Update: We hoped to have a Thursday post for you guys but this week didn’t go as planned. So sorry!
Update #2: We’d love your thoughts on this thread that popped up on this post. What are your opinions about smaller posts when we can’t write something juicy? Skip them and just own that we can’t post that day with a little update like this one, or would you rather see something small instead of nothing (like a quick organizing update, a Reader Redesign, a dilemma we’re debating, etc)? Thanks for the feedback!
Curtains can make the room. And pillows, well, you can never have too many (at least according to my pillow obsessed wife). This week someone’s going to win $500 to spend at Martha & Ash, a family business that’s focused on fabric goods with quality and craftsmanship. You can splurge on pillows, dog beds, or score yourself some custom drapes, like a striped or two toned option in your choice of over 25+ colors.
Please use the Rafflecopter widget below to enter (it might take a second to load, but it should eventually pop up below this paragraph). This giveaway is available anywhere in the world!
Candi says
I love your blog! I have been reading forever! I for one loved the show house posts!! I still look at it for inspiration in my own home!! As a home owner, I know renovations take a lot of time and money! I often wonder how you do so much so fast!! I like the beefy content and would rather have that once a week then filler posts! I love the way you tackle rooms s little at a time and share the journey! Maybe you could share things your loving (rugs, lamps, decor, etc) but didn’t buy. I am not a big giveaway person. So I usually skip those! I also don’t know how you are doing it all with small kiddos in tow! I have a hard time just surviving life, let alone renovations!! Take your time, enjoy your kids. Let life re energize you. Quit worrying about what people think and share for you!!! We all like YOUR stuff. That’s how we ended up here!
Annie says
I love your site and I love all the posts large and small! Thank you for all you put into this every day!
Rebecca L says
After reading your Feeling’s post, I thought that this might be a good place to comment. There is time and place for everything, and as humans, we run in different phrases. By that I mean, enjoy your break! You guys deserve it, your happiness is very important even if you quit the blog world. Just by what you have done in the last 7 years is amazing. .
I should have contributed this last week, but I’m like super lazy ;). I think the best part of your earlier blog (and yes I have sat compulsively read about 90%) is that you lived in a smaller place and worked hard to make it function wonderfully with your growing family. While our design style vary a bit, I enjoyed see you guys work through those problems. Your second house had that same feeling. (This is my super honest part, imagine in a super sweet tone) Your third house, while amazing, is large (for me), but super great for you(you deserve it). But I feel you have reached a breaking point? If that makes sense. since you guys have a large house, then you have room and space for whatever you guys fancy. Yes you can rework spaces, but there seems to be a difference between the feeling of the houses (This thought feels a little dis-jointed, but your welcome to convo for a better clarification, I do love your third house designs)
I would love to see you design more, my blue octopus says hello! And I love how open you guys are!
I just wanted you two to know that your happiness is the most important thing and that you have inspired people. One of the reason for me to physically build my own tiny house is that if you can do construction, then so can I. Plus since you guys have been there (i.e. tiling) I will most certainly be going through your blog to figure things out.
Not at all sure if this helps, but since we’re in the same generation, and I have never ever responded to any thing, do what you do, Relax, life is fleeting, so make the most of it. You guys have a legacy, which you can frankly pick up any time, whither in a month, years or decades. If people are gonna hate (sadly, there a ton of those), then they can hate elsewhere.
*fists bump* Peace out bros, see you when we see you!
(I will most certainly help keep your viewing stats up as I dig into your constructions posts ;P)
(I hope this helps in any way)
Rebecca says
I hope your new book becomes a bestseller and wish there were a way you could permanently delete the naysayers!! Oh, and that you get your own tv show someday too! These projects take time and you take us through every step along the way, including where you bought the products, price comparisons & breakdown; this has got to be time consuming!! Please don’t go away for too long, there are far too many who appreciate YHL; & those that don’t are still visiting your website, so ha! Who’s winning here? Big love.
vicky s says
Ok I don’t usually read the comments but since I just found out about the YHL break/suspension, I ventured forth. I am disgusted that people would write such vitriolic opinions about this blog, even when asked to post their feedback. This may be John and Sherri’s job, but it is clearly much much more than that to them. There’s a lot of love, dedication, and TALENT being exercised here and that is why they have been successful with this website.
