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.
Rachel says
I am sad. I’m going to miss you guys and I hope the break is not forever! That said, kudos for doing what’s best for yourselves and your family, even though it is a hard and scary thing. I think that is a luxury that many working people don’t have (or make happen), so I hope it is just as restorative as you would like it to be.
We miss you and love you no matter what! Can’t wait to see what comes next, and I’ll be keeping my eyes peeled every day for your return. <3 <3 <3 <3 <3
Becka says
I don’t have much to add except to second all the encouraging, supportive comments in wishing you the best in the time you’re taking to regroup, and hoping sincerely that you come back to blogging if it’s what makes you happy and works for your family in the long run! I’ve loved your blog for years so like so many others I’ll miss your presence online and miss hearing all of your stories, big and small, while you’re taking this hiatus. But I hope to see you back in this space and having fun with blogging again soon! We all love you and appreciate how seriously you take this endeavor and how committed you are to your readers. Best of luck!
Adria says
Your blog was my salvation when my daughter was a newborn, breastfeeding around the clock. I read your archives and current posts with glee! Whether you post twice a day or twice a year in the future, I’m a loyal fan. Wishing you the best in your personal and professional lives, on the blog and off. <3
Alice says
I’ve read your blog for many years and never once commented. Thank you so much for all the joy you’ve provided me as I’ve perused your work during my lunch breaks. I am grateful to both of you for all the work you’ve put into your blog. I have been inspired many times to try projects you’ve suggested, and I am in awe of your energy, creativity, writing ability, and general sense of joy.
Thank you!
Mary says
While for selfish reasons I’m sad to hear this, I think it’s the very best decision for y’all. I wonder if part of it is because by the time you completely redo a third house … I don’t know, I think I’d lose some of my mojo. Plus add sweet Teddy in, well my kids have always been my prime time shine. Seven years is a long time, so until/unless you come back with more at a later date, thanks for everything. Love you guys, throwing another fat kiss across the river ~ Mary
Sarah says
Not sure I have ever commented but I’ve enjoyed your blog for a few yeas now. I have loved and continue to live your posts. But I always tell people family comes first. Do what you need to do for your family. Don’t worry about all of us readers. My oldest just started kinder and it’s so weird only seeing him a few hours a day. Enjoy this last year before Clara goes to school. God will lead you where He wants you.
Jenny B. says
Things never stay the same. As much as I want to freeze time right now and keep my five-year-old five forever, it’s not going to happen. He’s going to grow and change, and that’s a good thing. It’s OK for things to be different. It’s OK to take a break. It’s OK to change your focus. It will even be OK to quit if that ends up being the right thing (or maybe I should say “move on”… that sounds better). Just do the next right thing, and keep going from there. It will be OK. <3
Claudia says
It seems redundant to comment after 1735 comments have already been posted, but I wanted to say thank you. I’ve been reading since you were TYH and have used so many of your ideas, suggestions, and tutorials. So, THANK YOU, I appreciate you, and I truly hope you find what you need.
Caroline says
You’ll be missed on your break, but hopefully it will provide you the space to know what you want next. Don’t know if you have ever read Shauna Niequist, but she’s gone through some of the stuff you’re talking about in her books… balance! http://shaunaniequist.com/present-perfect/
Cristina S says
We love you too.
Dona Stone says
There is no way I could read all 1700+ comments out there, but your post hit the mark. Subconsciously, I noticed after Teddy was born, you both were being more protective of your family and not including them in your blog so often. It makes me wonder what happened to make you want to change that. I really liked the Show House. I love design tips and inspiration. But mostly, I felt like I was a part of your family when you shared birthday party pictures, and Clara being so silly and verbally creative. Then Teddy comes along and it seems that part of you has shut down. I was quite envious of your decision to scale back and enjoy your family.. who wouldn’t love to do that. But then the tone of the blog changed to something more like business and less like sharing stories with your besties. A second child changes everything and I’m sure you will find your groove again. I look forward to seeing you both back to your fun, clever and joyous selves. I will miss you.
Carmen says
Noooooooo! Come back. The interwebs miss you already! You guys are doing an awesome job, and it bums me out that you are being so hard on yourselves (and/or listening to the internet trolls.)
