My beloved Simple will soon cease to be published. You can read the official announcement here.
Lots of emotions around this. I'd hoped to write something really clever, and witty, and fun to read. Something that would make my blog readers smile, maybe laugh out loud once or twice. I was going to present of list of alternative things I could do. Some of them were quite entertaining. Really. They were.
But I'm a bit too sad to do that. I've loved being an art director for a magazine whose subject I adored, and whose staff I was so incredibly fortunate to work with. My official last day with Simple is Feb. 27th. What's on the horizon? Stay tuned.
I'm sure I'll write more about this later. For now, thanks Stacy and everyone at Simple and CK Media for letting me part of a pretty dang cool thing. It was an absolute honor.
Jennifer M. says
Wow…I can’t believe it’s not going to be published anymore! I’ve been a subscriber since the get go. That’s really too bad. I loved that magazine.
Judy in Huntsville[al] says
Hey Cathy – please know you are all in my prayers and on my heart as you go through the grieving process for this dear magazine that has been an good friend and cropping buddy to me since the very first issue.
Jennifer Stewart says
I’m sorry, Cathy. I know you won’t be going away, though. Simple was a favorite of mine and will be truly missed.
Love,
Jennifer
Sara says
WHAT?!?!?! Is it April Fool’s Day? I’m sorry about your job loss. You all did an amazing job.
judy in carefree says
Wow, so sorry that you will loose your job, but I have to admit that I would rather read your blog with great ideas than to subscribe to a magazine that never seems to get off my kitchen counter. I know you will find another job and will be great at whatever you decide to do so keep us posted.
Kim K says
I was so sad to see the news tonight! Your contributions were my favorites in the magazine. I’m sure we all understand the reasons for this, but that doesn’t mean we have to like it, does it? I hope to see you continue your Clean & Simple style, in CK or ??? Thanks CZ!
Marcie Howe says
Oh Cathy, I am soooo sorry to see Simple end. I can’t imagine what you all are going through. At least we can still follow you on your blog! 🙂
{{Hugs!}}
Marcie
Mary Claire says
What? NOOOOooooooooo!! Well that’s a right pisser. Thank god I still have your blog to read! 😉
KellyM says
I’m sad too. It’s always been a happy day when my new issue arrived in my mailbox and I could check out what all my ‘friends’ had been working on. Simple will be missed…
Sara S says
i am bummed. i love when that magazine comes to my house every other month… oh, what will i do?
Sandi says
How sad. I love Simple Scrapbooks magazine. Your issues are always full of wonderful layouts and great articles.
Sandi
Lisa says
Oh man…that makes me so sad. 🙁 I remember when SS started up. Sigh…I’m so sorry, girlfriend.
cynthia says
Oh Cathy this is so so so sad. You and that magazine opened my creative eyes to that I can do this and I will be forever grateful. thanks a million. I know there is big things out there for you. CYnthia
M2E2G@aol.com says
My heart is hurting tonight, Ziel. I’m sorry we’re going through this. More, I’m sorry YOU’RE going through this. Simple will be missed.
I {heart} you and will cherish our Simple times together!
denise:) says
Hugs Cathy- you’re the main reason I subscribed to that magazine, so wherever you go, i’ll follow. 😀 I’m stalking you i guess… SS was the best paper scrapping mag hands down and I hope that it’s true that CK will be absorbing some of SS into that mag.
Peace, hugs and positive thinking- I know you and the SS gals will carry on to do something even more wonderful.
Kim says
I never thought I’d grow to love a magazine so much that tears would well up at the thought of it not being published anymore.
I’m so sorry to hear this news.
I’ll continue to be one of your biggest fans and will follow you where ever your path takes you next.
Wow.
Hugs to you!
Kim (ZoezMom)
Kristen Z says
Noooo!!!!! This makes me so sad. I just started reading Simple this year and I never imagined it would be gone so soon. Sure I get CK too, but I need BOTH to get my scrapping media fix!
In unselfish news, Cathy, I’m so sorry that you’re in limbo. I hope I see you in CKmag.
Kerry says
After recently losing my job in the scrapbooking field, I understand what you are feeling and going through. Please know that you are in my thoughts and prayers. I look forward to continuing to read your blog and share your wonderful ideas, I know you will continue to kick butt the way you always do. 🙂
Jen P says
*wail of anguish* First they get rid of their Digi mag, and now Simple? Noooooooooo!
More importantly, I’m terribly sorry you’re losing your job with SS. Hopefully they have a place for you at CK, or are compensating you with a kickass cruise around the world for you and the family.
Deitra Hart says
SUCKS! SUCKS! SUCKS!!
This magazine rocked and I loved it above all others! I feel like rioting!
So sorry for you and I really hope CK will continue on with the simple stuff and not stick it to the side.
hang in there!
Deitra:(
stacey r says
I’m sorry that it’s the end of a great era for you. I love that magazine.
Sara Berry says
I wish you’d do a subscriptiong based online zine–I’d subscribe…and there would be no publishing costs…hmmmm. Think about it at least. 🙂
allison Gottlieb says
I am so very sad. for all of us. hopefully something better will come along. Your contributions have kept me a subscriber. I will follow you wherever…..just let us know.
lah says
I feel so bad for you. My daughter lost her job last week. It just sucks right now!
Katie says
I was so sad to see this news and I immediately worried about what would happen to your job. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family!
Beth D says
I just read about this on another site and immediately thought of you Miss Cathy. I am so sorry that this has come about. I will miss SS a great deal. Please know that you have a HUGE following and I am sure there are more great things in store for you and from you. Take care and be well.
Breon says
Im so sorry, Im kinda teary eyed…
Debra E says
What a bummer. 🙁 I’m not so good at endings, but I’m holding on to the idea that something great is around the corner.
Nancyjo says
Cathy, Hugs for you. Know that we feel your pain too, yet not in the exact same way. Simple will be missed by many.
Donnelly Webb says
What to say that hasn’t already been said? SORRY, isn’t enough. SS has been my inspiration for I can’t remember how long! Know that you and yours and all the other SS people and their families are in my prayers.
Donnelly
Angie says
I’m so sorry for this. The scrapbook world has just lost, to me, the best magazine out there. I’m glad it led me to your work, and I will continue to be a fan.
Joan in Kingman says
I’m so sorry for you. I have always been a subscriber to Simple. I will surely miss all the great things you have taught us. Thanks for all you’ve done. I’m sure there will be some way for us to get our CZ scrapbook fix.
Bethany says
I’m so sad to hear this…Simple is such a great magazine–I love the philosophy and inspiration in all the issues. 🙁
The futurist in me is wondering where the sb industry will go…there was a report on MPR the other morning about Creative Memories filing for bankruptcy and a lot of LSS shuttering their doors.
I’m sure you’ll have more opportunities, but I still feel so bad for you and all the Simple staff. Sending prayers and support…
Marina says
Guess it’s over… call it a day… what’s the use in tryin’ to anyway?
(Sorry, I’m having a major Peaches & Herb flashback. Anyone? “Too Much, Too Little, Too Late.” Is the song ringing a bell? Are my late 70s showing?)
Sound familiar??
The magazine will be sorely missed, but thank god I still have your blog. I’ll look out for you at BPS as well?? Please say yes?
Sarah Doyle says
This is so disappointing. I have been with simple from the first issue and I’m so sad to hear it will cease. I was bummed that Stacy left and then Donna. Atleast I could still get my ‘Cathy’ dose. I hope to read your blog and hear of where we can find you and your work. Thank you for the years of inspiration:)
-faithful follower
Kristi K. says
1. I hope that you can keep your job in CK Media. They are an awesome company, and you are one of its rock stars.
2. I’m sad to see this magazine go. It was an inspirational read and it always inspired me to get something done.
3. Since I will be a Creating Keepsakes subscriber after Simple is done, I hope that they integrate the “no fear and have fun” approach that made the magazine so special.
katie scott says
Just know what amazing things you accomplished and how many lives you had a positive impact on; it was more than just paper and glue so much more. And if that doesn’t help, just show your typepad stats to anyone & they’ll be able to see what a goldmine you are. Plus. Your books are really solid.
sue Treiber says
sucks mucho!
