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.
Cindy says
Blogging has to be one of the most personal jobs out there. Bloggers open themselves up to the world of critics in a way that no one else does. Everyone has an opinion, and it is impossible to please everyone.
Constructive criticism can be helpful at times, but must still be taken with a grain of salt. Not all criticism is helpful or true. I think determining if it is helpful or true is the hard part. But I also think you wouldn’t have so many readers if people hated what you write and how you write it.
The electrical posts didn’t interest me as much, but that is because I am not doing electrical work in my home; someone else might really benefit from it. Every post doesn’t have to be one I love. You have been great about posting on a variety of topics and skills to help many.
Keep blogging according to your style. It’s was has drawn so many of us to your blog. I love your writing style, your personality, your frugality, your ability to use what you have when you can. You are just so practical.
And please disregard any criticism about your family. That should be an untouchable. Readers and Blogs will come and go…but your family is forever. Please don’t feel guilty about taking time with your family EVER! Family is such a gift and treasure and I love that you BOTH have been able to stay home with your family and work. That is something to rejoice over, not something ANYONE should criticize.
I am not trying to criticize the critics, I just want to encourage you to be yourselves and do what is best for you; it is your blog after all. I never noticed a change in your blog. I have always thought it was great. I just hope the “few” critics don’t keep you from doing what you enjoy and sharing it with the “many” who love it!
rashmi says
I cant believe that there will be no posts from you guys, But what needs to be done needs to be done..Recoup… regroup.. Heal… But come back… Please don’t close down like many other blogs that have this year.. Loosing you guys will be unbearable. Hugs
Laura says
I have been reading this blog for years and I JUST bought my first house; was looking forward to looking to you guys for inspiration. Best of luck in whatever you decide to do. Please send us an email or let us know once you’re back!!!
Rene says
I didn’t see all the comments that you’re talking about (can’t even imagine how you read so many comments!) but just wanted to chime in that I’ve had no complaints about how your blog has changed over time (how boring/impossible would it be to keep everything exactly the same forever?) I’ve been reading you for years and I check in a couple of times a week and am always happy to catch up on whatever posts are waiting for me, regardless of their length. Hope the complainers didn’t sound so loud that they seemed to speak for the rest of us who’re mostly enjoying our lives and popping in to read your posts when we have the time. Whatever directions you aim for next, just know there are tons of us who’ve enjoyed what you’ve put out there (here) all these years. Best of luck to you always!
Melissa says
Do what makes you happy and whole, but try not to be too hard on yourselves. You guys are rockstars and have accomplished so much and inspired so many.
A contractor recently came to my apartment and did a terrible job patching up a hold in our wall. Before your blog I wouldn’t have ever considered trying to fix it myself, but you guys have inspired me to do so. Sherry – you’re a role model for chicks everywhere.
Lots of <3 to you all
Olivia says
One of my favorite moments on your blog was a post about moving things around in the bedroom (https://www.younghouselove.com/page/370/) and in the middle you randomly posted pictures of both of your hiding under the bed like monsters. It totally surprised me and made me laugh – I love stuff like that and loved how silly and carefree it was. This is the type of thing I haven’t seen as much of lately. I hope some time off can help you feel refreshed and invigorated – although with two little kids, it may be awhile before your energy is abounding! xo
Norma Pennycuff says
Like others have said <3 to you guys. I think everyone can risk burn out. Especially in a situation where you give and give and give and welcome thousands of people into your home daily. I think as our lives become more and more digital there will be better terms to describe different sorts of digital fatigue.
So I totally understand if you guys have blog fatigue.
That said, thanks a million for everything you've shared and shown. Thank you for welcoming me into your online presence and for somehow through these years moving into homes *just like we did at the same time* so I could nod violently in agreement as our moves took us across state lines and from a 1950's rancher to a 1990's colonial inspired mess of paint.
I hope you rest.
Laurie R says
Family comes first – do what you know is best for them !
Emma says
It kind of feels like when you realised it really was the last episode of Friends. But you know you can always say you were on a break.
