...This is my last month on the creative team for Studio Calico.
Again.
But this time, it was my choice. You can read about the last time here. I could copy and paste a lot of the things I said on that post, but here's the gist:
The scrapbooking industry is so different than it was ten years ago when I first joined the game. Truthfully, I find the emphasis on social media and self-promotion exhausting, and, when I try to do it, it always feels…unauthentic. I love to scrapbook. I always have. But in this industry, that just isn’t enough any more. And that’s OK, but it’s time for me to walk away because that’s who I am. A hobbyist. Someone who loves watching her children look at their scrapbooks, not admiring the latest product or technique, but the memories. Scrapbooking is a small part of a big life. And it will continue to be just that.
My last PL spread for Studio Calico using the Blue Note Project Life Kit:
This is why I love you.
So much of what its become is pimping this product + that product and conforming to predetermined standards. You said it perfectly- it stopped feeling authentic.
I am really going to miss seeing your work- I find inspiration from you more than any other designer. I probably have most all of your old layouts and your Project Life spreads either in my favorites or pinned (this goes all the way back to your GG days!) I see so much love and emotion in every piece you create which is why I am so, so sad to see you leave.
But I totally get it.
Good luck to you, I won't stop reading :)
Posted by: heathyr hintz | 26 November 2013 at 09:09 PM
You will be missed Laura. Your authentic voice is what will keep me returning to your blog.
Posted by: Brenna | 26 November 2013 at 09:26 PM
Authentic is always better than all the phoniness. Good for you for remaining true to yourself.
L,
M
Posted by: MOM | 26 November 2013 at 09:33 PM
And because you remain true to who you are, is why I continue to come back to your blog!
Posted by: Lisa A | 26 November 2013 at 09:43 PM
Amen. The amount a scrapbooker needs to publicly share these days is nuts. Please keep sharing your layouts. The quotes you find always either lift me up or bring on the tears. Just perfect!
Posted by: Brooke | 26 November 2013 at 10:20 PM
Will miss your pages, but I hear you loud and clear. Please please please don't stop blogging, I enjoy reading the little stories you share!
Posted by: Lcp88 | 27 November 2013 at 12:35 AM
Great that you've made a decision to stay true to who you are. Will you still be sharing your albums here on your blog? I'd be so sad not to see what you've been making altogether!
Posted by: Stephanie Baxter | 27 November 2013 at 01:44 AM
The sad news keep on coming this time. :( I love what you do, and will miss you dearly.
Posted by: Magdalena/Rockermorsan | 27 November 2013 at 04:44 AM
You are my favourite and I'm terribly sad about this, but you know I completely get you. Much creativity in your 'retirement, and share here SVP!!! xoxo
Posted by: melanie | 27 November 2013 at 10:07 AM
the changes are astounding and i totally understand your decision but i can't help having the little lump in my throat. i hope you continue to create your marvellous pages for your wee kids to admire and adore.
Posted by: kelly | 27 November 2013 at 10:25 AM
being a hobbyist is a fine thing thing to be. forcing it is never fun. high five for authenticity and for doing what's right for you.
Posted by: jamaica | 27 November 2013 at 11:46 AM
For what it is worth I gained so much inspiration from the simplicity of your pages. You preserve such special memories with so few products. I hope you continue to share your hobby....and gift. Thanks.
Posted by: Julie v. | 27 November 2013 at 09:36 PM
I have always enjoyed the pages you've shared. Thank you for staying true to yourself. I look forward to seeing the new things you decide to share! All the best to you!
Posted by: Shelbie | 28 November 2013 at 11:23 AM
When you can, please share your creations here. Your work is so inspiring.
Posted by: KimberDill | 28 November 2013 at 01:39 PM
Kerphlooey. Wish it could be like before. Please keep creating and sharing. I love your style, to say you will be missed is quite an understatement. Congrats on your sweet Gracie, love seeing her on your blog. Our sweet girl, Sugar, passed almost 3 yrs ago...seeing your puppy makes my heart smile.
Posted by: Amy S | 29 November 2013 at 12:46 PM
Amen.
Posted by: Davinie Fiero | 29 November 2013 at 09:49 PM
Laura - I hope you keep sharing whatever projects you do work on. I want to scrap like you when I grow up.
Posted by: betsy | 01 December 2013 at 02:29 AM
there is nothing like being true to yourself. good for you. sad for me. please, please share your work here, laura!
mary
Posted by: mary | 02 December 2013 at 03:01 PM
When it starts to be about something else and not you, then it is time to stop. I enjoy your pages and gain inspiration from them, we all do! Keep on capturing those memories!
Posted by: Rhonda | 15 December 2013 at 09:43 AM