I love the mag and will miss it greatly.
Melissa Cummings says
My heart is breaking at this news. Many thanks for all your work over the years. I hope I can still read you and see your work here and elsewhere. I’ve read every Simple published and loved them all.
Christina T says
I am so sorry for your job loss and I wish you the best of luck in your next endeavor. You are not alone!
Sara Rossi says
What a crappy way to start the new year! So sorry about the job. Just know you are much appreciated to your blog readers. YOU ROCK!!!
LisaE says
You. will. be. missed. The magazine itself was paper and ink, but the heart and soul of it was you, Stacey, and the other contributors, editors, etc. The lessons I’ve learned through SS will always be with me – lessons that go beyond scrapbooking to really taking a look at life and what’s important, and then documenting that, for one. I will still addictively check you blog many times a day for new posts. Wishing you the best of luck in whatever new endeavor you pursue or are called to – you will rock in it all!
kathryn says
It is my favorite scrap mag. =( It is how I scrap… simply. I will still be following you… reading your blog always puts a smile on my face. Thank you for that!
Tammy Barkey says
Simple Scrapbooks is my favorite scrapbook magazine and I had let all my other subscriptions go to keep only what I felt was the best. I loved your BPS class and never thought I could really learn design and get better. You are a wonderful teacher and made such a difference in my scrapbooking. I have both of your books. When I am online (time is tight there I have three small children) your blog is the one thing I keep up with, by the way thanks for the info on the Kelly Corrigan book-I finished it today and loved it so much I may read it again and am definitely passing your YouTube link of her on to several friends. I feel like you are another one of my mom/scrapbooking friends that keeps me up on what’s going on since my world is so currently consumed with changing diapers, feeding people round the clock it seems, and getting kids where they need to be when they need to be there. When it’s too late to chat with a friend and I haven’t anything interesting to chat about anyway because I have been so consumed with my kids, I can go to your blog anytime and have a connection with a grown up, and one that has a common interest (scrapbooking), but also the shared roles of mom, wife, woman, friend. I guess I am saying thanks for being there, on the blog, keeping me informed. You give me something to look forward to that is just for me.
AnnB says
I’m so sorry to hear that! I’m sure you’ll find something equally fabulous and perfect, but it won’t be the same for you and that’s hard. I know all that “everything happens for a reason; one door opens; blah blah blah” might help, but sometimes you get to just sit down and think this is sad and it really kind of sucks. I feel for ya. Just saying.
Julie says
That bites. SS is my fave. I subscribe to both CK & SS, but if I had to choose one, it would be SS hands down.
Sorry, Cath!!
Lauren H. says
This is happening to so many people, in so many industries…We’re all behind you CZ, so time to start your own mag – Bits and Pieces, maybe? Once the economy perks up again (and it WILL eventually) you can take your creative endeavors to the next level. You know you could write for anybody. We’d all follow you there. SS was my favorite. I’ll miss it. You’ve got all kinds of great things ahead of you, and a great following. Hey, use it for the greater good!
Melissa says
Do you know that your blog banner kind of appears to read as “Bits and Pie”? An unfortunate coincidence seeing as how you just started WW…. and I am totally messing with you BTW…. because joining WW is something that I should have done but thought eh; what the hell – I’ll enjoy it vicariously through you!! 😀 *ha ha*
Nina says
I agree that this news just absolutely sucks. Simple is my favorite magazine as well. I was just thinking of getting rid of CK as a cost cutting measure and just keeping SS. $@&%!
Now, in my perfect world, you would head a new 10 page (minimum) portion of SS WITHIN CK magazine, if only they would allow it. What are we devotees of the simple approach to do now?
Good luck in whatever you do, and trust that we will follow you there.
STEPHANIE says
I confess to secretly reading your blog for years and never once leaving a comment. Your blog has always found a way to cheer up my day and make me laugh. I’ve never met you in person or collaborated with you and I feel like after so many posts I am your friend. I cannot even imagine how you and your “real” friends are dealing with this reality at Simple Scrapbooks. I wish you and all your true friends at Simple the best. I don’t really believe in luck, I believe in blessings. Simple Scrapbooks has been a blessing to everyone it has reached. I hope you will always remember that. I can’t wait to see what you do next! I know it will not disappoint
Dana N says
I loved Simple and am so sad. Thanks to all of you for making me a better scrapbooker.
Tina says
This sucks! I love Simple and I love you in Simple. I can’t wait to see what’s coming up for you…
Tasha says
I’m so sorry! I hope you find the perfect fit in your new job!
Debbie Dow says
It seems that this is going to be a year of change and transition for alot of us. Be aware you are not alone, thanks for sharing how it really is.
When our God closes a door, He opens a window!
angie says
Love ya forever Cathy!!! So, so sad…
Sarah B.R says
I’m a subscriber and really enjoyed the magazine. Simple. Good. I’m sure that the new journey ahead of you will be wonderful as well but I understand the sadness. I send you a big hug. Aloha, Sarah
Betty says
Well good thing I just started reading your blog…
Sorry I’ve left rather depressing messages on everyone else’s and thought I’d change it up this time.
All the best to you, and everyone from SS, in whatever it is you move on to.
Sam says
What a great disappointment!!! Simple Scrapbooks will be missed along with all those who have contributed to it’s great ideal of simply scrapbooking. I wish everyone at SS the very best. Please keep your blog followers updated on what’s next.
Victoria says
This news is heartbreaking. I will keep you and the staff of Simple Scrapbooks in my thoughts and prayers.
Marta Valdes says
I am so sorry. I read the news today, oh boy, and I could believe it. I love love love your work.
I hope you will continue to share your work at CK or where ever you go. Your work is truly amazing.
🙁
Suzitee says
This is just not on! Can’t they get rid of CK instead?
Hope you are doing ok…I know this must hurt. Good luck in whatever you do, and I hope it’s something that you love!
abaltayan says
I’m so sorry Cathy. SS was my favorite magazine. Looking forward to seeing where your creativity takes you next.
Amy Sorensen says
OK…I just read this news on Stacy’s blog, and then I checked here, too. I’m really, really sad that Simple is ceasing to be. It was just so GOOD in so many ways. I’m sorry, too, for the impact that the change will have on your life—it is hard to adjust to something so monumental, I can’t imagine finding words for it yet. I hope you find something equally as fun to do, but…well, dang. It just won’t be the same, will it? I’m sorry!
Zarah says
That IS sad!! 🙁
Thanks for all the fun hours of reading you’ve given me!
kim smart says
Wow, this really sucks!!! I hope everything works out for you though. Im sure you wont have a problem finding something equally terrific! Your work is awesome and your blog is even awesomer, ha, new word! but really, good luck and i will continue to read your blog as always!!
Kelly says
So disappointed that this is really happening. The mag is the ONLY sb subcription I’ve ever had… the only one I thought represented the whole “simple” thing so well. I’m sure the decision will mean upheaval for a lot of people working for the mag, and I wish you all well.
….and in the words of Neil himself…. “Don’t dream it’s over” 😀
amy m says
cathy I am devastated by this news. I am actually quite shocked by it. I’m so sorry. I truly am.
Nancy says
Oh man, I’m so sorry to hear this. I’m a subscriber and have always loved the magazine (and wanted it to become a monthly). I’ll be sorry not to receive it anymore. 🙁 You and the staff are in my thoughts.
Thena says
Cathy, You know that I love you and your Simple team. I’m so sorry to hear that SS is coming to an end. I hope you will keep us updated on your new adventures via your blog.
Hugs,
Thena
TracieClaiborne says
Cathy – I’m sitting here about to bawl. I feel like I’m losing an old friend. (I am!) I will be watching to see what you are up to next. You have been my #1 greatest inspiration for the 7 years I’ve scrapped.
Big hugs!
