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.
Michelle says
It is nice you can take a break and step back. I am sure lots of people wish they could do that with their jobs! Not in this economy! Hope you get your groove back. I think I started to notice it and feel like you were resenting it, and that bothered me as a reader because I felt like, hey you are staying home with your family, get to decorate your house and get book deals etc… How many people would love that. We all have family’s and work full time. I loved your blog before, and I am sure I will again. Find your balance, I am sure you will hit the sweet spot again. I will try not to be jealous but inspired.
Cher says
As someone who also has been writing a blog coming up on 6 years now, I totally understand. My blog is a community based blog trying to spark a renaissance for a city 60 miles north of NYC. But at times it can be exhausting. The constant requests, opinions or demands on what I should be doing take the joy from it sometimes. And I don’t even have my face all over my blog like you do. So I can only imagine how exhausted or over-exposed you might feel. Maybe you don’t want to share every waking moment of your lives to keep fans happy. I totally get that. You have become home-grown celebrities. But guess what, even Hollywood celebrities take breaks. They go live in the country or the mountains for a year before they come back to do another project that they love. With YHL you guys don’t really get to take that sort of break. And you should. People are far too quick to judge and opinionate on what they think people should be doing. But a blog is only a small sliver of the real private life you all have. Don’t let people’s comments take away your happiness or worse, a good nights sleep. It’s your blog, your family, your life. If you decided to go corporate tomorrow, who cares? It’s your life. I never expected your blog to last forever. As the words of a very famous salsa song says, “Everything has an ending.” If you do decide to come back, let it be for the right reasons. If not, I hope YHL will get you to your next dream jobs!
Brian says
We understand.
For me this blog is worth following because of the personalities behind it. It’s those personalities that make the posts fun to read. Those personalities that strive to post high quality content and photos. And those personalities that have the energy and courage to take on bigger and better things (dude, you just completed a serious renovation! That was epic.) Let’s be honest; there are lots of home improvement blogs out there. Guess what sets yours apart…
So go! Take a break! With luck you’ll find a way to rekindle that love for home improvement and blogging and you can come back refreshed. And if not, hey, we had a good seven years, right?
And lastly, thank you for all of the inspiration. You will be missed (fondly) :)
wendy says
Yes, exactly what Brian said! xoxo
Jill says
Oh Sherry,
Take a break if you feel like you need to, but certainly you do not owe us anything. I have consistently loved your blog and your content but if you feel like you need to take a break and refocus, but all means do so! Enjoy your time off and we will be waiting for you when you get back! XO!
Kelly says
Git it, Petersiks! You’ve been a source of inspiration for so many on the home/design front for so long and I think this big step toward living life joyously will only continue to inspire your adoring readers!
Cheers to you, and to your MUCH DESERVED breathing room. :)
Anita says
Best of luck in getting your groove back!
Sara says
You have to do what is best for you and your family (including the blog)–I wish you both the very best with your break and big life decisions; In the meantime, I will continue to visit the archives as you have been so very helpful in your tutorials, color schemes, re-modeling, etc for a new(er) homeowner (2 years baby!). All my love to you~!
Melissa says
Woah – didn’t expect that, but totally get it! Just don’t leave forever! Okay? Ill miss this daily stop :( xo
Amber says
You guys are freaking awesome and I love you no matter what you do. I just want you to be happy (so cheesy, but so true). I miss you already though. Like you’re two of my besties and you just told me you’re going to be on some other continent with know internet or phone for a month.
And for the record (since I didn’t comment on your post last Thursday), I might be weird, but I have had no Young House Love brand weird vibes. YHL is so you (well hello there octopus hooks and giant painting of Burger) I guess I just think of it as more you doing cool stuff and inspiring me that it is possible to find a way to be whole myself and make money doing that. You’re like a freaking inspirational poster for being awesome at life and not taking yourself too seriously.
Amanda says
Thank you for everything you’ve done. I have referenced your posts for countless projects throughout our home – everything from tiling our kitchen to sewing a quilt. I never thought your content was lacking or boring; I loved it all, and I will truly miss eagerly refreshing my browser everyday at 10am to see what magic you both created. Thank you for letting us into your creative, beautiful lives and I wish you all the best!
Billie says
I will miss you guys so much!! I totally understand the reasons for needing the break, but also know that I will be anxiously waiting for your return!! Enjoy it to the fullest and take care!!!
Ana from Portugal says
Oh, uau!
I always, always dread this would happen, and I totally get it.
