! You just keep on with your ideas! I for one have been inspired by you!!
Don't let those bitty's get you down!!

Spontaneous Threads said...

I saw this the other day and thought it true enough to write down my additions are in ()

"be who you are and say (do) what you feel…….
Because those that matter don't mind,
and those that mind- don't matter……"

If I could quilt like you, I'd be in heaven!!!!

Pat said...

When you are a good person inside, it is doubly difficult to understand/accept that not everyone is wired the same way. I have a dear friend in the quilting business who was burned by someone out of the blue. It took her a while to recover, but she refused to bring herself down to the level of that individual. Have the courage of your convictions, and wrap yourself in the support of your true friends and your family. There is an old latin saying I remember from college: "Illegitimus non carburundom". It means "don't let the ba*tards gring you down".

Foolish Feathers said...

I was so surprised by this post. And my first thought was how much this must have overwhelmed you for you to decide to post this. It's so sad that someone would want to be negative about what God has given you to do. The other posters are right that you do amazing work. I was sincerely overwhelmed the first time I saw your stitching pictures.

When one sees what you have done they must acknowledge that it took hard work to get there. You can have the gift of creativity but it takes time, and effort to learn how to use machines and the proper use of them and how make the designs you create. You did not do this overnight! When a castle is built there will always be those who wish to see it torn down. And even a castle is built and added to over time. As you will change and develop other ideas or methods the more you create. Continue what you do for the Lord, is it not him you wish to please? May he give you the strength to endure slander and bitterness from others.

Anonymous said...

I can't say it any better than those who have commented before me! Let me just add that many of us that you don't even know, have been inspired by your creativity, your skills, and your determination to put family first. (My hubby and I did that, and many people talked behind our backs, too.) Hugs to you!
Jacque in SC
quiltnsrep(at)yahoo(dot)com

♥Duff said...

What I'm hearing is that you're hurt, and it sounds like you have every right to be. It's unsettling when you've put yourself out there and someone stomps on you. People like that are insecure and feel small, so they beat up others to feel bigger. This is not a reflection of you or your success, it's a reflection of another person's dislike of herself. Don't defend your skills or work choices--you are living a life of integrity and choice. If others don't like it, that's their crap, not yours! No one has the right to judge you! there's an old saying--if you loan someone $10 and you never hear from them again, it was worth the $10 to be rid of them. You've learned that this/these person(s) are not your friends. Good--you know who not to talk to anymore!
p.s. you'll never get back this time with your kids--do whatever you can to stay home with them--they need your love and guidance and you will NEVER regret this choice!

Teresa Silva said...

Ignore the jealousy....you do awesome work and that is all that matters. Your kids are beautiful and I love that you and your husband have put all of your heart into your own business. I look forward to seeing your posts and the wonderful things you do.

dream quilt create said...

Hi Judi,
Let me guess, those "jealous" few are NOT quilters. Quilters would never act that way. What you do is not bragging, it is sharing your joy of creating, sewing and quilting. Every quilter loves that, can't get enough of it!!! Focus on all your quilting and blogging and true friends and don't worry about those other sad little people. ha ha ha!! Say hi to your incredible mom for me. I absolutely loooooooove your quilting and designing and everything you share with us. Thanks Judi ♥

Jocelyn said...

This is so sad to hear. You have shared such beautiful work with all of us, and I for one, love to see your work. To me it is amazing what you can do with your quilting. Do what you love, and like the Word says, turn the other cheek. Do what you love, and like the others have shared, enjoy the talents that God has given you.

Monica said...

Ignore the haters! They have sad, pathetic lives and the only way they are able to feel good about themselves is to gossip and spout lies about other people.

Keep your chin up. You, your family, and the rest of us know you ROCK!

Linda said...

In my experience, people who spend their time cutting others down are the people who are the most insecure about themselves. It's hard to ignore the insults and insinuations, but try to focus on doing what you love and enjoy. You are doing great things with your talents. Just keep it up!

sincerely yours said...

