Almost a year ago, I made a quiet but important decision to step back and begin building a more peaceful life at home. It wasn’t a sudden change. For a long time, I had been trying to find a better rhythm in my personal life, looking for ways to make my days feel calmer and more manageable. But bringing that same sense of peace into my business has been a slower, more thoughtful process.
If you are new here, or just want to revisit the posts from last summer, here are the links:
This website has been part of my life for over 15 years. I’ve adapted, learned new skills, and stayed open to change in order to keep it growing. Some things worked, and some things didn’t. Social media, in particular, never quite fell into place for me. For years I felt like this shortcoming was something that needed to be fixed.
But at some point, my perspective began to shift. Because even though the follower numbers haven’t grown, something else has. This space, this website, has become a steady, welcoming place filled with readers who return again and again. And that kind of growth matters more than anything I thought I was missing.
I’ve always been an introvert, and it’s something I still work through every day. My favorite place in the world is my home. It’s where I feel most like myself. I know there’s value in getting out, and I do make the effort. But if I’m given the choice, I will almost always choose to stay home. Until recently, I felt like this was a character flaw, and something I needed to overcome to be happy.
But over the past year, I’ve started to see it differently. This space we’ve built, this website, has become a way for me to connect that feels natural and meaningful. It allows me to share the things that matter most to me: simple meals made at home, small ways to enjoy the outdoors, and ideas that make everyday life feel a little more steady and fulfilling.
And the truth is, none of it would matter without you. Every visit, every kind note, every moment you spend here…they have shaped this space into what it is. You’ve made it more than just a website. You’ve made it a place with purpose.
One thing I want you to know is that what you see here is truly me. I’m the one testing the recipes in my own kitchen. I’m the one tending the garden, trying new ideas, and sharing what works along the way. There isn’t a team behind the scenes creating content. Aside from a little help from my daughter with social media, this space is created right here at home, quietly and with care. That matters to me, because it means I can always give you my very best.
If you’re ever looking for a recipe, a simple decorating idea, or something seasonal to try, the easiest way to find it is to come straight to onsuttonplace.com and click the search icon. Everything I’ve created over the years is here, in one place. I do share on Pinterest and show up in Google searches from time to time, but those platforms are always changing, and it can be difficult to keep up. Instead of chasing that, I’ve chosen to put my time and energy into this space. My goal is always to make it helpful, reliable, and easy to navigate.
I have spent fifteen years building a site that helps people make their homes feel comfortable, cook something good for their families, grow a few flowers, and enjoy the changing seasons. With the way this world is changing, I have to believe that’s still valuable. If I didn’t, I could not continue.
Thank you for being here. Whether you’ve just found me or you’ve been reading for years, you are truly welcome. Every visit matters, and I’m so grateful you choose to spend your time here. Everything here is for you. Every recipe, every idea, every post is created with the hope that it will make your days a little easier and more enjoyable. And in a way, that focus has shaped my life too. By keeping things simple and staying grounded in what matters most, I’ve been able to create a slower, steadier rhythm at home. It’s not perfect, and it’s always evolving, but it feels right. Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for being part of it.
P. S. If you missed it, I shared a bit about the process I use to make my watercolor images. I get a lot of questions, so having the answer ready to go has been helpful for everyone.
A YEAR OF SIMPLE LIVING AT HOME
A gentle guide to slowing down
and enjoying the seasons at home.
Hi Ann,
I have been watching your site for several years. You have done beautiful work not only in creating the site itself but for using it to showcase your lovely home and giving your audience wonderful ideas. It’s no surprise you are happy there. I vacillate between being outgoing and being a homebody. Loving your own space can be very gratifying and comforting. And for me, enjoying yours is a reminder to enjoy my own, especially when I use your tips!
Judy Borchelt
Eagle Idaho
PS My husband is an Ohio native from outside of Cincinnati.
Absolutely love the things you share
Thank you Ann for your honesty. You have indeed created a welcoming space, each post and email is like a message from a friend, a catch up on what you’ve been up to. I have really enjoyed the new format, it feels very genuine. Thank you for the effort you put in to this, it is appreciated very much.
Thank you for all you do.