Kelly Kristesen says
Hey guys,
I think it’s smart to take some time and “do you” and to figure out what you want for your family. You’re awesome and we love you! I know I’ll be here to check out whatever your next step is and I’ll be getting the new book when it comes out. If you guys decide to move on from blogging altogether I wish you nothing but a wonderful, exciting life with your little family :). It’s been sweet getting to “know” you over the last few years and you’ve been an inspiration! <3
Kelly
Viviane says
I have already commented on this so sad post but feel I must comment again: Yours is by far the best blog I’ve read, the most authentic feeling one and the one with most integrity. I LOVE your no-swag policy as I hate nothing more than sponsored posts. I would TOTALLY pay for reading when you come back. Heck, I would totally pay for you to be able to make the most of this break. And I will now go back to day one in the archives to get my daily fix :-)
Denise says
I’m glad you have been so open and honest with us, you will be soooo missed. I hope you can find the spark to come back, I honestly don’t know what I’ll do with out your blog!
I can’t help but focus on the line from your letter that says you hit publish and “brace yourself”. I think unfortunately some of the feedback may be what’s bringing down your energy level. Try to think about like this when you started this blog it was family and friends and then probably friends of family and friends and the comments and convo’s were so positive and uplifting. However, with your fame you have opened yourself up to a lot of criticism and that can really burn out anyone’s flame. If you do come back I really hope you consider getting a comment monitor. Just think would you tell Britney Spears it’s a good idea to read all her followers comments….no, because eventually so much negativity is going to get in your head. You can still pop in to answer questions or maybe do a monthly post answering questions, that could be fun?
Leave monitoring the bickering and complaining to an intern! I really think not reading every single other persons opinion may be really freeing to you guys and give you back the ownership on some of this. Much Luv good luck.
lauren says
I totally agree – I think moderating every comment can’t be healthy, both because it becomes obsessive and because there’s invariably negative feedback that should just be overlooked.
Jess says
Good for you! I am really sad to hear the news, your blog is always the first one I read each day, but I’ll get over it! ;) I think it is a brave thing to put yourselves out there on a blog, but even braver to know when it’s time for some space. Can’t wait for book 2!
Kathleen says
Feeling so sad that you won’t be a part of my every day. So enjoy going to your blog to read about design, diy and your sweet family. (I will miss the kids.) I have enjoyed watching Clara grow up and hope I don’t miss too much of Teddy. So long for now friends. Hope to see you soon. Take care of each other.
Kim says
Been reading since your wedding. Will still be around if and when you decide to come back. No matter how long of a break you take!
SO happy that you are taking some time for your family.
I, for one, never forgot that you have a NEWBORN and just how much that changes things. In Canada, many of us take a full year off after the birth of our babies. I can’t imagine trying to get ANY work done so soon after his arrival.
Enjoy your time off. And thank you for sharing your life with us so generously for all these years! xoxoxo
Kristy says
Well done! (Starts the slow clap)
I’ll be praying for you guys during your break that you would indeed REST and find your mojo again! You guys are awesome! How else would I know about Double Rainbow Guy and “Thriftshop” before my teenagers do!? Yes– not only do you share sic DIY skillz, but I fully enjoy the cultural relevency! lol! We’ll miss you, ain’t gonna lie! We totally know this break is well deserved. ENJOY snackn on those precious kiddos! You don’t get these days back with them! See you when you get back :)
Leigh Ann says
I think this is a brave decisin that you are making. Although I hope it’s not because of a few “Negative Nancys.” Life is harder with two kids. No explanation why, it just is. It takes a while to find a groove. For the record, I don’t find your decor as “cheap.” I think that was a bit below belt of some people. I have only been a fan since Feb. and this is only the second time I’ve ever done a comment. But I had an idea that was worth sharing: What if you did a “reality blogging series”???? You can oversee the work but pick 6 of your readers to be DIY gurus and blog about it. Then judge the work of their homes after 6 months to a year and announce a winner. You could partner up with several of your vendors to give away a lucrative prize at the end. Just a thought. God bless and good luck.
Heather says
Good for you!!!!! I hope your break brings you the rest and reflection you’re hoping for. You guys are amazing. Thanks for sharing yourself and your talents with us.