Rhona says
Looking forward to what you have in store next but really disappointed that SS is ending. I had just dropped CK and renewed my subscription for SS :o( I wish you and your friends/colleagues at SS all the best for the future.
Sara Lovell says
What a bummer! I am, as we say in England, completely gobsmacked! Very, very sad news – SS was always my favourite scrapbooking mag & I shall miss it terribly. Hope we still continue to hear plenty from you, through whatever format. Good luck for the future.
Paul Browning says
Oh Cathy that is sad news, my heart goes out to you. It’s shocked me, it should be the last magazine to be pulled, its such an excellent high quality publication. Spooky too, because I was lying in bed this morning pondering whether SS would be affected by the recession and I turn on my computer to find it a reality. Sixth sense, some vibe in the air. I hope there are positive opportunities behind the scenes waiting for you Cathy. Take care, Paul x
Edith says
I’m so very sorry! Simple Scrapbooks is my favorite scrapbook magazine, it has made me a better scrapbooker. Hope you are doing ok, is it so obvious that you love your job. Hugs and prayers!
Sue says
Wow, and here I was hoping someday SS would go monthly – every other month just wasn’t enough. Loved your BPS class and loved SS. This is the second magazine this month that has told me it will soon no longer exist. Times really are tough. And while it means one less thing to look forward to in the mail, I realize this affects you and many others much more deeply. We all need to spend the weekend watching You’ve Got Mail. I feel awful every time Meg Ryan has to close her little bookstore…..
You’ve got a terrific attitude, Cathy. This too shall pass.
alexa says
So shocked and desperately sad to read this, Cathy. I hope that you already have another job lined up and/or that you will be able to use your very great design and teaching skills in a way which is enriching and creatively enjoyable and financially sustainable for you … I hope that the now famous sweatshirt has many more years of fruitful and useful life keeping you comfortable and at ease in front of your iMac screen. Thinking of you all … alexa
Sue says
Wow, and here I was hoping someday SS would go monthly – every other month just wasn’t enough. Loved your BPS class and loved SS. This is the second magazine this month that has told me it will soon no longer exist. Times really are tough. And while it means one less thing to look forward to in the mail, I realize this affects you and many others much more deeply. We all need to spend the weekend watching You’ve Got Mail. I feel awful every time Meg Ryan has to close her little bookstore…..
You’ve got a terrific attitude, Cathy. This too shall pass.
Lisa says
AAACCKKKKKKKK! Horrible news…just when I finally figure out my style of scrapping, my favorite mag is going away. I really hope you have a spot at CK; they’d be crazy to let you get away!!! I love your style and what you stand for and it will be missed. I know you will have a bright future no matter where you go. You have a ton of stalkers, oops, I mean loyal fans 😛
Chin up (and maybe now you will have time to write a book based on DYL 🙂 xxoo
Lesleigh Watson says
Oh no that is bad news I live in Melbourne Australia and finally found a shop that stock the magazine over here and I have been buying it for the last 6 months. I love this magazine it’s cleaver and inspiring team makes scrapbooking alot easier by keeping it simple and very interesting. I will dearly miss the magazine.
All the best Cathy I read your blog every week. Keep us posted.
Deb says
I’m shocked! I guess I shouldn’t be with the state of the economy, but this most definitely took me by surprise. My job was caught in a downsizing last fall – and so I understand how that feels. I’m a real believer in the idea that as God closes one door, he opens another. And I hope that the transition to your new life is made easy for you.
On the scrapbooking front, I know that your Clean & Simple style was a HUGE factor in making Simple my favorite publication. Your work speaks to me more than any other. Most recently, I was truly impressed with your DYL class. It was amazing, Cathy – truly. Not only the content, but the way you delivered it with templates, layouts, concepts, assignments, videos, humor – this packaging brought your style alive! As an avid follower of your articles and books, I can say I have truly studied your work – but this class made it so much more real to me.
I can’t wait to see what you come up with next. Until then, you’re in my thoughts.
Cathy K. says
Such sad news, sorry about job loss for the staff. I have loved Simple since the first issue – will miss it much. Glad that there will be some space devoted to the Simple style in CK, but it just won’t be the same. Read that you’ll still have a role over at CK, which is great news if that’s really the case.
Kathy Jo Camacho says
I am so, so sorry. You have done a fantastic job and I have loved SS from the very beginning. Thank you for all your hard work, your inspiration and your guideance. If this means you’ll be doing more classes on BPS – then I’m so there!
Pam says
WOW I’m sorry Cathy! SS has always been one of my favorites.
Diane says
What a bummer! Simple really is a great mag with a great philosophy.
But if there is one thing I have learned about Scrapbookers…we can see positives when things don’t go so well!
There are some really bad things happening in our world and as long as we have a happy and healthy family and shelves of memories in our scrapbooks then we are very very lucky!
Barb says
Oh Cathy, my heart is breaking. I’ve posted on a few other blogs, but I’ll say it here too. I LOVE Simple. Simple changed my life… it helped me see that the everyday things all around me were blessings. In fact, it was your first book that changed the way I scrapped… it introduced me to the world of Simple Scrapbooking, and I’ve never looked back. Thank you thank you thank you for all you’ve done… and I will remain a loyal blog follower and hope and pray for the best for you.
Lezlee says
Wow! Just found out this morning! Had to see what you had to say. Stacy’d been alluding to “something” for a couple days – I had half a gut feeling, couldn’t/wouldn’t put it into words….dang.
So much to say – but words don’t do it justice. Simple will certainly be missed. Glad to hear other opportunities are opening for you! You’d better keep up that Clean & Simple fight! (good thing you indoctrinated over 1000 minions recently, eh?) 😉
(well, this’ll certainly challenge your diet plans, I’m thinking! here’s sending strong thoughts your way!)
Big hugs,
Lezlee
barb says
I’m just sad. 🙁
stephanie says
simple it my favorite! i will really miss it! best wishes to you!!
s.
Cheri says
If CK doesn’t take you and Wendy Smedley with them to put columns into that magazine, then I’m going to have nothing left worth subscribing to. I long ago gave up Memory Makers because it got way too “frou frou” for my tastes. And in general CK is more interested in following the latest trend than in honest down-to-earth scrapbooking. I really do hope they incorporate a lot of SS into their publication. But whatever you end up doing, keep us posted! You’ve got fans!
Kathy says
Just heard the news and I am so sad for everyone involved in the magazine (and myself since SS was my favorite scrapbook mag). The first person I thought of was you, Cath. What a bummer! I wish you the best in whatever comes your way next.
Dianne Nelson says
I’ve subscribed from the VERY beginning, and will miss the mag. Sorry for your loss…
Candace H says
So sad for everyone at SS and so sad for all of us SS readers who LOVE the magazine. Hope things will work out for you to continue doing something you LOVE, whatever path that takes you.
Ali Folendore says
Oh no! I love SS. Dang it…
MonicaMcNeill says
Simply heartbroken for everyone who loves Simple. Sending the best thoughts and prayers for all of you personally effected by this decision. What a wonderful group of people; what a sad day.
Joanne says
CZ….knowing how you loved your job at Simple must make this difficult, but I’m confident there is already something great in the works for you! Talent like yours does not go unnoticed nor unrewarded…I’m looking forward to the next post where you will be highlighting very happy news!
Michelle Johnson says
This makes me sad on so many levels. Of all the SB mags I have subscribed to, SS was the ONLY one that I continue to get because I loved the content, the look, the philosophy. Hugs to you as you navigate your way through this….
Jeannette P says
Oh that is just so sad. I’m very sorry that the magazine is stopping. I look forward to still having your knowledge spread using other avenues as I enjoy your clean look on pages. Good Luck.
Melissa Raphael says
Well that just SUCKS.
Seriously.
Can’t wait to see what’s new to come with you…
Amanda V says
What?! I need to go read that announcement, but wow, I loved the magazine and blogs and was so refreshed by the lack of commercialism and overdone pages. The magazine was my inspiration to scrapbook, I will be really sad, and sad for you and the avenue that has been taken away from you, and us.
