No… I have quite a few years left before I can retire from my day job at the medical center, but today is my last day on the Flourishes Senior Design Team. They’ll be carrying on without me now, and I could just cry at the thought of giving it up after all these years. However, I do know it’s the right thing for me at this time.
I don’t know if you’ve noticed, but the frequency of my posts has been dwindling over the summer. I can say it’s because I just don’t have time, and that may well be, but it would be more accurate to say I’ve become disinclined to rush through my days in the manner to which I’ve become accustomed. I need to slow down and enjoy the moment without thinking ahead to what needs to be done next (to the extent that is possible). With that in mind, I’m going to take a little blogging break. Not long. Just a little vacation. I’ve not had a blogging break in almost five years.
Now, I wonder… will you still stop by to visit once in a while after my break, even though I’m no longer designing for Flourishes? Seeing as how they’re my all time favorite stamps ever I’ll still be using them often, and I’ll be looking forward to the new releases and shopping right along with the rest of you. What a bittersweet decision this has been for me.
So that’s that. I’ll leave you now with a card I made with Flourishes Bee My Honey.
I colored with Copics and drew the bee’s flight trail with a fine Multi-Liner. The inside was finished very simply:
One last note before I sign off… All the folks involved with Flourishes – Jan Marie, her husband, Mike, Sharon Doolittle, and the entire Flourishes team of designers – are every bit as awesome as you may have imagined. They are the only reason I have had difficulty with this decision. It’s hard to step outside the embrace of the family after all these years.
I’ll return to blogging shortly, hopefully refreshed if not reinvented. In the meantime, I’ll be stamping and catching up on my visiting and commenting. I’ll be around. Take good care, and I’ll see you back here soon!
Stamps: Bee My Honey Paper: Pale green textured, Flourishes Classic White, Prima Fairy Flora designer paper Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, Copics for coloring Accessories: Ribbon, rhinestones
What a bittersweet decision for you to have to make. Sometimes we just need to take a little time for ourselves and not be obligated to anyone other than ourselves. I will continue to visit and hope you will continue to show your beautiful creations as well as updates on Wally. Love that little guy! So have a good rest and see you soon!
Posted by: Glenda | 08/31/2011 at 02:58 AM
You will be greatly missed but enjoy your time!! Your cards are always wonderful and we will enjoy seeing them when you can.
Posted by: Karen Wallace | 08/31/2011 at 03:50 AM
We will all miss you during your break. I applaud you for seeing the larger picture.
Posted by: Karen R (ON/CA) | 08/31/2011 at 04:01 AM
I'm confident Flourishes is very sad to see you leave. Your stamping is truly art and everything you make is beautiful. I understand the need to step away for a while but I'll look forward to your next post to tell (and hopefully show) what you've been doing. Enjoy your time away.
Posted by: SueB | 08/31/2011 at 04:12 AM
What a decision to have to make, but I can understand. How can we not come and visit, to see what you are creating and to find out how Wally is doing. Enjoy your break and hope to see you back soon refreshed. Warm wishes.
Posted by: Ursula Uphof | 08/31/2011 at 04:14 AM
Oh Leslie, I'm so sorry to see you go! You're creations are so very beautiful but happy to hear it's only for a break. I hope that your time off while renew your spirit and give you a chance to relax and breathe! I'll miss you while your gone but have a wonderful time of rest!!
Posted by: Beth Greco | 08/31/2011 at 04:20 AM
I will be sorry that we won't be seeing your Flourishes creations. Your cards were truly some of the most beautiful art pieces I've ever seen. But I totally understand the need to take some time to literally and figuratively smell the roses. And I'll still stop by to read your posts and to see what's happening in that beautiful garden. Just don't take our pal, Wally, away from us!!! Have a restful blogging break. You've earned it, my dear.
Posted by: Peggy K | 08/31/2011 at 04:24 AM
I have honestly never figured out how anyone can hold a job and still work for these stamp companies on a regular basis. I have a difficult time making 2-3 cards in the course of one week, never mind a card a day. I've enjoyed seeing all your "works of art" and reading about some of your adventures, and will definitely miss updates on a daily basis, but I certainly understand where you are coming from and do hope you enjoy your spare time. I'lll continue to check in on you.