John and Sherri I applaud you for all your hard work and success. My opinion, others’ opinions, none of this matters.
Life is sweet. Enjoy it!
catherine says
Couldnt agree more, thank you!!
Marie L says
Wow! What a thread! I actually don’t know if I’ve ever posted to your blog but I have been reading it for years. I LOVE it! The thing that I love most is how you two write. You take technical projects and make them not only easy to understand and follow but you make them funny and entertaining! You two rock. Seriously.
I like the little filler posts here and there but having two littles of my own and seeing how fast time is going with them I say family first. You won’t lose this girl to a different blog. :) If you have time (hahahahaha! right?!) then stick something in here or there. If not, or it’s a stressor, don’t!
Hang in there! You guys are just fantastic people and cannot tell you how much I appreciate your blog. It’s empowering!!
Angie says
Hi!! I am coming late to all of this as I must have missed Thursdays post!! I am so sad! I haven’t been checking in as much lately as I have a 7 mo old and have been busy myself. I totaly understand how hard house work is at this point so I can’t imagin writing a blog! I totaly love your blog and everything you guys do. I like the DIY/target up cycled things you do b/c I can do those things too and can relate. Please don’t be discouraged and do what is true to who you both are the rest will happen as it should!! I like seeing the progression of projects like the laundry room for the record. Wishing you all the best!!
Amy K says
I’m sorry to see you go. I think I’ve been reading this blog since you stuck those cork boards in your cupboard in the first house. In fact, I think this is the only blog that still exists since I began reading them.
As for the blog changing, well yes, it’s been 7 years, things are supposed to evolve and change.
Writing a blog is hard, especially a DIY blog. When you guys went to posting 5 days a week, I remember wondering how you have time for it. Since then your investment to the blog has more than doubled. So I hope with a little time, you do miss sharing your projects and come back.
You cannot please everyone, so do please yourselves.
Emily says
Wow, I don’t have time to read these comments… But I had to skim them after your recent post about stepping back. Maybe it’s my demographic as a 30-something, but in thought blogs were supposed to be about sharing and connecting with others… Blogs that have something to offer (and are lucky) survive…. And your blog offers inspiration, advice and encouragement for DIY. An added bonus is that it reads like my friends wrote it, and has a lot of honesty about price, sponsors, etc. I don’t think you owe anyone anything. If you enjoy to do what you do, continue. I for one will always be in your corner and hope you come back in whatever capacity you want to. If you want to aggressively grow the brand that is your right, if you want to maintain a small but loyal following I would welcome that too! You guys put yourselves first and don’t worry about the haters. I think there’s a certain percent of the population that is just crazy. I’ve gotten a lot from your blog and book and wish you all the best.
Liz Armitage says
Since you asked…
For the love of all things, please consider shopping somewhere other than Ikea. You’re adults now. Antique stores. Local furniture stores. Higher-end boutiques and specialty stores. You’re successful. To use your own vernacular, you’ve made some serious “cheddar” or “bank” from your “dorky DIY adventures.” Own it. At this point in your life you don’t have to nickel and dime everything to death.
Not everything needs to be white, and conversely, not everything needs to be spray painted. Natural/stained wood is fabulous and classy, and doesn’t scream “college dorm.”
You guys are successful thirty-somethings now…embrace that and GROW.
Rachael Alsbury says
I, like probably 99% of YHL readers really appreciate that Jon and Sherry can make such beautiful spaces from Ikea and spray paint. The challenge is not “can you make a beautiful home with disposable income” but “can you make a beautiful home with Ikea and spray paint?” (That’s what most of us are working with) :) That question is not easy to answer…and that is why this blog has such a large and loyal readership.
