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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Thank you for letting us know how you are doing. I appreciate all the work you have done for years. Taking time to take care of yourself is the most important thing you can do. Too many of us put others (family, friends, audience) ahead of our need to breathe. You are setting a good example! Bless you.
I have enjoyed your content for years and totally understand. It is hard losing a parent and that grief can come at unexpected times. Especially when you have spent a great deal with the parent. My mother has been gone over five years and there are many days where I miss her more than usual. Give yourself grace as you continue to grow and change during this time
Thank you for your posts. You are a source of wisdom in a super fast world. Great idea to do two posts a week. Even one is fine. If readers decide they want more, you have a good backlog of ideas and information they can access. I really like your Amazon site. It’s quick and easy to use, and I know I will get something I like. Thanks for being you. You’re great.
I have always enjoyed your posts; however, I think that twice or even once a week is plenty. I receive over 100 emails a day, and it’s almost impossible to keep up with all of them – even the ones I really love. I have some of your artwork framed in my house and love your style. Keep doing this as long as you enjoy it, but slowing down a bit is fine.
What is Fresh Baked?? You’re ending it and I don’t know that I’ve ever seen it – Boo Hoo. Lightening the load is always a good thing if you need it. All the best!
I wondered that same thing!
Ann, good for you! I’m so glad you’ve found a way to balance out dialing back without leaving us. I love receiving your content! You’ve given me peace, encouragement and creativity many times. Twice a week sounds perfect! Thank you for sharing your honesty, talents and home.
I’ve followed you and been a part of this community for many years and have always appreciated and enjoyed what you share in all the ways you do it. It sounds like you are entering a new and slower season of your life. I hope and pray for you that you find your peace. Whatever you share in the future and however often (or less often) you do I will look forward to it and know that I will enjoy them as I always have. Wishing you peace and contentment and joy.
Bless you for your honesty. I have loved your posts from the first time I discovered it and will continue to do so however many there will be. I love how your posts bring not only beauty, but a peaceful calmness with them that I enjoy each time. Life brings changes and we often must make our own changes along with it. I hope this next chapter helps bring you more time to enjoy family and the things you love.
“For every time there is a season,” when I was younger I simply did not understand that passage. Young, I thought every season WAS the time…because we think we are infinite when we are young. Stepping back and reorganizing any part of one’s life is a trial…an experiment…and not final. Enjoy your steps, and I’m sure it will work itself out. Hugs, enjoyed your posts for years, Sandi
Wishing you all the best! I will miss you being apart of Wednesday’s Wishlist! Take care🥰