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.
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!