Posted by: Judy Covey | 08/31/2011 at 04:40 AM
I will surely miss your posts when Flourishes has their new releases, but I hope we'll still see some of their lovely designs on your cards from time-to-time, as well as pics of Wally. I totally get where you're coming from. I've struggled with keeping up with my blog for the last few months (Ha! - what am I saying,....I haven't kept up.) You've become a friend through the blogging world and I hope we'll be able to keep in touch. I have saved more of your creations to drool over than anyone else's (and I've saved a lot that I've loved.) Enjoy your break and your lovely weather! Big Hugs,
Posted by: Karen W. | 08/31/2011 at 04:45 AM
All the best to you and I hope you find some relaxing time to just have fun! I have enjoyed your cards and look forward to more when you have the time! Relax & enjoy your time!!! Thanks so much for your lovely designs!!!
Posted by: Maureen Chandler | 08/31/2011 at 04:59 AM
Now that had to be a hard decision to make..... I often wondered how you girls on the Design Teams can keep going at the pace you seam too having to keep churning these Beautiful Creations out at record speed. Take all the time you need to clear body and soul, I for one will be there waiting for your next post and enjoying your Beautiful Work, It truly makes me smile and inspires me, and I so enjoy the posts with Wally in them too!!!!
Posted by: Dotty A | 08/31/2011 at 05:01 AM
Absolutely, you post it, I'll visit! I always love seeing what you've created or pictures you might share (yes especially Wally)! I am sure Flourishes' team will miss you, your cards are always such an inspiration. Enjoy your blog break. Looking forward to the next time you post.
Posted by: Tammy Hair | 08/31/2011 at 05:27 AM
What? No more Wally posts either? Oh no, we will all go into Wally Withdrawal! Give him a hug every so often for me! Take Care!
Posted by: Kelley | 08/31/2011 at 05:47 AM
I understand your decision totally and wish you all the best. I'm am sure that Wally is saying Yippee, Yippee!! Please take care; I'll look forward to your posts, whenever they are . Enjoy the time off. Sincerely, Beverly
Posted by: Kraftyaunt | 08/31/2011 at 06:06 AM
We will definitely miss you but hopefully you will be back and refreshed. I love the card. Don't forget to take some pictures or video of Wally. We'll miss that sweet face too.
Posted by: LorraineB | 08/31/2011 at 06:13 AM
I'm so sorry to hear you leaving the Flourishes team. Always loved your card creations. There are always decisions and changes to make in life. Hope this one is everything you're imagining.
Have a great day and a wonderful break from it all. Till whenever
Posted by: yogi | 08/31/2011 at 06:17 AM
So sorry to hear that you are stepping down with Flourishes. I always enjoy seeing what you have created. Of course I'll keep following your blog because I hope to keep hearing more about wonderful Wally! BTW, I love your garden. Wish mine looked like that. Oh, and your card is absolutely beautiful!
Posted by: Margaret | 08/31/2011 at 06:27 AM
Enjoy your break; it is well earned. I look forward to your return. You always inspire.
Posted by: Heather T | 08/31/2011 at 06:33 AM
I followed you before flourishes, and still go back to some of your Stella Tuesday posts for inspiration! So I will be here, waiting patently, for posts of your garden, Wally as well as a card or 2! Enjoy your break!
Posted by: Eileen M | 08/31/2011 at 06:39 AM
I wish you every little thing your heart desires!!! I long ago stopped stamping but kept checking your blog posts for pictures of your garden and mostly your Wally... I value your creativity in so many areas that even though I love the beauty of your stamping, I love even more your eye with a camera... whatever comes next, I am there with you... enjoy!!!
Posted by: Willow | 08/31/2011 at 06:46 AM
Enjoy your time off-you deserve it.
I have read your posts for awhile now, don't always comment, and will continue to read when they show up in my inbox. Look forward to them.
