Today isn't an 'official' TCP Tuesday, with a papercrafting challenge issued by The Cat's Pajamas. Rather, it's my own, personal TCP Tuesday, as I say farewell to my longest-running design team gig as a member of The Cat Pack. I was debating whether I should just quietly let the fact that I'm leaving the Pack go by without announcement or fuss, but then I reconsidered. After all, I've been a member of the Cat Pack (off-and-on, but mostly on) for the past five years, and my love for Alma de la Rosa (TCP's owner/illustrator) and her artistic genius remains undiminished. She is one of the most talented, gracious, and kind people in the industry, and my admiration for Alma is as great as her generosity; in other words, it's boundless.
As we creative types know, restlessness and the desire for new challenges are curses of our temperament. You'd think the Universe might cut us some slack and give us more than 24 hours in a day, but alas, it doesn't. So choices have to be made, and time must be marshalled. I can't pick up and move to another part of the country, or gather the courage to dye my hair a different color, thus I have to find different ways to change my personal scenery. One of my mottos has long been "Bloom where you're planted," but even plants need to be re-potted every so often to prevent root rot, you know?
Therefore, in order to take advantage of some creative opportunities that have come my way, I've been forced to do some hard thinkin' about what I can realistically do with the few hours a week I can commit to this hobby/obsession. Additionally, I figure it's probably good for the rest of the stamping world to see what a fresh pair of eyes and hands can do with Alma's awesome images. Even though I may no longer be on the design team, I will ALWAYS be a huge fan and loyal customer of The Cat's Pajamas.
Before I exit the alley for good, here's a little retrospective of some of my favorite TCP designs over the years:
Thank you, Alma. For everything. 
awww Carole, I remember most of those cards! You are so creative!! I understand and have been where you are. The need for change. Or just too much on our plates and something has to give. I get it. I understand and will continue to follow you no matter what you are doing! You rock!
Posted by: Dawn Easton | January 29, 2013 at 05:57 AM
I'm sure you will be missed, Carole. Tough decisions usually result in great outcomes :) Good for you for following your heart. Great mix of cards too!
Posted by: Marisa | January 29, 2013 at 09:42 AM
We will certainly miss your creative spirit and sense of humor Carole. Totally understand, there are only so many hours in the day.
Posted by: Nancy Thomas | January 29, 2013 at 12:06 PM
Yikes!! I'm going to miss your TCP inspiration and funny posts Carole. You have definitely shown me some fun ways to use Alma's images over the years. You would have to pick my fav TCP cards for this post. Will look forward to your creative genius using other images too.
Posted by: Bonnie aka raduse | January 29, 2013 at 02:07 PM
Carole- you have always been THE stamper I have looked up to in so many ways! TCP always will have a special place in my heart as well, and one of the reasons is because it was where we 'hooked up' ;) But everything has a season, and I like the way you put it with your flowerpot analogy....I'm the kind of spirit that always needs to be changing and moving along or I too, get root rot ;) I'm sure you'll be missed dearly, but it's a small stamping world and we'll see ya around!! xo
Posted by: jenny peterson | January 29, 2013 at 02:22 PM
Well said. Alma was lucky to have you and you were lucky to have her. Loved looking back at all your TCP creations...beautiful. (I knew I smelled something funny at CHA...musta been your root rot.)
Posted by: Carolyn King | January 29, 2013 at 02:28 PM
I'm happy for your new pot...oh wait, that didn't sound good, but you KWIM, right?! Anyway, sometimes good things come to an end but friendships remain and that is most important. I'm so thankful for my time served with you at TCP...lots of great memories. Cheers!
Posted by: amy rohl | January 29, 2013 at 07:07 PM
Carole - you have been an inspiration to me from the beginning - I remember doing a TCP color challenge waaaay back in the day - and I adored your creations then as I do now! Your work is always so beautiful!!
Big hugs
Sankari :)
Posted by: Sankari | February 01, 2013 at 10:36 AM
You will truly be missed, Carole. But, I am so glad that I can call you my friend and an inspiration to us all, both creatively and in life.
Posted by: alma de la rosa | February 01, 2013 at 06:57 PM