This post was 3,000 words long. They all felt overly complicated and heavy and weird. I clicked delete. Then I just typed what we’re really feeling, complete with things we’ve never said out loud and even a few things we’ve never fully admitted to ourselves before.
The truth is that we love you guys. Like for real. Even for the tough love. We know you say it because you care (or hopefully you did at some point), and we want you to know we care right back. We want to do a good job. We want to do this with joy and excitement. We want to inspire you. We know this is an incredible way to have made a living and we are full of gratitude for the experience to have shared the last seven years of our lives with you guys online.
We would NEVER be here without you, and not a day goes by that we don’t know that. It’s why we asked for your feedback last week and read every last comment. We appreciate the honesty and the passion you guys have on the topic of making this blog great. And we agree with a lot of what was being said. We have been feeling off for a while – like we have lost our rhythm and we’re somehow missing the mark for ourselves and for you guys. We too miss the good old days when we did this for the love and were full of such obvious joy and spontaneity. This felt like a place we all hung out and it just doesn’t have that vibe anymore.
Over the years many amazing opportunities popped up for us. Things we never dreamed of doing in a million years, and things we’re incredibly grateful to have had the chance to experience. A book deal, curating paint picks with Benjamin Moore, a line sold at Target, a showhouse, etc. But in hindsight those things also made this feel a lot more like a business than a personal blog to many of you, and to us as well. We have actually ramped those down behind the scenes in an attempt to get back to our roots (we no longer do the BM color collection, the second book is mostly written, our products at Target have completed their run, and we finished the showhouse) but we never really made a big announcement about that – so it’s completely understandable that some of you might think we’ve moved on to those greener pastures and left the blog in the dust, so to speak. The reality is that our site propels the success of any outside project like a product or book, so we could never turn our backs on the blog and expect those items to continue to sell as well.
Not only have we felt this shift from “John and Sherry” to “Young House Love: The Brand”, but the blogosphere as a whole has become increasingly sponsored/corporate lately. We can see from the outside prospective as a reader, or even a fellow blogger, that it’s hard to read a blog post without suspecting some ulterior motive or money-making system behind it. Last week a few of you mentioned that we might need to keep giveaways around because they pay us well, which surprised us since they’re never something we accept payment for (we like to pass free things along to you as a thank you for reading).
Along with the whole business/brand thing that’s going on, and the side gigs that felt like they muddied the water for some of you, there are certainly other things we wish we had handled differently in hindsight. Just to name a few, there’s: being too defensive, over-explaining, letting things get in our heads and change our lighthearted approach, and the internal struggle between being transparent and oversharing personal details like a vacant new house without an alarm system (looking back we wish we’d handled our third house announcement differently). We know many of you felt insulted that we didn’t share more freely about that house, and we truly apologize.
Anyway, back to that whole “we’re sexy stumbling and you know it” thing. It’s endlessly frustrating to do a job that you love poorly, especially when it’s a blog baby that you’ve birthed yourself and nurtured for seven years. And especially when it’s such an amazing job that we once felt so inspired and joyful to wake up and do each day. What’s wrong with us? We know this is a dream job. We acknowledge it’s a once in a lifetime opportunity. We know most people who have built something like this would be more inspired than ever. It’s not that we lost the gratitude, I think it’s that we feel like we’ve fallen out of our groove. We feel like we’re letting you guys down repeatedly. It got to the point that every time we pressed “publish” we braced ourselves.
So in an attempt to stop stumbling around and feeling like we just can’t get it back, we’re taking a break. We don’t know exactly how long we’ll be stepping away, but our guess would be at least a month. We will certainly be exploring other options for supporting our family (something we mentioned we were considering back in April). We had that fiery blog-spark back when we had day jobs and did this as a hobby, so we think it could be a good change. We’ll also be taking a break on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook, but the blog will stay public so you guys can access the archives whenever you’d like.
Our internal struggle and the state of this blog is entirely of our making, and we completely own that. Please don’t get mad at anyone for being honest with their feedback last week or accuse them of sending us packing. We have been struggling with that “something is off” feeling for a while now, and after way too much denial and “we’ll turn it around” pep talks, we finally asked for your feedback because we truly wanted to hear what you were thinking. It was cathartic and helpful for us. It has allowed us to very clearly see that if we have any respect for this blog and our love of it, and for you guys and what you’d like to see, we need to take a break if we ever want any hope of getting back to that fun/real/spontaneous place it used to be when this was something we did for the love instead of the high stakes game of supporting a family.
