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.
Rebecca says
I’ve been reading your blog for several years and really enjoy it. Thank you for all the great projects and inspiration you’ve shared with us, but mostly thank you for sharing pieces of yourselves. One thing I really like about your blog is that you not only show readers great DIY and design projects, but you also show us a great example of family and working together and just loving one another. I think most of us knew the blog would change as your family grew, but that’s a good thing! We will miss your posts, but I think it’s admirable that you’ve made the decision to step away for awhile and do what’s best for your family.
Jessie says
I have been reading your blog (and only your blog) since your first house. I am so sad to see you go, and I hope you come back. But if you don’t, thank you for all the wonderful years. I really feel like you guys are friends of mine somehow in a weird, creepy, internet way. I wish you the best of luck, and I’ll be waiting for you if you decide to come back. I will REALLY miss your humor, your honesty, your compassion, and the adorable pictures of your adorable family. Enjoy the break (and come back, please!!) <3
Jane C says
My niece Jess A left a comment. I agree with her comment 100%. Best of luck to you guys. I love your blog, and will definitely miss it. Praying for Gods peace for you guys. Jane
Jenn says
You taught me the value of “Home wasn’t built in a day” and helped me take the pressure off of myself in trying to get ‘it done’ at mock speed…you taught me that I need to enjoy the process just as much as the end result. I have become a more relaxed home improver literally because of you two and this blog, thank you for that. Your break was dinner topic conversation last night… I am sad- to say the least. I hope you will return: renewed, refreshed and full of joy again for what you have so lovingly created. Thank you for so eloquently saying what was in your hearts. God bless.
Lindsay says
You need to do what feels right for you and your family! Take the time you need to re-set. I will say though that I hope to see you “pop up” somewhere at a later time. I’ve been following your blog for about 6 years now, and love coming here everyday to read, so I feel a little sad, almost like I’m losing a friend :( But I understand and wish you guys nothing but the very best!!
Laura says
As a long time reader (I feel like I grew up reading this blog), thanks for all the inspiration and great writing! My morning coffee won’t be the same. :) Hope you guys come back but as they say, All good things must come to an end, and your blog has always been good, to say the least. Best of luck in everything!!!
Marietta says
So sad to see you go….7 years its a weird number…hope you will be back soon…hope to find what will make you happy…Thank you for sharing all these years…
Love u all!!!
Heidi Jess says
OMG You deserve a break. Recharge your batteries and spend time away to feel if this is still a passion you want and choose to do everyday.
From the outside looking in you’ve been running a marathon continuously since you started. You’re human and no one can realistically expect to maintain that pace for the long term. I encourage you to unplug and see if you miss it in your heart. And only come back when and if it’s right for you.
We’ll still be here.
Wishing you the best.
With love and encouragement
AC says
Hi there,
I just can’t imagine how it must feel to share your passion on life, family, and home, and the high level of quality, honesty and humor in which you share it with us, and have anyone be less than thrilled with it all. I just want you to both know that I have been reading your blog for years, and enjoying the heck out of it. There have been several projects I have been inspired to try based off of your very blog, so thank you! (IE, making a quilt (!) painting cabinets, spray painting my knobs ORB, living on less when our economy tanked, painting my kids’ rooms, decorating more with personal items) You guys are seriously talented, and I will always be grateful to your website. The thought of your blog not being there for me to peruse when I want some inspiration on any given weekday or weekend, to lovingly fix up our family’s home, is a very sad thought. Among the many posts, I will always remember happening upon Sherry’s 911 post at work one day and tearing up in my office at work. I had to fib to my boss that I was having an allergic reaction to the dust in the office. ;) I hope that you guys take whatever break you need, and while there, realize all of the good you’ve added to so many lives. Everyday people like me. It’s been a gift. THANK YOU.
Judy says
Best wishes to you & your lovely family! I’ve visited your site on an every day / every other day basis for a couple years now, and I’ve just loved seeing all your progress, & how you explain your projects in such a way that I can decide whether I’d want to tackle something like that or not.
Whatever you decide to do, I’m sure you will be successful!
Sarah says
I have been a loyal reader since before Clara and I talk about you both to my husband like I know you. Your “break” was the first thing I told him when I got home from work yesterday! You are so inspirational and deserve the world.
Not sure if you like Taylor Swift, but you’ll need to listen her new song called Shake It Off (its perfect for right now). Haters gonna hate, hate, hate!