Posted by: Bev J. | 08/31/2011 at 06:49 AM
Oh, you'll be missed there, Leslie, I'm sure! I will still stop by and visit you every day!!
Posted by: Lynette | 08/31/2011 at 06:57 AM
Enjoy your blogging break! It will be lovely to see your crafty creations again when you are ready.
Posted by: Sherylee | 08/31/2011 at 07:00 AM
I love your creations and looking through your blog! I hope you enjoy your break and I know how hard a decision it has been for you. I will definitely be checking back to see you in blogland whenever you get a chance to post. I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers and I wish you the best of everything!
Posted by: Lenoria | 08/31/2011 at 07:08 AM
Congratulations, Leslie! After some adjustment time, you won't be sorry. I can only imagine how happy Wally will be with your decision. And don't worry - if you're creating, I'll be gratefully ogling. Linda
Posted by: Linda Bullard | 08/31/2011 at 07:14 AM
I have so enjoyed your cards and your posts on sweet Wally. I will always read your blog. You have always been my #1 favorite card designer for years and have inspired me in my attempts at card making. Please enjoy your much needed break and I look forward to all your future posts!
Posted by: Tonya Kennedy | 08/31/2011 at 07:42 AM
I am so sad to see you leave Flourishes. I understand though how busy you must be. If there is not time for yourself at the end of the day then it isn't worth it, right. I will miss you while you are taking a bloggie brake. :)
Hugs~
Posted by: Heather | 08/31/2011 at 08:06 AM
You are a true artist, Leslie. Your words, color combinations, pictures, overall designs have begun my day since I first "stumbled" into your area. I always share Wally's pictures with my husband which gives us a chuckle together. Enjoy your rest guilt-free, you have more than earned it. Will look forward to visiting you in the future and seeing the rest of your garden evolve. Take care.
Posted by: Mildred | 08/31/2011 at 08:38 AM
Leslie, I was just visiting you for about an hour last night...I think I am attracted to your blog for many reasons, your Flourishes cards, your garden photography, Wally...and just feels like I am visiting a friend I've not met yet. Anyway, I certainly do understand...and am so glad to know you will not be gone, just behind the scenes. I have been a big admirer, and viewing your cards is probably the one big attraction to Flourishes, because I needed to see the potential of color and design combined with the stamps!! I will miss you, but you can be sure I'll be back to visit whenever you're around!!
Posted by: Traci Major | 08/31/2011 at 08:49 AM
Leslie,
You have been my inspiration! Like you, I love Flourishes stamps and have purchased many because of the beautiful designs you have come up with. I wish you well and hope that every once in a while you will remember all your fans and delight us with a card or two.
Posted by: Marian Bonney | 08/31/2011 at 08:55 AM
Leslie, your decision must have taken quite some soul searching but we all (must) should take some time out now and again. Where's the point in rushing and fussing if we don't have time to slow down a little and appreciate what IS IN our lives. I'm learning that it has something to do with having a grateful heart..............but I'm only a beginner at this stage!
Enjoy your life, your husband, Wally and your magnificent garden. We'll be happy to see whatever you feel like sharing, whenever you feel like sharing.
God bless you always,
Mary Mac
Posted by: Mary Mac | 08/31/2011 at 09:01 AM
Leslie, you will be MISSED more than you know! I will most certainly be waiting for your return to the blog world. I love your designs and I applaud your decision because life just gets in the way sometimes, and we do need to slow down. Enjoy your time off, have fun and hug that wonderful hubby and Wally for us all. We will miss Wally too! He brightens our days... best wishes and hope to see you back with more creations soon! Hugs
Posted by: Bobbi Miller | 08/31/2011 at 09:04 AM
Gorgeous coloring and love the way you broke up the image from the sentiment, neat design and love the stitching!!