Kris says
Well, that’s a kick in the pants. I’m so sorry, for a couple of reasons. First of all, your loss of a great job, though, with your incredible talent, I’m sure that you won’t be in that position for long. And secondly, the loss of a great publications. After 12 years of this hobby, I have finely pared down to just Simple. All I really need. Good luck to you both!
Sarah in MN says
What? You’re kidding, right?
Is just the magazine going? Or all of the really cool books, etc too?
One thing is for sure… YOU have got GREAT TALENT and quite a knack for sharing that talent with the world!
Sarah in MN says
Hey, if there is NO MORE magazine, why does their website still have a link to subscribe to it?
What’s up with that?
Are you sure it isn’t April Fools joke a little early?
Tori Rosin says
I’m sorry to hear this news, Cathy. I will try and reframe it and tell you how lucky I was to get to know you and the other SS editors and contributors over the past few years. Thank you.
Judy in Huntsville[al] says
Been thinking of y’all all night — and you know — There’s only one Simple –
Julie Mitchell from Canada says
I’m very sad to hear the news. It was my one and only magazine subscription and I loved it dearly. I’m concerned about your fate. I do hope it’s all good for you. These are hard times.
Lisa says
Wow, I can’t believe this. Earlier this week I found out, Pushing Daisies was cancelled, loved that quirky show. Last night I watched Grissom leave CSI, won’t be the same. Now this. I’m sure we will be seeing you around though Cathy. I do look forward to what ever you do next.
HeatherC says
As with so many others, I can’t tell you how upsetting this is for me. In my opinion, CK should merge to you, not the other way around! But, they did not ask me…I hope you will continue things here, I do enjoy your blog. I wrote an official thank you on my blog. http://creatingdaybyday.blogspot.com/
My best to you — HeatherC, Mason, OH
RobynS says
Cathy,
I had left a message last night on your post below and it did not post for some reason. It was a light hearted post about weather. The gravity of this post is very moving. You see we have been though downsizing and closings many times in our home. I know what we went though and as a result I will pray for you and your family that this will open new doors for you and your future.
Last weekend I caught up on 8-9 weeks of your class and we felt your presence in our home. Even though it was though media, I have taken classes from you in person and now on line. I have subscribed to Simple Magazine; I have read your blog. Even though you do not know me, like so many others I feel like I know you. You have touched many lives Cathy whether you know it or not. You have given a gift to all of the CZ “groupies”. Hopefully our support and prayers will help you through your time until the next door opens for you.
God Bless,
RobynS
Susan says
Cathy,
Like everyone else, I am so sad for you, the other ladies at simple, and all of us. Simple Scrapbooks was a gathering spot of great ladies that gave us inspiration, motivation, and moral support to do what we felt was most important in scrapbooking – in a very “do-able” way.
While I am sad for myself that the mag will be going, I am truly sad for all of you ladies who worked there. It is clear that you guys all adored working with one another and enjoyed what you were doing. It is very unusual this day and age to see people enjoying their “job” like that. It was so inspiring to me. I am truly sorry for the emotional pain this will cause all of you. I imagine it is totally awesome to work together with people you like on projects that are so cool! You guys were truly blessed with that opportunity. Like someone else said, I do believe that when one door closes, another opens. Take time to remember and appreciate the awesomeness that was simple, anticipating that something even better is waiting right around the corner.
Take Care
Amy says
So upsetting! SS will be definitely missed! I hope you won’t be going away! I can’t give up my daily dose of Cathy! Best wishes in your next adventure!
JoLynn says
Thanks for bringing all of us SS. Prayers for you and the staff that there will be something even cooler on your horizons. Bummer.
Jane says
I am at a loss of what to say. I hope that something even more wonderful comes your way.
Brooke says
This is a very sad announcement. Hope to see you as a featured designer in CK. I’m anxious to see how all these changes settle out. I’ll definetly miss SS, it’s my fave mag I get, and it will be a sad day when it stops coming. I always go to your articles after my initial leaf thru. Oh and btw I like Nina’s idea of you heading a mini ss with in CK and I’m thinking a 15 page min. You Rock Cathy…time for more BPS classes!!!!
Cindy G says
Cathy, Know that all of the loyal SS subscribers and readers are thinking of you and all of your co-workers with aching hearts. Simple Scrapbooks is by far the best scrapbooking magazine on the market right now and I can’t believe I will no longer be anxiously awaiting its arrival in my mail box every other month. My very best wishes to you and all of the SS staff. Cindy G.
Aileen says
Sorry to hear of the ending of Simple. I recently took your Design for Life class and was blown away with your teaching. I learned so much that will take my scrapbooks to the next level. Your style rocks! I hope that you can find a “voice” in this industry to continue sharing your passion. You are a talent and inspiration. Ahhhhhhh (insert angelic singing tone here). Take care, can’t wait to see where the journey takes you next.
P.S. I took out all of my double spaces after my punctuation.
Carrie H. says
I’m shocked and so Sorry Cathy. I have enjoyed the magazine better than the regular because of its simplicity and clean lines. I will always support you and read your lovely blog. You are a great, fun, exciting person. While I have never actual met you…I LOVE your blog. It makes me laugh, cry and simply be happy. Thanks your loyal blogaholic.
Bec says
I am very sad, too. I think they need to move you to CK to *save* that publication. :).
Nicole Ward says
I read Stacy’s post earlier. And it makes me want to cry! And I only subscribed to the magazine. Can’t imagine the connection those of you from the beginning have to the best magazine ever (in my huble opinion!). 😉 Crazy that it’s coming to an end..but can’t wait to see where you will pop up next!! Hopefully more at BPS.
Joy says
Wow! I thought something was up with Stacy leaving, then the CK website–which I hate! I am so sorry that Simple and Cathy will no longer be delivered to my house. I think another comment said it best “THAT BITES!”. Your great and probably as I type someone is offering you a sweet deal at CK to bring all of us readers along. Well if they had any clue to who you are to the scrapbooking world they would! Now I really wish I signed up for your last class. What was I thinking?
alexa says
Am so very sad to read your post… Hoping that you will find fulfilling work ahead and that there will be exciting projects in the pipeline for you. And that the famous orange sweatshirt will continue to be in use as you work so creatively at your iMac. Thinking of you all.
Barb says
Cathy, you are such a talented writer and artist that I have no doubt you will find another fabulous job that you will be grateful for and love endlessly, just like with SS. You are doing exactly what you were put on this earth to do and there is nothing that can stop you…
Angie says
WHAT? this is my favorite magazine. I enjoy it so much more than CK. I am so sorry for your loss cathy. But I am sure you will come out on top and find something new and exciting to do.
Kirsten says
So sorry to hear this! All of us will be behind you on whatever adventure comes next. Hang in there!
Edith says
I am so sad to hear the news! SS has always been my favorite scrapbook magazine, esp your column!
Good luck in your next venture wherever it might be. I have enjoyed learning from you with every issue and laughing along with your humor. I will continue to be an avid blog reader as long as you are willing to share your wisdom and humor with us!
scrapmommaof3 says
I am so bummed! First digital scrapbooking mag, now simple scrapbooks. What is going on over there. I can’t imagine that there isn’t still need for these things. So is Creating Keepsakes next? I am sorry you are losing your magazine. That stinks.
Deb says
Sad for you and your Simple colleagues–am sure it’s hard to see something you were so vested in come to an end. Fortunately, your readers will still see Simple in CK and so very glad that we still have you via your blog and your books. Perhaps it will even give you more time with your fam and provide you with time to choose from whatever many opportunities are on your personal horizon. Hey–could it be the silver lining may end up being more time to begin writing Book #3 or even creating another Big Picture class sooner rather than later……….? (fingers crossed, she said selfishly)
All the best, whatever is next,
Deb (allynraye)
Bree says
I had a bad feeling when I saw Stacy’s post yesterday, but this is still a shocker. I spent last night re-reading Clean & Simple, to get me in mode for my POTD/Project 365 without the BH kit. So glad I have kept all my SS idea books, since I don’t know what I’ll do without my bi-monthly SS rejuvenation.