Mary says
John and Sherry, I am not going to respond to any of the above comments because they are all opinions and you know what they say about opinions…exactly, we all have them. I have been reading your blog for a few years, some I love and find useful for me right now, and some are not even in my wheel house, but that is just me. I use your blog as inspiration and also as a guide. I feel like a am getting a gift when I find something with your detailed instructions that I am actually able to do. And, my opinion is only based on where I am at in my life as other’s are in theirs. I love your blog and I did notice a change over the last year but you know what? I’ve changed in the last year too. I am a mom, I know that things change based on what is going on and I can fully appreciate the changes and challenges with two growing kids. I guess my point is, I don’t care if you do a blog once a week or once a month. I just enjoy seeing what you have to say and reading it. Even if the blog has not seemed like itself the thread of love and consideration for your readers has always been there. I hope you find the right balance that fits your family and thank-you for all the great information and ideas you have given all of us and have inspired me in so many ways.
Amanda says
Love your blog and have been following it for a few years! I could understand posting 3 times a week and I think that is more than enough! I would be interested in some of the following: more reader redesigns, house crashing and maybe guest blog posts of people/bloggers that inspire you! It would also be really great to hear how you came about opportunities like Target and book deals, it is all so interesting (if you already said this in a blog post, I missed that one!) Cheers to your family! Enjoy those little ones and don’t sweat the small stuff!!!!
Stacey says
Hi John and Sherry
I bless the day I found your blog many years ago and all the hundreds of days I have read your blog since then. I got on today and saw your post about “stepping away” as much as I would miss your blogs my very first thought was “way to go guys!”
Then…..I started to read reactions from others and was totally and 100% SHOCKED but very much so VERY DISAPPOINTED in what people said. I only had to get through the first 15 or so and stopped. I cannot believe the selfishness of the posts. I am completely APPAULED – I could go on and express my feelings more but choose to tell you the good things – the love, honesty and wonderfulness you have showed.
Once again I could go on and on about all the INCREDIBLY WONDERFUL things you have done but I will leave you with this….
YOU GO GUYS!!!! KEEP FOLLOWING YOUR HEARTS LIKE YOU ALWAYS HAVE!!!! I will check back in a month and hope to see you but if not will always have your blog and your teachings in my heart!
YET most importantly I think your wonderful, VERY KIND, and honest with the most beautiful family and home I’ve ever seen.
I’m off to get something DYI that you taught me done!
Stacey M ~ Sacramento CA.
NicholeP says
So I just took the time to read the Thursday comments. These readers are cray cray. Someone said “get daycare or a nanny so you can do your job.” Guess what people some of us think raising our kids is our job. If J and S want to blog and raise their kiddos them let them. They owe us no apologies for how often, when or what they post. If you don’t like it follow another blog or just check in every now and again. Giving an opinion of what you like to read is one thing but criticizing a family for how they spend their time is another.
Candis Meredith says
My comment is simply this: You guys are awesome, your personalities are lovable and I have enjoyed reading and will continue to enjoy reading you blog in whatever form it takes.
Just turn off comments…be yourselves…and enjoy what you do!
Olivia says
Wow. I am reading thorough this thread tonight. As an occasional reader, I missed this last week.
S&J…..I encourage you to run your business, your blog, your family and your home however you see fit. Do what works best for you in this wonderful and all-too-short season you are in with your family….. The rest will fall into place. As a stay at home mother of three little ones, I have personally been AMAZED at the quantity of projects/posts that you all produce and have often wondered how you accomplish so much? Maybe it would help some of your readers understand just how much time goes into each post /project if you start posting a “prep time” and “duration” for each one ……
Most importantly, congrats to you and your family on baby Teddy!
Lori says
Where do I start. John and Sherry, you are incredible human beings with two incredible children. The joy we receive from having children pales in comparison to anything else in life. Trying to find balance is our greatest challenge, is it not? It is a blessing to have a sense of humor. You have to in a business such as this. A strong backbone is another asset. You have both, and yet come across as truly loving, down yo earth people:). To the outside, it looks like all fun and fluffy, this DIY blog industry. I know, because I used to have a scrapbook store and scrapbook line, and I thought that industry was a happy industry. It’s as political as any other industry. People are ruthless, because of their own insecurities. There are two types of people: secure within themselves and see the good in others, or very insecure within themselves and are more than willing to be critical about everything and anything.