Chloe says
I’ve followed you guys for years, since your first house, pre-Clara when I was a fresh faced university student avoiding studying for exams by delving into the blog world. YHL fast became one of my favourite blogs and I have thourougly enjoyed reading your posts and watching your development. Now I’m approaching my mid twenties, living by myself in another country, and I feel like I’ve grown and changed immensely since those early years. So it makes sense that you have too. People grow, priorities shift.
Go and snuggle those beautiful kids of yours and have a well-deserved break. Take time to discover what is important to you and what makes you happy.
Jenifer says
I read mostly, and don’t comment much, but I wanted to put in about 3 cents (or more) on this. :)
First, I think that taking a break to gain perspective and balance is often very good idea. I totally support that, even though I know that I — among many others — will miss you.
Second, I suspect that a part of this equation is Adorable Number 2. This little one is a baby. Babies are exhausting because of their strange sleep patterns. I only have one — and I was going “how do they do this *with* Adorable Number 1? When Adorable Number 2 came onto the scene, I thought — I do hope they take a break for a bit, because goodness.
The whole feeling of “off” may simply be the “zombie apocalypse” that is having a baby. I remember feeling like I had no idea what time it was (something I don’t really have that great a grasp on anyway — without a kiddo), and that my whole day was just trying to figure out where I was in time and space and keep my little one happy.
Maybe you guys are just naturally awesome at this, but I suspect that you are overwhelmed with the wonder of baby-time. . . and might not even know it because you’re determined.
That’s how I am, anyway. I’m too effing determined (i.e., stubborn) and nothing’s going to break my stride or hold me down — even if I’m bone tired and breast feeding and relying on my husband way too heavily for everything and tiring him out and he’s spinning, too.
So, this may not be about the business or the blog or even you. It might just be that — like normal human beings — you’re just tired and overwhelmed and need to gain your footing as a family. For me, that came in around 14 months after my son was born.
Third, I’d like to put another idea in there about ‘you’ vs ‘brand.’
I made that transition. I had a business and it was all me — a particular style of humor, a particular way of doing things. And people responded. And it was great.
During my hiatus with my son, I realized “i can’t do this alone.” And, I also knew that I wanted more for my business than it just being me.
If something came up — like the baby wasn’t feeling well or whatever — I was trapped — I had to apologize to hundreds of people. I didn’t feel like I could offer my best to them, and I felt like everything that I’d worked for was really suffering. I felt like something was chronically “off” and that I wasn’t good enough.
And the truth was, I wasn’t.
But a friend of mine — who is a branding expert — and another friend of mine — who runs a multi-million-dollar business now — says that there is a great deal of value in having a business.
First, what you have built is the foundation for the larger business which not only continues to support your ‘clients’ (or in this case, readers), but also provides opportunities for other people.
In my case, I have created a business that subcontracts to 12 people and provides other resources and support to an additional 10 people. That’s 22 people who also get to live their passions, in a supportive and fun way, who were struggling with it before — or saw no clear way to do it. And, we’re in a growth phase, which means I’ll be helping even more people live and realize their dreams. And that’s really powerful.
I learned that “it’s not all about me.” I am involved — of course. I do everything my subcontractors do, plus I mentor them and cultivate the business side. I discovered that focusing on “just the business” side was really liberating and actually a lot of fun.
And, it’s freed up my time. My average work week went from 70-80 hours a week (pre kid) to a struggling 10 hrs a week (little kid; extremely low income), to a comfortable 20 hrs a week, lots of time to be with the kid — and my husband got to join me in the business, too. He runs the “marketing” side of things, and I run the “business/training/support” side of things, and our subcontractors are the “body” of our business, with the actual client interface (i.e., they go to the clients and provide the service directly).
Can I tell you that it’s wonderful? Can I tell you how proud I am of “brand” — even more so than I was of “just me?” I feel like I’m doing *something amazing*. I’m able to reach more people (clients). I’m able to provide a space for people’s dreams to take root and flourish.
It’s no longer about “me” — it’s about “us.” And I feel assured. Say tomorrow I’m hit by a bus. The business is set up that DH can continue, and that he can support DS without me. Or that the business can be managed in trust for DS, should something happen to DH and I — and it can provide for him, his education, and later in life — perhaps even a small trust for him.