Steph J says
I have over 200 blogs that I follow on my feedly list. My typical run down will be a quick glance through most of them (checking the cooking blogs for interesting recipes and marking the rest as read, glancing over some of the design or parenting blogs for anything of interest), but there are a select few, less than 10 really, that I will hold until last, to savor and take time to read when I can really pay attention. You’re blog has always been one of those few. You’re writing style, your candor, your plethora of great photos ;), it’s really, honestly, one of my favorite blogs. I am not a big DIY-er, I’ve taken a few stabs at it (mostly inspired by your projects), but your honest and heartfelt way of writing and sharing your experiences has been such a joy (plus, Sherry, you are frickin’ hilarious). I wish you the best on your journey and I really do hope you come back, renewed and ready to be a part of this community again. My husband is a blogger and I understand the turmoil and pressure that can come with it, but it is such an amazing way to spread positive energy (if you chose to, and you always do), so here’s hoping you chose to return. Your contribution to the blogosphere has been a blessing. <3 <3 <3
cassidy says
I’m fully on the “sabbatical” train!! I really hope you guys will come back to the blog again. I guess I noticed the shift in the blog, but people change and I didn’t really think a whole lot of it. As your family/house/jobs changed, I think most of us went along with you guys and still like the blog.
I’ve noticed lately with a few of my favorite blogs that their content has shifted as their families changed or their jobs shifted, but readers are getting up in arms because they want everything to stay exactly the same. Change is a way of life and blogging is so personal/ parallel to life that of course a blog will change as a person’s life changes. It’s sad to me that some (pretty vocal) readers don’t think that’s ok.
Hopefully you’ll get your “groove” back and start loving writing a blog again. I really hope that it’s about YOU and not that you think people are getting sick of your blog. Because most of us still love it, and love having your fun personalities be a small part of our day!
Monica says
I have always been amazed at the numbers of projects you are able to get done in a short time (while raising two kids) and you are still able to blog about it. Enjoy your well-deserved break!!
Heather says
Just wanted to add my squeeze into this well-deserved love fest. I’ve been reading your blog since almost the beginning and I’m glad that you are finally taking some time for yourselves. I’ll be supporting whatever you decide to do next and can’t wait for the second book. All the best :)
Zulfa says
You guys are the reasn I read blogs. It is so refreshing to read a blog nowadays that is not just a big advertisement for products. You will be sorely missed. The blogosphere just wont be the same without you! Enjoy the sabbatical – I hope it’s just that and not a permanent break. Keep well.
Madeline says
I hate to say I understand, but I do. Sometimes you need a break and need to step away to clear your head. But that being said, I sincerely hope you come back and grace my computer with your genuine thought, hilarity, and sweetness. I enjoy your family’s adventures and i’m inspired by your projects. I hope you enjoy the time away and I hope you come back feeling refreshed and positive :)
Evie says
Is there *meaning* in the fact that one of my smoke alarms started beeping for a new battery exactly when I finished reading today’s post?!?!
Thumbs up, Petersiks! You will find your way, I’m sure of that.
Evie
Adrienne says
I don’t know what to say…everyone is saying what I would echo. But I never comment and feel like perhaps one more person telling you that I have NEVER felt let down by this blog (reader for 5 years), quite the opposite in fact. You guys rock!! Hugs!! Keep being you, please don’t question yourselves.
Dawn Nowak says
I am teary eyed just writing this…. You have touched myself and countless others. Totally understand your decision and support it. Enjoy your time away but definitely don’t give up completely. Find what will work for YOU! You guys are wonderful and have so much to give still to your internet followers… I am sure of it! I don’t care even if you posted “I watched RHW.. tonight and that’s it! Lol We all just don’t want you to go away forever. But a break is totally understandable and well deserved. Enjoy and hopefully see you soon! Maybe in your time away Burger could work on his old blog again! Miss you guys already.
