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CZ Design

An update from here

May 6, 2019

An update from here

So here we are in the glorious month of May, when at last here in the upper midwest we can tentatively start unpacking our sandals as the mercury rises into the 60s and we realize that winter is actually packing it up for another year.

Not that I mind winter. Winter in Minnesota is a fantastic antidote to hot flashes. You just have to step outside.

I thought I’d post a bit about what’s happening right now in my world, beyond just my general health and fitness, though I imagine everything is about your health in the end, isn’t it?

And yes, my hair is hella long. But we’ll get to that later. Or not.

Our lovely daughter Aidan has moved home for her impending year two of law school. She spent the academic calendar year living near the university, but it wasn’t an ideal fit for her and when she asked, “Would you and Dad care if I moved back home?” the unequivocal reply was “Aw, hell no!” 

Turns out, she’s a better roommate than I remember. She cooks meals for us. She never slips her laundry in with ours. And she’s really quiet when she studies for hours on end. 

Of course, the best part about having her home is having her home. I am fully aware these days are numbered, and I both Dan and I cherish this time with her.

Cole will be returning from his freshman year of college soon. While much of his story isn’t really mine to tell, I will say that I’m so proud of him for sticking with it. It’s not easy, the whole college thing, especially when you’re really not sure that it’s the right fit. So we’ll see how it shakes out for his sophomore year. 

He’s more apt to slip his laundry in with ours, though. That’s the truth.

I don’t really mind. I love it when I know he’s sound asleep in his basement bedroom. Again, these years are numbered.

Dan has a job for next year and will be moving up to a 5/6 split. The only downside is that despite the fact that it will be his fourth year teaching, it’s only a half-tenure position for reasons that he explained to me, and I still don’t quite understand, but I’m sure many of you teachers know what that means.

I’m grateful he has a job and that we have health insurance because of it.

And me? I’m just here working. Working to make a living. Working to improve myself emotionally and physically. Grateful to still be doing what I’m doing and that is due in no small part to the fact that people like you keep coming back, and keep reading, and keep clicking on links and keep supporting me and my small business.

I’m not sure if you realize that you help keep a roof over our heads, food on our table and provide me with a really joyful purpose to sit down and work every single day.

There are some unfortunate lawsuits happening right now in the craft industry (you can learn more about that here), and I think many of you know that even the bigger companies out there, the ones who’ve been offering us wonderful crafty products for years, are run by families, and women, and individuals who love to inspire people to create.

I’m so grateful to be still here and doing what I do. I just wanted you to know that.

I’ll close with a story: yesterday while walking to mail a card out for Mother’s Day—and my property taxes—I stopped and met one of my neighbors. I think I’ve talked with him before, but with my long, shaggy hair, he probably didn’t recognize me anymore. His name is Todd and he has a beautiful year-old Newfoundland pup the size of a small calf named Gracie. Turns out, Todd is also a retired airline employee and a musician, which got us to talking about my son, who is also a musician, and some of my son’s influences (he’s a fan of Cream and the drumming of Ginger Baker), and Todd said, “I’m a fan of Ginger Baker. Heck, I LIVED that time!”

He asked me what I did for a living and it always goes something like this: “Well, I started out as a journalist, but turned into a graphic designer, and now, strangely enough, I make my living in the craft industry.”  And then I told him a bit about it and we closed with him telling me to invite my son down to play sometime on Todd’s beautiful Pearl drum kit, which he said looked like a Cadillac. 

As I walked home, I texted Cole to tell him about the exchange and said to Cole: “You never know who lives in your neighborhood. People… they have stories for sure.”

I guess being part of this wonderful craft industry, for me, has always reminded me that people all have stories and I have been lucky enough to share many of mine in this space over the years.

I’m grateful you have stopped by to read them.

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Comments

  1. Patricia Wilson says

    May 6, 2019 at 7:20 am

    I would love to have a craft day with you. You’re so funny and creative. Thanks for being you.

    Reply
    • Cathy Zielske says

      May 6, 2019 at 7:22 am

      🙂 Thanks for stopping by to read!

      Reply
  2. Madeline St. Onge says

    May 6, 2019 at 7:34 am

    I love your hair Cathy, Mine is shaggy to but that is from chemo, hair cut tomorrow;) Love reading youe posts Have a good day today

    Reply
    • Cathy Zielske says

      May 6, 2019 at 7:43 am

      Mine has started to curl. Do you supposed it’s the gray?