I understand you wanting a break, I keep so busy with just making cards for my family and friends I can't imagine being on a design team too, and that is certainly not why I enjoy your blog, you do such Beautiful work, I enjoy seeing all the wonderful things you are doing in your yard, so I certainly will be here whenever you decide to drop in :)
Posted by: conniecrafter | 08/31/2011 at 09:31 AM
I will miss you while you are gone but will look forward to "seeing" you when you return. Love your blog and your work is beautiful. So is your attitude! :) I love to read your words of wisdom...truly!
Posted by: Heidi Meerdink | 08/31/2011 at 10:07 AM
Flourishes will be sorry to loose you, but it's nice to know we'll still see your lovely creations. I'll look forward to your return and your posts on your gorgeous boy Wally.
Relax meantime, enjoy your blogging break and enjoy time with your family, give Wally a hug from me too.
take care,
hugs Alexandra from Scotland UK
Posted by: Alexandra | 08/31/2011 at 10:42 AM
Bummer! - I'm sure it wasn't an easy decision and I for one will miss your fabulous creations. I do understand though and hope your break is what you need to come back refreshed and relaxed. Hug Wally for me and don't be gone too long. Hugs from me to you as well.
Posted by: Ida P. Krause | 08/31/2011 at 02:43 PM
Oh my. I just don't know how I'll get by without seeing photos of your gorgeous creations, not to mention your beautiful garden and that sweet little Wally. But I totally understand how you feel and hope this will be just the rejuvenation that you need! Please don't stay gone too long! Hugs & love, Broni.
Posted by: Broni | 08/31/2011 at 03:00 PM
Sounds like you made a wise but difficult decision. Enjoy your time off and do things you love to do, take walks with Wally, sit in your beautiful garden, craft when you feel inspired, and just enjoy life. I really envy all of you who are designers and have blogs. I don't know how you do it! I'm retired and still don't have enough time to get normal chores done and to create cards. Take as much time as you need but I will look forward to your return. Love your cards and creativity. Give Wally a big hug from me!
Shirley L.
Roseville, CA
Posted by: Shirley L. | 08/31/2011 at 03:41 PM
I'll be ready to visit your blog anytime. I'll miss you, but understand about limiting the deadlines. Please enjoy your break & come back when you are ready.
Posted by: Troy Louise | 08/31/2011 at 03:43 PM
Sob... I am so sad. I know it is the right thing for you and I admire you putting life in perspective and doing what is most important. We have talked so much about this but I will miss you. PLEASE don't take too long of a break. Huge hugs and lots of love...
Posted by: Dawn B. | 08/31/2011 at 04:40 PM
Flourishes will miss you so much...and so will I! I totally understand the need to slow down, and designing is fabulous fun...while it's fun, but when it becomes another to-do, some of the fun is lost. Enjoy your break, I hope that's all you need before you come back to us. I'm following you, so I'll know when you're back, and I look forward to the day.
Posted by: Laura (scrapnextras) | 08/31/2011 at 04:54 PM
Leslie, I'm so sorry to read about your decision. Your work is wonderful and truly inspirational. I certainly do understand the reasoning behind your decision.
I do hope that you will continue to post to your blog photos of Wally and your fabulous garden when you have time. I can't do without photos of Wally. He's just so lovable and huggable.
Enjoy your holiday and hope to see you back soon.
Posted by: Leigh | 08/31/2011 at 06:04 PM
Of course we will wait for your next blog entry and follow along like always. Darn that work for getting in the way of what we love to do! lol. I'm sure it was not an easy decision, but good for you for prioritizing your life and rushing through it to get the next card uploaded.
Posted by: holly AKA kopykat | 08/31/2011 at 06:15 PM
Leslie, your designs for Flourishes are some of the most exquisite ever! (Well, ALL of your designs!) Your inspiration will be sorely missed, and the stamping blog world will be a lot less beautiful while you are on a break! But enjoy every moment... you SO deserve it, and we will wait patiently for you to return, refreshed and renewed!
Posted by: Tammy Hershberger | 08/31/2011 at 06:31 PM
Oh my! You will certainly be missed. I'll be right here waiting for you after your break. Can hardly wait to see what you come up with after some time off. Enjoy your DH and your beautiful dog.