Dear Wonderful Ann:
Your message today brought tears to my eyes and so much appreciation for you in my heart. You are just so “genuine” – this comes through loud and clear in your writing. I am especially grateful for the two paragraphs you wrote that actually describe me to a “T” — “I’ve always been an introvert … fulfilling.” I just never knew how to put that feeling into words. I am blessed with a loving family and loyal friends, and I consider you to be a “friend of my heart”, as well. I think I may have told you this before in a previous message, but I truly appreciate the lovely person you are and am so thankful you gift us with your website. May the Bluebird of Happiness always be by your side. Happy Sunday! <3
Hello Anne, I have been following you for many years and appreciate your openness. I am so glad that over this past year you are allowing yourself to be yourself. Like you said it is okay to be an introvert and stay home if that is what you enjoy. We are all created different and that is okay. I too sometimes find myself having to force an outting, because I do love to be home and I guess that is why my passion like yours is to create a peaceful and warm home! It’s more than decorating, it’s the feeling you get when you are in your space and I think that is important to both of us!
Your blog is one of my favorites. A lot of women’s blogs consist of buy buy buy. Yours tells us how you live your life, things you do to improve your life and how to enjoy live ( without the spend, spend, spend) with recipes, decorating and enjoy the seasons thrown it. It’s calming and I hope you are able to keep up the good work for a long, long time.
I look forward to reading your blogs each and everyday. I get behind in my reading of them, because I am so busy volunteering since my retirement. I believe it’s time to step back and slow my life down. I have used many of your recipes and your decorating tips. So please keep writing.
I’m a little behind in reading your posts, so a little late to comment, but I wanted to say that I just LOVE your blog and reading it makes me feel calm and content, every time. I’ve been reading it for most of the time you’ve been writing it, I think, and each post in my inbox has been like a special jeweled treasure for my day. Thank you so much for all the effort you put forth to bless us in this way!
Ann,
I’ve been a follower of your wonderful website for only about a year but I’m so glad I’ve found you! I love your approach to peacefulness, simplicity, and naturalness. I’ve tried a few of your recipes (all were total winners!), I’ve taken ideas you’ve shared with decorating, and enjoyed your articles written with thoughtfulness and honesty. As a fellow introvert who also enjoys being home more than anywhere else, I love following you at Onsuttonplace. Thank you for all you share and all the heart and effort you put into your content. You would definitely be missed by many so, as long as it still serves you well, please continue! (I think there are far more of us who don’t go in for all those social media sites with their unnatural hype & gimmicks than we may think.) You are appreciated!
Ann I feel you…and I would love to figure out how to slow my life down a bit. I am 71 years old, and truly my world is focused on my husband ( of 49 years!! ) our adult daughters and our 7 year old granddaughter that live way too far away, my oldest sister, and our home. I love being home…it is our nest. I love to bake ( I have a custom cutout cookie business that takes up a lot of my time ) I love to garden, and I love to decorate our home. I do some volunteer work and that is as rewarding as it is social for me. But I’m tired…so very tired. I feel like I am always putting everyone else first, and myself last. I have always loved your blog. I can’t even remember how I found you, but your blog relaxes me like it was my own!
Ann, we are soul sisters. I LOVE staying home and I too, felt it was a character flaw not to have tons of friends and be more social. At 64, I’m finally accepting myself and all my quirks. It’s still a work in progress, but I’m getting there.
Since I am still working, I feel my home isn’t as peaceful and tranquil and as it could be. Never as clean or uncluttered as I’d like….that too is a work in progress. Thank you for all your great ideas, printables, recipes, and encouragement! May we all find our tranquil rhythm! :)
Hello Ann.
After reading your post today, I’ve come to realize what I have suspected all along. You and I may very well be the same person! 😆
It’s funny how it happens. I’m reading, and all the while thinking to myself….
Exactly! For I too would rather be in my house than anywhere else in the world. I do think there are many many more who feel the same, for whatever reason. And it’s ok. We get one life. We should live it the way we choose to. Whatever way gives us peace in our hearts.
Keep doing what you’re doing, we love it. ❤️
Debbie – Same here!! :)
Ann, I love this for you and for those of us who appreciate your efforts, your consideration, your work in making this space informative, helpful, comforting, and just really pretty. I like this quiet corner of the world too and am thankful for people like you to show that another way is possible. Social media can offer connection but it can also distract from meaningful, thoughtful moments and I feel you offer what social media does not. I appreciate you and thank you for finding your path and sharing your journey. It’s helping me find my own way.
Thank you for your thoughtful and insightful blog posts. I truly enjoy following your blog and have for years. I especially liked when you tried your new format, especially getting rid of wish Wednesday. It just felt like the suggestion to chase MORE weekly was too much. Love all your insights, recipes, garden tips and just sharing your life experience. I have made a few of your recipes and they have turned out lovely. Thank you again for a lovey blog!