In summary: we love you, we thank you, and we hope you understand.
Becca says
Hello! I never post but had to for this. Your honesty with yourselves and your readers is refreshing! You guys still have whimsy in your work so it’s amazing that you also felt the “We’re off a little” feeling. The varied perspectives (John vs Sherry), the love of what you do for your home and your family and the joy you want to share with us are beautiful. Thanks for being trailblazers and truly reflective. Looking forward to the refreshed Petersik’s!
Chrissie says
I get it, but I’m really, really going to miss you guys. You are a huge inspiration for me and I love that you share your home and lives with your readers. I’m a big proponent of having your blog and content be what works for you – and I totally understand taking a break to get that spark back – but I’m just crossing my fingers over here that you come back in some form… whatever it is that’s best for you. I’ll miss you here and on Instagram (your photos are always so wonderful!), and I hope you both feel refreshed, renewed, and happy with whatever new focus you take going forward.
Rachel says
I have read your blog on and off for the past 4 and a half years and it has always been something that I come back to. I really look forward to reading when I have a bad day. I never really comment on anything because I have always thought that your blog was your space to do your thing your way. I am sad that you are leaving personally. I do hope that you come back to be my go to when I need a place to not think about my life.
That being said, enjoy your time off. Enjoy your kids. Enjoy the house that you have shared with all of us. Actually live in it. Everything will work out whether you decide to do something different or come back refreshed. Everyone needs a break at some point in their lives and I am happy to know that you are taking yours by choice — it’s so much better that way. Have a nice break.
AnnMarie says
I feel honored that you guys are so honest with us. It must be hard to say and do something like this when this is how you support your family — so mad props and lots of respect!
And while I’m certainly going to miss you over the next month, and I had noticed a shift in the overall tone of your posts in the last little while, I just want to say that I’ve never felt like you guys were “selling out” to the establishment or going overly sponsored / corporate. There are some bloggers, bloggers I enjoy and respect, who have begun to feel that way to me, but as was recently pointed out on decor8 (here: http://decor8blog.com/2014/07/18/can-full-time-bloggers-live-off-of-rainbows-hugs/), blogging is a business — we readers can’t expect you to dedicate as much time and as many resources as you do to this blog out of the goodness of your hearts (as wonderful as they may be!).
I guess what I’m trying to say is, do what you gotta do — but please don’t leave! The blogosphere would be a sadder, greyer place without Young House Love. ^_^ ~love and hugs~
Becca says
That was real! Good for you guys for owning what you have been feeling and for being proactive to protect your blog and family. As a faithful reader I must say I will miss you guys while you recharge but I know that when you come back you’ll be better for it! Encouraged for your family and what is to come. Thanks for being brave! We love you guys!
Laura says
Wow. I don’t have many words other than that. I’m really glad you’re taking a month off. We all get burn out from our jobs and sometimes a step back, some rest and some good old self care can do wonders. I feel like I did when I first found your blog, and it’s been a while since I felt that way. I’m rooting for you guys and I’m glad to feel that way again.
Enjoy the break!
Jessica says
balance in life is so important. I love your site and will miss you while you take a break. You need to do what’s right for you and your family and you shouldn’t feel obligated to please everyone else (besides, that’s impossible, you can never please everyone). I hope you can find yourselves again soon. Love you guys :)
Jen says
Have been reading from pretty much day 1 and will miss you guys but agree that you should take the time for yourselves to rejuvenate. You are very special people. We need more like you!
Andrea says
What a brave post. I’m leaving my 10 year career (today, actually) after recent events in my family caused me to step back and reevaluate things. It’s been a hard decision to get to and I don’t have thousands of people looking over my shoulder, giving their 2 cents without knowing all the ins & outs!
Best of luck as you take time to reflect and do what’s best for your life and your family.
Sheryl says
I’ve been reading your blog for many years now and appreciate all that you’ve shared, family stories and house projects alike. Your blog sets the standard for others and I always check your archives first for how-to’s, before anywhere else (including Pinterest). Thank you for sharing your world and take care.
jp says
Wow. You guys are super-graceful. Thank you for everything, and best of luck.