Christina D says
I’m so sad… I don’t usually comment much, but I LOVE you guys!! Really, I feel like we are friends! I mean I totally get that you need a break and I can only imagine what it is like to read such harsh words from your blog “family”… but from the bottom of my heart I hope this is just a break (and not the Ross/Rachel Friends kind of break..) and then you’ll be back!! I’ll be here reading with child-like excitement!!! You will be missed… xo
Margaret says
I hope the break is restorative. I will miss you. The laundry remodel has been one of my favorite things. It has really inspired me. To have a space so clean and pretty! I really haven’t felt that things have been off. But, I did worry about how you were possibly doing it all in the run up to Teddy’s birth and the show house. That was truly herculean. I hope you find your mojo again and come back better than ever. (Please! I will be redoing a kitchen soon and need some help. I was really looking forward to your kitchen remodel. I steal so many of your ideas, it’s embarrassing).
Sheena says
I agree with the first comment. Noooooooooooo! But also totally understand. You guys work really hard, plus you’ve got a new baby. A break is much deserved. Great job on the laundry room! It is beautiful! Take care and can’t wait to see you back!!
Sarah says
Ideas: (1) Build an app, I would totally buy it! (2) DIY for kids. Book or blog. You’ll probably lose some of your internet trolls, but is that really a bad thing? (3) take on e-clients and write about their lives/houses instead of yours. Then people can comment about them and stop worrying so much about what you’re doing. I read blogs for fun, and I read yours pretty much every day, and I do not care at all that you’ve been stepping back. Didn’t you just have a baby for crying out loud? Geez. I don’t expect you to sound like two young first time home buyers anymore. I think you guys have a solid enough following to do pretty much whatever you want. The fact that you’re up to 1700 comments on this post is pretty telling. Have a nice break, and I’ll be one of the ones following cheerily along with whatever you decide to do next! Even if it’s nothing.
Jessie Davenport says
I will miss you guys! This blog is so fun and inspiring and positive – I often find myself seeking it out online, before the day’s post ever makes it to my Inbox. Your generosity in sharing not only the projects you take on, but the events of your family life, is remarkable. I feel like I KNOW you guys, because you’ve opened yourselves up to us all. That goes way above and beyond a “job.” You’ve put your lives out there for all to share – so THANK YOU Petersik fam for being so awesome and please DO come back now, ya hear?! XO
deb says
Well, I guess I’m in the minority since I never noticed or “felt” anything off about your posts/projects, etc. As an older (g-ma) reader, I totally understand needing time off after adding a second child. When I added my second, I was amazed at how much work it added to my life! I still remember that feeling now – 32 years later! In any event, taking a break is a good thing, most if not all, will be here when you get back. Take care of yourselves!!
Morgan says
So sad to hear this news! I’ve only been a follower for a year or so, but didn’t see this coming, nor do I feel you lost any spark. I don’t follow any other blogs and truly look forward to your experience, ideas, honesty and fun. I understand however and wish you the best.
alexis says
Gonna miss you, but good luck, and have a nice break! I look forward to whatever comes next! Fall is a perfect time in RVA to take a break and hit reset. Enjoy yourselves.
marla says
oh man you guys are going to be crying your eyes out when you read these comments! So awesome to see the community you guys have built! xo
Lindsey says
you guys are the best. best of luck with the future, thank you for everything!
Alex says
I just wanted to say thank you for the many, many hours of enjoyment this blog has given me, as well as the knowledge and confidence to give things a go! Whatever you decide I am immensely grateful, so thank you!
Renee says
You guys are rock stars and I’m so excited for whatever comes next for your family! Don’t apologize for doing what’s best for your household.
Time is precious and I feel lucky for us all that you spent so much of your own to bring us this blog for as long as you have!
Hope says
Transition is always the hardest part of anything. Taking a step back for perspective and filling your moments with the things that bring you immense joy, is the smartest decision you could make right now.(Not that we don’t bring you joy–but I hope you know what I mean.) I adore this blog, the creative aspect of your projects, your style and your humor. Those are all personal things that you will never be without. Many blessings to your family and remember: “Be who you are and say what you feel, because those who mind don’t matter, and those who matter don’t mind.”-Dr. Seuss
Carpe Diem Petersiks!!