I have been following you for several years and always saved your posts/messages so if I don’t have time at that moment ro read, I know I can go back to catch up.
I appreciate you and your sincere messages as well as the changes you are making in your life. I can identify with that. Although I still work. I am making choices to live a more authentic and grateful life. Being more grateful for the many blessings in my life has kept me a positive and grounded person. I believe I am closer to your age and understand the need for making certain changes that continues to bless others. You have done so throughout these years and I am grateful for you Ann! May God continue to bless you and your family. Beth
It’s easy to get caught up in getting followers. I admire that you stay true to who you are, genuine and a talented inspiration about all things home. I think as we age, simple is better and the simple things like a cozy home, good food and our family and friends are what feed our soul. I used to need to go out every day and now when I am out, I can’t wait to go home where I feel comfortable. Bravo to you for following your peace. Thank you for sharing your world!
Oh, Ann! Indeed, I enjoy your posts … all of them, & I look forward to each one. Insightful. Inspirational. Motivational. Those are just the first three words that come to mind when thinking about what your posts mean to me. Also, I love, love, love to be at home. It’s my favorite place. I would choose a meal at our dinner table over a meal at a restaurant any day … not because I am an expert chef but because we love being here at home. Our house is a custom built home (2020), & I am still adding character & charm to it, in hopes of it not having a new-build feel. I think I am successful in accomplishing that task. I appreciate all of your ideas & pictures, as I’m sure that all of your readers do. I know it takes time & resources, but thank you so very much for continuing. You are a blessing, yet we are total strangers.
I always enjoy your space! Thanks for sharing with us!
As always I enjoyed the current posting of your blog. I consider you one of my online friends. I curl up on my sofa with a cup of coffee or glass of lemonade with my two pups and we read your blog. It’s like taking a little break with a friend.
Ann,
Your blog has been a joy to read these many years. Thank you for staying
true to yourself and your readers. Your content has always been helpful, fun to read, and inspiring. Thank you for continuing to delight us!
I’ve been a fan of OnSuttonPlace for several years now. I enjoy every post. It’s easy to learn new recipes and find new decor ideas. I also enjoy pics of your lovely home. You are a class act. Carry on!
You are very wise in your decision to make your life slower and simpler. I wish you much happiness and joy. I too hope to make my life much like yours but it will take a little effort
Thank you, Anne, for On Sutton Place. I’ve been following your posts for a long time. I appreciate your slower pace also. Sometimes other blogs are overwhelming: click here and watch this. I enjoy your style. Keep on at your own pace.
Ann, this was beautifully expressed and truly resonates with me. I, too, am a solid introvert, and after my husband passed, I couldn’t continue to live in our RV in the camp, all by myself (I was able, but I didn’t want to). Your shared ideas and thoughts have helped me shape my new home into a place that is peaceful and charming to me; a place that feels welcoming and offers respite; both to me and my guests. Thank you for so generously giving of yourself this way (your artwork is up in several places in my space, and I absolutely adore the calendars), and congratulations on fifteen years! I believe I’ve been here for the majority of it! :)
You are not alone feeling like a homebody. All the gals I know, we all feel the same way. We all agree that we’re more comfortable and content to stay close to home and do ‘our thing’. Don’t get me wrong, we still make a point of getting together several times a month to work on our rug hooking projects and just spend several hours chatting about everything under the sun. It’s just like the old-time quilting bees and it’s so satisfying. Contact with like-minded people is so important.
Ann I love your blog…your recipes are delicious, your pictures are always so pretty, your pictures of your house are always so put together so nicely. I always can count on reading something calming and peaceful…like seeing your bestie.💞
Thank you for your posts! They are heartfelt and welcome.
Kathi
As you said, your favorite place to be is your home and it truly shows. Your home is lovely and gives a sense of calm. I feel the same way about my home. There is nowhere I’d rather be than home.
Ann,
I’ve followed you for years and I have always enjoyed your style and the lifestyle you share. It’s like a calm and enjoyable visit with a friend. I’m happy to hear you will continue. I confess to being a little lazy about commenting. I used to have a blog so I understand the joy of hearing from your readers. I’ll try to be better.
Meanwhile, please know you are one of my favorite sites and I get so much from your perspective on life, food and HOME.
Karen B.
I never comment but felt compelled to. I enjoy your posts very much. It is a very soothing and calming website that I love visiting. Thank you for sharing your recipes, projects, and decor ideas with us!
Ann,
I continue to enjoy your posts. Thank you for sharing yourself with us. May God bless you!