Anne says
Life is all about change, I will miss reading your blog everyday but appreciate you being honest about your struggles. It happens to all of us and there will be something great in the next chapter of your life. I hope it still involves us your readers but if not thanks for a great run!
Misty says
Man, I’m going to miss you guys! But I’ll be right here when you’re ready to come back. Do what you need to do, find that spark and in the mean time we’ll all be cheering you on from the sidelines like a bunch of crazy DIY lunatics. Love and big computer hugs!
Brooke says
I’m going to probably repeat a lot of what everybody else is saying, but this made me sad in a way that you’d assume I knew you personally! I think that speaks highly of your blog and the people you are in general. I can honestly say that you guys are the bloggers who inspired me to love my house. You are, and always will be, my favorite bloggers! I hope this break lets you decompress and reconnect with what you really want for the blog and for your family. And know that while you’re doing that, there are a ton of people in your corner, who truly want nothing but the best for you!
xoxo – Brooke
Anamarie Rebori says
While I’m beyond sad that you’re taking a break, I totally get it. Know that your readers will welcome you back whenever you feel ready! In fact, I think you’ve probably made the hardest decision of all to step away, hoping to regroup and find what works best for you. I wish you the best of luck.
Maria U says
Good for you! I saw this yesterday, and it may help you see your creative projects and writing in a different way.
http://www.ted.com/talks/elizabeth_gilbert_on_genius?language=en
Gaby says
I don’t understand. I’m very sad. Best wishes to you all.
Karolina says
I hope there will be still some feedback on instagram ….right….right ? …… right ??? [anxiety attack]
Midwesterner says
Good luck guys! YHL really does blaze its own trail in the blogosphere by setting real standards for excellent blog posts. I hope you return in some form but taking a break sounds like a good thing.
Tina says
You guys deserve a break. We will be here when you get back. Meanwhile people, lets try and light up the forums.
Jessica says
I’m a long time reader but rare commenter. I would just like to remind you that what you have done her, from the earliest days is build a community that loves, supports and respects you. As this old blog of yours has grown and evolved you have also gained many viewers who are not truly part of that community, but who see this output of yours as a busines. But it is more than that. It is an invitation to spend time with you in your home. And your real community is grateful for all the time and energy you spend to do that, as well as the trust you put in ust be able to be so open. So I thank you for all your hard work, all of your generosity, and all the sharing of the wealth you have. Please remember that your community loves and respects you and will always support you caring for your priorities as a family. You are dear friends in spirit to so many. We will miss you and look forward to enjoying your renewed spirits in whatever way you choose to return. So much love to you.
JessL says
I’ve never posted a comment on your blog but I felt I needed to in response to this post. This is my favorite blog, and it’s always the first thing I read when I need a break. I find you both and your family so inspirational for so many reasons. I appreciate that you work incredibly hard to make this blog life work for your family, and that you somehow manage to be funny, open, warm, beautiful people while doing it. Reading your post brought tears to my eyes because it made me aware of something I hadn’t been before – that you are not happy with things as they are now. I’ve considered every post you make and every instagram picture you share a gift. I had no right to expect it from you – let alone the emotional honesty, incredible hours of sweat, and endless fountain of creativity and positive energy you shared with us. I am so thankful for everything. I want only what’s best for you both and your family and just wanted to thank you for everything you’ve shared and given to me and to everyone else out there . You’ll be missed. Sending you many, many good thoughts and gratitude for all of the time and energy you’ve given to all of us.
xoxo.
adele says
Wow — this is a mixed-feelings day in the blogosphere, but I’m a firm believer in the “if you love something, let it go” philosophy so I’m really happy for you guys and wish you all the best.
Although i’ve seen the evolution in the blog the last few years, I was just happy you guys were posting. Now, I’m happy you guys are taking a step back. I think it shows that you really care. Also, I think what you’ve described is being felt in other blogs too. This 7 year itch felt by those bloggers who trailblazed in the beginning. A kind of “now what?”.. which is totally understandable.
In a way, you’re inspiring me to take a step back from the web and refocus on real life. Thanks for everything.
Lil says
Now I feel all overcomplicated, and heavy, and weird. You are truly a bright spot in my day. You are truly inspiring.
I hope you come back soon. In the meantime, take care of yourselves and those two sweet babies.