I respect your decision and look forward to your return!!
xo
Sarah from Cincinnati
Sandy says
John and Sherry,
I have subscribed to several blogs over the years – and seen some close down because the blog had become “too much.” Too much time…Time…a valuable commodity in this day and age. It can zap our energy, our family time, our lives. And you look up and years have passed, your children are grown and you wonder what you’ve spent your time doing. This applies to all of us, no matter what we may do for a living.
I just wanted to encourage you to take this time away to think about what is important and best for you and your children. If that means stepping away from your blog permanently, then so be it. Life is precious. It is a gift from God. Open that gift and do what your heart tells you.
Bless you and your family
Malva says
I keep coming back looking for the “April’s fools in September”…where is it? or a fun video telling us you are kidding.
Gosh I am going to miss you! this was it. this was the blog I read every day…everything else I skimmed. My blog world is over.
Carla says
As others have said, I’m not too wrapped up in the direction your blog has taken. I don’t really see it as anything disappointing. It just seems like a very natural process as you grow older, have more children, and move on to different interests, to change and evolve.
Few blogs stay the same as the years go by, because the people behind them change. We can’t help ourselves. Your content is still amazing and fun, and I love coming to your website first thing in the morning, every day of the week, even when I know there won’t be any updates.
It gives me a lot of joy seeing such a happy and settled family. And I’ve learned a lot from John’s detailed posts. I would really miss those.
When I start my blog someday, I’m not sure how I’m going to handle unpleasant or overly opinionated comments. I write lots of comments that I feel are honest in the feedback I give, but probably not so fun to read. I’m not sure that is going to change about me, so it’s only fair that I learn how to be receptive and open and not take things too personally.
That’s not easy, though. Comments do affect us and can be a burden. I’ve considered doing away with comments altogether and just providing a Facebook link so discussions can take place off of my website.
Anyway, you have a huge waiting audience that’s not going anywhere. We love you guys and your fun content, and look forward to what’s coming next.
ashley jensen says
I will definitely miss you guys while you are gone! I always look to you guys first on how you approach DIY projects at home and it has given me the confidence to try things myself (kitchen tile backsplash). I have no complaints about the content or frequency or how anything has been delivered. I totally get it! Of course I am bummed you are taking a break because I really like you guys. I mean I actually tried to meet you when I was in Virginia on business and that is NOT something I ever do! So just know I will be thinking about your little family and will be here when you come back!
Barbara C says
Take a break. Refresh. Regroup. Hang out together. Enjoy a calmer (hopefully) life. You’ve done a great job.
Most of us will be here when and if you get back to this.
And if you don’t, it’s been great and you’ve taught us a lot.
But…you will all be missed.
Hannah says
I’ve never read the comments either…or left one! You guys are awesome! Thank you for all the inspiration! :)
Chelsea says
I just want you guys to know how much I love your blog. I have never minded anything you have done to make money born from your work on the blog. I don’t believe it ruined the blog and I was glad you could support your family doing what you loved. I hope you return if you wish and can be happy with your work again. You will be missed.
Nancy says
As much as I have enjoyed YHL over the last several years, I have often wondered if you could/would do it forever…I’m hoping that you’ll be back after your break but if you’re not, I will look forward to “seeing” you in other places…books, products, etc. You’re a terribly talented duo with two incredibly cute kiddos and I wish you all the best no matter where your journey takes you. Enjoy!
Lauren says
I have been a fan and reader since day one of this blog and while I can’t imagine not reading another post for an indefinite period of time, I completely understand what you’re going through.
I have noticed that something seemed “off” lately. You deserve to take some time off to enjoy family and each other and while doing so, I hope that you will return with a new sense of purpose and passion.
I will miss you, Petersiks. xoxoxo
Humility says
One word: ego.
Amber says
Ouch. I must disagree. I have always thought the exact opposite! I admire how grounded, grateful, and humble they have stayed and I was excited for them as all sorts of fun experiences came up and they shared the thrill with us. I’m a happy person and happy people have found the secret … to be content no matter their circumstances. As such, I enjoy hearing about other’s success. A hug for you ‘Humility’ and a great, big hug for all you Petersiks!
Nancy says
Strongly disagree. If I had to choose one word, I’d say “realistic”.
Allison R says
Reading your blog is a regular part of my weekday schedule. I will so miss you while you’re on break, but I hope this pause accomplishes everything you’re hoping for and more.
ps. I saw one of your target hooks at my local goodwill, and I thought about how much you love target and thrift shopping, so that little hook had completed a journey for you. :)
Amanda K says
YHL is the first site I visit when I sit down at my desk each morning. I will miss you guys, and I am keeping my fingers crossed that you have a rejuvenating break and come back to us!
