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.
Shanda says
I for one will be waiting for your return. Love you guys and your blog. What you do is a gift for readers it is not an obligation to post more than you can fit into your life- so sorry it began to feel like it. You only get to raise your children once and you both being home is wonderful, the blog should not take away from that- people who enjoy watching a real family do things in real time will continue to support you and follow along.
Sonia says
I will surely miss you. Not only have I learned so much following your blog (tiling, installing trim, decorating ideas, etc), but I’ve come to think of you guys and your little ones as family. I’ve enjoyed so much reading all your family stories – Clara growing up, all her lovely antics, and the birth of Teddy and his adventures, and the both of you and your lovely marriage. I will miss you. But this courageous step you are taking is so important. May God bless your beautiful family and may He guide you in all you do next. Whatever is it, I’m sure it will be fabulous!
Anne C says
Dear John and Sherry,
It is perfectly clear that you have NOT “lost your mojo”, ANY of it. That is a scientific fact, not refutable: you are incredibly brilliant at what you do, and your souls shine, as well, as only a handful of human beings on the whole planet does. ANY reader can see that. And we do, oooh yes, those that comment often, those that think it so hard without commenting (me), and even those who feel the urge (human feelings are a strange funny thing) to declare the opposite.
NOW: if YOU feel the urge to recharge, do it of course. Of course! But don’t you do it, PLEASE, because of some negative feed-back. (The better you are, the more people ask from you, and among them, some are just behaving like spoiled and undeserving people.)
I know it’s stupid to add another comment to so many others that say, with much better and fine words (I’m sorry, I am French), similar things. But as a university teacher-researcher, I had this kind of feelings, sometimes, and I want YOU (SO much more brilliant than me in my own little thing of course) to be totally immune to negativeness, knowing that YOU are the epitome of generosity and brilliance!!!
Sincerely,
Anne
Melanie says
I miss you guys…. Keep checking in everyday..
Lindsay J says
I’ve been letting this news soak in before I wrote to you. I anticipate the updates everyday. I commented before that I love the small posts just as much, if not more, than the long posts. Everything you do is inspiring. What usually grabs my attention are the small things. Yet, at the same time, you inspire us to tackle the big things we think we can’t do. I’ve been a reader since 2008 and this is my all-time favorite blog. Your family is important and should be your priority. Us blog-readers appreciate the time that you do provide us after you’ve put your family first. You have the personalities that will help you succeed in anything you do. Find what makes you happiest and surround yourself with it. We love you!
Brooke M says
John and Sherry- I wish you the very best in whatever futher endeavors you decide to pursue. You have remained the only blog I check on a daily basis for the past um…3 + years or so. I will miss your creativity and honesty. I can see how stressful this job would have been for your family. Hope you will come back, but totally understand if you do not.
ps I never felt like you guys “lost your groove”. Every post was exciting to me.
Kelly T says
You are missed already, but if there is one thing I’ve finally learned it is that life is fully of change. I have never been good about posting comments, but have been a consistent reader for several years. You got me hooked on Pinterest back when it was new! Thank you for all that you’ve shared with us – hoping that you find a path that brings your family happiness. That’s what it’s supposed to be all about anyway.
Becki says
Best wishes as you rest, rejuvenate, and continue discerning what it is you are meant to do – whether it is this or the next thing. You have been a blessing and a inspiration to many, and you will continue to be no matter what your future vocation holds.
JB says
I actually went on a YHL binge last month, reading your archives from 2011 through 2014. I noticed the evolution of your projects, which I believe is totally normal. When you announced the purchase of your 3rd house, you said you were planning to take your time and spend a bit more money. I personally have found recent projects much more inspirational because I’m in the same boat – I’m making long-term decisions for my house based on my style and not on resale value. All this to say, I have never noticed a lag in your content. Take a break if you must, but I will miss reading your posts and will be fervently wishing for your return to blogland soon.
Sarah Katz says
Hey guys. “The middle makes no sense” tattoo girl here. :)
Just wanted to say, you owe the internet nothing.