The blog was indeed different and some posts didn’t sound as spontaneous as they did a couple years back, but I always thought that was the natural evolution of something that started as a family info site and ended up turning into a proper job. And I love it still!
I would like to say that I understand each and every word you wrote, because sometimes I feel my job (literary translation) lost its spark as well. I wish I could take a month off (but then again, as a freelancer, a month without work is an absolute nightmare!).
I do hope you come back, because I don’t know what the devil I’m gonna do without my daily YHL fix!
And don’t give up Instagram! We need to see Teddy’s weekly project!
All the love from Portugal!
<3
meli says
Ok, this actually brought tears to my eyes. Even a month is going to be very hard for those of us who feel so connected to your family. I had a little boy right around the same time you guys had teddy and I’ve been feeling like we’re going through this together. Will miss you and eagerly await your return.
Also, though the practical, technical posts haven’t been as exciting for me I have still read every word. xx
Robin says
Catch ya later! Or like I’ve hoped since we moved to RVA 3 years ago – maybe I’ll run into you at Target. Have a good break/time off/work life/whatever you like since you are John & Sherry.
Jayne says
Oh no, it sounds silly but this feels like when a friend stops talking to you and you don’t know why.
Liz says
SO sad to hear this news! I have LOVED reading your blog over the years and think you have done a phenomenal job with one of the most genuine and fun blogs out there. Hope you return soon!
Rachel says
Thank you so much for all of your hard work! I have always looked to your blog as a place to get my creativity started, so I totally understand that a break is due. I will continue to reference your blog for the many projects that we have to do at our home (thanks for the door hanging post!). Thanks again for everything, and enjoy your time with the little ones! They grow up way too fast. :)
Mel V. says
You said it well – YHL: The Brand is a huge undertaking, and there’s got to be a ton of pressure on you guys to support a family on it. I’m proud of you guys that you’ve recognized when you’re not feeling good about things and are taking action about it.
I hope to see you back in some form!
Jill says
Ditto what Claire wrote–this affected me more than I would have thought. I’m wiping away tears. I have been reading every day since late 2008. Love you guys and your beautiful family, and your writing/DIY/frugal living/fresh ideas/mad skillz. Best wishes to you. You will be missed (sniff).xo
Camille says
I love the blog & have been following for a little over a year. I’m sad to see you take a break for the selfish reason that I look forward to reading your posts every day at 10 as a little break from work. Your blog was inspiration for starting my own blog and I appreciate the massive amount of effort that goes into each post. I honestly don’t know how you manage to produce so much content with 2 little kids – even it if is your JOB. I hope you’ll be back soon – I look forward to reading more.
Mrs Patty says
What you wrote was beautiful, honest and heart-felt! I’ll be here when you get back!
Julie says
I’m not going to lie, reading this made me tear up. At work. I certainly have been in a “I’m feeling off, not my jam” phase and I’m sorry you have had to do it so publicly. I will miss you guys every day! Please come back! But def enjoy a break, sometimes it’s what you need, after the whirlwind year you had last year, sometimes things come crashing down around you. Miss you already, but sending good vibes your way!
Kelly H. says
I love this blog and have enjoyed your work over many years. I hope the time you take away to reassess and reflect will restore you (that was a test to see how many “re” words I could get in there, although the sentiment is genuine). Seriously, I wish you nothing but the best in your endeavors, and if (when?) you come back, I’ll be thrilled to start reading again. Much luck and all best wishes.
J says
Your blog has been super inspiring! Not just relating to home projects but how you hve run your business with super high integrity and standards, almost so much so that it seemed you wouldn’t allow yourselves to really “enjoy” your success. Sponsored posts and outside gigs do get a littl annoying when reading blogs but you guys NEVER did that!! Like ever!! Even when it came to the shophouses you donated the money!! All of it! Which is amazing but you also have to enjoy the sucess you’ve created! I don’t think anyone cares if you get laid for the work you do including sponsorship. I know I would love for you guy to stick around however you can!! If love to see more why you chose things you did, even little tiny corners or favorite moments in your home and why. I also love the keep it real moments of family life stuff but totally understand wanting protecting your family. No matter what you decide the way you’ve ran your home business is inspiring!!
Amy says
I totally understand what you are saying and I’m sure it will be nice to have a break from the public scrutiny. I’ve really enjoyed your blog and book and love my octopus hanger. :) I hope you enjoy your rest!
Leiann says
This feels like a favorite show that’s going on summer hiatus! Good for you guys for following your hearts though. I hope you find what you’re looking for–it’s not fun anymore when something is off. And it should be fun! Life is too short to do something you aren’t enjoying–especially when it’s your own business.