Lucy says
You blog was the first I ever read, it was the first thing I usually opened on my computer and I always enjoyed it and still do. I wasn’t sure how long you could sustain the amount of time and work you put into all you do. I’m so sorry you’ll be leaving but if and when you come back, even just to tell everyone what you’re up to, I’ll be here. I’m glad you’re leaving the blog up because I’m still going to check everyday! Good luck.
Erin says
First up, I totally care about you people. (I know, the internet is so weird, isn’t it? But I do.) So do whatever you need to do and I will be happy you exist and completely support your choices. So there.
Also, I can’t help wondering how much of this has to do with just the natural learning curve of going from a hardworking family of three to a hardworking family of four. That’s complete projection on my part, but my husband and are I in a similar situation. We love our jobs (very different from blogging, but also fairly demanding), are incredibly grateful for what we get to do to pay the bills (how lucky are we?!), and have still felt totally off ever since our second was born in November. I really think that trying to make it all work as gracefully as possible is just hard, no matter how grateful we are for how good we got it (really! we are!), and maybe we shouldn’t be surprised that things get out of whack in the meantime. I suspect it will all come around, given some time to rest and rebalance.
In the meantime, I will really miss you! But I will be totally happy thinking about you hopefully taking some much-needed downtime. Rest. Relax. Enjoy. Hope to see you soon (but not too soon)!
Melissa Ray says
I love you guys! I feel like you are part of my extended family. I refer to you and your family members as if you are neighbors I’ve known all my life. I understand why you are taking a break, and I support your decision. I just hope it doesn’t take more than a month because I will miss you! Your blog is the only one that I am a truly dedicated reader.
I own a home that I styled with your encouragement. That I painted, pulled the carpet up and made polished concrete, updated hardware, and lots of projects I got from your blog over the years. My home looks nothing like yours… but it has your stamp on it.
What I’ve got from your blog and book is to have fun with my home, and try things that look hard. Learn how to use new tools. Don’t be afraid of paint. You not only say these things, you embody them.
Thank you so much for all the time and energy you have put into this blog. We appreciate it!!
I will eagerly be waiting your return!
Hmm… Maybe I’ll go back to the beginning and read the blogs again. You guys are pretty entertaining.
Marci in Utah says
We’ll miss you, but we’ll be waiting for you when you’re ready. So much love to you guys! xoxoxoxo
gemma@thesweetestdigs says
Okay I am sitting here with tears in my eyes. I COMPLETELY understand where you are coming from, and really hope that some time away from the blog will help clarify for you guys what is best for you and your family. You need to do what makes you happy, and brings balance. I wish you guys nothing but the absolute best, but really really hope that you do come back to the blogosphere in some way or another (!!). I have been a loyal reader since 2009 and will miss popping in here on the daily for my dose of Sherry, John, Clara, Teddy, and Burger.
We love you guys!!
(PS. You don’t owe us readers anything, and I have totally enjoyed watching how the blog has grown and evolved over time. Just stay true to you, and the rest will follow.)
Elizabeth says
Love the blog and will miss you while you’re gone! Hope you find what you’re looking for. Thank you for sharing all these years.
Sarah says
John and Sherry,
I think this whole thing shows off how you can put something into the world and people will have such a range of responses to it, on such a wide spectrum. I commend you for listening to the overall message people communicated last week. You guys have done such a big thing with YHL. Best of luck as you move forward.
Lizzie says
I agree with the NOOOOOOOOOOOOs but also with the “do what you gotta do”s, so I’m torn. I hope your break leaves you all refreshed and ready to come back strong!
Suzannah says
Dear people – Take heart, we’ll be here when/if you come back. And if you choose a new direction – you’ve still offered so many resources and inspirations to all of us who’ve been your readers. It won’t go to waste!
Madeline says
I have so much respect for you and John. You don’t have to be so candid with your readers but it’s one reason we have grown to love you so much. Take all the time you need, we’ll be here when you return!
Kate says
As parents we all struggle every day to find the work/life/family balance, and I can speak for myself and say that often one of those categories ends up suffering. I am so sorry you have had people point this out to you publicly, and now have to explain it to us as well. As a long time reader and fan I am rooting for you that you find your balance. And if you find yourselves stumbling again later you can approach it with the same grace you are now. Enjoy your time off, you will be certainly missed!
