After 14 years of creating content, I’m making a few heartfelt changes. Here’s what’s staying the same, what’s shifting, and why now feels like the right time.
It’s been a while since we’ve had a good heart-to-heart, so today I want to share a little about what’s been going on in my life, and let you know about some changes I’m making here on the blog.
This past year has been one of reflection and transition. It was this time last year that my dad passed away. He was ready to go, and I truly thought I was ready to let him go. But as many of you know, grief doesn’t always follow the path we expect. Not a day goes by that I don’t miss him…the talks we used to have, and the simple act of being there for him. He gave my life purpose, and even now, I’m still struggling to find my footing without him.
That said, I’m not writing this through a puddle of tears. I’m doing okay…but I am tired. And I’ve realized it’s time to make some changes. After weeks of thinking and planning, I’ve made a few decisions that I want to share with you.
First, I’m not ready to retire, and I’m certainly not ready to stop sharing here. This community means too much to me. But I am ready for a lighter load and more flexibility. I’m craving fewer deadlines and a little more breathing room.
To begin, I’ll be stepping away from Home Style Saturdays, Wednesday Wish List, and Fresh Baked. These series have brought me so much joy, and your support of them has meant the world. I just sent the last Fresh Baked, and I’ll be wrapping up the other two at the end of June.
As a result, I’ll be moving to two emails per week, which you’ll receive on Sundays and one other day, probably Wednesday. This new format will start in July, and will include everything you’ve come to expect…seasonal inspiration, my own rebranded version of The Wish List, my Simple Living journey, recipes, and the monthly digital calendars. I’ll still be here, but you will have a little less clutter in your inbox! I hope to offer ideas that feel more thoughtful, more connected, and maybe even more fun.
I’ll be honest…I don’t have everything figured out just yet. This new 2-emails-per-week format feels right for now, but I know it might need a little tweaking as time goes on. I’m giving myself the grace to experiment, to see what works, and to make adjustments along the way. If I feel like I want to send more (or less) than two emails a week, I’ll regroup and keep moving forward. I’ve learned that it’s okay not to have all the answers…but I will keep showing up with purpose and heart.
I’ve been creating content here for many years, and I’ve truly loved every step along the way. What began as a simple creative outlet has grown into something more meaningful than I ever imagined. I never thought it would be possible to earn a real living doing something I love…and that’s only been possible because of you. Your encouragement and continued presence have carried me through the highs and the lows. From the bottom of my heart, thank you. I’m so grateful to still be here…and who knows? Maybe the best is yet to come.
P.S. If there’s something you’ve always wondered about…whether it’s how I do things around my home, a decorating dilemma, or even a recipe you’d love to see, please leave a comment and let me know. I’d truly love to hear your ideas!
This post may contain affiliate links. See my disclosure statement.
JOIN THE OSP COMMUNITY
Sign up to get uncomplicated recipes, unlimited seasonal decor, and
understated ways to refresh your home sent straight to your email inbox!
I love reading your content and seeing your lovely home. I think twice a week is perfect! I don’t have time to read the daily posts some influencers send–it is a bit overwhelming, for me at least. I am glad you aren’t going away and look forward to reading your posts a couple times a week!
Good for you! Take all the time you need! I’ll still be here enjoying your content whenever it works for your schedule!
Sounds like you’re making the best decision for you. We all need to be able to do that so I applaud you for it. It’s not always easy to walk away from things you enjoyed but when you know it’s time, you just have to do it. I hope these moves give you the peace you are seeking in your life.
You seem like a very open and honest lady. I think that losing a loved one can bring a new context into our lives or push us to make changes. I’ve enjoyed all of your ideas and recipes so thank you for all the time you spent sharing your talent with us! I’m wishing you all the best and I’ll look forward to your future emails and content. God bless you!
Your words gave me comfort….i lost my sweet mom this year. She was 102, and lived around the corner from us. A daily companion, and I have felt selfish saying that I have lost my purpose. Reading your words saying the same validated mine. Caring for my mom was a huge part of my life. I am still blessed with my sweet husband, children and grandchildren, but I have felt lost in the confusion of not caring for my mom. I repeat to myself to allow myself the grace to mourn and heal. I say these same words to you. I love your content and thank you for your transparency ❤️
I applaud your decision to slow down. I have been reading your blog since almost the beginning and will continue to read it until you quit.
Hi! I just want to say good for you! I love your blog but honestly I’m a bit tired of the weekly wish list and style Saturdays. I always felt the pressure of looking at all of them, even though it was self-imposed, I didn’t want to miss anything. I was also having difficulties with the website not playing well and freezing up so to have a less routine experience will be refreshing for me too! Wishing you the best of luck and looking forward to your new content!
Good luck. I enjoy your blog and will look forward to those in the future!
I have so enjoyed your posts. I’m almost 70 years old and you’ve taught me a lot. Thank you!!!!!
I’ve enjoyed your blog for years although I rarely comment. Totally understandable that you feel the need to make a shift. I’m happy to read about whatever you care to share and am also happy that you are going to continue just at a different pace. If you’re looking for suggestions to prompt posts, besides your usual content, I would enjoy hearing about your typical day (do you do things on a schedule, etc), healthy habits you employ – diet and exercise thoughts, staying healthy “after a certain age”, more recipes, more looks at your garden. If none of these strike you, please continue with the content you usually do as it’s worthwhile to your readers.
Best of luck with your new approach! I look forward to it.