I know that sounds nutty. I know it sounds. . . what? Depressing? But because I moved from “me” to “us” via “brand” — I have more support now. More community, more opportunity, more business than ever before.
And because of that I have more determination and passion than every before.
So maybe, think about that.
Maybe you intern some writers. Maybe you intern some fellow DIY bloggers. Maybe a brand manager who takes care of Facebook/twitter/instigram (we are just starting this process now with our business — it’s so fun working with a passionate recent graduate or college student. they have such fresh ideas and perspectives, and they are truly hard working and determined!).
Maybe you figure out what this “brand” can do or be. Maybe you can move from “you” to “us” — form a team, create more fun and more opportunities for yourself and others.
You’ve inspired so many. I think you can continue in that — in a 1,000 ways. If you want. Don’t fear business, love it. It’s a powerful tool. It has changed me.
I’m sorry if this is too pushy or forward. I am passionate about what I do — and about what I’ve learned in transitioning from ‘me’ to ‘us.’ It brings me such joy to see what the little thing I’ve cultivated has become.
You two are really creative, really powerful working together. I love to see the dynamic; I love to see the changes over time.
Take a break. Do what is best for you. Whatever it is will be right for us, too. :)
Many blessings in this journey. And thank you so much for what you have given to us so far.
Rhonda says
I, too, feel like crying. Yours was the very first thing I checked on my computer every morning. I feel like you guys are personal friends. I live in Richmond, so maybe I will run into you sometime. I will keep checking to see if and when you return. Love you all. Take care of those beautiful babies, including Burger. :)
Kris says
Like Arika said, you owe us nut-n-honey! We’re all takers and you are givers and you have to take some time to give to yourselves and figure out what’s next in your great adventure. I check in every day and will miss you guys.
You won’t disappear, cause your creative juices will have to ooze out somewhere. And when you figure it out, we’ll all be here for ya. Now go….do some livin’ or loungin’ or lovin’ or whatever you need to do. No seriously, close the Mac and step away from the computer.
Tracy says
I read two blogs every day. One is yours. Take a break and come back. Or don’t. Do what you love. Congrats for being brave!
Mary says
I have always appreciated your positive attitudes and your refusal to be dragged in to comment wars with trolls and snarky commenters. I also love that you don’t take freebies. You have maintained your integrity, and that is something to be proud of. I have read since almost the beginning, and while I haven’t loved every single thing you DIY’d, I have appreciated your honestly, upbeat attitudes, and that you’ve always taken the high road. Kudos.
Katie @ Red House West says
Have a wonderful break and I will look forward to your return in whatever capacity. You’re a unique and refreshing voice (collectively, of course) in the world of home blogging, and you have created an incredible (and incredibly fun to read) DIY resource that I refer to frequently for inspiration and technical help. Take care!
p.s. Can’t wait til your hip hop album drops.
jillian (Her Split Ends) says
Good for you guys!!! Enjoy this time with your family. Get inspired. but most importantly…Choose Joy!!!!!!
xo
~ J
Katie says
Like many of these posts, I’m an avid YHL reader (for years now, actually) and have NEVER commented. But why now? Well, just to say thanks and best wishes!! Here’s my favorite quote in times like these when the next step isn’t always so clear:
“Be patient toward all that is unsolved in your heart and try to love the questions themselves, like locked rooms and like books that are now written in a very foreign tongue. Do not now seek the answers, which cannot be given you because you would not be able to live them. And the point is, to live everything. Live the questions now. Perhaps you will then gradually, without noticing it, live along some distant day into the answer.”
? Rainer Maria Rilke
Chloe says
I texted my boyfriend to tell him that one of my favourite blogs was taking a break and that I felt so sad and he replied #firstworldproblems. I don’t think he realises the true extent of my pain! Haha. Love you guys x
Lisa says
I am so heartbroken to think that you guys might feel like you have dissapointed in any way. I visit your blog every day at lunch and LOVE it. I have never felt dissapointment in a single post, and have enjoyed it so much, and I wish I had commented earlier. You certainly deserve a break (although you will be missed…) but please don’t walk away feeling like any balls have been dropped. You do an amazing job, and are the only blog I have ever felt interested in following. Enjoy your time off, but please don’t stay away, I know I wont! All the best.