We may be entitled to express our thoughts, but good parents teach their children to be polite. Margaret, you need to go back and revisit your upbringing. There is never a reason for blatant rudeness. Deep inside you know that. We all do.
Sherry and John, you do what makes you happy and what works best for your family. You are a light in my life even though I don’t know you personally. May God continue to bless your choices and endeavors. Much love!
niki says
I just wanted to say, after reading your last post, that I think you guys are amazing. You have been so loving and considerate to your readers. I find it incredible that you ask for feedback and then don’t get defensive. You respond in an encouraging and loving way. Personally, I feel that you can’t please everyone. I think that the more you try to please everyone, the less you are you. And ironically, it was YOU GUYS who made YHL what it is. I think you are doing the right thing by taking a break to get refreshed, especially if you feel (not because of what anyone else says) that you’ve lost your groove. My only advice is that, after you have your period of rest, just come back and keep doing what you guys love. When you love it, we love it.
Carla Kohkwes says
I’m so sad you are gone. I was happy with whatever and whenever you chose to share with us. Loved the many ideas you gave me for my own home and those of my children. Loved watching your house progress.
Sad,sad,sad. :(
Amber says
I pray that you will find the balance you need in order to live full and joyful lives. It would be extremely difficult to put ones entire life “out there” for the whole world to see. I feel like you both have done a great job of being real with us…truly real. So many other blogs have really great ideas and DIY projects, but are not realistic if you are (1) low on cash or (2) low on time. It’s great to see simple projects that real families can actually do. And if readers are disappointed that there aren’t any “high end” things going on, their definition of “high end” is definitely different from mine (I think your stair runner, lighting options, and tiling are all more adult and higher end than some of your earlier “quick fixes”).
Anyway, thanks for being real. I will welcome any blog posts (regardless of how small) you are willing and able to give us. In the meantime, enjoy life!
Love & Prayers!
Vanessa B. says
Good Lord, this thread is a mess.
Bottom Line: Do what you want to do. That’s what brought us all here in the first place.
Sheesh, people.
Helen says
Hi guys, I’ve commented on your feelings post, but just read through some of these comments and wanted to add that I’ve never liked the more expensive projects, and I love the smaller updates! So you definitely can’t please everyone all the time! Hope you find the balance that makes you happy.
Kristine says
I have been a faithful reader for the whole 7 years! I have been everywhere with this family ( in blog world) and the truth be told the blog isn’t what it use to be. However That being Said, in the beginning there was only Sherry and John! Life happens, babies come, houses bought, book deals signed and even family members pass away. Yes this is a business and yes this is how they provide for their family but life and paths change. If John and Sherry need time to figure things out then that’s what they should do. Sometimes we all need positive criticism to understand where we are or what has somehow gone missing but to be so unkind in the process is very hurtful and I am sure that has made John and Sherry question what they are doing . I want the both of you to know that whatever path you choose I appreciate the seven wonderful years you let me enjoy your lives your blog and most of all the awesome DYI journey!
Chelsey says
I LOVe reading all your posts and sometimes love the little ones the best! Every project I think about doing around my house I research your blog to see how you did/do it! I think your family is darling and I love how real you are. Sometimes I like your instagram posts best…like a pic and a sentence! Keep up the good work!
Arianna says
Hey Guys, so I’ve been a reader for a couple years now and while I originally had no intention of commenting on this I’ve decided to just throw in my 2 cents. Sorry if i repeat things already said. :) So there’s an old saying that you can only please some of the people some of the time but you can’t please all of the people all of the time. Keep that in mind as you read feedback from everyone okay?
I was thinking of your recent posts where you say you’ve gotten away from how the blog used to be and you feel like you’ve grown away from that. Here’s the thing – you have. You guys are older and in a way different spot than you were when you started and your posts and content and the things that interest you will reflect that.