Erika says
I’m sooo sad by this news. I love reading your blog everyday – it’s my midmorning work break. One of the things I love is your reliability – you post everyday even if it’s a short post or a fab freebie I know there is something new and interesting to see on your site. I love seeing how you guys tranform your house – the process from start to finish is so interesting as are your to do lists! As with any start-up business you are bound to go through periods of evolution and experiment with different systems for productivity. At the end the day you need to do what you think is best for your business, but I hope you won’t quit blogging for long. I’ll really miss you.
Sapna says
Hi John and Sherry,
I have been following your blog for at least 4 years now. And just like you guys I have a 4 year old child – a son and now a 5 month old daughter. So I feel a really strong connection with you guys.
Your blog is one of those I visit every single day and I probably make up a very small percentage of your visitors from Asia Pac (India in this case). Can I just say that I have loved your blog for its diy flavour, clever tips and tricks but mostly for its honesty and relatability. I am really sad that you are taking a break but totally understand that you need to do it. Like many others I hope you find your groove back. We will all be waiting right here for you guys to come back with a bang. Good luck!
Much love,
Sapna
Tanja says
Wow I wasn’t expecting this but I get it, 7 years in the same job we would all need a break.
I am going to miss you guys like crazy. Please come back in whatever form works for you.
Nicole says
John, Sherry, I’ve been following your blog since 2008 and I’ve adored you guys and learned so so much from you both.
I wish you guys well, and I hope that whatever you decide to do, it will bring huge amounts of love and passion into your life. You guys deserve it! :) xx
Shawna says
John & Sherry,
I had the absolute pleasure to meet you on your book tour when you stopped in Charlotte and I’ve been following your blog for years now, and was sure to catch up on the archives from the time before that. I’ve been so blessed by your brave journey from blogging as a hobby to making this a full-time gig for the both of you. I love how deeply committed you both have been to sharing openly the ups and downs of home ownership as well as the ‘how to’ with integrity and passion. As someone who hopes to one day have children I’ve poured over your family/parenting posts as much as the rest and deeply appreciate the time and attention you’ve given every one of them. I’ve been in awe and cheering you on as you’ve become a household name and shared new and exciting creative projects with us. You’ve truly been an inspiration, giving so much of yourselves in order to share, teach, and inspire. Both of you bring such amazing heart to this space, and I’m so grateful for that. I’m happy to support you both in creative pursuits because I truly believe you are trustworthy and full of love and integrity for those of us you share with each week. I’m only just starting a blog myself and already I understand so much of the challenge creatively in putting your passions out there for the fodder of others. We all simply want to be ‘seen’ and ‘known’, and I feel a kinship to you both for all the years we’ve shared. I deeply admire your tenacity and brave pursuit to provide for your family through your creative passions, if we’re being honest I think many would admit being jealous of that, and longing to accomplish the same in our own lives in some way. You’ve created a beautiful legacy in this space, and I’m so grateful to you both for that. Don’t even for a minute hang onto guilt or disappointment about the past, you’ve accomplished things most of us never have, and it’s a learning process, this journey through life, each and every day for us all. I deeply hope and pray that this upcoming time away will be healing and rejuvenating for you both. You have a beautiful family and these are the precious years together. I’ve never cared about or needed giveaways and such as thanks for reading, this is free content for us, that is worth so much more. I love and appreciate all the beautiful ways you’ve given back as a family to this community and others. What draws me in, and always has, is the innately special and captivating story of YOU, all the rest are just supporting roles. Thank you for all the ways you’ve been a blessing to me, bringing me closer to my Mom as we worked side-by-side on so many of the projects you’ve shared, and for being the inspiration that you are. I truly hope to see you all back again, but take this sacred and divine time for the soul healing you desperately need. My love and prayers go out to your whole family. Thank you for all the ways you’ve shared and created community amongst your tribe.
With love,
Shawna
Isabel Guerra says
Congratulations, I’m sure it was a very difficult decision to take a one month break. I know it is long overdue and well deserved. I don’t know how you manage to post day in and day out, all while managing a home, a marriage and two adorable kids. Life just changes and sometimes it’s hard to make that decision to change with it. I know because I’ve been contemplating a career change for about 18 months now, it’s so hard to go for that change and see what else life has to offer. If you guys decide to return, I too will be here ready to pick up where we left off. I came across your blog a little over a year ago when you guys were featured in HGTV mag (I think that was about a year ago). Anyhow, you guys totally turned me into a blog follower of DIY blogs and I love it! Yours is my favorite and the only one I read daily. Reading your entertaining postings (you guys are funny), has been one of those simple pleasures in life that I look forward to. Enjoy your time off and I hope you get the clarity that you need to figure out if you’ll be back or not. Take care and God bless!! You guys are awesome and such a super cute little family.