Hugs
Posted by: Elaine Moore | 08/31/2011 at 08:57 PM
Leslie, We all need a break sometimes and I am glad that you realize that and are getting yours. i will greatly miss your frequennt posts but I will stil look for the posts of your lovely, fantastically colored art creations. Thanks for your inspiration.
Posted by: Carol | 09/01/2011 at 03:07 AM
You're creations are so very beautiful but happy to hear it's only for a break.
Posted by: Affordable Insurance | 09/01/2011 at 03:37 AM
Aww, that's sad, Leslie. I have certainly come to associate you with Flourishes in my few years stamping and blogging. I can certainly understand you need to do what you need to do. But I can tell this was a tough decision for you. Of COURSE I will still be visiting you, when you come back to blog, as I am one of our email subscribers. :) Plus, I just like ya! Love your new blog look, too, by the way.
Posted by: Colleen Dietrich | 09/01/2011 at 05:29 AM
I am truly sorry to hear that you will be leaving Flourishes! Your cards are just so beautiful and I must say you truly inspire me. But I know that there are not enough hours in the day to do all that want to do. But me time is very important. So enjoy! But please share with us all as often as you can. I love your blog and will continue to check in everyday,like I have always done. Thanks for always sharing your talent with us all.
Posted by: Charlette | 09/01/2011 at 06:11 AM
Enjoy your "vacation" and extra time. See you when you are back! :)
Posted by: Tamara W | 09/01/2011 at 06:31 AM
You'll always be one of my favorites regardless of affiliation. Enjoy the break and I'll be here waiting!
Posted by: Joan B | 09/01/2011 at 12:49 PM
Such a tough decision to have made Leslie. I hope you have a wonderful "vacay" from bloggin' and spend lots of quality time with your family. Can't wait to see what creations you might share in the future. All the best!
Posted by: Allison Cope | 09/01/2011 at 05:09 PM
I caught your drift the other day LOL! I know as hard as it is to say goodbye-the thrill of being set free to do as you wish without deadlines must be wonderful! I know we have not seen the last of your amazing Flourish creations but hoping to see a few meeces scurrying across your blog sometime lOL! Enjoy your break!
Posted by: Sue Kment | 09/01/2011 at 09:10 PM
Leslie, you will be sorely missed! I have always loved your blog (this one and the old one), and it's always an absolute delight to read your posts and see all the wonderful garden photos and...of course...Wally! How precious you are! And we ALL will miss your gorgeous inspirations -- one of the best in the stamping world...IMHO! BUT, we ALL understand your desire to slow down...so important and so hard to actually do. But we look forward to a post or two from time to time to visit with Wally and the flowers - and perhaps a card from time to time (or more often). You are dearly loved by many in the stamping community, and that's why we all support this very difficult decision. May God continue to bless you, Leslie! Hugs! (So glad we get to continue to surf your blog for inspiration!)
Posted by: CherylQuilts | 09/02/2011 at 05:16 AM
Sad to see you leave the team but glad you are taking time for yourself!!! I will definatly still be popping in to visit!!!
(Maybe my wallet will be able to relax a bit without all your inspiration to prompt my spending :)
Best of wishes!!!
Posted by: Tera | 09/02/2011 at 05:27 AM
I will miss your blog but congratulate you on your decision to take care of yourself. Enjoy your sabbatical and come back to us refreshed and revitalized. I will be looking in and waiting to see your artwork when you come back to the blog universe.
Posted by: Mary Jo | 09/02/2011 at 05:27 AM
Oh no! I need my regular running with scissors fix! I completely understand the need for a break - I am on one at this time and it is great to just think about creating without the pressure of a deadline. I wish you a relaxing break and look forward to when you return.
I hope you can post a few wally pictures in the meantine!