I hope you land on your feet and I’ll be keeping an eye out for your next projects/classes.
And don’t forget to take a little time to let your wrists heal. Good luck!
Melissa LaFavers says
This does totally suck, dude. I’m so, so sorry. For you and for all the other talented folks at Simple. I have every certainty that you will all land on your feet, once the shock and sadness of this reality subside.
Me, I think you should start your own magazine. You could call it Design Your Life and include all sorts of goodness in its pages. It could be all about scrapbooking, but it could also include other facets of life, tying into the title.
I’d subscribe to that in a heartbeat. : )
Don’t forget to take good care of you.
Melissa
Lyn Meeker says
Dang.. it was the only scrap mag that I actually read every page of .. All my others I would peruse .. but not look at EVERY SINGLE PAGE! ….
As with the other posters.. let us know where you end up .. we’ll be subscribing!
Mona says
I am so sorry – Simple was a favorite of mine, too. Sending good thoughts your way!!!
Hilary says
Noooooo!! And just when I finally got a subscription instead of buying the mag every month. I’ll miss this amazing magazine.
I know how hard it is to lose a job you love. Best wishes to you and all the SS employees!
cori in wa says
No matter what you decide to do next you are sure to master it. You are an inspiration to so many and your teachings will last long after the last issue is printed. You rock my dear, and you always will.
Jamie says
You will be missed!
My thoughts – http://blog.jamiescraps.com/2009/01/so-sad.html.
Jocelyn in PA says
I’m so sad to hear this. I hope the majority of folks that lost their jobs are assimilated into CK. I also hope the new chapter of your life brings continues to bring us your talent and wit.
kp says
dang. I was just looking at a recent issue yesterday, to inspire me to get back into scrapping. You were a huge part of what made that magazine great, and it will be sorely missed. I am sure you are feeling low, just go with that, but realize that this may bring you a whole new opportunity. You are SO TALENTED, I can’t wait to see what your next chapter brings.
michelle says
WHAT?
NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!
damn girl. I’m sorry.
Jennifer K says
I am so bummed that Simple won’t be continuing in its same format. I loved reading your columns – so helpful on the design side of things! I do hope you’re staying in the industry; it just wouldn’t be the same without you.
Leslie says
SO sad to hear the news about your loss and the loss of a wonderful magazine.
Hang tight and have faith that something wonderful is about to happen.
Susan says
NOOOOOOOOOOO!!
This makes me sooooo sad!!!
pam says
What a bummer!!! SS is my favorite scrapbooking magazine and I can’t imagine not having it show up in my mailbox every other month. I’m very sorry for your loss – not only of a job you loved – but for the opportunities it has opened to you. I feel very certain that your talent for clarity and design will lead you on to other wonderful opportunities in the future.
Here’s to new vistas and challenges!!
Kim says
I’m so sad about this. I love simple and I love your style. I hope you’ll be around in some capacity where I can still admire you from afar. Best wishes going forward.
Kirsten says
I am shocked and very saddened. Yours was a quality mag that never disappointed and I enjoyed it even though I am not a simple scrapper. I am really really really sad ;( Eloquent, eh? I’m sure you could do much better. I do so hope you continue
a) scrapping b) blogging c) teaching. That is purely selfish of course, I want these things because I so enjoy you! Thanks for all you’ve given us! Rock on!
shari (tigsnbitz) says
I feel like I just lost a good friend. SS was by far my favorite magazine.
My heart goes out to you Cathy. I know you will do well and find another avenue to express your love of scrapbooking and designing. You are too great not to be in the business somehow.
Good luck to you.
Shari
tiffany k. smoot says
WHAT! are you kidding me? simple is the ONLY scrapbook magazine i get anymore because it is the best and it’s vision captures my heart and sparks my imagination. I AM SO SAD! this can’t be happening…..take CK but leave simple.
off to cry now.
Dena says
CathyZ: Whoa, it must be really rough for you. You are so talented that I am sure that you will be doing something great soon. Thank you so much for your upbeat spirit and sense of humor. I hope you will be teaching frequently at BPS and writing another book. Good to read your blog.
Cindy says
I’m so sad to hear that Simple is coming to an end. I love the clean and simple LOs that always inspire me. I just renewed my SS subscription and let CK expire. You and your SS friends are in my thoughts. You’ll move on to bigger and better things.
Jamie says
Wow, that sucks. I bought almost every issue since it first came out and can’t believe it’s coming to an end! I’m so sad! Farewell Simple…
Sarah says
WHAT????? Recieving my Simple magazine was a highlight of my month. My husband soon realized when my new issue arrived, it was left-overs for supper. Now what?
Lu Girardi says
I´m sad about this too Cathy, I love the magazine and your work in there. I hope the things get better soon and that you find a new way to show your work and inspire so many people.
Good luck and I´ll keep visiting your website.
Kirsten says
Wow. Just. Wow. You know we’ll be looking to you for the wit – Stacy for the wisdom. Not that you aren’t wise, or Stacy witty…you know what I mean.
Mary says
Oh I am sick over this!
Please don’t go away! I could not handle a life without your wit! And we still have ROL Tour Bus to discuss!
Looking forward to what’s next for you!
Jennifer says
So disappointed that the magazine will not be published any more and sorry for you. Change is scary but can be great. Here’s looking forward to the next door that opens for you….
Linda says
I am really going to miss Simple. I loved the magazine and I love your work, Cathy. Thank you.
Elisabeth says
One door closes and another opens. Maybe now you’ll have time to publish another book? You don’t need Simple for that, you have enough people following your blog. (It’s called Marketing, baby!) Why not expand on your Design course that you gave at Big Picture? I’d buy it tomorrow. I would run to the store actually. (Ummm, well, no, I’d buy it on-line so I wouldn’t be running…but you know what I mean…) From reviewing the other blog posts, there some other awesome ideas, like the e-zine (minimal start-up costs there). How about an e-zine about Design? Are you noticing my obsession with Design? Hmmm. Good luck!
debbieR says
This really sucks, not only for you, but for those of us who enjoyed reading the magazine. I am really sorry for the loss of your job and your fabulous colleagues. I hope that the next thing on your horizon is equally as fun and fulfilling for you and your family!
I will still be following you and your witty blog. Wishing you the best!
Jennifer says
That is really sad. The only problem I had with simple was it wasn’t monthly, I loved the content, the art and the inspiration.
Good Luck with your next venture.
Kymberly says
Cathy, I am so incredibly sorry to hear this. SS was, for me, the difference between my loving (and sticking with) scrapping, and my doing two pages at a CM event and saying “um, no thanks, not for me.”
SS – and YOU – came along at a time when the thought “I could really dig this” crashed headlong into my aversion to glitter, sticker sneeze, and word balloons. We were a match made in scrapping Heaven – SS and I.
Now, all I have to say is I will treasure my SSs through the M/J09 issue and scrap my plans to recycle my older issues.
Finally, (and free to print this for future resumes – but with your talent you’ll hardly need to worry) my only real point is WHEREVER CATHY ZIELSKE GOES – SO GO I (And my subscriber and consumer dollars). In fact, I might even suck it up and subscribe to my arch-nemesis CK 😉 if they see fit to add you and your Scrap-Goddess style to their pages.
JennC says
Well CRAP. I know that you will do well in whatever is next on the horizon for you, but *I* will be so sorry to lose my favorite mag. I hope this change is a good opportunity for you. You truly are a ROCK STAR baby.
karinb says
Sorry to hear this.
Hope this means you will have more time to write another book !!!
OR – better yet – put your comedy talents to good use and go on the road!
Twila says
Lady, you should be damn proud of your work at SS. Can I say damn on a blog? Well I just did. Your design stamp is on every single thing that SS does from the mag to the books…and it’s brilliant. Thanks for the inspiration over the years. Will, of course, continue to read the blog and cheer for you wherever you may land. Here’s hoping you get another fabulous gig in this industry where you can work in your UGGS. At home. 🙂
elisa says
Oh Cath, sorry to hear that. I can’t wait to see what the future has in store for you!
