Hello! I saw in the reviews section that there was a bit of speculation on my retirement. So, here for the record...
I got into this only 4 months ago and considered it a transition period, altho' I had no idea how long it would last.
A few weeks ago, I began to become very annoyed by the agency owner (it was a one-man operation). Lots of arguments, lots of manipulation and attempts at trying to mold me into what he wanted (a non-stop money-making machine). I think he's used to young, dumb girls who come from bad backgrounds and have brains addled by drugs and alcohol. I, however, am a 40-yr-old college graduate from a good family and I have many talents, skills, an employment history AND I don't drink or do drugs. So, he couldn't fool me (Ladies, please take no offense at this explanation; I am trying to relate his point of view).
All of my encounters with hobbyests were great. I had tons of fun and always felt appreciated and respected and I really, really enjoyed myself.
I considered going Independent, but I discarded that thought as I felt a shift in my psyche (yes, I'm a hippy) and slowly began to accept that a turn in my path was coming that would lead me in a new direction. I kept "sleeping on it" (no pun intended) over and over to make sure I was making the right decision to retire. Finally the moment came when I just KNEW it was time.
The fear of LE was a big factor (no, I never got in any trouble) as was the possibility of danger (see the thread on Ashley in Dallas...she was tasered, tied up, raped and held captive for 10 hours by a hobbyest whom she had seen before and who (the hobbyest) was on this board and had many reviews and posts). That made me realize verification is not truly the safety net we think it is.
Also, my sexuality is important to me: it's a huge part of my life. I wanted to get out before I burnt out.
I don't know what happened at the agency but it's website is gone (!). As far as I know, I've deleted every ad/listing/ect on me. It is really only here on eccie that I continue to occassionally lurk.
So, that should answer the questions. Unlike many girls, I squirreled away my donations and am now able to concentrate on other pursuits that have no downsides to them.
Affection and respect to all of you. xoxoxo
Lauren