I can feel the calm when I visit your lovely posts
Thank you for your posts. I love them. I feel a calmness, a sense of peace. I love the simplicity here. Your watercolors are beautiful.
I have followed you for over the years. You always have amazing and thoughtful ideas. Thanks for all you create to make our days fulfilled. I look forward to your posts each time!
I truly enjoy all of the posts you make and I read every one of them. You have some great ideas and recipes and blue is also my favorite color. I too am trying to slow down some and really enjoy my life as I know I have less years ahead than I have years behind. Thank you!
Hi Ann,
I have been a subscriber of yours for a few years now and I ALWAYS look forward to your emails. Your posts are beautiful to look at and savor, bring calm to my life and I’ve enjoyed many of your deliciously created recipes. Thank you.
Blessings to you,
Elese
KEEP BEING YOU….LOVE YOUR BLOG!!!!! THANK YOU FOR LIFTING US UP!
Thank you for your posts. I really enjoy them! I appreciate your positivity and your great ideas. I agree with you and feel that your site is a kind and calming part of the day for your readers, and yes, that is still valued today! You are one of the blog authors who I feel could be my friend in real life! If only… Thank you again!
Your email is the only home one I follow…I like your recipes, your ideas about the home, (even those that aren’t my style), your quotes, your prints are always delightful …. Thank you for your time and effort in sharing with us other home bodies.
I love your insights and recipes and really enjoy getting your emails. Thanks!
I have enjoyed your articles and recipes for many years. Your recipes never fail to be delicious. The decorating ideas you share make me imagine you would feel comfortable in my home since I have used so many ideas and purchased items because of your reviews. Please keep writing.
Ann, as one lifestyle blogger to another, I understand your challenges and frustrations. We love the writing and creation process and sharing with readers, hoping that we give them things to help them in their own lives and homes. I can tell you that when people ask me about the blogs I love and follow, yours is always at the top of my list. Keep up the great work.
Don’t change a thing, your or your website! We love all you do. Every change of season I always go to your printouts and print a set for my living room wall. I get so excited to look at your prints. So don’t change a thing. P.s. I am an introvert big time and my home is my sanctuary.
Thank you so much for all that you do! I love your blog.
I also love to be at home and make small meals,do some quilting and read ( I love to sit back with a good book).Love everything you post and look forward to them. Blessings to you and your slower way of life.
I am also a homebody and enjoy your site because it is truthful and doesn’t send me all over the internet. Love your calendars and never have to buy any anymore and your recipes are simple and delicious. Please continue this format and have a beautiful Sunday!
Beautifully written & lists many reasons why I continue to follow you.
You seem very genuine, as a friend who lives next door and shares her best recipes, tips, and thoughts about the season of life you are traveling. May God continue to bless your efforts as you share what you are learning with the rest of us :)
Hello Ann!
Your post is so moving! Thank you for everything!
Dear Ann, I sooooooo enjoy On Sutton Place. You mentioned what you’ve strived to accomplish here; tasty recipes, stylish decor and garden information. There’s something else I’ve come to enjoy from my visits here that wasn’t part of my original search but now is the main reason and I wanted you to know. It’s the peace and calm that’s there in every post. It’s actually you coming through in all your writings. On Sutton Place is a haven for me. Thank you.
I love reading all your posts each week. I am a homebody and love staying at home. I do volunteer one day a week at a charity for babies and young children. I love recipes, home decor, and gardening. Thanks for doing what you do.
Thank you for sharing from your heart. I so enjoy seeing your newsletters in my inbox.
The slower pace is what I am striving for also. I thought as I retired it would come naturally. Nope, I quickly filled my days and found myself busier than a full time job. I am learning the word no, not easy for this gal.
Thank you again for the words you share, delicious recipes and beautiful things you inspire us in your home.
I too am an introvert. And now at 75 am not feeling guilty of loving to stay home in my own home and garden. It’s where I like to be. Have been following you for years and love how you write and what you post!
Thanks from B.C. Canada 🇨🇦🍁
I just love your posts and I don’t miss them. Thank you and God bless you!
💜💜💜thank you for continuing to let us into your life!!!
All the previous comments pretty much say how I’m feeling. I too, prefer to stay at home, get out occasionally but am more at ease in my own things surrounding me.
I so appreciate your calm, friendly and honest openness in how you share yourself to your followers. You provide a quick and easy guide to so many everyday areas of life; the Jiffy Corn Muffin “hotdish” has become a favorite in our family. Love your watercolor illustrations technique, thank you for giving the “how to” instructions… might even try it for myself.