Amber Foshay says
Sending love and hugs! As a long time reader (pre-Clara days!) I’ll miss hearing from you over my morning coffee, but God and your sweet family are first!
Denise says
We totally get it! You need to do what you need to do. We’ll miss you and thank you so much forsuch great information.
Lisa says
I’m so sad but I understand. I hope you will pop in on occasion and let us know what’s happening.
Casey says
Oh, I am so happy for you! I cringed every time I saw a show house post because my son was born just four days after Teddy and I knew there was NO POSSIBLE WAY I would have been able to keep your schedule. I was reducing my hours at the end of my pregnancy, and it seemed like you were burning the candle at both ends to “finish everything”. You REALLY deserve this break.
If it helps, I returned to work after my 12-week FMLA leave with renewed passion. Y’all never really stopped blogging once Teddy was born, so the way I see it, you never took parental leave. It’s SO important. Enjoy your family time and I hope you come back! You have created a valuable resource here.
Paula M. says
Exactly! They’ve been going full tilt for so long — the blog, home projects, 2 books (working on the 2nd one now), 2 kids, 3 homes, assorted product roll-outs, the book tour – and, as if that weren’t enough, that huge home showcase project while Sherry was pregnant! I don’t know how they do it. Granted, they’re a lot younger than I am and there are 2 people doing the work, but even so… I look at what they’ve accomplished in the past 7 years and it seems staggering. No wonder they need (and deserve) a break. If they come back from their break, I hope for their sakes that they consider ways to lessen the workload, either by alternating intensive tutorial/makeovers with small, one-afternoon projects, or by farming out some of the back-end work.
Karen B says
I get about 50 emails a day from companies. When I don’t have the time to look at all of them, I hit the delete button and check on down the list. Two emails I never delete without looking at them is YHL and Houzz. I am 60 and your blog keeps me young in my approach to decorating. I have greatly enjoyed the style you both have in writing and designing.
Thank you so much for sharing. I will miss you:(
Natalia says
Good for you guys. Everyone deserves a break. Enjoy it!
Sara says
I have read your blog from the very beginning, and have never skipped a post. I know I am just one little person in a 3K (and growing!) line of comments, but I just wanted to give you guys a huge (through the wires) hug and say to take the time you need! As a mom of a 4 and 1-year old, I know the mental/emotional/physical stress of “doing it all”, and you guys have gone above and beyond. I realize that constructive criticism can be helpful, but I truly feel sad reading some of the more mean-spirited comments. Please know that so many of us adore you and support your need to regroup/ rethink/ take some time! Wishing you good things in whatever you decide to do in the future. xx
Jessica brown says
Love your blog. Loved the new slower pace. Please come back!
Cheryl Frueh says
Dear John and Sherry, thank you for being real, open and honest. Do what is best for you and your family. I loved reading your blog everyday. Mostly I loved your genuineness. Enjoy your kids. This time goes by too fast. When you figure out the right balance for you share how you did. We are all struggling with that one! Much love to all of you! Cheryl
Laura says
Hi guys!! Hope you read the comments on this post bc then you can truly feel the love & support you have from the blogging world. Your site is the only ones I ready daily and re read through out the day. There is a magical thing you guys have and that is “charm & relatability” I honestly feel like I’m reading a post from a friend talking directly to me .
As a business owner I can definitely relate to public comment bashing on you aka yelp. You’re just regular folks putting yor best out there and so what if it’s not everyone’s cup of tea. People should know this is a personal blog and if they don’t like it just go elsewhere. But we are human and susceptible to negative feedback and hard to not take it personally.
Hope you come back better than ever !!! Do it for yourself and not to please others :)
Cheers!!
natalia says
Good for you guys. Enjoy your break!
EYC says
Dear John and Sherry, I have loved reading the blog ever since I discovered it a couple of years ago and as a fellow Virginian, have felt like you guys are the friends I would love to have just across the Commonwealth. Know that your many fans love you and are inspired by you but want the VERY BEST for you, even if that means stepping away, perhaps even for good. Do what’s right for you. We’ll understand. Spend time with your littles and with each other and find your next direction. Many hugs to you all.
christine says
I just wanted to say that I hope you are able to reach a decision that works well for both of you, your beautiful family, and the blog.
While I agree that things have changed on the blog, I also realize that there is an ebb and flow to all things in life. What is going on today will not last forever.