I will tell you this – for myself I have begun skimming way more than I used to. I’m not a homeowner, I rent an apartment so these house upgrade posts from the last several months really don’t apply to me. I wish there was ANY blog that had things I could apply to my apartment, but such is life. I do miss some of the more simpler content, but the place you guys are at in your life is carving out your home and updating it to reflect you. If that is the direction of your posts, well then that’s where you are in life.
Don’t change to please us okay? Just please yourselves and remember you aren’t the people you were 5+ years ago when you started this. Understand and accept you’ve grown and changed and this is a reflection of that.
Enjoy your break away.
Linda says
So sorry all the negative came your way. You’ve have a wonderful blog. With so many decorating blogs out there, anyone should be able to find one (or more) they like. I follow lots of them but not all of them are my style nor do their posts always pertain to something I am interested in. This is what makes you all so interesting. I totally love your blog whether you post daily or 3 times a week is your business, not anyone else’s. The fact that you offered us an alternative “type” of post when you don’t have a large one ready is very nice and considerate of you. Please know, I for one (and there are many) love your blog and enjoy knowing you and your family, through the blog. I’ll be waiting for your return!
Kaylin Lydia says
I am blown away and shocked by how mean spirited and critical some of these comments are. I am sorry you had to hear any of that. As Brene Brown says, they aren’t in the arena and do not have the right to offer any criticism. Please keep on being you. What you achieved here is amazing. Be well, xoxo.
Loni says
Hi Sherry and John,
I want to tell you that I LOVE your blog! I’ve been reading now for a couple of years and always get excited to read a new post from you when it shows up in my Bloglovin! It breaks my heart to read all the hurtful comments on here, as I small-time blogger I can’t even begin to imagine the amount of work you have on your shoulders. I look to you as an inspiration for DIY in the home and even for the family (even though I don’t have kids of my own yet). You’re part of the reason I want to go with cloth diapers and special homemade wood toys! In fact, I LOVED your Young House Life posts I think even more than the home related post, hehehe! You need to make the choice that is best for your family, because that is the most important thing, but just know you are loved and will be missed if you choose to shut down the blog. Of course, I won’t complain about smaller posts, sometimes I get way backlogged on my reading and smaller posts could be convenient to me (the reader) too! ;) I know I’ve never met you, but somehow I feel connected to you and really appreciate the way you’ve shared your lives with myself and others.
Blessings,
Loni
Rachael Alsbury says
Hey you guys! Soooo… as a long-time reader, I’m chiming in with the rest of the world. Young House Love has made a huge mark on the world of blogging and even design. You guys have built something amazing and been part of a major shift in the world of design (which has been brought about by the Internet). A look that used to require a professional designer is now accessible to normal people because of blogging! My favorite thing about your blog (and what brings me back as a reader) is all the little, do-able tips and ideas. When I read your blog and look at your photos, I feel empowered that my home can be beautiful and stylish too. I loved your book for that reason (you know I’m about to spray paint my grape vine wreath white tomorrow!). I like to read the small updates, tablescapes, cloth diaper posts, baby gear, all of it! Your blog is DIY, with a little lifestyle mixed in, which makes it really fun. I just want to you to know that you guys are the first blog I read and made me want to start my own. Much love to the Petersik family!
SherryB says
You don’t owe us anything, is the bottom line. When it starts not being fun, you have to step back and reconsider. I applaud you.
Just know, if you decided to give it up, you would be missed. :o)
Kellie says
Not too sure where the original question comes from but I seem to get the gest of the picture. Love your blog. Obviously you have to do what is best for you & your family but I miss the old day posts. Simple and to the point of what your doing, what updates your making, etc. Maybe you feel the need to be a certain word length or give every detail about where you got something and in depth instructions on tutorials. To be honest, people can google that elsewhere. Don’t get caught up in the logistics. Enjoy your blog, enjoy your DIY. We love you for it. Don’t overthink it and complicate it. Be yourselves, share what you want and when you want. I’ll be looking forward to see how the blog progresses.