Ann, congratulations on living your honest life. Staying true to yourself and not allowing ‘social media’, or anything else, change who you are.
I read your post’s sometimes to calm down.
Thank you.
Sue
Your blog is something I look forward to each time I see you share something. I hope you continue to post as you feel comfortable.
Everything you’ve said in today’s post is exactly how I’ve been feeling lately. I have noticed that as I’m getting older, I want my life to be simpler. I don’t want every day or moment spoken for with an obligation of some sort. I have had trouble expressing this to people without getting strange looks! Everyone seems to want to be very busy with something to do all the time, but not me. I prefer being at home doing simple things like trying a new recipe. It’s here that I’m finding an inner peace, so thank you for putting into words exactly how I’m feeling!
Dear Ann, after many years of reading your posts, I feel like we are friends. You have always inspired me with decor ideas and recipes. I have taken many of your ideas and used them in my home.
I wish you health and happiness and look forward to anything that you share with all of us.
Also, to try to support your efforts, I try to remember to click through from your Amazon links before I actually make Amazon purchases. I understand that this earns you a commission even if I don’t purchase an item that you have recommended. I hope that this is true as it would be nice to know that I am giving back, not just taking.
Enjoy your summer and know that you have a faithful and thankful reader here!
Thank you for sharing your life with us. I love reading your blog. Peaceful. Love your recipes. You’re an inspiration.
Ann, So wonderful that you have found your happy place. Thankful you share your recipes, designs, and knowledge with all of us! Namaste :)
I truly enjoy your blog and I feel relaxed and happy when I visit! I, like you, long for a slower pace in my life right now. I’m also a bit of an introvert and enjoy all things home and family! Thanks for your inspirational posts and resources!!
Good morning, Ann,
I’m so glad you shared! I thoroughly understand and am so happy that you recognized it. We’re all just working through life and things change all the time.
I’ve read you from the beginning and have saved images that I loved so much. I’ll never stop loving your white tile counters with cobalt blue!!!
Have a great day and thank you for all you do for all of us, Kathy
I look forward to seeing mail from you in my inbox. Thanks for creating and sharing..
Ann, I’ve enjoyed your website for several years. Your recipes are wonderful (I’m making the oven roasted vegetables today & can’t wait), your decorating & gardening tips have helped me many times, your honesty & heartfelt messages mean so much in today’s world. Your website is you & not a mini shopping mall. Thank you so much for sharing yourself with all of us.
Ann,
I have been following you for so long, but I can’t remember how long.
Through your sharing my garden is beautiful, I have become a better cook by trying your recipes and I have creatively tried new home decor looks.
Thank you for sharing your life. You are a friend who has influenced my life in so many wonderful ways.
Enjoy your week
I’m recently new to your website. I enjoy it immensely and am impressed at your talent. I too, love my home and look forward to the ideas you so generously share with your readers/friends. Please continue your informative content – it is so enjoyable !
Thank you for being here and sharing a genuine and authentic perspective. You are appreciated.
I found your website several years ago while searching for a print to frame. Thank you for your wonderful shares and ideas. I too, am an extrovert and enjoy just staying home for the most part. I lost my husband of 48 years about a year and half ago and I am working on forcing myself outside my home to socialize and be around people as much (which at time is very little) as I possibly can. Neighbors have changed and really are not a social outlet in my neighborhood or maybe it is just people have changed and are too self absorbed in their own lives to socialize. I do miss that from the earlier years when I first retired.
Anyway, off my soap box, I truly enjoy your website and out of the many sites I have kept over the years yours is one of the very few.
Keep up the good work it is truely enjoyed. Love the art work you share and many of your recipes I have tried and continue to make.
Carol
Dear Ann,
Thank you for your beautiful website; in this chaotic world, it’s a breath of fresh air! I truly look forward to each and every email you send and is the first one I open. Thank you for being genuine and for sharing your recipes, thoughts, and ideas on living the simple and gracious life.
My gratitude and love to you.
Thank you for sharing yourself with us❣️
I love your website and honesty. I’m a home body also and can relate. Also the slowing down and live in the moment. Thank you for your insights and all the beautiful photos and recipes.
Thank you Ann!
In a world of sometimes chaos, it’s nice to be able to go to your little corner and find peace and calm. I have been following you for a while and appreciate all the work you put into all these posts. It is refreshing to see that not everyone is looking to be “the best” or “the most” at everything…just yourself. Please keep giving us your outlook on a better pace of life and giving us little hints at how to achieve it.
Love everything you post.
