My first 'Did Not Complete'

My first 'Did Not Complete'

Well, this was disheartening.  I began this puzzle (part of a set of 4 in one box - a 'feature' I now avoid...) and very quickly realized it was not enjoyable.  Since I had begun puzzling for relaxation, mindful mindlessness, and enjoyment, I knew I wouldn't want to waste time with a puzzle that was only frustrating.  That goes against the whole point for me!  So, this became the very first puzzle that I did not complete.  I simply boxed it back up and got out a new puzzle.  Good decision - glad I set this precedent for myself.  Life is too short for unenjoyable puzzles, wine or books!

So what was it that gave me such a fit?  The puzzle didn't match the picture - it had whole ends of the edges cut off.  Colors were indiscriminate.  I should have taken a better photo before I ended... but you can see the yellow butterfly on left is right at the edge of puzzle.  Yet in the photo on the box there are pink flowers and sky to the left of the butterfly.  Same issue on right side, although not as pronounced.  And those darned funky shaped pieces.  I couldn't even figure out the border!

February 17, 2022

This was a Bits & Pieces 4 in 1 set of 500 piece puzzles by artist Alan Giana.  I really love Alan Giana!  But did not like this set.  I think the lesson learned (for me) is to stick with individually boxed puzzles instead of the cheaper sets.  

Thankfully, I later gave this set to my wonderful niece who is not nearly as picky as her crotchety aunt... she put together one of the puzzles and sent me a photo.  It was truly beautiful!!  (the cat and the puzzle both!)  :D