Posted by: Nancy K | 09/02/2011 at 05:46 AM
Oh Leslie ~ I do hope to see you around, at least sometime...I will ever so miss your posts for Flourishes. You are one talented lady!!! Do stop by and visit me once in a while when you get the chance! I wish you luck, happiness, and good health...not only to you, but to your hubby and Wally too! (:
Posted by: Velta | 09/02/2011 at 06:21 AM
Leslie, this is quite a surprise but I fully understand. Sometimes, we just burn out and have to do other things with our lives. I'm sure you pondered over this decision for quite a while. Enjoy yourself with family and friends and we'll all look forward to your return to blogging.
Posted by: Benzi | 09/02/2011 at 06:36 AM
Leslie, you have been my coloring hero since the first time I saw some of your work. I look forward to your return to blogging and hope that the pace of your days becomes peaceful and that you can enjoy the moments.
ChristineZ
aka whim6915
Posted by: ChristineZ | 09/02/2011 at 08:51 AM
first, the card is beautiful, as always! second, of course i'll still be visiting your blog! you have always been so very sweet and generous with your comments - i've never forgotten it! it's a big deal to get comments from one of the dirty dozen girls when you're not one yourself!!! :) that's wonderful that you're taking the time for yourself - i hope it's amazing and energizing! see ya 'round!
Posted by: Angela R. | 09/02/2011 at 09:31 AM
Oh leslie this is delightful and darling card. Just makes this day even more bitter sweet. I have been reading all the DT posts this morning for your farewell. I thought I had a hard time writing mine, reading what everyone else is saying makes it harder I think. Miss you so much already. Enjoy this long weekend with Rich and Wally. Hugs..
Posted by: Stacy aka Twinshappy | 09/02/2011 at 10:55 AM
Is there ever a right time to leave? Even when we love to do something, life sometimes gets in the way. I wish you the best and of course I will continue to visit your lovely little block on the web. I am so glad I found you at Flourishes, & have learned a great deal from you. Best of luck in your new life.
Posted by: Frances | 09/02/2011 at 01:50 PM
Horrors! I'm totally bummed out! I saw this last night but just couldn't bring myself to leave a comment. I went running through the house w/scissors! It just breaks my artistic heart to see you leave Flourishes. But, enough about me. Enjoy your much needed break. There's more to life than blogging deadlines. Yes, I'll continue to stalk your blog. I truly appreciate that you have shared your God given talent w/us all these Flourishes years! Blessings to you Leslie!
Posted by: Linda Carson | 09/02/2011 at 10:46 PM
I still can't believe it's true! I know we don't know each other, but in the year and a half since I started using Flourishes stamps, I have considered all the Flourishes Family, to be My family as well! And now that you are retiring, I feel like we're loosing a family member. I have been putting it off, writing on your blog, trying to find the words to say, but I just can't, I'm so bummed :) You are truly a great inspiration, talented and artistic card maker and I will miss that! Please come back and visit Flourishes soon, just like I'll be visiting your blog to find new inspirations ;)
Posted by: Amanda H | 09/03/2011 at 08:32 AM
I will miss your gorgeous card from Florishes and your blog without posting. But I really understand your decision - enjoy your break! I will be waiting for you! :) You inspire me, Leslie!
Posted by: Elena | 09/03/2011 at 02:00 PM
I'm going to MISS YOU!!!! *sniff, sniff* Sometimes we all need a break and I'm sure everyone will understand, but I sure hope you do come back and continue to inspire us as your work is always stunning!!! Enjoy your break Leslie and I'll be waiting for you!! :)
Posted by: Kathy Jones | 09/03/2011 at 07:06 PM
You will surely be missed at Flourishes. Goodbyes are always bittersweet. I am glad to hear you haven't given up blogging all together. You are one of the great ones.
Posted by: gail | 09/04/2011 at 05:42 AM
Wonderful card, Leslie! Your coloring ability and attention to detail has always been one of the best in the stamping world! Your creations inspire so many and I'm sure Flourishes is very sad to have you retire. Take some time to rejuvinate and I'll definitely be looking forward to your future posts!
Posted by: Sue (suen) | 09/04/2011 at 03:18 PM
AWWWWW Leslie...we will miss you! I always enjoyed your fabbo creations and definitely will be looking forward to them soon again :) !!! Wishing you all the best and thank you for all your support and kind words! BIG HUGS ~Silke~
Posted by: Silkeledlow@yahoo.com | 09/05/2011 at 07:42 PM
Your cards are always wonderful and we will enjoy seeing them when you can.