      Reply
  3. Gaby A says

    May 6, 2019 at 7:34 am

    I think you’re right, many times people forget that behind everything is a person who has story or maybe at that moment is having a bad day or as u said is a family running a business. Thanks for pointing it. Regards

    Reply
    • Cathy Zielske says

      May 6, 2019 at 7:44 am

      I try to offer that grace to everyone. Even people who might be tailgating me, or flipping me off in traffic.

      No one knows the real story of another human who might be in pain.

      Reply
  4. Denise Terry says

    May 6, 2019 at 7:37 am

    I need to remind myself to look up and check out what’s going on around me. How many encounters such as your have I missed because I was hiding within myself? Although, some days I would just scare people if I tried to interact with them ?

    Reply
    • Cathy Zielske says

      May 6, 2019 at 7:45 am

      Yes! For me, and I am an introvert, I’m just proud of myself for stopping to pet his giant dog. If I’d kept my head down and kept walking, like I normally do, I would have missed out on that very human experience of sharing a story.

      Reply
  5. Marilyn says

    May 6, 2019 at 7:46 am

    I SO enjoy your sharing stories and encouraging me to share my own.❤️

    Reply
    • Cathy Zielske says

      May 6, 2019 at 9:02 am

      🙂

      Reply
  6. Jacquie says

    May 6, 2019 at 7:49 am

    Great post, Cathy. And you are totally looking awesome and rocking the longer hair…love it!

    Reply
    • Cathy Zielske says

      May 6, 2019 at 9:02 am

      Thank you!

      Reply
  7. Amy says

    May 6, 2019 at 8:07 am

    That’s so lovely that your kiddos will be home again. My daughter is still little (8) but I am so often reminded of how quickly it’s all going. I try and stop the daily hustle to enjoy it. Love the long hair Chica!

    Reply
    • Cathy Zielske says

      May 6, 2019 at 9:02 am

      It’s literally so true… time flies.

      Reply
  8. Athena says

    May 6, 2019 at 8:16 am

    Hi Cathy, I have to tell you how much I appreciate you! Your sense of humor and willingness to share snippets of your life helps me on my most challenging days…your honesty and ability to not take yourself too seriously reminds me I too am not alone. We are the same age, I also have had recent health challenges (BP too!) and my youngest is just finishing up her first year of college at Oregon State. She has had a challenging first year too. Long story short, I appreciate you and thank you for the privilege of being part of your circle. Keep rockin’ the Target shirt and sing until the cows come home! ?

    Reply
    • Cathy Zielske says

      May 6, 2019 at 9:03 am

      Oh, the Target shirt will never die… lol. 🙂

      Reply
  9. Diane Koele says

    May 6, 2019 at 8:17 am

    Hi Cathy, it’s great to hear about your family! BTW the curls are definitely from the gray. 🙂 I’m such a fan of your talents. Thanks for doing what you do! It’s amazing to me sometimes how we get so caught up in in our own small circle that we don’t see what’s going on around us. I’m in that position right now. My husband was diagnosed with ALS about a year ago and it’s hard to see past that at times. I just wanted to tell you to enjoy what you have now, treasure it, savor it. Today is the best day of the rest of your life! Hugs!

    Reply
    • Cathy Zielske says

      May 6, 2019 at 9:03 am

      I figured it was the gray.

      Just want to send love and light to you and your husband, as you face this together.

      Reply
      • Diane Koele says

        May 6, 2019 at 9:32 am

        <3

        Reply
  10. Jana says

    May 6, 2019 at 8:28 am

    Love you. And that your fam will all be under one roof for a bit. I know you will treasure the time.

    Reply
    • Cathy Zielske says

      May 6, 2019 at 9:04 am

      Mwah!

      Reply
  11. Leslie says

    May 6, 2019 at 8:30 am

    My daughter had a similarly bumpy first year away at college, and I echo your sentiments on that subject. Finding the right fit is hard, and well . . . there are no guarantees. She’s decided (I think!) to try another year in Winona, and I’m hoping it finally clicks for her. So hard being a spectator, for the most part!

    Both of my ducklings will be under our roof again in a few days. Daughter for the summer, and son for a month as he starts his job and then gets his own apartment! (Gah!! Where did the time go?! I own a fully functioning adult!) Going to be strange going from empty nesters to having a full house, but I’m looking forward to it!

    Reply
    • Cathy Zielske says

      May 6, 2019 at 9:05 am

      Winona State? Ah yes… my neighbor goes there, and his ultimate team beat my son’s team at regionals this past weekend. Hard fought battle, but they earned it.

      Time does go so quickly!