Wanda Collier says
Always place your family first. All will fall in to place that is meant to be within your family. Take a break from blogging with no worries. All your fan will continue to be your fans whether you continue to blog or not, take a break, or blog less. Wishing your family all the goodness the world offers. Wanda
Jen says
I’ve been following YHL for a few years and also have my own little family of 4 now. With my own house to maintain, I only have time to check the blog about once a week. I love what you guys do, I don’t care about frequency, and don’t mind how it’s evolved over time. Life’s short. Just keep doing what you do, and don’t apologize.
Tee Cee says
Urmuhgawr. I was NOT ready for all this stunt-queenery and shenannygoats. Newp, not ready. This is a place of LOVE–remember, Young House Love?
I don’t think there is one reader here who has agreed with every single color choice, furniture pick or material choice that has been made and posted on Young House Love–but I think everyone can agree that’s not what coming here is about. There is something for everyone.
Some people read for the funny tone in the posts; some people read for the great ideas. Others (like me) have a house full of CHERRY RED EVERYTHING (yes, even the dining room chairs!) but enjoy coming here just to watch the creativity flow, to see how a plan starts from the studs and progresses to a room full of tile and wood and cork and glass and purty. So to make this into a one-size-fits-all, if-you-don’t-gimme-what-EYE-want fit is a disservice to the folks who were brave enough to put their talents and personal information out there and the rest of us who choose to come here and witness it live and in living color. Ack…this wasn’t about ‘feedback’; some folks just wanted to pull the football away from Charlie Brown. Dangit.
I am fine with the number of posts, I dig the content (and get what EYE want out of it) and it works for me. As someone working on remodeling her 3rd home too (what a coinkidink) I know what pure HECK doing a blog is. Heck, I’m blogging about reupholstering a Bergere chair–and three weeks later I’m STILL a’plugging away at it. So I can’t imagine doing this full time. All my post pictures would show me with a cat-hissing face, lol.
Anyway, I’m going to lift my foot using my super-long, tall leg and step over all this hoopla. It too, shall pass…
**throws Holy water in direction of negativity**
Sandy says
I agree with the one post. I used to look forward to reading this blog everyday, but it has lost it’s luster for me. It’s the little projects I liked–sun dried Christmas tree fruit, stenciling a floor, different ways to dress a table, making DIY stuff for the kids. They were things people could do regardless of their own decorating taste.
Big projects are drawn out for everyone. While John did an amazing job on the laundry room and his level of tenacity is at a 10, I would have been good with half the amount of laundry room posts:)
Again, I like the quick and easy ways to spruce up a house then the big overhaul ones.
Mary Jo M says
Sherry and John-I am a retired 63 year old former Teacher with two grown boys (26&28) and a lovely Daughter-in-Law, who has been following your blog for years. Yes, not only younger people follow your blog. You both inspire me so much every day with your unbelievable talent for not only decorating and design, but also your flair for writing. Most of all, I, along with others, treasure your stories about your children and family. My only regret is that I cannot be living next door to you to see first hand how all of your projects transpire. Knowing how quickly our children have grown up, it is great to take the time to savor each and every day of your children’s lives as much as possible. I wish that I had catalogued more events of my sons to look back on, but technology was different back then. If and when you decide to return to this website, I can only imagine how refreshed you will both feel, because it will be on your terms, just as graciously as you let us all know that you were taking a break. Peace and love to your family!
Mia says
only since you asked…I love shorter posts ANYWAY — they don’t have to be “filler”, just more digestible. The DIY stuff is what you’re so good at and some of it can be shorter and simpler. You don’t have to keep writing just to make it feel more substantial or longer. Brevity is beautiful — quality over quantity!
Patty Torrens says
S&J, Just want to say thank you for writing this blog. I have enjoyed following along and will continue to do so. I shall miss you while your away and I hope you are able to return refreshed and ready to start anew.
You cannot please everyone – so do what you do and don’t worry about the rest. Those that love your blog will still be here. Take care..