Shirley says
Dear friends: thank you for sharing your dreams, kids, and lives with us. I started reading your blog by your wedding time and I feel that you are part of my life. I wish you the best and thank you again for be there.
lindsey says
Dude, I totally didn’t see this coming! I’ve been following your blog for all 7 years, and always enjoyed reading the content. You guys have been so honest and open with your posts that I feel like we could be friends. (in a very non-creepy way I swear!) So with that in mind, I’ve never felt the need to post before but I do now…
This is brave. And wonderful. And I just wanted to lend my voice in support. Nothin but love for you guys!
Nicole L says
I’m sad that you guys even feel the need to write a post like this. It’s your life. You live it for yourselves and your children, not for those of us who read the blog. It’s absurd to me that people have taken offensive to ANYTHING you have chosen to do for your family. We should be here to support you guys, to praise the amazing work you do and to gain ideas for our own projects. We aren’t here to be your parents and take offense to how you told us about your third house (really?!). I wish you guys all the best of luck! Whether you choose to come back and blog full-time, part-time, or never again, it’s been a great run! The best to you always…
Rosemary says
Having a surprisingly hard time starting my day without you guys this morning! I’m glad you’ve given yourselves the flexibility and courage to do what’s best for your family. I’ve loved the blog changes along with your family and lifestyle changes. Best of luck with whatever the future holds! Selfishly, I hope it includes this beloved little blog.
Dawn says
Life moves so quickly – exponentially so with little ones. We fans can be greedy beasts, but if we are true fans of your blog, we are true fans of your family as well. Nothing is more important than family. Your quirky posts and well thought out DIY tutorials will be missed. Enjoy your family time!
Lilly says
I can’t thank you guys enough for all of the work that you have put into the blog. I have been following for about two years now and have enjoyed every minute. You guys inspired me to be fearless in how I have transformed my home. I can’t imagine trying to keep up with a new born, so I definitely understand the need for a break. I hope that you do eventually come back, refreshed and ready to go! We’ll all be ready and waiting :)
Heather says
Now that you’ve verbalized it, I agree that things have been a little off. I thought it was just since you weren’t posting as much that I didn’t feel as connected to you. Although I missed you posting daily, I TOTALLY understand that you guys kill yourselves posting and commenting 24-7, and that’s a crazy expectation for me to have. With the schedule you guys have had for the past years, I would totally be burned out too.
I really miss the family posts, travels and sweet Clara. After all these years, I do feel like I know you guys as friends. I hope that you will get re-charged during the break and that you will want to continue your blog. I would hate to lose touch with you guys completely. You always do inspire and impress me with your projects and fabulous decorating style.
I’m going to miss you while you’re gone. :) Enjoy your time off!!
Micheline says
Vous allez me manquer ( i will miss you)
Revenez quand vous serez prêt j’attendrai. ( return when you are ready, i will wait)
Enjoy life with your family and good luck for whathever hapens next
TJ says
Thank you for being honest! I’ve not been following as closely as I used to for the reasons you came up with. I didn’t see a reason to enter contests or even leave comments because you are ‘big time’ now. Who has time to read all those comments!
CC says
It’s been a pleasure. Don’t be hard on yourselves. You can endorse things you believe in without losing credibility and still make some money from it. Trust your judgment. Thanks
Allison says
I love you guys! You have been such an inspiration and in many ways I’ve looked up to you and learned so much from the many topics you have shared on your site all these years. I hope this hiatus gives you everything you need and I really do hope you come back. Lots of happiness sent your way! XOXO
Ruben says
Bravo! Bravo!
All I have to say… Bravo!
Good for you for handling this like champs and knowing when to take a step back.
Family first, no matter what and your happiness. Go out there find it again and come back with more inspiration. We’ll be here….
plus your vast archive collection keeps my “honey do list” intact and active :)
If you guys don’t mind as I go through my own projects I would like to reference yours if they are related. I tend to look at John’s “mistakes” and “lessons learned” before I start any project :)
Thanks a lot for sharing!
Have a great time away!!!!!
Respectfully!