Posted by: Affordable Medical Insurance | 09/05/2011 at 09:39 PM
Leslie - yet again you are an inspiration - to realize this is the time to reset priorities. No doubt your decision to step down from the Flourishes design team was difficult, yet with your wonderful artistic talents we will all be waiting anxiously to see what gorgeous creations you have to share....on your own timeschedule. And, of course count me in as one of those who will look forward to any garden photos & most especially Wally stories; hmmm...maybe Wally will start his own blog!! Meanwhile, take care of you, Leslie!
Posted by: Janet T. | 09/06/2011 at 05:40 AM
Encouragement, loyalty, friendship. All of these you have given through your blog; to your fans and to Flourishes. You've brought life to their product, and challenged all of us to bring forth our best creations.
So, today, I say thank you. Thank you for all the beautiful art work you have shared - your cards, garden photographs, and of course, for sharing Wally with us :)
Finding the balance in our daily lives is important and you've made the right decision. I shall visit your blog and of course will stay in touch - that you can count on. Enjoy this new season with all it has to offer. Oh the possibilities!
BTW: Your new banner looks wonderful - love it!
Hugs and Smiles,
Susie Lessard ~
Posted by: Susie Lessard | 09/06/2011 at 12:17 PM
Hi there sweet friend! I so understand how you might want to take a break. We'll be waiting here, whatever you choose to share!!
Posted by: Becca Feeken | 09/06/2011 at 01:04 PM
Tears for those of us who never miss the "goings on" of dear Wally...please come back to us as quickly as possible...you will surely be missed!
Posted by: L. Sipes | 09/06/2011 at 09:38 PM
I can only imagine how difficult a decision this must have been for you, Leslie! It's obvious you will be missed sooo much! You have to do what's right for you, and I totally understand. (((Hugs))) Enjoy your "freedom", and I look forward to your posts as you are interested and willing (though a may be a little slow to get here. *wink*)
I love your pretty card with all of those flowers and your fabulous coloring & sewing!!
Posted by: Rose Ann | 09/07/2011 at 12:47 PM
I TOTALLY hear you when you say you want to slow down and enjoy things instead of rushing through....good for you, chickie! Of course, I'll still be stopping by....I don't blog hop as frequently as I used to, but when I do, you're on my list. I think your creations are amazing!!...like this one here...BEAUTIFUL!
Posted by: Denise M. | 09/07/2011 at 02:59 PM
Of course I will still be checking into my very 1st and favorite Blog featuring my forever friend and fabulously talented girlfriend Leslie :-) Thanks for sharing your awesome creativity, whimsical writings, photo's..........just everything. Enjoy your little vacation. Love always, nancy
Posted by: nancy littrell | 09/08/2011 at 03:58 PM
Oh my, Leslie. What a gorgeous creation. I love the different stitches and the fabulous coloring both inside and out. Hope that you have a refreshing and renewing break. It is much deserved. And of course I will anxiously await more of your beautiful and inspiring work.
Posted by: Susan (rainy) | 09/09/2011 at 11:23 PM
Leslie, I will certainly miss your regular Flourishes posts and wish you all the best in your future endeavors. I, for one, find you to be an amazing source for inspiration as your cards always takes my breath away. Enjoy your break and see you soon!
Posted by: Linda E | 09/14/2011 at 09:34 PM
Very smart to decide to take care of yourself, but I know you'll be missed. I haven't started a blog because I know that right now it would not be "good" for me or my family. Love the doggie picture! My 2 are sitting next to me waiting for play time--can't be without my 4 legged pals!
Posted by: Greta H | 09/15/2011 at 09:53 AM
There will come a time when you'll have to stop what you like doing and do more for yourself. Happy retirement, and I hope you do enjoy it. Take care.
Posted by: Frank Damon | 10/17/2011 at 10:30 AM