      Reply
  12. Donna Griffin says

    May 6, 2019 at 8:31 am

    Thank you for your post. I very much appreciate how you keep it real and share your learning process as you go. My oldest is entering High School in the fall. As he graduates 8th grade, I can definitely relate to this time being short. I feel like he just started kindergarten and in a couple of weeks will be a Freshman. I am so lucky to have my two kids! As they say, the days are long but the years are short so trying to cherish these precious moments!! Love and hugs!!

    Reply
    • Cathy Zielske says

      May 6, 2019 at 9:05 am

      Yes, that is a very true saying.

      Reply
  13. Patty Reuter says

    May 6, 2019 at 8:35 am

    You reap what you sow. You have put a lot of time, energy, heart and care into the crafting industry. You deserve to have it support you!

    Reply
    • Cathy Zielske says

      May 6, 2019 at 9:06 am

      Well that is kind of you to say. I try to give more than I get. That wasn’t always my mindset in life.

      Reply
  14. Ann says

    May 6, 2019 at 8:41 am

    I love you random stories that you share. Makes me want to write more, maybe not share more but I like to read other’s writing to get the ol’ fingers moving. Thanks for your inspiration.

    Reply
    • Cathy Zielske says

      May 6, 2019 at 9:06 am

      Every time I sit down to write, I miss it. There are just some areas at this stage of life that aren’t stories I want to share, you know? But I’m working on it.

      Reply
  15. Denise R.’ says

    May 6, 2019 at 8:48 am

    Cathy, while your clean & simple scrapping has always been a huge draw for me, (& more recently your card making skills) what keeps me coming back is your amazing writing. Because of that, I feel like I know you & I will always be rooting for the Zielske Fam! Keep sharing your stories;)

    Reply
    • Cathy Zielske says

      May 6, 2019 at 9:07 am

      That is kind of you to say!

      Reply
  16. Carrie Kelleher says

    May 6, 2019 at 8:53 am

    Love your update! Love hearing about your family!

    Reply
    • Cathy Zielske says

      May 6, 2019 at 9:07 am

      Thanks, Carrie!

      Reply
  17. Debbie Weiss says

    May 6, 2019 at 8:58 am

    My hair is also longer than I normally wear it. I think I missed an appointment sometime this winter. When my hair gets long it also gets BIG. I have very thick hair. I guess it’s time for a spring cut and color. Something fresh to go along with the season!
    I actually like your hair a little longer.

    Reply
    • Cathy Zielske says

      May 6, 2019 at 9:07 am

      Mine gets big, too. I am so, so tempted to chop.

      Reply
  18. Nancy says

    May 6, 2019 at 9:03 am

    Luv your honesty and can relate with so many things. As you said. We all have stories. It’s humbling to see we are not on this journey alone!! I have to say. I am jealous that your oldest came back home (even if limited) my oldest never looked back .. but my young gun is like yours. Coming home from freshman year and struggling with how hard the transition actually was … enjoy your summer. And thanks for staying honest and true to your self …

    Reply
    • Cathy Zielske says

      May 6, 2019 at 9:08 am

      They are all so different in their journeys.

      Reply
  19. Pedroza says

    May 6, 2019 at 9:09 am

    Cathy, love your stories, your post and your hair too!!! Love reading your stories!!!! Thank you!!!

    Reply
  20. JoyceD says

    May 6, 2019 at 9:22 am

    Please, please, please keep telling your stories. It always reminds me of one of my first “ah ha” moments when I went off to college. Talking with new dormmates, finding out I didn’t come from some strange world where only my family experiences were not all “perfect”, but they were still wonderfully, colorfully mine and everyone else had something similar (but different). Thanks for letting us in. Thanks for sharing.

    Reply
    • Cathy Zielske says

      May 6, 2019 at 9:25 am

      I need to remind myself to be more open when I’m out in the world at large. Introverts tend to look inward, and we can miss things. 🙂

      Reply
  21. Leanne in Cali says

    May 6, 2019 at 9:32 am

    Love this and thanks for sharing so much with us!!

    Reply
    • Cathy Zielske says

      May 6, 2019 at 9:33 am

      Thanks for reading!

      Reply
  22. Sandhya Iyer says

    May 6, 2019 at 9:39 am

    So nice to read about happy days. My kids are 7 and 1.5 yrs… and I keep worrying about the time they will be gone. Ha ha too early I know. Thanks for sharing your story .

    Reply
    • Cathy Zielske says

      May 6, 2019 at 10:17 am

      Lol. It’s so hard to go back in my mind to when mine were that little. Cherish it as you can!