Veonad says
I can’t believe it! I love Simple Scrapbooks magazine! The past few years it has been so much better than Creating Keepsakes. I am a huge fan and I have learned so much from you. I can’t wait to see what you will do in the future.
Veronica Hugger says
Bum-mer. But I’m sure this is not the end to all the influence you offer the scrapbooking world. I can’t wait to see what you come up with next!
Hillary says
Cannot wait to see what you’ve got planned next – in my mind we are “virtual” friends for life!!
ok – that sounds a little “stalker-ish” sorry about that – Donna D will vouch for my sanity and safety! LOL
Hillary
o-girl says
Oh, how disheartening to read of this news. ‘Simple’ is my favorite magazine for scrapbooking. This will be a loss. I hope you & your ‘Simple’ collaborators will have new doors opened to you so you can continue your creative endeavors and continue to be inspiration to the masses. {{{CZ}}}
Erika says
I’m shocked and sad to hear this news. I do really enjoy SS and will be sad to see it lose it’s own place, however, since I get CK too, glad to hear that we’ll still get some SS in there. I hope you will continue blogging here and who knows, maybe you’ll come up with your own special format for an online e-zine. I know you could do it!!!! Love your creativity, humor and humanity. You make me smile!!!!
Cindee says
I {heart} Simple but I {heart} you even more. I am very sad…
Please keep us in the loop–I will follow you where ever you go!
Love and hugs,
Cindee
Liza says
Can’t you keep it as an e-zine??? I still have my first issue – signed by Stacy! I can’t believe it’s going away 🙁
Denise in AK says
Sooo Sorry this is happening. I know you aren’t only thinking of yourself in your sorrow. I am looking forward to what is on the horizon for you.
lynn whelan says
I hate to say that I can’t be too surprised to hear it. I’ve known for a while that scrapbboking had reached it’s peak and was on the decline. It’s sad (really sad), but true. I have watched so many stores come in and out of business in the last 4 or 5 years.
Can’t wait to hear what’s next for you though, Cathy!
Stand up comedy???
Hey, it’s never too late. Maybe you can be the first highly successful “video only” stand up comedian!
Paula in Phoenix says
I am so sad to hear this. Not only do I think you are one of the most talented (maybe THE most talented) designer, but Simple was my favorite magazine. I looked forward to every issue, always especially appreciating your columns/articles. I feel so badly for you. And for the loss of this unique publication for the scrapbooking “community.” It is just simply poopy. Please keep all of us posted on what is next for you.
Tara says
CK as good as it is was never quite the right fit, I have loved this magazine totally from the moment I discovered scrapbooking back in 2002… So I guess I’ve been reading it all along… I am so sad to have to say goodbye to my favourite read each and every month.
Liz says
I’m sorry to hear that this job that you love is coming to an end. I am a big fan of yours, I love your books, and I will be looking forward to see how you turn this adverse event into something positive. All my best!
Amanda says
So, so, so, so terrible.
SS is the best thing to happen to scrapbooking, in my opinion. When I was going through a terrible time in my life it was the thing that brightened my existence. You and all the staff at that mag have done wonderous things.
I hope to see you all come out the other side of this bigger and bolder and rockin’ it, sister.
There are no more words. 🙁
Nancy Peacock says
Hi Cathy,
I read this yesterday on Stacy’s blog and I was stunned. Simple is my favorite scrapbooking mag and I’m going to miss it. You were the first person I thought of when contemplating all the people that will be impacted by this. I sure hope it doesn’t mean you aren’t a part of the industry any more. You’ve done a GREAT job!
Shawn says
All I can say is I am sorry. But with your talent I have no doubt you will succeed in any and all adventures that you go after.
Vanessa says
There are no words…as in the death of someone you love, this loss is felt to the core. Please know that you and all the people at Simple are in my thoughts and prayers during these difficult days.
KathyL says
I’m sorry to hear this about SS mag and to think that you won’t be involved in that arena any longer. But I just know that this will open up so many more opportunities for people/companies to snatch you up. I can’t wait to see what your new venture will be 😉
Jenny R says
🙁
Lynn Herrick says
This is really disappointing. This magazine has been a highlight once every two months. You are so talented and bring so much to the table – I am sure there are great things ahead for you.
Kim S. says
Whoa. What a disappointment. SS allowed me to see that I didn’t have to cram a page with 150 embellishments to make it beautiful.
All your fans are behind you. You are such a strong woman, that when the shock/sadness subsides, we all antipate your next step of greatness. Perhaps another book? 🙂
tami says
best wishes cathy (i am glad to see so many people responded, more than just a few giveaway!)
di says
Wow.. shock. So sorry to hear this, on so many levels. Sorry for you and the loss it represents on all levels. Sorry for me because Simple was the best SB mag out there, bar none. Loved the message, loved the format, loved the people. I have been in the business for 11 years, it has changed and morphed over the years that is for sure. We closed our store in September, due to health issues I am facing. I do not know what is next for me either, however I would not trade my time in the industry for anything. I am sure you feel the same.
I am cheering you on what ever journey life has for you next. Chin up! Remember you are loved by many!
Cheryl H says
SS was my favorite scrappin’ magazine, this is some really sad news…… Cathy, you are so talented! I’ll read anything you do!
Marg says
Wow, what a bummer. I really love getting my new issues of Simple every few months. BUT, if I had to choose between the magazine and your blog, I’d take your blog hands down!
Hang in there. You’re a very talented woman and there’s a new adventure awaiting you.
(you know that whole “when a door is closed, a window is opened up somewhere else” cliche thingie)
Best Wishes, Marg VP
tammy b says
NO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! say it ain’t so joe. these are dark days indeed. it’s been a great ride, and this is one mag that will truly be missed.
Elena says
I cannot believe I am reading this news today and I am so very disappointed and sad…sad for those of us who love the magazine and sad for those of you who have loved working there. I would have kept SS and ended CK but that’s just me. Know that we, your fans, will follow you anywhere so let us know where you’ll be headed but PLEASE don’t just drop out of sight! Hugs….
Missus Wookie says
So sad – as so many have said you have been a positive inspiration and blessing.
Thank you for all that.
I hope you will continue to do the BPS classes, to publish in CK and to blog!
Sue says
I really really hope that CK is smart enough to keep you in the loop and working for them steadily. You are the reason I am still scrapping. When I get low or no mojo…I turn to your book, articles or blog to get me moving again!! Thanks for all your work and inspiration!!!!!
purplejamie says
Cathy, so sorry. My own job comes to an end in June so I have some idea of what you are going through having nurtured and grown something to see it lost. Good luck for your future I hope it is one that will fulfill you and that you will enjoy.
Maria says
Sadness. Pure sadness.
Cynthia says
I hope that we get to see more of your work in the future, wherever it is. You only get one Simple, to quote Dan.
Canay says
I know there is sadness and disappointment but when one door closes another door opens. Best of luck to you as you journey through new possibilities.
Debbie Wearn says
I’m so sad to read this. 🙁 Simple is the only scrapbook magazine that really gave me what I was looking for. Great, executable ideas that were not over the top in complexity. All the best to you and the staff. Know that you made a great difference while it lasted….I’m going to grab some tissue and cry now. 🙁
Debbie W in Socal
shelley e says
OMG- that is my favorite scrapbooking magazine! I am sorry that you won’t be working there any longer. I cannot wait to see what you will be doing next. I really love your work…
Michelle says
Cathy – you and Stacy rocked my SB world. You two brought me back from the brink of quitting altogether. I am so sad to lose my favorite magazine.
I certainly hope you will continue teaching at BPS. DYL was fantastic and I would jump at the chance to take anything you teach.
Joann says
Are you kidding me!!!! I just got started in Nov with this hobby and Simple best represented my style of crafting. Remember how crazy silly I got when you added me on FB? I have been around plenty of celebs in my industry (pro-sports)…never really star struck. Then Cathy Zielske ‘friends’ me and I’m jello! LOL. So what I’m trying to say is I’m a fan that’s here to stay! I look forward to bigger, better & whatever the future brings here on your blog and anything else that comes your way. Hang in there, Cathy! When one door closes…..