God has given you a talent; use it and give all glory to God! You do beautiful work!!!
Emma

Meg said...

I think it's sad that people waste so much time resenting the success of others instead of pursuing their own passions and success! Rise above, Judi--you are talented and successful and amazing. Can't keep the haters from hatin'!

Contented Caroline said...

Ho Judi - sorry that you've been hurt by these people claiming to be your friend. Jealousy is a hideous emotion but unfortunately cannot be erased 'cos it's a human flaw that comes with the air we breathe. I hope you can find a place within yourself that lets you see through other people's envy and just carry on doing what you do best. Have confidence in YOU and your abilities and forget the other shit. Cxxx

Nedra said...

Judi, you are one of the sweetest, most unassuming ladies I've ever known. When I first met you I knew immediately you had extream talent and would go far. With Clint by your side, and those beautiful children, nothing else really matters. Stay clear of all that negative stuff out there, and continue to just be your delightful creative self.

Wendy said...

Jealousy causes people to be mean spirited......instead of trying to do better themselves they spend all their time picking apart someone else.....

Keep doing what you do, you are a gifted, talented and awesome quilter!.....a loving, caring and kind mother and wife!.....

I am so happy that you and Clint have an awesome business that allows you both to be at home with your family!

And remember, you are who you are and no-ones idle words of gossip can change that.....

For the creative person you are the sky is the limit.....just shake off the negative and move forward in the positive of your awesome quilting and family life.....

Cascade Quilts said...

people who talk bad about people because of their success or mad skillz like you have, are just petty jealous people that never grew up after junior high! You don't need those people in your life, pretend they don't exist :) You are a wonderful talented person and you don't need people like that around! Just keep doin' what you're doin' :)

Anonymous said...

All too often we stuff our feelings away, not wanting to stoop to saying unkind things. Unfortunately, this tends to backfire and cause stress and anxiety. When those feelings are particularly intense, we might even lash out at people who don't deserve it. Talking about what has upset us is a very important part of coping with daily life. I'm glad you spoke up!

@wendydesigns said...

You don't know me, but I've been reading your blog for a while. I saw a TED video recently with a woman executive at Facebook, and she was talking about how when men are successful, everyone thinks good things about them, but when a woman is successful, "she must be a bitch." It's very sad that our society reacts to successful women in such a negative way. Please don't let it get you down. Your talent and success are inspiring to the rest of us who have ambition.

Darlene B said...

You go, girl! Just keep on creating and doing what you love to support your family! Glad you got all this off your chest - now you can move forward!

Unknown said...

You shouldn't care what others say, they're just envious of your skills. Your skills and talent are unquestionable, you do great work and make wonderful quilts!! SO, keep them coming - we love them :o)

Deborah said...

Judi,
I don't know you. What I do know is that you are gifted beyond my wildest imagination. I started sewing at age 5. I'm good :), but your ability, at your age, WOW! I can't wait to see what you will make in the future. I am a teacher. I eat lunch alone everyday. The people I work with are competitive and rude as well. At least you don't have to look at them everyday! Keep taking care of your beautiful children and enjoy the time that your business allows you to have with them. I check on you just about every day and I am thrilled to see what you will post. Keep smiling!
Deborah

Stitched With Prayer said...

Judi, hon, you gotta let it roll of your back. You have a gift, a true gift. "Don't sweat the small stuff" kiddo. You have too much to give to let petty gossip and jealousy interfere with you happiness. Hugs, really big hugs!

Char said...

Judi, I think your work is wonderful. When I sit down at my Juki to quilt I try to connect with my inner Green Fairy so maybe one day my work will look half as good as yours.

Eileen said...

I am so sorry to hear that people are being sooo RUDE to you. Sometimes people do not want to see others succeed. Keep you chin up and keep moving on...FORWARD

corina said...

I pity the ones who have to cut down others to feel good about themselves. If your work wasn't so beautiful, they wouldn't be so jealous and have to talk about you. Forget them, we all love you!!! Hugs :o)

Quilting_Chris said...