      Reply
  23. Michelle Darde says

    May 6, 2019 at 9:44 am

    I always thought you rocked the short hair, but I’m loving the more carefree curly look too! It feels good to switch it up now and then. Thanks for always being real!

    Reply
    • Cathy Zielske says

      May 6, 2019 at 10:18 am

      Ain’t gonna lie… my hair stylist is on my speed dial.

      Reply
  24. Diane Z says

    May 6, 2019 at 9:44 am

    Cathy, so enjoy reading your blog! I’ve meant to send a shout out to you ever since I saw your layout in Scrapbook and Cards Today about your time in Liberia. I spent two years in Monrovia with my husband and two children and you’re the only person I’ve “met” since that time who has had that experience. Most people don’t know where it is! It would be fun to have a conversation sometime. Don’t mean to hijack your post but didn’t know how to contact you and thought I’d give this a shot. Thanks for your contribution to the industry – you make it better and I love your style!

    Reply
    • Cathy Zielske says

      May 6, 2019 at 10:18 am

      Oh wow! Yeah, small world. I have SO few memories. I was 6 and 7. Lol! Just some photos and the stories I can barely recall!

      Reply
  25. KnitterPam says

    May 6, 2019 at 10:01 am

    Awww, I loved getting this overall update. I was following so many “names” in the craft industry, and when they stopped blogging and I couldn’t get updates on their kids, it felt like I’d lost a friend. I mean, some of Stacy Julian’s and Lisa Bearnson’s kids are married with kids now, for pete’s sake! 🙂 Anyway, I just loved this post. And most of my grays seem a lot curlier than my regular hair — except for those wild straight ones! Ha!

    Reply
    • Cathy Zielske says

      May 6, 2019 at 10:17 am

      I can relate to this in one area: I used to follow Dooce, and when she divorced, I felt somehow that I should know the story there. Which sounds RIDICULOUS typing it out loud. But she had hooked me in with all the details of her life and then suddenly, that was off limits and I felt like I had lost something on the internet.

      Of course, her details are her choice to share. But at the time, I didn’t see that as clearly as I do today. I still love to read her writing, which reminds me… I think I’m going to go buy her book. 🙂

      Reply
  26. Britiney says

    May 6, 2019 at 10:04 am

    Thanks for all you share, Cathy. My college son is also home from his freshman year. We all survived it! Yay us! And I like your longer hair. It’s beautiful. xo

    Reply
    • Cathy Zielske says

      May 6, 2019 at 10:15 am

      Thank YOU for coming to read!

      Reply
  27. Claire Fader says

    May 6, 2019 at 10:08 am

    So Many parallels Cathy – my eldest son drums and his biggest drum hero is Ginger Baker – in fact we only just watched a documentary about him ( here in the UK on the BBC ) last night ! He’s an extraordinary character – a very bizarre film if Cole ever gets a chance to watch it – he probably already has !
    I always believe in talking to people – you just never know what their lives have held and how fascinating their stories are . In fact both my boys used to get terribly embarrassed as I’d always talk to anyone and everyone when we were out , but now they realise how important it is to show interest in other people – you learn so much .

    Reply
    • Cathy Zielske says

      May 6, 2019 at 10:14 am

      Okay, I think we watched a doc on Ginger, too. Is part of it him sitting in a recliner, talking? I know he showed it to us last summer. Maybe it was the same one? 🙂

      Reply
  28. Jan M says

    May 6, 2019 at 10:11 am

    I too love reading your posts and updates. I always look for your stamp sets at SSS too. I’m sure you love having your kids back home. Enjoy it, the time flys by! I always loved it when our youngest daughter came home from University when she was in the nursing program. She’s now the youngest manager at the hospital where she lives, is married and has a 19 month old girl! Time flys for sure. Keep doing what you’re doing….you’re real and I look forwards to your posts. ?

    Reply
    • Cathy Zielske says

      May 6, 2019 at 1:42 pm

      Thanks for stopping by and commenting, Jan!

      Reply
  29. Kelli Panique says

    May 6, 2019 at 10:15 am

    Thanks for sharing yourself with Cathy! You’re real and relatable. Thank you!

    Reply
    • Cathy Zielske says

      May 6, 2019 at 1:41 pm

      Thank YOU!

      Reply
  30. Brandy says

    May 6, 2019 at 10:21 am

    Thanks for sharing as always ?. Not sure what Aidan’s living situation was for 1L yr, but my bro and I lived together my first two yrs of law school while he was finishing undergrad and it was so good to have family right there. A good stress reliever to come home to someone not in the mix bc it’s no joke!