Benu @
dadkudos.com
Meike Gallego says
Hey guys! I just wanted to write another message of support. I definitely was not feeling as though things were off. I did respond to the question last week about wanting small posts instead of nothing, but thats only because I love reading what you guys have to say EVERY DAY! Of course things have changed over the course of the blog, but thats a good thing. You guys are the leaders of the blog, its your work, so I don’t think you need to be too concerned with whether everyone is happy with everything. Do what makes you proud. The last thing I want to say, is I really cant understand why people feel like they need to say they are not happy with the direction of the blog. As if they are your boss or something- I mean the whole purpose of working for yourself is that you make the decisions of how much effort you want to put in based on what you want to get out. I mean if you dont like the content anymore, move on and stop following the blog – no need to tell everyone you arent happy.
Kathy says
I have enjoyed your posts thoroughly and hope you return–soon. Being in my early 70s, I have learned so much from you. You see, you can teach an old dog….. What I enjoyed most, however, was your enthusiasm and approach to life–and Clara, teddy, and of course Burger. And it was catchy,, so thank you for sharing so much of yourselves with us. Hurry back, please.
sabrina says
I think you guys are great and I enjoy your diversity! Thank you for giving of yourselves repeatedly, enjoy your break, then please come back!!
James Olsen says
John, Sherry,
I am not sure if you are even planning on reading all these comments, but here goes…I have been a loyal reader for the last nearly four years, every morning at 8:00AM my time like clockwork I check the site for the latest update, SOMETIMES it isn’t stuff I am particularly interested in, but 9/10 there is something I can use in my own life. You guys inspired my wife and I with your way back post about the built-ins you created in your first home with the Ikea closets, something we actually went on to duplicate ourselves! I have read almost all the archives and details you guys have provided over the years!
With that said, I am obviously saddened to hear that you guys have been struggling with this thing, I never felt you lost your way, in fact I have followed your recent laundry room reno religiously as there is a lot for me to learn from it. I have appreciated your need for a scaled back posting schedule and while I miss my daily fix, I have always felt your guys kindness and love no matter how often you post.
Sadly I think there is a lot of jealousy amongst people out there, you guys have been able to do something you love and not only get paid a bit from it but support a family and thrive, that is a wonderful thing, but others who are not so fortunate get upset and then angry when you guys decide to scale things back because you can and need to. You guys have had the chance to live a dream and that is awesome and no one should be allowed to take that from you. I have read a lot of the criticism of the blog and honestly I don’t see it, what I see are two young [relatively] people that are trying to make their way in the world with a changing life and family, it happens, things change. You guys made a decision for you and that is whats important!
Good luck with whatever you decide to do, just know I will be here when you get back, and if you don’t then may you have smooth sailing, and clear skies in whatever you decide to pursue!
James Olsen
MB says
There is absolutely nothing wrong with doing your best to support your family. If the blog was the only way you were supporting your family, if course it was going to change. Don’t feel bad about that. But most importantly, you need to be happy. Not for us, but for yourself. Life is too short. Do what you need to do for YOU, not us!
Elizabeth says
So with all the love pouring out, I just wanted to add my own hug. I have been reading your blog for the past year and absolutely love it. So much so that my husband and I are going to start our own. I love the voice that is behind the posts and the wonderful marriage and family that you guys have. Taking a break is a wonderful idea, even though it is sad for us readers who love your life. I will check in frequently just in case the break ends and you feel like returning. This was a brave move for you both and I wish that you find what you need to and return to us!
andy c says
When I started to read this I couldn’t help but ask myself, “Are you guys breaking up with me/us?”
You guys are great, and deserve a break. I wish the best for you guys and look forward to your return in whatever form it may be (please let it be a werewolf). Take Care.
Kim says
Long term reader here. I just wanted to comment to let you know how much I will miss you (checking in with you guys is one of my favorite things each day). You guys inspire me to learn and try new things for my home. Over the years I feel like you all are part of my “framily” and I for one will miss you greatly if you don’t return. Take a break, have a blast, get some rest, enjoy your kiddos, but I sure hope to see you back here soon.
Audrey says
Everybody needs a break and a chance to unwind.
This break will give me a chance to start from the beginning…….
PAGE 1467 HERE I COME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!