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.
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I have followed you for years and I love your stuff best! I will be happy with any content you send when ever you want to send it. I wish you peace. God bless you
We all come to a cross road in our lives at one time or another & we have to decide on a new direction ; I truly hope you find peace & comfort in your choice.
I’m glad that you are still maintaining your much enjoyed blog !
Blessings to you Ann!
There comes a time in our life when we all need more breathing room and personal time for ourselves. I applaud you for having the courage to take some time for yourself, and I am so thankful you will continue writing your blog. Sometimes I fall behind in reading yours and a couple of others. Your blog was the first one I started reading and by far my favorite. Blessings to you and your family.
Ann –
Thank you for the heartfelt update. Air hugs and crossed fingers for a gentle transition into your new blog format. I love your recipes, printables & decor ideas, and the creative touches you add to daily life. Follow your heart & we will keep following you; two emails from you per week is better than no emails!
I will particularly miss the Wednesday emails. I always find so much inspiration However I appreciate your honesty and your need to step back. I lost a brother 2 years ago and find the same struggles within. With grown children and grandchildren, I find it hard to “find” myself. One step forward at smile!
Bless you and be well.
Ann, I have enjoyed your posts for years. You are a friend coming into my home for a visit! Thank you for the wonderful ideas and suggestions over the years. I will continue to enjoy your posts whenever they come into my mailbox! Grief is a hard thing to bear. Each one of us has to deal with it the best way we can. We lost our youngest daughter to diabetics last year. Some days are terrible others I can smile and remember wonderful times. I will smile every time I see a post come into my inbox from you . My prayers are with you .
Hi Anne,
I always felt like you were a friend and mentor. I enjoy ur blog and decorating tips so much I might of copied a few😂.
Looking forward to what’s next, Especially what ur doing when ur taking time for yourself. I will be an empty nester in a few years😊.
Best of luck as you navigate the future. I’ll can’t wait to see the new format! XO
Margaret
Dear Ann:
I have only recently become part of your community. You truly are an inspiration. Your blog is informative -your decorating tips are beautiful and your recipes perfect.
Without boring you with too many details, due to Covid, I was forced to resign from my beloved career. It was tough but the only choice possible for me.
Of course, I was devastated. I soon came to realize that the tried and true euphemism “that God never closes a door that He doesn’t open a window” is so true. My parents’ health is in decline. I would have never been able to assist them to the degree I do without being now officially retired.
I am so sorry for the loss of your Dad. I will be facing this loss myself in the not so distant future. I can only imagine the how painful that part of my journey will be.
Take the time for yourself. Many of my friends have said that the only way to cope with loss is to “go through” it-in whatever time that takes or means for you to be able to focus on the beautiful memories of your Dad without a ”
“puddle”.
Be at peace that you were with him when he needed you. Be at peace with this “step back”. God has a plan always.
Be well. Joan
Dear Ann,
Thank you from the bottom of my heart for your fabulous blog. Please take good care of yourself. I will look forward to reading whatever you post & whenever you decide is best for you. Grateful for you, all you create & share!
Dear Ann,
Always show grace to yourself. Take care of yourself and by extension, you continue to be able to care for your community. I always look forward your emails and posts-whenever you are able to send them.
My own father is 88 and beginning to show signs of dementia. It’s very hard to watch him struggle and I retired from my job in part to be present to help my mother care for him.
God bless and thank you for sharing with us!