Jody says
Hi,
I’ve been reading your blog since before Clara was born and I adore you.
I trust you- it is because of you that we use cloth diapers, we actually got the same ones you use.
And it is also because of you that I feel confident making changes to my home, both inside and out. The way you explain things simply and coherently means I feel like I have all the knowledge in one place to take on a task and am more likely to do it.
We rented for 4 years and it was great having suggestions for things that would work without doing renos, and now that we own our home I am going back through your archives for tutorials. You are an amazing resource and have been a huge inspiration.
I’ve loved following your family changes and the flow of updates. Not all of the posts are relevant, but that doesn’t mean I don’t read them. Different houses have different challenges and you have been honest about where you are and what you are trying to achieve. It also inspires me to look at my own home differently and see potential when I used to see someone I didn’t like.
I love the fact that you don’t get paid or perked to mention products- that really helps me trust your suggestions- and is a reason why I don’t trust many other bloggers.
I love how you are honest- when things are working, when they aren’t, what you are trying to achieve and when you want to focus more on family. You are doing what is right for you, and I will stay with you no matter what direction your blog takes.
Love to all 5 of you.
-Jody
Liz says
Just had to respond to a comment about all 3 houses looking the same with cheap furnishings. I totally disagree: I think each of the three houses has a distinctively different look and vibe, and I have definitely noticed a move toward higher end fixtures and furnishings when/where it makes sense. I have been a faithful reader for 3-4 years now, and I will admit that as of late (past 4-6 months) I have found myself checking the blog less frequently (a few times a week vs. once or twice daily) because there just seem to be fewer posts. But it is also easy to see why: a growing family combined with more business opportunities = less time to write substantive posts. I also admit I have wondered to myself how long you could sustain this blog as a full-time income source: something has to give at some point, and while I have missed more frequent posts, I have admired your business savvy (not putting all your eggs in one basket, so to speak). I have enjoyed and learned a lot from your blog, and I do hope you are able to come back to it at some point. Thank you!
Rachel says
I honestly feel like it would be a good idea to turn the comments off to this blog. It would be hard to constantly read suggestions or criticisms, so I don’t blame you for second guessing yourselves and worrying about each post being torn apart. You both do a great job, and I feel like the comments have too much influence on you. Turn off the comments, and post whatever you want to, whenever you want to. This is YOUR blog, we are all just visitors. Post what YOU care about. Don’t worry about what the readers care about. You will never completely satisfy 100% of the people that come across your blog, so don’t bother trying. Enjoy your break, and I hope to see you back soon!
Jill says
Have yall thought of using guest bloggers for the filler? I know it may not make some people happy but it would be a nice rest for yall and get some fresh ideas stirring! Just a thought :)
Jill says
Dear, J & S, For goodness sakes. Some people take this stuff way too seriously! You guys have been blessed with a bit of the American dream- and YAY for you! Does happen with hard work and some divine appointments. Looks to me like you are proof of that AND of trying to be true to yourselves. Can’t go wrong there. There will always be naysayers. Such a bleh word. Nothing bleh about either of you. And besides, who in the world doesn’t get in a funk at times? It’s called being human. This too shall pass!
Berglind Ásgeirsdóttir says
a little heartbroken after reading threw this.. some people right!?!… just want to say that I love your blog, really like all of you and will miss your posts. Hope you will find your groove back soon. :)
Karen Morison says
if you’re still reading comments, lol, some quick advice.
IT’S YOUR “SEVEN YEAR ITCH.” We all get it, whether we work for others or ourselves. Don’t be surprised, but do deal with renovating your Lives.
1). OUTSOURCE: get one or two interns, who want to learn about blogging. Get them to do the parts that are tedious or less productive in terms of the main goals of your blog/business. I’ve long wondered why you’re torturing yourselves. I’d get one intern to go through reader comments and summarize them for you, so you can maybe one post a week do responses all at once. I’d have the second intern do the give away (I love this!).
2) get an older mentor who runs their own business and get help with thinking through current priorities. Re-think everything. Review your one-year, five-year goals and strategies.