Heidi says
As someone with a new baby who has put my other baby — the dissertation — aside for a couple months, I completely understand. I’ll miss reading. Hope to see the blog come back with new fire. Best wishes figuring things out and focusing on your family! <3
christine bo-linn says
Love your blog! I’ve learned so much from you. But I understand that sometimes we all need to step back and re-evaluate our lives. As Martha Stewart would say, “It’s a good thing.” Best of luck and I hope to see you back in one form or another in the near future. Meanwhile, enjoy, enjoy, enjoy your young family.
Lynn van Slyke says
My heart is breaking. I am truly sorry that you’re leaving us. I have followed you since the beginning and have enjoyed watching your blog and family grow over the years. You are truly one of a kind and gave me the courage to step out of my comfort zone with so many things in my life. I will miss your blog posts and I’ll miss seeing you all as a family. I consider you friends even though we’ve never met in person.
I pray you find the balance you so desperately crave. Take care and cherish every moment you share together.
Love you guys <3
Caitlin W says
Let me start by saying that this is my absolute favorite blog on the internet and I feel like we would be best friends in real life. Seriously. When I worked in Rehoboth, the creepy stalker in me was hoping I would bump into you on vacation and we would be instant bffs for ever.
While your content has changed, it hasn’t lost its wonderfulness to me. While my favorite posts have to do with major renovations (the laundry room was awesome), I love your little decorating posts as well. There were a couple from your first house where you just did a bunch of different tablescapes that I loved.
As much as I desire posts (every single day if humanly possible. When I see a post either in my newsfeed or bloglovin, I do a happy dance), you need balance. If that means my posts go away, well, you need to do what’s best for your family.
Now for the landscaping analogy portion of my comment: I am a firm believer that the grass is greenest where you water it. Constantly seeking out something better is not going to bring satisfaction. But if the lawn is dead, it might be time to move on. If the lawn is choked with weeds, you need to pull them out and replant.
I hope that you are back soon, renewed and reinvigorating from the break, but I understand if that can’t happen. Don’t forget that this is YOUR blog and you can choose to post whatever you please. You don’t have to answer to anyone.
xx Caitlin
Laura says
:( but totally understand. I didn’t respond to the previous thread, because by the time I saw it, everything I was thinking had been said. If I’m being truthful, I haven’t even been checking lately because I didn’t feel inspired by the content.
Being a working mom, I understand how hard it is to have a family and concentrate on a job. I’m not sure I could ever do that if I had to work from home.
I hope you and John find what you need during this break. And whats most important, is that your family remain your number one priority. Either way, know that I have enjoyed getting to know your family virtually and being able to find inspiration from your projects. And, here’s a song lyric for you, “Please Don’t Go. Don’t Gooooo. Don’t Go Away. I”m Begging You to Stay.”
Jenny says
Hey Guys!
Congrats on the decision to take care of yourselves! I’ve been reading for a number of years, and will continue to do so if you come back!
Ana says
This is exactly why you are successful!
I always appreciated your honesty and today even more.
Wishing you all the best and hope you’ll be back at some point…
Meredith says
Enjoy the time to rest, regroup, and revisit what you want out of your lives, both personal and professional! It’s not about whether or not people are supportive of this decision, your blog, etc. but I think it’s more about focusing on how you both want to continue to professionally evolve. As a reader, I understand that so much of your professional journey begins with creativity. I think that the missing “spark” is that you have probably found a formula for working on the blog, but it doesn’t feel organic and natural to you or some of your readers anymore. I’m guessing that formula has come along with some major routine and burnout.
I really hope you get the chance to soak up what your professional inspiration is during this time away! I’m interested to see how you combine both “John and Sherry” and the “YoungHouseLove Brand” with your current inspiration and drive (I’m guessing you aren’t motivated now by the same things you were when you started, so why still continue to function as so?) Your blog baby started 7 years ago, and there has been some major changes to the DIY/Creative/Blog worlds since then. I hope that you both can narrow in on what you love doing, what your goals are, and what makes you happy! Once you find that, I think you’ll be able to figure out your niche in the professional world, the blog world, and your personal life.
Good luck, and try not to eat too many oreos!