Good luck–I will be excited to know your next steps, whatever they may be. :)
Stacey says
A sad post to read; even sadder when I suspect you will not be back. After a month of unplugging – which you so desperately deserve – I think you will find the emotional fortification required to invite the world into your sanctuary on a daily basis disagreeable. This is Burnout. So I’m going to say; ‘Cheers, John & Sherry’. I wish you love and peace and a lifetime of happiness wherever your path leads.
Stacey says
PS: This post should have been titled “It’s the End of the World”
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z0GFRcFm-aY
Just a little humour from a long time international reader who is going to miss you terribly.
Jacqueline says
Thank you for sharing so openly and honestly! I was one who was a little surprised by some of the feedback you guys received. I don’t mean that critically against anyone who shared a different opinion, just that I hadn’t felt that way. I think things in life ebb and flow…you guys have welcomed a new baby. I expected that the blog would change as a result. I hope you guys are able to step back this month and feel refreshed. Regardless of what path you decide to take afterwards, know that you have readers that are in full support. We care about you as “John & Sherry”, not just as a brand. I am grateful that you have let us into your hearts and homes for all these years.
CTDC says
I think it is a testament to how in tune you are with your readers that when I read this, I simply thought, “This makes sense.” It resonates with how I’ve been feeling about the blog lately and what I’ve sensed you guys going through. And I don’t mean that in a negative way at all. Everything comes and goes in life, and sometimes it’s good to take a break and re-evaluate.
Anyway, I have been reading your blog daily for at least four years. Even if you never write another post, you have so much to be proud of. So, so much. But I hope you do write more, because you are both incredibly talented. And as so many of your readers always say, I feel like you’re my friends, so I will miss you.
But I won’t say goodbye, just see you later! I know you will find what’s right for you.
Kristin says
I know you’ll get thirteen jillion comments on this but I just want to say: good for you. I really respect this post and your decision, and I’m happy for you. I’ve been reading since after the name change but before Clara (6 years or so??) and even though we don’t always have the same taste I’ve always enjoyed your voices and the view through this window into your lives. Thanks for sharing with us. I hope you find your way back here, but most of all I wish all the best for you and your family. *stranger-internet-hugs!*
Allison says
You and your family always come first. This life is fleeting and you need to make decisions that are best for you. Enjoy your extra time together!
Brooke says
I’m a relatively new reader, but this blog quickly came to the top of my ‘daily checks’. It will stay there as I wait for your return, and this will give me plenty of time to read through the archives!
Good luck with your self-sabbatical, and enjoy life!
Anna says
I love your blog and look forward to reading it during the week. I understand your need for a break, but I hope y’all come back. :(
Sessa Daily says
NAAOOOO!! I have been following you since the first house….will miss you guys but understand that you need/deserve a break! Do what works for you and your family. So glad the site is staying up though! We’re in the process of moving and I like having things to check in and make a mental “to-do” list off of. Thanks you guys, you’re awesome!
Letty says
Sending you tons of love and good thoughts– I’ll miss not being able to check in, but I hope you guys get back to a place where you feel happy. You deserve it. xoxo- Letty
Jill P says
Thank you for your honesty! I have been reading your blog for three years and so enjoy your stories, guides, tips, etc. Loved your first book, can’t wait for the second one.
I will miss your posts but understand that life changes and where you find your inspiration changes. Enjoy yourselves and follow your hearts! Happiness and love to you! :)
CJH says
This blog shouldn’t be about figuring out how to please everyone/everything: sponsors, projects, your own home, readers from all across everywhere… This isn’t a platform for the masses to demand something from you. Go recharge, keep doing what you love doing without the world watching, and know that you’re all very loved by so very many strangers. You will have your patient supporters waiting quietly for when you feel ready.
Blog meditation and stillness can happen, too, you know. It’s good for all involved.
Linsey says
I started reading around the time that Clara was born and have loved taking this journey with you both. Many of your projects have inspired my own style development as it pertains to my apartment and I thank you for that.
While I will miss checking in everyday at 10am to see if a new post has been published, I totally understand the break. I have also noticed the lack of personality behind many of your recent posts and I hope that the hiatus gives you the proper amount of quality time to reevaluate things and spend with your family and friends.
Elizabeth says
Dear John and Sherry,
Every time I visit your site, I am inspired. Over the last few years, I have scheduled 10am as a time for a morning creative boost – your blog is the only one I’ve stayed with for years. I truly appreciate that you’ve been willing to share your home and family with strangers in order to inspire others.