I love this post! I’ve been following for a long time and always enjoy seeing your email pop up in my inbox! It is my one email I keep unopened until I have a quiet moment alone.
I am with you on loving to be home. I’m glad you shared that, because, I too, feel as you do!
Keep up the great work! I love your site and your words!
Dear Ann,
I so enjoy your posts! I have unsubscribed from quite a few bloggers because they have become click bait to make a buck. You are so genuine and a breath of fresh air. When you can make your followers feel like we could meet in person and chat over a glass of tea, you are a huge success.
Sincerely, Cathy
Thx for sharing your heart, Ann, & also for all the great recipes & ideas. I’ve read your blog for many years & love the water color prints u make. They’re a delightful addition!
Have a blessed day!
Sincerely,
Meda
Thank you, Ann, for sharing your feelings and thoughts with us followers. I have enjoyed your sight for about ten years now, and I have enjoyed watching it change in subtle ways. I have tried nearly all of your recipes, watched TV shows you have suggested, tried many of your decorating ideas, and enjoyed your quotes and photos you have posted. Your blog is a go to for me, and I appreciate the work you have put into it for your readers. Isn’t it wonderful getting to know ourselves better and better each day, learning what works for ourselves, becoming comfortable with who we are, and realizing that we don’t have to keep up with anyone but ourself.
I look forward to your future posts!
I enjoy your posts so much. I save them in a file. I especially love your art. You are so talented. You have a gift and I appreciate you sharing it. I love your heart. It’s ok to live a slower, simpler life. I too would rather be home than anywhere else. It’s my safe space. Social media is way overrated! The images that we see are a snippet of a moment where you only see the “best”. Keep doing what you are doing and don’t worry about followers. People are fickle and go where the wind blows.I’ve made several of your recipes and have all your Christmas art. I love your watercolors.Thank you for following your heart.
Ann, I have enjoyed your posts for years. This past year of “quieting” has really spoken to me. I find it refreshing and comforting. I have unsubscribed to several blogs that always seem to be searching frantically for the next best thing to buy or make. Your space is a welcome calm. Thank you.
Thanks for sharing the One Year Later post. It puts you and your site in perspective.
I’ve enjoyed your emails for years now, I look forward to starting my day with you. I’m a homebody, more so all the time which is why I love your ideas and support in you saying that’s an OK place to be. You’re a friend I appreciate in your own way, thank you Ann!
I always enjoy reading your blog. You have inspired me in more ways than you can imagine. It started because I love blue and white, and your front porch caught my eye. I come back because I love the tips and the simplicity.
You are correct, things are changing, but for the better I think. Young families are getting back to some of the basics we enjoyed in our younger years. Keep on doing what you are doing. I love connecting with you.
Ann, I love your blog…. As someone who loves being an extrovert, your lovely site always provides me a welcome opportunity to sit, enjoy and be inspired! Your blueberry coffee cake is on repeat in my kitchen and I print your beautiful calendar every year. Thank you for your thoughtfulness in all you do!
Ann I have always enjoyed this special place and have been a follower from just about the beginning. I relate with so much you have shared in this post, we all come to a place where we realize it’s time to slow down. Thank you for all that you’ve shared and I look forward to enjoying more exciting ideas and inspiration! 💕
You provide beautiful and calm and just plain nice! Thank you!
Anne- I am an introvert as well. Thank you for stressing that it is not a shortcoming, simply a personality trait. I love spending quiet moments reading your posts. It is a comforting part of my day. Thank you!!
Thank you for sharing this! I too am an introvert and feel so much pressure from the world to be more extroverted but when I do that-I’m exhausted! I need my time of solitude and time in G-d’s word and that takes time. Home is truly where I can relax! Blessings on you and I so enjoy your posts!!
I always look forward to your emails. They make me feel at home like a friend is writing me a letter. I would like to know what pattern your blue and white dishes are. I absolutely love them. I want to look for them. Thank you for always keeping up the good work.
I’ve always enjoyed your blog. It’s one of my favorites.. I love that you too like the color blue and share your life. Thanks always.
Thank you for this beautiful and heartfelt message to us all.I have enjoyed reading your messages over the years. I too enjoy my home,pets, my garden and dabbling in the kitchen for my family. this feels like a great place for me and I’m sure for many others. Thank you for all your words and creations.
Kathy
I’ve been following you a few years ago one of the things I appreciate most is how calm and simple you present. Nothing extravagant, I like the ordinary days. I always know it will be grounded on your site. I’m an introvert too and feel the same about my home. Thanks for sharing your journey, I look forward to it.
