yes, it was very very painful to make that first "snip"... but I am glad I did, I like that bag best of all of the ones I made! (But saved every last little scrap for future project, couldn't bear to toss it).
I am using that same pattern (expanded to beach bag size) for a Dr. Seuss Thing 1 & Thing 2 bag for my DGF in Florida... that's what our other friends call us, we're trouble when we're together... and I'm going to see her next weekend :)