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!
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Dear Ann,
I support your finding new ways to keep the joy in what you do. I’ll follow you in whatever way you choose. My dad passed in 2009. Not a day goes by that I don’t miss him or have conversations in my head. Grief doesn’t have rules or even guidelines. And then there’s the whole exploring your own mortality! Hang in there, you’re right where you need to be and we’ll be here for you and with you. ❤️
Ann, I congratulate you on this decision for so many reasons. Reflection is so important and I think for way too many of us it’s a foreign concept. One statement you made gave me pause when you said you weren’t sure of your purpose after the loss of your father. As one who has experienced great loss, I understand completely. My immediate family has been long gone, and unbelievably, my husband and I lost all three of our children in a four year span. People often ask me how I can continue to go on. I have no easy answers, but truly, how can I not go on? I have come to give myself the grace not to have a purpose beyond the present day. I try to find the beauty around me. I try not to dwell on the “what ifs”. They are a dangerous rabbit hole. And I try to always remember that we never know what effect we might have on someone who might be watching. So, I smile, I read, I remember the sweet times and I do my bit to carve a peaceful life for my husband of 57 years. Good luck and bless you.
Ann, If you remember, this is where it all started. You blogging and us reading. I bought the ceramic/bisque Christmas ornaments that you made. I have run off your mother’s pot roast recipe and the strawberry/graham cracker/cool whip recipe (which my family loves). I have copied the Christmas pictures you posted of “Merry Christmas etc. You had them in your foyer at Sutton Place House. I’ve printed recipe cards etc. You blog and I will read. Sometimes you just have to have a re-do and it’s ok. Whatever works for you will work for me. Thank you for all of your hard work.
Wishing you all the best as you move forward with a lighter load. Looking forward to your next post.
Ann, like you I have been craving simplicity. I hope you find it as well. I enjoy all of your content. I will miss Saturday Style but I’m glad you’re still posting content. Blessings
Hi Anne,
What a great decision you have made for yourself! Go find your peace and balance. I will continue to read your blog whether it comes once a week, once a month, etc…..you are truly inspirational ❤️
Hi Ann! Thank you for all of your hard work. I enjoy your blog very much and learn so much in each post. I look forward to your new format.
I would like to see more recipes for two. I try to cut your recipes in half when I can. My husband and I, being empty nesters, don’t always eat large meals or deserts. Please include ways to cook and bake for two.
I have followed your blog for quite a long time now, always enjoying your posts, whether they were decorating ideas, recipes or outdoor designs. It’s important to take time for yourself, regroup, and take a different path. I will continue to enjoy all your posts no matter how many days they arrive in my inbox. All the best to you!
I applaud and support your decision! Always one of your biggest fans!
I lost my dad 3 years ago and still miss him and our daily conversations everyday. I applaud you for making the changes which are best for you. I will look forward to your two posts per week. God bless you !