Bonita says
Just want to say that you guys have been an inspiration to me. . .I have loved reading your blog over the past years. Your family is so sweet, and I love watching you do big and small projects to make your house a home. Will miss you. . .you guys are a favorite of mine! Take care of your sweet babies and I will be here waiting for you!
Misty says
Wow, I’m really sad. I hope you miss us as much as we will all miss you. I also hope you find what you are looking for and come back with a passion we all know you have! I’m gonna go drown my sorrows in chocolate now. ;)
Pamela says
Wow, I’ll miss you guys so much!! I really love your blog, I read you every day.
You’re such an inspiration, not only on what Home improvement/DIY is concerned, but an inspiration as a couple and family. Thank you very much for sharing all your special moments with all of us and letting us into your home
I wish you the best; I hope you find the peace and the hint of the spark so we can all meet again soon
Best of lucks and lots of love!!!
P.D.: for what is worth, you’ve never let me down and never ever considered your job done poorly, on the contrary I think you excel in everything you do <3
Paula M. says
From a reader perspective, I never felt that YHL had lost its way (and I’ve been reading since the days of “This Young House”) — but, in any case, I applaud your decision to take a break and reassess.
It’s amazing to think of all the paths your blog has led to and how much you’ve both accomplished over the years.
Whatever you decide, I wish you the best — and thanks again for all the terrific posts!
(p.s. I may have accidentally blitzed an earlier, longer Reply that I submitted, so this is my much shorter substitute)
Natalie says
I stumbled on your blog through a friend about two years ago and have been a weekly visitor ever since. It’s funny that you guys are now taking a break because I’ve faced similar needs in my business recently and I fully back you.
I will tell you that I never felt like you guys totally lost your groove, like you expressed you have felt behind the scenes. I was totally on board with your showhouse/new baby, etc and the time that required and the change in pace/direction your blog took. But I COMPLETELY relate to personally losing the joy, spark and passion that comes from doing something that you birthed, love and are good at when you’re simply overwhelmed with the culmination of 7 years of success that your blog has produced. I know it’s been a lot of pressure and I hope that this break gives you four plus Burger the R & R that can jumpstart you and your family onto a renewed and full future. I really hope you don’t leave your blog altogether. I would MISS it!!! This is the only home blog that I follow simply because you guys have great content while staying personal enough for me to feel like I’m actually visiting your home. Know that you and your blog have been loved. Take care and I hope to see you back in October!!!
Lori says
Once more, you’ve inspired me to reach for the more beautiful, the more rewarding – for the life that is fully aligned with my personal values.
As I read your first few paragraphs today, I thought … “that sounds like burnout.”
It’s something I’ve experienced as a result of too many irresistible opportunities as well, and I know how disorienting it is when too much of the work and the life you love makes it impossible to appreciate or feel good about any of it.
You are very wise to take a serious break, and you’ve set a wonderful example for all of us who visit your site regularly because it’s a happy, useful place to be. There are always things we could have done differently, but as your rest catches up with you, I hope you’ll see those things fade into the background as it becomes clearer (once more) that Young House Love is a little nest of wonderfulness that has given so much joy to so many readers.
As Garrison Keillor says when signing off from his podcast, The Writer’s Almanac, “Be well, do good work, and stay in touch.” And just to be clear – in this case, I’d interpret “do good work” to mean “do what fills you up and restores you, fills your heart with joy and gratitude and energizes you for the next chapter.”
It’s been great. Thank you. So much.
Janelle says
You guys have inspired so many people in so many ways (life, family, parenting, financially, DIY, etc). You will be greatly missed. I hope you enjoy your break and find some answers. Find what works for you! I will be here if/when you return and so will a ton of others! Hugs!!!
Patty says
I’ll just chime in with the rest… You’ll be missed! I can guarantee my diy motivation will decrease this month! (Please come back in a month, or my house will never be finished!).
While it did take a little adjusting on the reader part of fewer posts, which just made me miss you, how people can complain about not having a post from you…
To the critics: this a free blog for you to read, the Petersiks don’t “owe” you anything! Seriously! If you aren’t satisfied, shut up and find a different blog!