    Reply
    • Cathy Zielske says

      May 6, 2019 at 1:41 pm

      She lived in a law fraternity (not a party house!) with 11 other people. She didn’t love the kitchen set up at all. Lol. And the noise of Dinkytown (the neighborhood next to the U of M).

      Reply
  31. Susan R Opel says

    May 6, 2019 at 10:26 am

    Hi, CZ! I love you, and I love that you’ve been an inspiration to me for so many years and now a colleague! I just LOVED this, “You never know who lives in your neighborhood. People… they have stories for sure.” So filled with truth.

    Reply
    • Cathy Zielske says

      May 6, 2019 at 1:40 pm

      ROPELLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLL! Love you, girl.

      Reply
  32. Andrea says

    May 6, 2019 at 10:57 am

    I have been following you since I started scrapbooking many years ago. Like you, I’ve discovered that making cards gives me such joy! I love your cards, scrapbook pages and especially your blog and Instagram posts. You are so “real”. You are a true talent and make me laugh/smile every single day. Thanks for sharing your life and talent with all of us ?

    Reply
    • Cathy Zielske says

      May 6, 2019 at 1:40 pm

      Yes… the card thing. It’s really so fun and I never knew! Thanks for following along.

      Reply
  33. SUF69 says

    May 6, 2019 at 10:58 am

    So well written as always. Love reading your little stories. Thank you for keeping it real and for sharing.

    Reply
    • Cathy Zielske says

      May 6, 2019 at 1:39 pm

      Thank you!

      Reply
  34. Claire Daly says

    May 6, 2019 at 11:08 am

    What a fabulous post. You have sure been a staple for me in the 17 years I have been a scrapbooker. I too have worked in the craft industry for the last 12, and it’s not lost on me either what a privilege that is, and how we have many people to thank for it. My husband was made redundant after 30 years in the banking / IT industry last December, and it’s tough to find work, but we get to do what we do and feed the family through it. I’m grateful too, and love the honesty and realness of your post.

    Reply
    • Cathy Zielske says

      May 6, 2019 at 1:39 pm

      Appreciate you following along all these years!

      Reply
  35. Sue Ogden says

    May 6, 2019 at 11:12 am

    YES to the gray changing your hair. Mine got curls too. Yes to Dan having a job for another year. And yes to having your kids back with you!

    Reply
    • Cathy Zielske says

      May 6, 2019 at 1:38 pm

      Yes indeed!

      Reply
  36. Elizabeth Joubert says

    May 6, 2019 at 11:18 am

    Great story … love your spirit of sharing your life and stories. I couldn’t agree with you more of how wonderful it is when your kids want to be back home and how silly when they ask is it okay? Had a similar situation, my son graduated 3 years ago from college… he worked in a art supply store which I am forever grateful for because of all the goodies he got for me. Unfortunately the store closed, he was out of a job and wasn’t able to afford to live on his own. He asked me the same thing if I would mind if he came back home … of course I said yes! He’s such a great kid and we learn so much from each other .. you keep doing what you do .. I can certainly see it enriches your life and these days, it’s so important… and I love your creations!! Have a great day ?

    Reply
    • Cathy Zielske says

      May 6, 2019 at 1:38 pm

      Thanks, Elizabeth!

      Reply
  37. Judy says

    May 6, 2019 at 12:12 pm

    Sweet Cathy. I just have to eccho the comments posted here. You are fun and talented. , God has blessed you in so many ways. I am happy to have found your inspiration in the crafty circles and what would make that even better would be to share a coffee or lunch with you! Don’t get out much as my physical ability has declined with age, but you and all the industry crafters take me to many fun events. Makes my life full and I m grateful. Your stories are our own in many ways. Life’s walk leads us into many seasons and to support and pray for each other with love is what it’s all about. God Bless you !
    And you have exceptional talent with writing as well as cards, cooking and all the other parts of raising family. ?❤️

    Reply
    • Cathy Zielske says

      May 6, 2019 at 1:38 pm

      You are too kind, Judy!

      Reply
  38. Becky says

    May 6, 2019 at 1:17 pm

    I don’t usually comment, but wanted to say I really liked this post. I’ve been reading your blog for years and years and years, and I only know that because of the ages of your children. Time has flown by and I’m astonished by it. I love your writing style and appreciate that you have shared your family changes over all those years.

    Reply
    • Cathy Zielske says

      May 6, 2019 at 1:36 pm

      Thanks for leaving a comment today, Becky!