And as much as you have developed relationship and love for us who read your blog, aside from the true connections you’ve made, just let us be IP and email addresses. Dont take on the burden of a million friends to care about and keep up with.
You have enriched and inspired so many lives, what a legacy!
You are truly the best and most personal bloggers Ive ever known! And I admire you for that.
Please dont feel bad that you have to recalibrate now, you’ve crossed a threshold with your growth and brand and you deserve a break! Whatever you come up with, do it!! Your lives, your kids, your sanity, its all worth more than the opinions and feedback of friendly strangers.
Thank you for being so open and detailed over the years.
Thank you for sharing so many beautiful things about your lives, that’s so genuine and precious!
I never comment on blogs. You guys are so special to me, not just for what you have done but for who you are.
If I never saw another new post from you, I would be truly happy because it would mean you did what you needed to.
All the peace and love in the world,
Sarah Katz
Jamie says
Please see the Onion article “‘I Let Everyone Down’: Blogger Apologizes For Not Posting In A While.” I hope it gives everyone a laugh.
Marlayna says
You are appreciated and will be missed…by far more then it seems the size of your following of naysayers.
I hope you’ll be back with more of your spunky and creative thoughts again sometime. :) Until then, enjoy your long overdue, much deserved vacation. From one fellow decor and all-things-creative-enthusiast, I hope you take enough time to find your spark again. It’s just a sad time when you realize the excitement and passion has been drained from something you love so much and used to get so much joy from. I went through it by overworking myself until I almost felt numb. I wondered if i would ever be excited and creative again. It came back! :) I bet yours will too. Here’s to hoping!
Cheryl says
Ah, Petersiks…. my day will not be the same without your posts!! Your fans love you … and you should be very proud that your “fandom” expands across all ages and genders. I am a grandma (!) who loves her home and loves reading about others and their homes. My daughter is also a fan, and we pretty much daily say “hey, did you see what Sherry & John posted today?” …. so we will miss that. Take your time and make the best decision for you and your family.
James says
I don’t know what to say. I don’t know how to react. Since as far as I can remember, I’ve started and ended my day on this blog. (with 506066060 visits in between.)
I’ve even styled by hair and beard after John. I’m absolutely NUMB right now, like I’ve been shot in the spine.
Do you remember me Sherry??? I was at the Chicago book signing. I wore the blue blazer…still remember that. Your smile was so warm..I cant get it out of my head. I cant get it out of my head. I cant get it out of my head.
Holly says
I haven’t enjoyed a post this much in a long time.
I don’t say that to be ugly- I just mean that when you guys are really real and genuine you are your best selves.
Two takeaways that I have from years of reading is that being open to opportunity, and taking joy in doing things the hard way will pay dividends. That’s been helpful to me, so thank you.
Liz says
I think it’s a good decision. I can’t imagine reading a blog every day, let alone writing one. I neither love your blog or hate your blog, but just think it’s a strange way to make a living. You’ve done some nice projects and I think have probably made more money from your blog than you ever dreamed of. Good luck with your next chapter.
Emily R. says
I am heading out on my honeymoon and thinking about your book to fill the void. I have read your blog since the first back and read all the archives. You are such an inspiration not only for the things you do but the people you are. I made a cross stitch piece that I sent after the first book tour (i didn’t finish in time) but was so touched by the thank you email. I never thought you got too big or disconnected from readers, but I understand needing to re-evaluate.
Best of luck!
Emilie says
Hi guys,
I’ve been reading your blog ever since you were redesigning your master bath at your first house. It was an inspiration for us to DIY our bathroom too! I’ve enjoyed getting to come along on your journey to new homes, pregnancy, parenthood, etc.
This is actually my first time to comment. Know that some people have enjoyed your blog all along from the sidelines! Just don’t want you to think ALL your readership is represented by the percentage that chooses to comment (especially if the comments are negative or judgmental).
I hope that as you take this break, that you will truly be able to find yourselves, and find your family balance! Please know that I, and I’m sure many others, are also praying for you and hoping that you may find peace in God through this season as well. When I am losing sight of inspiration and joy, I look to the One who created each of us. I trust what He says about me more than what other say.