Monica says
I hope you turned off your notifications and dont read this until you are well rested and rejuvinated, but there is an emptiness in my heart. :) This blog has transformed my life in the silliest yet biggest ways. You guys are so relatable, humble, and fun and you have inspired me to dive into so many things I wouldnt have otherwise considered and even drag my husband along. He used to not know how to use a drill, and he can build me just about anything I want now. House projects and DIYs define us, and the satisfaction of fighting through a frustrating project and the beauty of the finished product make it all worth it. I hope you find that satisfaction for what you do and the homes all around that you have helped people make their own. BIG (creepy) hug!
Katie says
I’ve been reading your blog since your “this young house” days when I was in college, before I was married, before we bought a house and before we had our son ! Just wanted to say I love you guys and you make me laugh out loud and spit out my coffee on my days off! :). I always have, and always will love reading your blog! Even though I will miss you guys, I totally 100% respect where you are coming from!
Lea says
Do what you need to do! Your site has been my only daily blog for YEARS (I found you on IkeaHacks with your first house’s built-ins!) and always my little morning treat. I’ve loved watching you grow your family, and find success in this crazy blog world. Do what feels right for you! We’ll still be here if you come back, no matter what form it takes. :)
Sarah S says
Since you expressly said not to scold others for saying judgmental, unkind or poorly-thought-out things, I’ll refrain. I’ll just say:
Good luck! You’ve done an EXCELLENT job. I’m grateful for all you’ve shared and the guidance you’re providing as I work on my own new house. And I hope you’ll be back!
Okay, I have to say one thing regarding others’ comments: I always thought you made it extremely clear and transparent that you didn’t benefit financially from giveaways, reviews, etc and you’ve always been honest about your efforts to “give the people what they want” and find the right balance of content. There’s no right answer and I doubt anyone who complained about your content could do it themselves. Okay, I’ll go back to listening to you and once more say “Thanks and Good Luck! Hope to ‘see’ you again soon!”
Sarina says
For what it’s worth.. I will miss your posts while you take a break. I was on vacation last week and missed the feedback posts.. (and some of the criticism).
I did see some complaint that you shouldn’t be complaining you were busy… because the blog “is your job”.. etc.. but I think that’s a little unfair. As someone who has done their fair share of home improvement, so I KNOW for a fact that those jobs can be VERRRRY time consuming and I am actually pretty amazed that you were able to keep up with all of your projects as well as you did. I mean.. even with the new baby during that time.. WOW. People seem to forget that to do those projects, you seem to spend so much time going back to the store for supplies.. reworking things that don’t “do right” the first time etc..
I saw some feedback that you use “cheaper” furnishings etc.. Well, to be honest, I don’t have a problem with that.. it’s your mix of using easily accessible items and modifying them so that they are “upgraded” that is so great. they are some of my favorite posts.
Since I don’t have kids, some of the kiddie room updates haven’t been particularly relevant, but interesting enough as they sometimes incorporate things I might do.
I do enjoy the way you break down a project.. and provide good details on cost and materials and exactly WHAT you had to do to make the project work.
I guess the feedback that I have regarding your feelings of being “off”.. It seems like you have had a TON of different things going on.. which naturally would make it tough to focus on each and every thing to the same level of detail. I mean, that laundry room reno was a pretty darn big job and you guys did so much of it yourself. But that wasn’t all you had to do (ignoring living life..caring for kids).. you had to document that process.. detail each and every step.. tabulate and have it all pretty for public consumption. WEll…. sometimes tiling is “boring”.. and you have pressure to produce “something” for the blog.. so you probably just do the best you can, hit post and pray for the best. Don’t blame you there at all.
Maybe it’s that some of the projects you have gotten into now are less “typical” and the average person wouldn’t think of dropping almost 5K on a laundry room reno.. (and honestly would be more for most.. because a lot of what you did was probably beyond a lot of folks).
Maybe it’s just that the whole internet blogging thing is winding down too? You are probably the third or fourth blogger(s) that I know who have stepped back from their posting.
I personally like the format.. text with pictures that I can access when I have the time.. I am not a huge youtube person.. I like your format so much more.
I’m hoping you guys decide to stick with the blog and that some time away gives you a fresh outlook on things. I think it’s a mistake to try to be all things to all people. You should do and share what makes you happy and your natural enthusiasm will attract those with the same interests.