      Reply
  39. Elaine says

    May 6, 2019 at 1:19 pm

    Like so many who’ve posted, I feel as if I know you and your family just a little because of your willingness to share what’s going on in your life. You are an amazing writer and were the inspiration behind the scrapbooking/journaling I have done since all of my grandchildren were born. I think what I love best is that your are so authentic. And I definitely agree with your wise son, “You never know who lives in your neighborhood. People… they have stories for sure.” I went to a fundraiser supporting a shelter for homeless women and children that I support doing graphic design work and with my $$. The young woman who manages the shelter and whom I’ve worked with for the last several years told her story at the fundraiser. And I learned that she was once homeless and addicted to opioids. I had no idea. “People . . . they have stories for sure.” Thanks for being you and for all the inspiration you give to all of us.

    Reply
    • Cathy Zielske says

      May 6, 2019 at 1:36 pm

      Appreciate you coming to read.

      Reply
  40. Gale says

    May 6, 2019 at 1:20 pm

    Cathy — I have been following you since Cole was a little boy making super hero videos. I have admired your grace and honesty and had definitely admired your talent. Thanks for sharing your life with all of us and inspiring us to ‘keep it real’ and tell our own story.

    Reply
    • Cathy Zielske says

      May 6, 2019 at 1:37 pm

      Thanks Gale, for reading and following along all these years. 🙂

      Reply
  41. Helen High says

    May 6, 2019 at 1:34 pm

    Ah CZ. . .

    I’ve been following you for years and I’d follow you through a storm of “White Walkers”. Your style of crafting matches mine so perfectly: simple. It was in finding you all those years ago in “Simple Scrapbooks” magazines that I confirmed that this craft was for me. As life goes on, we continue to evolve and your ability to keep relevant in this industry as your children grow and have “their own stories to tell that may or may not include you” is admirable to say the very, very least.

    As long as you’re writing, I’m reading it. . .as long as you are crafting, I’m watching the video in awe of the beauty in the simple things in life.

    Thank you for doing what you do.

    Reply
    • Cathy Zielske says

      May 6, 2019 at 1:37 pm

      HA! Only if I had a paper trimmer made of Dragon Glass, am I right? 🙂

      Appreciate you following along all these years.

      Reply
  42. Patti Bishop says

    May 6, 2019 at 1:54 pm

    Hi – I am a quiet – unassuming ‘fly on the wall’ reading about your very ‘real’ life. Your blog is such a delight and I normally don’t comment as that would detract from my ‘fly on the wall’ status but I truly wanted you to know that I really do enjoy your perspective and it encourages me to get going on my own story! Just dropping you a note of encouragement – keep it up – and thank you for being YOU!

    Reply
    • Cathy Zielske says

      May 6, 2019 at 1:59 pm

      Thanks for commenting, Patti. You may be surprised to know I really do vacillate between craving BEING the fly on the wall, to being the one who stands up and tells a story out loud. I think there is a positive power in both states, actually. 🙂

      Reply
  43. Gale Downs says

    May 6, 2019 at 2:23 pm

    Cathy — I sent you a question in Messenger last week. Did you see it?

    Reply
  44. Glenda Thorne says

    May 6, 2019 at 3:29 pm

    Love reading your updates, it makes life real, the ups, the downs, things going sideways etc. I may not comment on every post but I read and cherish every word. I grew my hair longer in my 50’s and let the natural colour return ( too many years of hair dye). Amazingly I loved by grey, brown, red, blond patches. I then cut it all off and love my short hair again. Keep up your amazing talented job. Remember to video tape Cole when he plays on those drums, lol.

    Reply
    • Cathy Zielske says

      May 7, 2019 at 7:45 am

      Appreciate you coming back to read, Glenda. And who knows, I’ll probably cut the hair soon but it’s fun to try something new for the first time in years!

      Reply
  45. noreen stack says

    May 6, 2019 at 3:39 pm

    Thank you for your post about other people.
    I have always taught my kids that if they are at the checkout in a store and the clerk is not exactly friendly & cheerful or even rude, think a minute, a husband or wife or child may have died yesterday and today they have to work to put food on the table. You never know what is going in their lives as they do not know yours! Have compassion!

    Reply
    • Cathy Zielske says

      May 7, 2019 at 7:44 am

      Yes. Be kind for everyone you know is fighting a hard battle. Or I think the saying goes!

      Reply
  46. Carol says

    May 6, 2019 at 4:02 pm

    Long time follower of yours. I have watched your children grow via your scrapbook pages. I am a simple person and I love your simple and clean scrapbook pages and cards. I can’t think of anybody else in the craft industry that I have followed for this long! Carry on, you are going great!