I’m a faithful reader (have been for many years). I want the best for you and I selfishly hope that means you’ll continue blogging full-time.
xo
Erika says
John & Sherry,
You are LOVED. I can’t remember how I “found” you guys, but in this world of interweb connections/relationships/reality, I feel like you are my friends. Weird, but true. So of course, I am going to MISS you!
Blogs are personal – and as you grow and change as people and as a family, OF COURSE your blog is going to grow and change as well! No one should expect it to stay the same – it is unrealistic. But YOU need to be happy and content with it – and if you take this break and realize that blogging is not the best fit for your family anymore, WE WILL UNDERSTAND. (And be devastated, but…) we LOVE you and want what is best for YOU!
THANK YOU for seven wonderful years of getting to know you. May God guide you and BLESS your socks off!
Tara says
I’m so sad, but completely understand. I’ve been reading for two years and checking this blog daily the whole time. You’ve given me inspiration when I worked at an interior design magazine, you’ve given me a break from writing while working on my master’s the last 18 months, and you’ve been a constant source of amazing ideas. You made DIY and home improvement approachable for me. I have your first book, I’ll buy your second book, and I’ll probably check back every day for a while. Thank you for blogging, thank you for being honest, and thank you for taking a break when you needed one. I hope you find the inspiration you need to pick this back up. Love you long time!
Maria says
i’ve never written before just because my time on the internet is hit and run. Thank you for all the work you have put on your blog. It has been a tremendous inspiration to work in making my home a happier,prettier, lovelier place. i don’t think you need to explain why you do this or that unless you want to. iIt is your blog and if you were to buy two houses tomorrow and keep ithat to yourselves all the power to you. We the readers don’t own you. I am grateful for what you share and there is plenty in the archives to keep us busy. Raising kids is a full time job. Hope you enjoy your break from Blogland. I’ll be happy to see what you post when you return if you so decide. In the meantime just want to add I have come to admire you deeply and respect whatever you decide. Just keep those archives open, pretty please? Hugs and the best for you all.
Lara says
Of course I am sad to read this announcement! But even more so, I am sad that your adventure of blogging has left you wide open for such scrutiny, criticism, and constant evaluation.
Y’all have done a wonderful job. This is obvious by your wide readership and the connection that 2,000+ strangers feel to you. The number of people you have reached of course means that you will not please everyone. But that doesn’t negate what you have done at all!
In the end, none of the voices of the masses matter. Only God and the ones He has given you to love!
Much love to you and your sweet family! Praying this break is exactly what you need and that you have wisdom to know how long and what is next.
Cindy says
Wow! I am struck by the amount of encouragement people have posted regarding your site, as well as for you, personally. I am also dumbfounded by the harsh, callous comments that I read on the other post. Honest feedback is one thing, but I’m thinking some folks need to work on their interpersonal skills– or maybe they just forget that there are real people running this blog. I could never post such things…all in the name of “honesty.” In any case, your blog is my favorite and the very first one I discovered. It completely jumpstarted by DIY efforts in my home and, in that vein, has quite literally, changed my life. Hugs:)))
Jill says
I love keeping up with your blog & seeing all the beautiful things you create. You will be missed. But take it from a newish mama who still has to work full time…you don’t get this time with your babies back. And years down the road, when we’re old & gray, being with your family will have been more important than a big career…even if it’s something you really love to do. I’m glad for you that you get time with your babies & your husband. In the long run, you’ll be glad you did. Go love on your babies!!
J. LaCroix says
Hi, John & Sherry – just wanted to say that I don’t think you should ever feel bad for not sharing enough (or not sharing developments ‘on time’) with your readers. Your readership is not entitled to know more than what your own comfort and safety considerations dictate. The world has gone mad (I blame celebrity ‘news’) with people feeling entitled to know more about others than they perhaps should. Sorry for the soap box, and likely you already know all of this – I just wanted to throw my two cents in because I love your blog and always think you’ve done a fantastic, professional job of carrying a warm and personal tone without crossing the line into being exploitive with your family or your lives. Bravo! Thanks for the last few years of great posts and cheers to whatever is in store for you next.
Kristi says
You guys are my favorite place on the internet. But I totally understand – people suck when you put yourself out there. I learned this working in retail, everyone’s expectations are so high, and even thought they look at this blog for free they see themselves as a “customer”, and the customer is always right! If only there were no such thing as comments. Enjoy your time away from the opinions of others and I wouldn’t blame you a bit for shifting gears into a more private occupation. I will miss you guys:(