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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My sincerest condolences on the loss of your father, and absolute understanding of what you may be dealing with. We will always support you – no matter where this journey may take you.
I have so enjoyed your posts, recipes and home living ideas. You are such a treasure and I do appreciate you sharing your life with us. Loss can have a profound effect on us. God bless you in all your efforts. Take care of yourself.
I’m in the same boat! I’m retired now and want a more easy going life. Less clutter, less stress, and more leisure hours for things I love to do. I know blogging can be work so I appreciate your content and understand your where you are coming from now. I’ll look forward to your content whenever you post. Enjoy life!
Ann
First and foremost, take care of you. Grieve. Slow down, enjoy your life. As an over 70 year old, I finally gave notice at work to retire. I’m needing to see my 4 grandkids more often.
You are very appreciated and I love reading your emails.
God bless
Lynn
Dear Ann – Your emails are never clutter in my inbox. Just want you to know what you do is very much appreciated.
God bless you, Ann. I’m so far behind on reading my emails so missed this when you first announced it. Change is good and I pray you find more peace and less stress with slowing down.
Life is all about changes. May God continue to Bless you & strengthen you as you transition through this season. I look forward to your simpler, more condensed format.
You are not walking alone.
I look forward to following this new, more relaxed chapter of your life. Many blessings as you make it all happen.
Although I will miss seeing your posts on Wednesdays and Saturdays, I’m glad you’re taking care of yourself. Grief is so different for everyone and so hard! I still miss my mom even though it’s been 8 years since we lost her. She was also ready after almost 92 years of an amazing life, but there are times, when good and bad happens to me, that the first thing I think is I need to call mom and tell her. It gets easier but it doesn’t go away.
Give yourself grace and take care of yourself.
I was one of your first subscribers and even bought some decorative plates from you that you were getting rid of. That was many many years ago and they still hang on my wall. I love that you’re focusing on simplifying as a direction. I will be quite honest, I actually grew very tired of the Wednesday Wish List as I saw it as a way to over promote consumerism and buying what we really don’t need as well as it felt like it was simply a way for bloggers to earn money off of us. So I quit reading it. I look forward to the changes and to see where it leads.