Jealousy is an ugly thing. It makes small people, smaller. Just try to enjoy your talents and success. Rejoice in the fact that you and your DH can support your family doing something you love.

I know it's not easy, but ignore them, it pisses them off even more, when they can't get to you.

onlymehere said...

There always has to be at least one in the group doesn't there? Here's my favorite quote that's on my sidebar on my blog.

"Can we not appreciate that our very business in life is not to get ahead of others, but to get ahead of ourselves? To break our own records, to outstrip our yesterdays by our todays, to bear our trials more beautifully than we ever dreamed we could, to give as we've given, to do our work with more force and a finer finish than ever. This is the true idea...to get ahead of ourselves." President Thomas S. Monson

Hope that brings some sunshine into your day. It's easy to say ignore them but it's so hard to do when you're the one being talked about but I hope you can ignore these people. You and Clint have chosen a good thing and I'm so happy you're doing well.
Cindy

Vicki ♥ said...

I bet those horrid people have nothing worth talking about in thier lives. Dont let them get to you and keep on doing what you do. I love your quilting and I would love to see it in real life!! I know I would sing your praises and I do sing them when I see your blog..I say...Oh My goodness...did you see Judi's latest quilt she done!! Amazing!! You have lots and lots of awesome talent Judi and just tell those horrid people to go to the taxidermist and get stuffed!! Hehehe. Dont let thier negativeness get to you. They are just so jealous as they wont ever be anything special like you are :) Hugs Vicki

Dianne Giles said...

Here in Australia, we call it "tall poppy syndrome". As soon as someone does good or gets recognition for their awesome works, someone else has to cut them down. I think your work is awesome and you have given me so many ideas for quilting. Keep up the good work Judi and know that those "knockers" are not your friends. Hugs, Dianne

~Laurie~ said...

Oh sweet pea! I'm so sorry that you've run into the meanies! In plain English - they suck! You are one of the most talented quilters on this planet - I say if other "women" have something bad to say about you - then they are just jealous. Kick 'em to the curb and let 'em stay with the dirt where they belong. Glad you were able to vent here - it helps to get it out! We love you here in blog land and know how talented you are. Keep doing what you are doing - you and Clint are an awesome pair and even "awesomer" at trying to be the best parents you can be. The people that matter love you - let the other losers go!

Miss Jean said...

I'm so sorry that people are being so hateful to you. "Hey, little people! Get a life!!" As for you, dear Judi, you are an amazing artist, a great Mom and wife so hold your head up and don't let them get you down. There are way more of us out there that appreciate you than the "mean girls!"

Ann Marie @ 16 Muddy Feet said...

Delete the negativity out of your life (includes people, family or not) and you will live happier and more stress free, it will be their loss, not yours!

sandra said...

Judi I so admire you and your work, your quilting is just amazing and how you manage to do all you do is to me wonderful.
Just ignore those people and they know who they are, they are just jealous old fudyduddies (that's what my grandson would call them. The important people in your life are the ones that love you. People have been trying to talk me into blogging but what I am reading lately doesn't encourage me. Love and blessings Sandra

Regina said...

Oh man... so sorry this type of stuff still goes on.... aren't they supposed to be grownups. (I do envy your setup sometimes -but know you work VERY hard for it!!!!) Hugs! So glad you share your gift(s) with the rest of the world this way!

Sugar Town Quilt Co. said...

Judi Judi Judi negativity spawns negativity don't let this get you down people in general and some groups inperticular like to be
nasty cause something in there life is missing (CREATIVITY) and brains. don't give this a second thought and put out the best book ever. the tribute is to you 67 comments and the second one being from camille you are blessed keep up the greatness. you know the bad is reading all your support so poopoo to them
Love ya

Pat said...

OMG, glad you got that off of your chest. You do amazing work and some people must be jealous of you. People like that are not worth wasting your breath on. Keep up the wonderful work that you are doing. The real friends will love every minute of your success.

Wendy said...