    Reply
    • Cathy Zielske says

      May 7, 2019 at 7:43 am

      Grateful for long time followers like you!

      Reply
  47. Shirley says

    May 6, 2019 at 6:05 pm

    I loved reading your story Cathy, I’m a few years along the road to you. my children are married and now the grandchildren are also growing and busy with their lives. my parents are also suddenly gone so it is definitely a time of finding your ‘place’ in this new stage of life. it helps to read about others in the same time. Crafting certainly has been a huge help both in the learning curve, and learning patience! but also in the community of crafters like yourself that are out there. 🙂 thanks xx ps love your hair the length it is. I wish mine would curl, even just a bit!

    Reply
    • Cathy Zielske says

      May 7, 2019 at 7:43 am

      It’s definitely moving into a new phase of life for sure!

      Reply
  48. Nenette Madero says

    May 6, 2019 at 8:33 pm

    Thank you for sharing your life with us, Cathy. I have been a fan since your scrapbooking days and I’m so thrilled to see your clean and simple designs manifest in your stamps as well. You are an inspiration. <3

    Reply
    • Cathy Zielske says

      May 7, 2019 at 7:22 am

      Appreciate you following along!

      Reply
  49. Kelli Kemmerer says

    May 6, 2019 at 9:31 pm

    Hi Cathy, I have been following you since I was a subscriber to Simple Scrapbooks. I always loved seeing what you have created and you have helped with my creations for scrapbook layouts! I have been able to relate to your story as mine correlates with yours with one kid in college and another heading off this fall it’s a lot to process! Can’t imagine what the future holds but right now taking the moment and savoring it as much as I can because IT IS PRECIOUS! And as far as our laundry goes…I’ll be happy to do it for a little while longer!

    Reply
    • Cathy Zielske says

      May 7, 2019 at 7:21 am

      One day at a time, right? 🙂

      Reply
  50. Joyce says

    May 6, 2019 at 9:42 pm

    What a lovely “feel good” post, Cathy. Enjoy those kids while they’re still there…

    Reply
    • Cathy Zielske says

      May 7, 2019 at 7:20 am

      Believe me. I am.

      Reply
  51. Jennifer Petersen says

    May 7, 2019 at 12:15 am

    Stopping by your blog is always a delight! Life words of wisdom, snippets of humor, tips and tricks and always beautiful designs. I love that you share a little of everything for a real glimpse of life. Thank you. Hooray for having your kids back under your roof! My kids are still little but we are counting down the days until school is out and we can spend the summer having fun and enjoying time together.

    Reply
    • Cathy Zielske says

      May 7, 2019 at 7:20 am

      Well I appreciate you stopping by!

      Reply
  52. Jeanettej says

    May 7, 2019 at 5:22 am

    Thanks for always sharing….I too am enjoying some time with my last 2 kids…one graduated last year and the other graduates next week….while having them slip their laundry into mine is somewhat annoying, I do realize that these days will be gone soon….how’s your dad doing?????

    Reply
    • Cathy Zielske says

      May 7, 2019 at 7:19 am

      Sneaky laundry petes! lol. My dad is doing SO well. He’s 90 percent using a cane now, and off his walker. Amazing if you ask me. He’s a go getter! Thanks for asking!

      Reply
  53. Tracey McNeely says

    May 7, 2019 at 8:52 am

    Cathy, we are in a similar stage in life I think. My oldest graduated as an architect 2 years ago and now lives and works in Toronto, and my baby girl has just finished her 4th year in concurrent education and has her 5th year left to complete her second degree in education so she can teach. After working several years in the US hubby quit his job so that he could be back home with me, he doesn’t have the ‘big’ job he used to have but we make it work. As for me, I deal with menopause and MS–ugh! The warmth in your tone when you speak about your babies not babies rings true to me. The way you craft and what you create totally inspires me. Thank you for your stories that always put a smile on my face and for pointing out that everyone has a story. xo

    Reply
    • Cathy Zielske says

      May 7, 2019 at 10:20 am

      Well Tracey, it sounds like you can relate to a lot of this, yes. Menopause and MS must be a one-two punch. I’m grateful you still come to read here!

      Reply
  54. Valerie says

    May 7, 2019 at 1:19 pm

    I say hello to everyone I meet, you just never know what it will lead to. My kids are always teasing me about making best friends with our waitress, bank teller, cashier, the list goes on. I try to teach them to appreciate what people do for them and to help give them a brighter day, who knows how many times they’ve been treated unfairly that day. But best of all, you might end up making a new best friend! Could be Todd or his pup, you never know!