Ann, your site is my favorite! I need this simple pace in my life at this time. I have visited your site for many years, but this is the first time I have made a comment. I lost my husband of 52 years two years ago and I am in this slowing down season of my life.
Keep on giving your information to those of us who need a slower pace in life.
God bless and keep you. :)
Ann, I always look forward to your email! Your words & watercolors are so peaceful. I appreciate all that you do. Thank you!!
Thank you, Ann, for confirming what “Dorothy” and I feel…There’s no place like home!!
I love your emails and hints. You are truly appreciated.
I’ve enjoyed your posts for years and appreciate your thoughtful attention to each one. While I have unsubscribed to several other blogs in an effort to simplify, onsuttonplace has remained as a happy break in my week. Thank you, Ann!
Just to try to give you a short view of myself. I just retired from the local school system. I’ve been divorced since 2009. I’ve endured many life changing and difficult situations but God has been so good to me. I so very much have enjoyed your writings, gardening advise, recipes and especially your kind words of encouragement. I am now trying to settle into a new chapter and simply slow down and breathe. Please don’t ever doubt how you are helping others along our way. I have to get a printer setup here at home so I can continue to enjoy your beautiful watercolors. Thank you so much for sharing. Have a blessed week.
I love hearing that the change is working for you. It’s working for me too as a reader. 🙂
Ann you are so good at what you do! I look forward to reading anything you write because somehow it always gives me a sense of peace. In a world where politics has seemed to creep into every corner I know that this is a safe place to visit without all that noise. You are truly gifted and a gift to us all.
Ann, I enjoy your emails, like a friend reaching out. Your missives are like personal letters with helpful tips, tasty recipes, inspirational notes, and I look forward to reading them. I’m not on social media so enjoy time with you and your steady, homey rhythm. Enjoy a quieter summer!💗
Ann, I have been an email subscriber for several years and I love your posts. I’ve printed printables, made your recipes and done many of your crafting projects. Thank you so much for sharing how you do your watercolors. I’m an artist at heart but somehow my brain/hand connection is missing! Now if I can just figure out ChatGPT! I also appreciate that you’re an introvert. I am as well and really have to push myself to get out of the house and be with friends, even though I love them. I really enjoy your posts and hope you don’t stop anytime soon! Blessings to you!
Ann,
I too share your love and attachment-of-the-soul with home. I’ve so enjoyed getting familiar with you thru your lovely website where I find all your content to be nurturing, inspiring and an anticipated “time out” when I need to put my feet up and rest a bit from my daily home and property care. We’ve much in common.. I live alone with my fur buddy Dunnagan on a lovely, quiet little cove in a small cottage that truly is my haven and hideaway from the clamors of the world. I’m always into “something “…gardening, baking, crafting, fishing or just whatever catches my eye and fancy, tho I never miss an opportunity to just sit with Dunnie on the porches and be a part of all the wonder of my natural world that my great God has gifted me. My very soul requires the quiet and simplicity of just being one with my environment. I do “sachey” out in the real world when I need to or when my friends demand the “hermit” come out of her lair and join in real social interaction..and I do simply love theater, festivals, travel, museums, antiquing etc..always so very glad to get home and decompress.
I too have evolved thru the many phases of my life..I worked for many years in a career that always involved patient, people care and I gave all I had thus resulting in retiring in my 50’s and giving the same degree of great care to myself and absolutely being okay with it! I am a 69 yo widow of 24 years ( a wonderful, kind partner) and the very last of my family( the best family ever)! Some of the stages of life were much harder and messier than others but all were rich in experience and substance..and yes, all helped create who I am today…who I choose to be today.
I’ve never written in length to anyone I’ve not known before but when I read your post early this morning, it so resonated with me that I was compelled to reach out and say “Thank you” Ann! What you do matters so much and is so needed in a time where the world seems to be spinning faster and more out of control..where the clamors and outside voices are getting louder and more demanding! The need for the importance of HOME, peace, simplicity, nurturing, kindness and all those soul enriching endeavors are more necessary than ever before….and your lovely, heart-filled thought provoking sharing is crucial! You remind us all to slow down and get in touch with what is really important..what really matters in the scheme of things. And yes..to be thankful for the growth and discovery that all our phases bring us to, no matter how scary or difficult they are…we don’t know what we are capable of until we live thru the stuff of life and come out the other side!
I will continue to put my feet up in anticipation of your next wonderful collection of Ann’s good stuff! And I will continue to keep you in thought and prayer..and to encourage you to be as good to yourself as you are to others…Blessings and grace to you and yours.