Succeed Judi! Succeed to your heart's content and pooey on everyone else! I count myself fortunate to follow your blog and am constantly inspired by you ... thank you!

liberal sprinkles said...

aww Judi, I'm so sorry to hear this is happening to you. There are always mean and jealous people around who take joy in demeaning and backstabbing others. Ignore them!
There are tons of strangers who love and admire your work, and we'll listen to you vent if it makes you feel better! You are awe-inspiring!
Grace

Colleen Lunt said...

I'm a blogging fan, never met you, don't know you. My sisters and I quilt and we love to look at your work. You have been an inspiration. Our only thing is: How can someone that young be so good? You are truley amazing at what you do. We enjoy the blog. Keep on quilting.

Yuki said...

Love your blog, love your work. You have inspired me over and over again. Keep up the good work. Maybe I'll be your competition someday. Just kidding! LOL

ttfn :) Yuki in hot, hot, hot Silver Spring, Maryland

Carolyn said...

Oh Judi, I have seen this so many times in blogland and in reallife. Nine times out of ten it comes from competitve jealousy. I, for one, am always tickled to death to learn something new from those that are way more talented than I ever dreamed of being. You are amazine, do amazing work and are an inspiration to so many, including me. The way I've had to handle those that are negative in my life is to let them go. As hard as that may be sometimes (because sometimes it's family), I just don't spend time around them. If I HAVE to (like a family celebration, etc), then I'm civil, but find someone else to talk to, etc. For those that are cyberfriends, etc. POOF! I block them and don't have anything to do with them anymore. I try to surround myself with positive people. In turn, it keeps ME positive. Sorry for the long dissertation! I just want you to know that there are many, many more of us that love you and what you do than those that are miserable and jealous. You keep on keeping on, hang with us, and you'll be fine. Hugs from hot and dry Texas....carolyn :)

Julie said...

Your work is AMAZING and you are such an inspiration. My husband and I have a business also and we went through the same thing. Unfortunately you find out who your friends are and sadly in our case it turned out to be a couple we grew up with. But on an upbeat note you find out your best friend is your spouse. We will be married 25 years in July --- so hang in there and keep up that beautiful quilting.

Deborah said...

Keep sharing. You inspire others with your beautiful work. Karma and God will take care of the mean spirited.
Blessings on all you do,
Deborah

*katie said...

Ick, so sorry you have to deal with that! Thank you for sharing your talents with all of us, it's truly inspiring!!

Blessed said...

Judi - Jealousy is a nasty thing. I think it is really hurtful when people we thought would be supportive end out doing the opposite. You are a very talented young lady, with a wonderful husband and children. It is your opinion (and maybe Clint's) that matters when it comes to your quilting not others... not other people or quilting judges. You do what is right for you, because that is the talent that God has given you.
Be blessed, and be encouraged - for the few that have said those mean things - there are at least 10 times as many that are in awe and LOVE what you do.
Big big hugs.

Susie said...

I have been following your amazing blog and talent for some time now but only just now commenting. I NEED to comment because you are an inspiration and you awe me daily with your work. You are kind, generous, loving, funny, genuine, and incredibly talented. OWN IT! All of us who have been inspired to comment here know these things to be true. Now it is your turn to believe it without a doubt! Your work is amazing!!! Peace to you, Judi! :)

Quilt Chick said...

Hold your head up and be proud and grow a tougher hide! Success breeds jealousy. Let them talk - they don't have a life so they are talking about yours. When they are talking about you, they are leaving someone else alone so consider that you are doing a public service for others by being successful!

You have a God given talent and do beautiful work. Take your mind off those people and create so the rest of us who appreciate it, can enjoy more! You are fantastic at what you do and don't ever forget it! Thank you for all that you do for the quilting world!

Sis-O said...

Judy, you ROCK and the rest doesn't matter. Even Jesus was betrayed by those closest to Him (which always hurts worse. Pray for your enemies but surround yourself with those who are truly deserving of your trust. I am so glad i stumbled upon your blog and youtube videos. Keep up the good work!