    Reply
    • Cathy Zielske says

      May 10, 2019 at 6:53 am

      I like your approach!

      Reply
  55. Florence BURNAGE says

    May 7, 2019 at 2:16 pm

    Hi Cathy,
    From days of Simple Scrapbooking, you have always been such an inspiration to me. I’ve been following you for…20 years now.

    I’m happy you are still hanging in the craft industry,
    Wish you and your family plenty of success !

    Reply
    • Cathy Zielske says

      May 10, 2019 at 6:52 am

      Appreciate that!

      Reply
  56. Christine says

    May 8, 2019 at 5:15 am

    Thank you for always sharing your beautiful stories

    Reply
    • Cathy Zielske says

      May 10, 2019 at 6:52 am

      Thanks for reading!

      Reply
  57. Angie Lucas says

    May 8, 2019 at 4:44 pm

    This is so lovely, Cathy!

    Reply
    • Cathy Zielske says

      May 10, 2019 at 6:52 am

      Thanks, friend!

      Reply
  58. Cindyellen Robinson says

    May 9, 2019 at 6:45 pm

    One of the things I appreciate is your optimism. Despite some of the industry’s apparent bent towards nastiness, you are remaining positive. I like that. I do support you. I just received “You Got This” today.
    My youngest had trouble at college – she literally changed schools after the first semester. Then life got a lot better. However, there was yet another school during the junior year as well. Some kids just need more variety. And just as an aside, she is also very good at slipping her laundry in with ours. . .
    And your gray hair gets curly because of hormones (or lack thereof). It’s a menopause thing (or a chemo thing) says my stylist. Because same thing happened to mine.

    Reply
    • Cathy Zielske says

      May 10, 2019 at 6:51 am

      Thanks so much for your comment, Cindyellen! And yeah, I should remember that my daughter when to two different schools before settling on St. Olaf for her final destination. And I never thought of the curl being part of menopause! Makes so much sense!

      Reply
  59. andrea murdock says

    May 10, 2019 at 7:11 pm

    Hi Cathy, I love your stories and your tell it like it is truths. My hair is also shaggy and has 2 inches of gray roots while I decide if I want to keep dying or just go gray. I love your hair colour so you have me tempted. I also have my youngest at home and has just decided to go to a local college next year instead of Toronto like she had planned (2 hour away). I’m not going to lie- I am beyond happy for one more year before she flies away. Even though she is a known laundry slipper. I find her stuff with ours all the time LOL. I hope you have a wonderful weekend.

    Reply
  60. Peggy says

    May 11, 2019 at 9:11 am

    I have loved you and your work for years, I started following you when you posted on designer digital sand I loved your templates! As a card maker and stamp die designer you’ve outdone yourself and I love and support everything you release. I have 3 teens and maybe it’s or just hormones but your story makes me smile through tears thinking of them leaving the nest. Anywho as a crafter I’m behind you and other small businesses and wish you the best. And as a mother I’m cheering for you.

    Reply
  61. Tamera Jones says

    May 11, 2019 at 10:28 am

    Hi Cathy, just a few thoughts…
    1. So enjoyed reading this post, really reminds me that the big world out there is full of people with their own lives, stories and passions.
    2. Isn’t it cool how our lives “mingle” in a way that you never know who may be living next door? Because let’s face it, people don’t chat it up anymore in neighborhoods. Everyone’s too busy working, running kids here and there, living their lives, etc.
    3. Kids grow up, leave the nest and sometimes come back and it’s so nice to hear that when they do, you can appreciate who they are – who they’ve become and that MUST feel good. As a mom to a 13 year old, this gives me something to really look forward to as I’m now in the phase of feeling the “limited time with my boy” as he begins to stretch his independence.
    4. So enjoyed reading your post, I’ve missed the wit. Thank you for being courageous to share.
    5. Love the hair!

    Reply
  62. Teresa Doyle says

    May 11, 2019 at 12:05 pm

    A great update Cathy. And from a former empty nester to you, I am happy to hear you are still in a place where they are coming back… That too shall soon pass and it really hits home, however, that is what doing a good job parenting will do for you! The next stage is wonderful too so take heart and ride it out. It gets better… Weddings and grandchildren (the grandchildren part is THE BEST!) so look to the future…YOU ROCK!

    Reply
  63. Yolanda says

    May 11, 2019 at 8:37 pm

    Thank you for continuing to invite us into your spaces to share this little bit of life with you.

    Reply
  64. pat strothmann says

    May 12, 2019 at 9:15 pm

    Wow I love your story and your background shows this. So happy I found you and your videos are fantastic.

    Reply

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