I know it’s kind of weird.. but you guys “are” a brand… and you are real people too.. and this blog is personal, but it IS a business tool as well.. I mean, look at Pioneer Woman.. she certainly mixes up the personal and public life stuff.. I think it would be hard to put myself out there like that.. for people to comment on and critique my life and my choices.. but then again.. putting it out there DOES make the business work more yes?
Anyway, again, enjoy your break and hope to see you guys back soon.
Alyson L says
Huh, I didn’t know there was criticism about using “cheaper” materials. To me, this is one of the most valuable aspects! Most of us DIY because we want to, AND because we want more bang for our limited buck. Seeing IKEA components look like they are original to a house is incredibly inspiring! And it is achievable by a lot more of us than building fine furniture from scratch would be, and/or investing thousands and thousands into a single limited-use piece would be.
Amanda W says
No!!!! Say it isn’t so! You will be missed, and I will be anxiously awaiting your blogging return.
Sarah says
I’m applauding your bravery from where I’m sitting! I won’t pretend to know exactly what you’re going through, but I do know something of the adjustment that comes from a growing family. I have four kids now, but the hardest time for me was going from one kid to two kids (everyone always told me it was three, which was cake, comparatively). I think somehow that one extra person rocked my whole perception of myself as a mom who had everything together. (I didn’t- I was just under the illusion that I did) I remember I had a really hard time connecting emotionally with anyone- my husband included- for that first year or so of having two kids. For me, it included a spiritual awakening, recognizing that I needed strength beyond my natural capacity to get out of that rut. I think it’s different for everyone. I hope you can find peace and renewed direction, however long it takes! Hugs and prayers coming your way!
Tasha says
So sad. I’ve been reading your blog for years and I don’t think I’ve every posted a comment until now. When you come back (please, please please) maybe you just shouldn’t do the whole comment section?? I honestly can’t believe the negative commenting. Your blog has been a huge inspiration for me over the years and watching you guys tackle projects around your house(s) has given me the motivation to try a lot more diy things myself. In fact, I would probably go so far as to say I probably wouldn’t even be living in the house that I’m in if it weren’t for this blog! I decided two years ago to start updating and remodeling an older family home and if I look back on that decision I know I got a lot of courage from reading your daily updates. Love you guys and hope you’ll be back soon. :(
Tina says
I was a newcomer to your blog. Will miss it.
Lisa says
OK, read your blog all the time, but never comment and then had to go back and read last weeks “comments”. WOW, some harsh stuff from some people. Honestly as someone pointed out we read blogs for free. You are under no obligation to read them, if you don’t like them don’t read them. I know how much work it requires to be “self employed” the tax returns etc. So honestly if you did two posts a week I would be happy, very, very happy with that. Take a break, do not take all the negativity to heart though. Family first, and by the way we love hearing about the family. Have fun, but please come back.
Sarah says
This is your life and it should make you happy and fulfilled! Good luck in your future endeavors – whether that means blogging or using your immense talents in other ways. Thank you for all the information and inspiration you’ve provided through the years!
Bailey says
I am so sad- like I feel like I just heard Robin Williams died again. I absolutely love everything about your blog. I find you two super relatable – I am around the same age, love your love of including the 90s and pop culture into your posts, I am an “art” minor as well so love that about Sherry. I’ve followed along since your pregnancy with Clara and I also have a girl about her age, and a boy born this summer. Maybe I can just relate to how busy life is with just having two kids- not even with the book, and other house, and such thrown on top that I understood things have to slow down (well that and your big announcement after Teddy was born). You have kept my interest with such a variety and fun vibe. I really hope you find that spark and are able to come back!
Skittle says
It’s very brave of you to have made such a decision. I’ll be praying that you find guidance on the next step, whatever it may be. We will miss you, but will be here when you return. And if you decide not to, I personally will be very grateful for the enjoyment & inspiration you have already freely given for so long.
Danielle says
*sniff* You guys have been my routine since 2008. I eat my lunch and read your blog. I have noticed a change lately that made me feel you guys needed a break. It’s well deserved and hope to see you guys soon.
Sara says
I completely understand! I’m definitely sad to see you guys take a break as I always enjoy a daily dose of YHL, but as a fellow blogger (and I just do it on the side) I get the pressure of blogging and I’m not even remotely as well known as you guys are! Take a break and enjoy the time with your family! I have to remind myself all the time that they kiddos won’t stay little forever! I hope to see you guys again back here at YHL, but I will understand any decision you make! Have a great break!