BethBG says
Cathy, the only good thing about this (if there CAN be any good) is the news that CK will enfold the Simple philosophy into that mag and that you are all still employed. And I hope they make good on that promise or else there will be lots of unhappy subscribers! Simple is the only reason I’m a scrapper in the first place. You & Stacy & Wendy & Angie and everyone else at Simple are the reasons I’m still a scrapper. Hugs and more hugs! XX’s
Netleigh says
My commiserations Cathy. Why they had to pull both Simple and Digital magazines must mean that it’s really serious for CK. I hope other doors open for you, especially in the online teaching world where you were your usual wonderful self!
Dorothy says
NOOOOOOOOOOOOO! I’m so disappointed!
Please tell us that you’ll have another place to share your scrapbooking wisdom and layout! Maybe they can still have you as a columnist?
dorothy
JenCozz says
Oh no! I’m so sad! I love that magazine and have been subscribing for many years.
I also love all of your contributions- your style, columns, and the stuff I’m sure I don’t even realize goes into a magazine. I always read your blog and have both your books, which I love.
I hope new adventures await you and your talents and I hope you keep your blog so we can still hear from you!
Thanks for all you’ve done for us. Can’t wait to hear what’s next. Take care!
rebecca k says
This is very sad and disappointing. I am sure that you will have various options available to you, but you should go on over to Stacy’s blog and see the comments on what readers hope they keep in CK from Simple. I’d say the majority want YOU! I hope that lets you know how many people’s lives you have impacted by your warm, smart, funny approach and how many followers you will have no matter where you go!
Sev from france says
oh no !!!!! I love Simple ! it’s my favorite mag !!!
So sorry for you and your colleagues.
gina ferraro says
I am sad to hear you have lost your job and the magazine. I hope you will find another job that you are as passionate about as you have been about Simple. Life is an interesting road and sometimes you just aren’t sure where it’s taking you, but things always work out.
Susan Harrison says
Well, Crap! I subscribe to both, but really look forward to SS. Crap! Please do some digital stuff, continue with Big Picture (loved your design class, still working through it), Crap! Thanks for the great ideas and I look forward to continuing to follow your creative approach. Crap!
Jennifer W. (Simple Scrapper) says
We are all thinking about you during this sad time. Can’t wait to see where your next venture leads. Good luck!
Laura H says
Oh bummer!!! I love your blog though and will keep up with you!!! Good luck…I hope this is one of those *opportunities in disguise…*
xxoo
Laura
JennieB says
Ohhhhhhhhhh NO! Don’t tell me this, I’m not listening. Denial, denial, denial. I live to receive my SIMPLE magazine and especially your articles. Wake me when this nightmare is over.
Kelli says
I always buy SS magazines and living near and kind of knowing one of the SS girls, Cheryl, has made it even more special to me. I buy all the special issues too and am hoping that there is something new and just as good on the horizon!
Dawn-Rene Tomlinson says
Very Sucky!!!!
Kathryn Martin says
Say it isn’t so! Why must all good thing come to an end? A couple of my favorite idea books are your Clean & Simple Scrapbooking volumes! Perhaps you will continue on to create another book? Who knows, but there’s no end to your talent! I’m sure this isn’t goodbye! 🙂 Kathy
fauxnomen says
OK, I’m fully aware that I’m going to sound like a kook…but here is my take on the ‘sad’ postings about this: Unlike other posters, I’m not sad … I’m outraged! This is a horrible decision. CK is an inferior magazine, even if it is the “parent” mag. Simple is the only scrapbooking magazine worth buying. “Tough economic times” are leading to some very bad business decisions. Rather than consolidating readership, they’re going to lose readers and advertisers. I, for one, will be cancelling my remaining subscription rather that have to suffer through the ‘hot mess’ of CK, instead of the elegant, relevant pages of Simple. CK and it’s imitators are what give scrapbooking a bad name as the cutesy domain of trivial, suburban housewives. On the other hand, the visionary designers at Simple had the courage to stand-out from the rest of the industry with strong graphic design and great writing. Simple Scrapbooks sad demise is another example of how excellence is overtaken by mediocrity when fear (in this case fear of the economy) takes root.
Chrissy G says
OH it’s a sad day! Please, please keep us informed on how you are and what you are up to. You are truely an amazing scrapper & your blog makes my day (except for today)!
tonya nc says
I’m so shocked and sad. You all did a great job creating simple and stunning artwork – Loved every issue!
Bec says
I think I already posted but I can’t wait to see what is coming up for you, Stacy, Wendy and all the rest of my SS *friends*. Lots more great things at BPS? Online publications? The sky is the limit.
Consider open mic night at the Comedy Club? I am being silly, I think, but you are soooo funny.
kristi ottmar says
I am a lurker of your blog and a twitter follower and a fellow NW girl….
I will miss Simple Scrp. I pray you have an exciting new adventure just around the next corner. Keep smiling, there is bound to be something better… or at least that what a lot of people keep telling me
Bridget says
Cathy, I can only imagine what a huge loss you’re feeling and I am sorry for your job loss but what I know is that I haven’t seen the last of you CZ! I have been loyal in purchasing SS every new issue (why I never subscribed, I’ll never know) but I have looked forward to that 1 item on my grocery list. You and all the other amazing team memebers that made SS what it was have all been such an incredible inspiration to me and I strongly encourage you to keep your head held high and follow your passion. You are amazing at what you do and I look forward to seeing the new projects you have in store for us! I will follow wherever you go 🙂 You have held so many memories in so many different sized books and they will continue to grow! Hope you’re doing well on your weight watchers 🙂
Best wishes!
Jan says
Wherever you go, we will follow. Not in the stalking sense, but in the supportive sense. You could create an online subscription service that shows 101 ways to line your kitchen cabinets and I would subscribe just to get my Cathy Z fix. Though I’m not at all happy about this magazine going away, I do think it’s really cool that you’ve had a job that allowed you to touch more lives than you can ever know.
rachael says
oh Cathy… that is terrible news. i really loved every inch of SS every single month… hang in there
Carol Clayton says
There are no words. I am just so very sorry. Rest assured that wherever your journey takes you from here on out, we will all want to be along for the ride! I think I see plenty more on-line classes in your future! You totally rock, Cathy! Big hugs!!!
D says
Hugs to you about this. I think so many others have expressed [better] than what I could write here.
Sophie says
Cathy-
We’ve enjoyed the journey with you and now that the door’s closed, we’re waiting with much excitement for the window to open…and a new Cathy-esque adventure to begin.
Rachel Greig says
Simple was my fav mag, I’m really sorry to hear this news!
nomadscrapper says
I echo the sentiments of so many others who have posted today. We are all so sorry to hear this news. I do hope you are able to continue with CK media in some format or that you at least continue to write your blog for us. You are always a bright spot in my day and make me laugh when I need it the most. (And then I have to explain to my kids why I am laughing out loud!) I am so thankful I was able to take your DYL class; I will use those principles for the rest of my life. I wish you and your family the best of luck as you start the next chapter in your life.
Lee says
I’m sorry for your loss Cathy. I wish you well and am confident that you will land on your feet and soon.
I remain very surprised at CK Media cutting both Simple Scrapbooks and Digital Scrapbooking. I hope they dealt with their staff members in a forthright and honorable way.
All the best,
Lee
Leanne Stamatellos says
a very sad day!
Sonda T says
OMG! I am beyond SAD! Hugs Cathy.
Candy M says
I’m in shock. I sat at my kitchen table today, trying to figure out when i could expect the next issue in the mail box. Keep us informed.
Margy Eastman says
I’m so sorry to hear about SS. My sister bought my initial subscription for me as a birthday present – she thought scrapbooking would be great therapy during a tough time for us. She was so right. It’s sad when you leave a job you love, and it’s just as sad when the job leaves you.
