I have only done one challenge and found what you said to be very true. I came up with an original design, it was keeping with the theme exactly. The winners were very talented quilters but they varied from the theme so much I just didn't understand it. At the end I heard one woman saying mine should at least been recognized at keeping with the theme challenge. The quilt that won that category didn't even come close. It was all very strange. But I like you enjoyed the challenge and am glad I participated. I am not sure though if I will do another one.