3) find ways to bring in more money with less time. Re-read Tim Ferriss. Make more products, maybe info products and have affiliates promote them, like through Clickbank etc. Information products can make lots of money and can be a great help to people if done right.
4) double up on your return of your time. Do a project, and get posts from it, then add some videos done simultaneously and create a course on how to do whatever. Courses are huge sellers.
Just some thoughts. Short posts are great, by the way. And love those little kids are funny posts. And get a babysitter (teen after school two days a week?) to play with the kids for a few hours each week or so. On those days, go out to lunch together at Panera. It’s a cheaper date than dinner, lol.
Terry says
I love your blog! I’m content with one or two posts a week, even if one of those is a ‘short post’. I find that I can’t keep up with daily posts, and besides, fewer posts gives us readers some time to look forward to the next one.
Cheryl says
Briefly–give yourselves permission to listen to your own hearts and respond to that calling.
forget about improving, analyzing, re-evaluating choices — be open.
thank you for creating a blog that was my first read ever on decor. since then, four years ago, I read fewer blogs because eventually I started trusting my gut on decorating and applying what I’ve learned from you and others.
that’s my wish for you — trust your gut, take a whole year off and enter another adventure and see where you are. You need time to breathe. Take it slow, create some space and boundaries. But, more importantly, peace of mind is a good thing.
Tiffany says
I commend you to being open for feedback. This blog is a business and your primary source of income, so it is critical that you retain and grow your readership. Having said that, the vast majority of commenters here are those that currently read your blog and continue to be your cheerleaders. As difficult as it might be, it would be worth going to sites like GOMI and investigating what concerns and issues that FORMER readers had which have left YHL. Do not address them privately, but absorb what they have to say and see if you can use any of that constructively going forward.
A few more observations: Be 100% transparent with your readers. Anything less (altered photos, for example), creates a question in the mind of people. They want to feel confident in what you say and do.
What do you want this blog to be going forward? Where are your strengths? Is this a mommy blog? A DIY blog? A decorating blog? That will help you to determine what your targeted demographic is and what you need to do as a professional to sharpen your skillset. Whatever you chose, immerse yourself in it. I write a non-monetized niche blog and I have a now have a nationally recognized certification in my ‘field’ in addition to devoting, on average, 20+ hours a week to volunteer work that is hands-on/directly related. I have been lucky to have mentors with decades of professional experience and I am constantly reading and researching.
What else? Consider the exposure of your children and don’t devalue yourself (or your brand) with lots of slang, obscure pop-references, etc.
Lastly, as you have pointed out, working from home is a great opportunity. You two get paid handsomely doing something that you love, which is wonderful. Unfortunately, working on DIY in homes is something most of us are forced to do only in our spare time, at our own expense, as time/energy allows and after all other job and family obligations have been met. Know that you are living the dream of many. Because you have monetized your blog, there will always be expectations from your readers. They are fully aware that their presence brings you revenue. I’m happy to see that you are willing to hear from them and hopefully that will bring you some clarity on what needs to happen going forward.
Best of luck to you both. I’m sure this must be hard to make decisions that may impact your future.
Betty says
Kim, put it so well. You need to do what is best for the family and keeps you sane. If one’s life if totally dependent on your blog, no offense, but what kind of life do they have. There are many other blogs out there that can fill the gap. I have been reading you for a while – even went back and read from day 1. My son and son-in-law appreciate your tutorials as they deal with their own homes.
Andy says
Wow… the intensity of the responses here are incredible. First off… I’ve come to realize (after it was too late) your children are young for a brief time and it is something you can’t get back. So, ignore the reader that suggested you park your children in a daycare. Hearing how you manage your own business while raising your children felt real and helpful. Secondly… If a reader’s purse is so large they can just go out and buy whatever pricey item they desire, I am not sure why the read DIY blogs to begin with. The money saving ideas you have given over the years were helpful. We all want to feel great in our homes and your blog has encouraged us (not so flush) readers to feel we can.