With all the changes in my life (retirement and moving), I've had to do some serious thinking about where this hobby is going. I actually considered letting go of it entirely for a number of reasons. First, I've been doing it for 30+ years and change is not a bad thing. Second, we are planning on buying a cute little house when we move to Idaho that may not have room for my stash. Third, without a job (and the exhaustion related to that job) I've had time for other hobbies and projects and I'm loving them! Fourth, without the large number of workmates to whom I gave birthday and holiday cards, my card needs have decreased substantially. And my last thought (in a negative moment) was the realization that people don't send cards much anymore so I'm feeling a bit old-fashioned. But - as normal with big and even small decisions - God saw fit to throw three people in a row at me that commented on how much my cards mean to them. Isn't it wonderful how that works? So I'm not letting this hobby go.
However, I do feel a need for change to keep myself enthused. My plan, at least for the short term but probably longer, is to stop posting on this blog. Blog posts are just one more step after I've finished a card when all I really want is to move on to the next project. So many people have already stepped away from blogs both as authors and as reader/commenters. As I look back, I realize I've been essentially stepping away from it for years. I used to post pictures and stories of my family, but no longer. I used to subscribe to something like InLinkz so you could get directly to the products, but no more. I used to maintain multiple Copic charts for various companies, but no more. This decision has clearly been coming for awhile.
Thank you to all of my blog readers over the last 15 years. You have stuck with me through various design teams and through the evolution of my style. You have commented on my personal posts and have been such an inspiration. The blog will still stay open if anybody needs to look back at supply lists, etc.
You will still be able to find my cards on Instagram and Facebook. I hope to see you there.
SUPPLY LIST
Dies: Simon Says Stamps Birthday Wishes Circle, Concord & 9th Make a Wish
Cardstock: Stampin' Up Peach Pie, Petunia Pop, Summer Splash, Daffodil Delight
Other: The Stamp Market Delicate Details Embossing Folder, Stampin' Up 2024-26 In Color Flat Pearls
Kim! I am so sorry to read your news, but you have to do what is most comfortable for you!
ReplyDeleteI really have loved visiting your blog, reading the little snippets of your life shared here, and of course your gorgeous cards!
Today's card is so sweet, and I love those darling candles - that set is sitting on my desk at the moment waiting for some attention!
Take care and I hope your next chapter is a happy one!
=]
I love your card with the cute candles and colors. So sorry to see you not posting to your blog any more but understand. I really enjoy seeing all your lovely cards and enjoy the inspiration from them. Will look for you on Instagram.
ReplyDeleteI always find inspiration at your blog....so now, I'll just have to find you in those other places! I do find that the older generation is mostly the ones who send cards---def not the younger, although my daughter does send a few out! I am glad you're not giving up stamping, but I do understand; after so many years, sometimes we need a change!
ReplyDeleteI love your cards. Best wishes on taking a break.
ReplyDeleteI have enjoyed your blog posts since our days together on the Dynamic Duos! I'll miss you here, but I'll look you up on FB. Today's card is delightful. I just used the EF for an upcoming project. Wishing you nothing but the best, Kim!
ReplyDeleteI'm almost in the same boat as you, Kim. If it weren't for FMS, I would probably close the doors to my blog. I'll switch over to IG and follow you there. Your cards are always so colorful and happy and a treat for the eyes.
ReplyDeleteHi Kim, I've considered many of the same reasons as you have for letting this hobby go. When we moved I'd given away almost all my stash and then recently started over again, realizing I missed the fun of creating. Quit my blog twice but here I still am at it, LOL. I am so glad you've decided NOT to give it up stamping completely. I've often been a reader of your blog over the years, and always enjoyed your thoughtful perspectives. You need to do what works best for you. For me, blogging serves as a good mental challenge but I know it is a lot to keep up with. I will look forward to seeing your bright and pretty cards at IG and a Freshly Made Sketches.
ReplyDeleteForgot to say, this card is fresh and fun! I love your clean style and the way you used the circle for your sentiment.
ReplyDeleteBeautiful, bright and cheerful card. I love it.
ReplyDeleteI hear you about the stepping away and have thought about it myself.
For me it's not so much the blogging, but the photographing of my cards, and trying to get them just right! (your photos are amazing by the way)
I hope taking a step back works for you and you can get back to enjoying the card making itself. I'm sure I'll see your beautiful makes on Insta. xxx
I love the color scheme and textures in your beautiful card design. Blessings!
ReplyDeleteThis card is such a fun interpretation. Might just need to CASE it for my stash. I, too, have enjoyed reading through the years but very much understand how it can feel overwhelming to post. I'm just happy that card making stays!! (she says very selfishly)
ReplyDeleteThis card is fabulous, Kim, and such a clever take on the sketch! Love the bright colours! It was interesting to read your blog post. I'm so glad you're staying with card-making and I'm sure you'll make it all work out once you're settled in your new home.
ReplyDeleteI love this sweet little card! All that texture is fantastic! I think I'll be retiring the blog as well. It's just a little too much to deal with right now!
ReplyDelete