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 enjoyed following you and being inspired! I think there is much wisdom in knowing when to cut back, adjust and learn along the way. I appreciate your honesty as you have grieved throughout this past year and see the need to make some changes. It’s a great example for so many women to know it’s good to re-evaluate, to do things differently when needed and to do what is life giving in each stage of life.
Congratulations on your decision! I’m grateful you’re still creating content and sharing with us, but also know how important it is to do what’s best for you! Hugs!
Bless you for taking the time to give you the freedom to ‘take care of you’. It sounds like you’ll have a better balance–time doing what you love in connecting with your readers and time for you. I look forward to your new format!
I hope you get it all figured out, I’m sure you will. I still miss my dad, too. He passed in 1992
Ann, I enjoy your decorating, gardening, recipes-everything. You are so down to earth & seem like you could be my next door neighbor. I will enjoy your content as often as you send it! Meanwhile, take care of yourself & enjoy more time for your personal life. My best to you & congratulations on this next chapter, Ellie
Yes Ann, Simplicity is a good choice, and that theme has been ringing true for you for at least the last year now. It’s amazing how much more we realize we have, when we have less of everything. Especially more time to appreciate it. Thank you for all the recipes, decorating ideas and inspiration all these years. I’ll stay on this journey with you until the end. God bless.
It’s called “taking care of you.” I never seem to catch up these days, but I’ve always enjoyed your newsletters, regardless of all that’s “on my plate,” of which there is plenty. I try to always make time to read yours. Keep on keeping on. Sure would miss you if you quit. I appreciate all you post.
Dear Ann, Good letter! Thanks for sharing all of it in such a warm and personal way. I’ve always counted you among my favorite bloggers, loved (and tried) many of the recipes [e.g., Cornbread Casserole], and rely on your tasteful decorating and home decisions [e.g., the wallpaper in the laundry room which now hangs in our powder room]. Thank you for all of it, which you offer in your always-generous way. It’s been a pleasure and it’s great that we all will still have access in this new format. Best wishes. — Maureen
God bless you!
Bless you on this journey…I have loved seeing what you have on the Wednesday Wish list and getting ideas for what I may like…some things I didn’t even know I did!