Congrats on joining WW – I joined a year ago. I decided it was time to lose my “baby fat” when my baby was old enough to poke me in the thigh and giggling, exclaim “You have water in there!” Ah, out of the mouths of babes.
Wishing you lots of success and extra activity points,
Margy E
Neene says
Oh no. {tears}.
Rachel Ellington says
well that does some major suckage!!!
must look at it as a positive change…this is your new year of change…roll with it…make a new start all the way round!
JWinks says
Cathy,
I need to give you your props 🙂
About 2 years ago, I came across a little book entitled “Clean and Simple Scrapbooking”, and when I opened in up, I had that lightening bulb moment everyone talks about.
Up until that point in time, I thought scrapbooking was decorative scissors and cheesy stickers.
But your book opened up my eyes to the beauty that scrapbooking can be.
Because of your style, I went out and bought my first issue of Simple Scrapbooks and finally after 45 years of age found my passion.
I was devastated to learn of the end of SS as we know it.
But my one bright spot is I will actually be in the final issue with a LO I made for an assignment.
So thank you Cathy and prepared to be followed by me and thousands of others to wherever else your creative world takes you.
-Jody
diane says
I am sad for you now, but on the bright side…will this leave more time for you to publish more books? I am a huge fan of yours and will seek out your work wherever it can be found. Hang in there and keep us posted please!
Tanya says
Cathy – sorry to hear the magazine will no longer be published. I often wish that a lot of magazines would publish online rather than in print, it saves money and trees.
So, here’s to a new chapter..what lies ahead? Any plans?
annie says
I am really sad for you.
kelly says
I have every single issue of Simple Scrapbooks .. and browse through them whenever I have lost my scrapbook mojo! I am very sadden to hear my favorite magazine is no longer. Everything happens for a reason though … I say you should just do more Big Picture classes … I loved your class.
Valerie says
Cool I’m sure, Lucky….no way. You’re talented. Simple was lucky to have you! Now remember that as you move on to bigger and better things. I will be looking for you, wherever you land…not a stalker, lol, just a fan.
Rebecca Fox says
Absolutely sad news for those of us who love Simple. And for you. My best wishes to you as you search for what you will be doing at this new phase in your life.
Melissa (MilliD) says
That totally stinks. I know your talent will ensure that you land on your feet, but it still stinks to have the rug pulled out from under them.
You MUST continue your blog so we can still get our CZ fix! Peace to you, sistuh.
Susanne says
Simple Scrapbooks for me was the only magazin not only showing scrapped stuff, but having a philosophy – I will miss it too!
Karen Ellsworth says
Shock and horror. My peeps and my sunshine will not be arriving in my mailbox anymore? What is this world coming to … seriously. Cathy, if it weren’t for Simple and Wendy I wouldn’t have met you. I’m sure you all don’t truly grasp how many lives you’ve made a little better. The rest will work out. Thanks for your work.
Jen says
Nooooooooo! I’m so sorry Cathy 🙁 But you are so talented, I have no worries about you going on to even bigger and better things. PS Good luck with WW – you can do it!
Patti says
Sad, sad news. SS and your books are what really got me into scrapbooking in the first place. I love clean & simple pages, and when I was first introduced to scrapbooking, I didn’t see a lot of those until I discovered SS. Then I discovered your books. Makes me wish I had every single issue of SS on my shelf!
It just won’t be the same anymore, that’s for sure.
Wishing you all the best in whatever you do in the future. Hopefully you will be able to teach more awesome classes at BPS.
Betheroo says
I was a SS charter subscriber – and it’s the only magazine that I have kept EVERY copy of. I am so sorry to see it end. Cathy, best wishes to you in your future endeavors, which I hope may include teaching more BPS classes. I just finished your Design Your Life class and it changed my scrapbooking life! They say that all good things must come to an end – but I’ve gotta ask – Why?
Kim Borochaner says
Cathy, Please continue to blog any way. We don’t want to lose both you AND a beloved scrapbook publication.
susan m says
This makes me very sad, I love Simple, I’m just going to miss it so much. I find it so inspirational and “Simple” Sorry Cathy I can even begin to imagine how much this hurts, cuts deep. Your blog will be even more important to me know. Big HUG Susan
Sandy says
Oh Cathy that was a shock!! It is my favorite magazine! Honestly, I have read quite a few different scrapbooking mags and IT was the best! I am sorry for your end at the magazine but am anticipating your return somewhere, anywhere??!! You were one of the reasons I loved Simple so much. I just took your class at BPS too & it was fabulous! Looking forward to your return! We always have your blog until! Love what you do, THANK YOU ALL!
Wilma B says
Ooooh, this is so awful! Wish you all the luck in finding an other great job! You sure have the skills for that!
Know that you are not alone with your sad feelings. It’s just a great lost, no more simple scrapbooks…..
Brigid G says
Oh no! This is so sad. I really hope that they can place all of the folks from SS into new positions at CK. There is talent there that just shouldn’t be lost! When they canceled Digital Scrapbooking, I thought to myself, “Well, at least I still have Simple Scrapbooks!” Now I don’t even have that! I hope that CK becomes a bit more cool and modern, as that was what attracted me to Simple in the first place — I saw it as a magazine for a younger, more hip audience. Cathy, I look forward to seeing what you will do next! 🙂
Laura says
Ok Im sad to hear this, but PLEEEZE tell me its not the end of your blog! Youre the only scrapper that uses some of the 7 cuss words they wont let you say on TV! Well besides meof course!But after hearing this I decided to keep my CK subscription. I mean its nt that much in the grand scheme of things and if it helps to keep that mag stong and around Ill do it. Just tell me what to do with all the 4 yrs worth of mags Ive got?LOL
Lisa Taron, Founding Director says
Have you ever recommended Heritage Makers to your readers for digital scrapbooking? It is an AMAZING and creative system. I warn you though….it’s addicting!
Becki says
So very sad about this, Cathy, and wishing you the best as you plan for the future. I am sure that whatever comes along next will totally knock our socks off.
ann marie says
I was shocked and saddend when I heard the news about SS. It is by far and away my favorite magazine and my go-to resource whenever I hit a creative roadblock. I love the Simple philosophy and I will definitely continue to scrap the Simple way! Thank you for all you have done with SS and I can’t wait to see what’s next for you, Stacy and the rest of the crew.
April P says
I’m so sad for all of you. You and Wendy have become such big parts of my life . . . you all made scrapbooking seem real and not like it was a bunch of time-consuming techniques and I love Simple. I will ALWAYS be a simple girl . . . I do hope that something brilliant is in the works for you and others, and I’m so thankful that we get to see you here on your blog when we need some Cathy humor! 🙂
Claire says
Another chiming in here with my sympathies and support…ADORE your work, your personality, your scrap style…can’t wait to see what’s ahead for you and will be watching impatiently to jump in and lend my support to whatever your new venture may be!
Trisha Hamilton says
Cathy, you are the greatest……..with or without Simple you will come out on top.
kathy says
well shit, that sucks severely!
Don’t let it get you down though – you can radiate inspiration through your humour and blog – is there a way to turn a blog into income???? I’d pay.
Jo says
Such a great shame, I always look forward to the arrival of my magazine through the letterbox here in England. All the best to you and everyone who works at Simple. x
joanne smith says
so sorry to hear about this cathy. i have learned so much from your columns… and your books! and i love simple’s philosophy. best of luck to you 🙂 (glad you’re keeping the blog going!!)
Tobi Kelly says
Cathy,
I’m SO SAD about the magazine. I subscribe to 3 scrap magazines, and Simple is by far my favorite. I scrap lift from it constantly. I’m almost shocked – in fact.
I love your blog, your style, and all you have brought to my hobby. I will continue to stalk your blog so the advertisers here can support you in some way…and I will ask my friends to do the same. I’m glad you have this blog!
Jennifer S. says
WAAAAAA! WAAAAAAA! I am so so so so sad! ughhhh ughhhh ughhh, can’t write more, booo hooo booo hooo!