Your letter today was eloquently written in response to some very tough criticism.I’m deeply sorry that you’ve had to bear the weight of public opinion on your family, your job, and your way of life.
My hope is that you can find your own fulfillment where you need it. Selfishly, I hope you come back to us. But realistically, I hope you make the decisions that are best for your family and that you are excited, happy, and hopeful about those decisions.
Some day, you may see a grinning girl running up to you sheepishly offering a hug bc she was one of your original readers. I hope you’ll just smile and let me be goofy with you. :)
Sincerely,
Elizabeth
Rebecca | the lil house that could says
Guys, good for you. I know it’s hard to step away but sometimes you have to. I abandoned my little blog nearly a year ago, not really intentionally, but I needed to sort of refocus what I wanted out of it(I only linked it here so you’d know who I am ;)) And you know what? Lately I have the itch. I’ve been planning rooms in my head, wanting to build things, missing the blog and the creative outlet. It will come back to you. You may share it all differently when it does– and that’s a good thing. Everyone needs to be challenged and realign their goals every now and then. Best of luck to you guys!
Brittany says
This makes me so sad. I understand completely though, and I wish you both (and your family) the best. For what it’s worth, I think you guys still got it, and I hope to see you again soon!
Mary says
For the record, I don’t think you ever “lost your groove.” No way. Count me among those who have never felt disappointed and who have daily found joy and inspiration here. (Says this longtime loyal reader here of both the book and blog.) I have drawn energy from your ideas… and I have also drawn energy from YOUR energy. So, thank you! Wishing you all good things, dear Petersiks!
Rebecca says
I’ve been reading since house 1 – the first post I came across was the clogged shower drain! I for one have still been loving the posts and reading everyday but could tell the tone changed. I hope this break will help you guys find your mojo in whatever form it come in and will miss you terribly in the meantime!! Wishing you all the best :)
Eric says
Long time reader, first time caller. Thank you for all your years of engaging and inspiring blogging. I am sorry to see you go, but I fully support your decision. I hope your introspection leads to increased grooviness (and bonus if it results in you returning to a public forum like the blog).
Julia @ The Domestic Blonde says
Ohh guys… I feel for you that things haven’t seemed “right” for the last little while. That’s never a good feeling.
I didn’t comment on the last post, but I agree than since Teddy came along (bless his heart) things have definitely been different, but you warned us that you’d be cutting back. I just didn’t think you’d be cutting back so much. Maybe that’s because I don’t have kids – I’m not sure.
I’m also not sure taking a break is the right idea either, though. Although it cannot hurt to try!
The laundry room reno felt just like old times to me. I was so excited to follow along and waited with baited breath for progress pictures. But I am one of your readers who likes the “before & after” aspect more than the technical, I guess. Which is why the blue trim in the dining room has been driving me nuts, I’m embarassed to say.
We’ll miss you and little Clara, who must be growing into such a young lady. Teddy is cute as a button too. We hope you come back with a vengeance and find your stride.
xo
Rachel says
Noooo! We’ll miss you. I know it’s good for you and I truly truly hope you’ll be back. But we’ll miss you.
Gabby {Cookie Cutter Unique} says
Wow, best of luck y’all. I hope you come back, please come back! A break will be good for you though, mentally and physically. Get a mani-pedi (not that I think you need it, but you know, it’s relaxing) and spend loads of time kissing those babies :)
Jennie says
Dear Sherry and John,
this felt like such an honest post and for the first time in a long while I felt you were really sharing a part of your life with “me”. I think it’s very brave of you to admit you need some time off to rethink your plans. I do hope you find some answers in the coming weeks/months. Also, I really hope (selfishly) that there will still be a YHL blog in the future – even if it’s quite different from the way it is now. I’ve always been a fan of your more family-oriented posts. Maybe that could be a part of a less “corporate” YHL blog? I’ve been following you for years and you guys always brighten up my days! I’ll miss you during your time away and remain hopeful that this isn’t goodbye forever.
All the best, Jennie
EmilyC says
I’m hoping your Stella just needs her groove back! This blog is the reason I love DIY and “try” instead of “buy”. I’ve borrowed many ideas from you all and have turned my ugly old house into a cozy place I love. The inspiration you provide paired with your amazing personalities are why I keep coming back. I understand the break and wish you all the best. I truly hope for my personal benefit that you do return soon!
Stephanie says
I will miss you desperately, but when have you guys ever taken a break?! You absolutely should! And I hope you’ll be able to figure out what’s best for your family without the distraction of internet craziness.