Thank you for being a friend. I look forward to every post. I have made many of your recipes and share your love of home.
Ann, I greatly appreciate OnSuttonPlace and it is one that I have never even considered deleting from my email! Everything you describe that motivates you resonance with me and I want to thank you for being present! God Bless💕
Ann, I’ve followed shortly after you began your blog. Visiting you page makes me feel like I’m in touch with a friend. I’ve loved everything – your clothing choices, decorating, and especially the recipes. I think I even commented once or twice that it’s good you don’t live in my neighborhood because I’d be over every day! I dread the day you stop blogging. Again, thank you for this very special page that I love to visit.
Ann, I love everything you do. I am very similar with a love of my home and decor. I lost the love of my life after 54 years of marriage very suddenly and unexpectedly. I am maintaining my home and vehicles with a passion. I think it’s partially out of respect and to honor my husband and the life we had to continue doing this. I am a bit of an introvert myself. My latest project this past week was to refresh my front porch and entry. Keep doing what you do because you make all of us happy!!
Thank you for sharing. I personally love the blogs where I can find what I’m looking for without searching through tons I do not care about. :) I’m thankful you have found that you do love home and in that you are also serving so many of us – to encourage us to love making a home to enjoy.
Hi Ann,
Your post today really touched me. I too am an introvert and enjoy being at home. I have often thought there was something wrong with me or that I am not that interesting. Your post has helped me to see it differently, thank you for that. I have loved reading your posts over the past few years. I love your recipes, your printables, and your take on a slower more relaxed and thoughtful presence. I appreciate the time and effort it takes for you to put such great content together for us. Thank you Ann!
Thank you for sharing. Your words resonate with me, and I appreciate your refined simple approach to daily life. Blessings to you!
I love your e-mails! Nothing pushy or trying to “influence” to buy anything! Good information and a quiet spot in my life! Plus, your watercolors are gorgeous! Have a lovely Sunday! 🥰 Linda
Ann, I don’t remember how I found you, but I have visited for about 8 months and truly enjoy your posts! I, too, am trying to find a more peaceful everyday rhythm. Thanks so much for sharing!!!
Chris from Lancaster, PA
Thank you for sharing your heartfelt thoughts, Ann! I feel you are a kindred spirit and enjoy reading your wonderful posts. All the recipes I have tried have been delicious especially the small batch chicken cobbler and chocolate chip cookies! I look forward to many more years of viewing your lovely watercolor paintings and reading your musings on life. Thank you!
Good Morning Ann, I could tell from finding you years ago that you put your heart in all your post. I have done a few changes along the way with you and worked you slowing down to a better pace of living with you from decoratingmore simple but beautiful lighter colors to taking time for porch sitting….I have tried a lot of your recipes love them as well I understand being consistent in bring your heart to the table for return readers because we coming back because you do a great job keeping us interested with beauty for are home and recipes to feed are soul ….shopping to keep in fashion its like having a friend to check on from time to time to she what she’s up to
I hope to keep enjoying your Emails as a friend next door !!!!
Very nice for you to share your time with us !!!!!
My favorite place is my home to most of the time when I’m asked to go have lunch with a friend I really think about and do a minimum per month because sometimes I just rather be home ….. hope to keep enjoying your Emails
Ann, I always look forward to your e mails. They are simple, informative, and just a joy to receive. I too look for ways to find that slow living path. And yes my favorite place is my home too. Keep up the good work.!
I am so much like you. In this note you wrote it was from the heart and very well written. I hope you continue because I enjoy your web site so much. I rarely leave a post but have enjoyed your website so much. I also appreciate the free printouts. I do crafts myself and have gotten some great ideas from you. Continue to be you and thank you for being you…
You are a kind and lovely lady! I so enjoy reading your blog
Well said! Love your world! Thanks for sharing!
Love all your information
Hello Ann, I have followed you for many years and always enjoy your posts. I appreciate your honesty and kindness. Home is also my ‘favorite’ place to be. Thank you for giving us so many wonderful ideas on how to make our homes and lives lovely and enjoyable. Even though we’ve never met, I consider you a dear friend. 💕
Thank you for all your tips, ideas, and recipes…and beautiful pintables – I really enjoy reading your posts!
Your blog is my favorite place on the internet. You have always come across as genuine. I am so glad that you have continued the blog all these years. As a fellow introvert, I understand that it may be harder to put yourself out there but I am so very happy that you did and still do. Your content is very relatable.