Love,
Emilie
Sandy says
We’re behind you! Whether the break is a month, a year, or more, it’s been a lovely go. In the words of T. S. Eliot, “in my beginning is my end.” Endings are sad, but they are also beginnings. Best of luck.
Tanya says
I’ll miss you guys but totally understand needing to take time away from the blog. I’m sure it’s hard to have your life be so public – mini celebrities. Just totally normal, funny ones :) I wish you and your fam the best in the future!
May says
Hope you’re all doing okay. Over the past 5+ years, I’ve so loved reading your blog and sharing bits of it with my daughter (who’s a little older than Clara) and my mom (who once mistook ‘John and Sherry’ for ‘Don Cherry’ in one of our conversation about DIY). Take good care of one another, and have a great break! *Hugs*
Elizabeth says
I have been reading your blog since your second house. I am hoping you guys come back to blogging and can’t wait to see the projects you have been working on!
Kayla says
I think you two have always been extremely gracious in how you have handled your readers. Hope you can process in peace.
Kate says
Selfishly, I cried reading this, but it my defense, I’m pregnant. :)
As with any job, you need to make the choice that works best for you and for your family. I can’t imagine it was easy reading all those comments and criticism.
I just want to wish you guys the best. You’re real people trying to find your way in this world just like the rest of us. I hope that you find what works best for you and that you have peace with it, whatever it may be :)
Erin B says
I have never commented on your blog before, but have been reading it for the past year. I’m a firm believer that you should always do what is right for your family and I applaud your difficult decision. You’re both lovely people with obvious mounds of integrity, and I appreciate that. Wishing you and your kiddos the best!
Brit says
Hi John and Sherry,
I have been following your blog for years but have actually never commented until now. So as a voice for all of those who love this place but never actually write anything– thank you for sharing your lives with us. I wish I had written more often all of the things I loved about your blog and what an inspiration you both are, because you both deserve it. I hope you come back, even if it’s just to check in once in awhile. But most importantly, know that there are thousands upon thousands of people out there that absolutely love everything about your blog, and you have made a difference to many, many lives. I hope that drowns out even one negative comment from someone else. Enjoy a well-deserved break and we hope you return :)
Brit says
One more thing– your blog actually brought me much closer to my sister. We had drifted apart for years, and she shared this blog with me and we became closer because of it. We would send each other emails with links to your new posts, discuss new projects, had a total freak-out when your first book came out– my sister bought me your book for Christmas and stood in line for hours to get it signed by you both– there’s just one example of how your blog really has changed lives and relationships for the better.
Mustang09 says
Brit ~ I second everything that you said about John and Sherry. I’m also glad that you and your sister are closer now because of their blog!
Mustang09 says
John, Sherry and family,
I have been following your blog for most of these 7 years. I suppose, that just like with marriages, and that ‘7-year itch’, that it can happen with a blog too ;) Gosh, I remember reaching out to you for decorating advice in my old home, and you graciously offering me some tips. Your blog was something that I looked forward to every day. Well, then I got busy with my own life, and I didn’t check in as often. It wasn’t until about four or five months ago that I re-connected to the blog. Yes, some things had changed, but I was still interested in the content. We all have to make a living, and most of us have families to support. Nothing wrong with becoming super popular and extending yourselves beyond the blog. With that said, I admire you both and I understand your need for a break. You have to think about what’s best for your family first. I will always love and respect you two! May God bless you!
Kerianne says
I just want to keep it simple, Love You Guys, every last petersik. Wish you the best break ever and I selfishly hope for your return. If not, I wish you all the happiness in the world plus more.
Kerianne
Tricia says
Is your break over yet? Are you ready to come back yet? Please!!! On a serious note, I’m way older than you guys and I can’t remember how I even found your blog, but I’ve read it for years and I am totally enchanted by your family. In a non-creepy way. I think what I have loved over the last couple of years, especially, is the way you guys sort of take turns with posting. Sometimes the posts are more technical/diy/awesome (John) and sometimes they are more family/design/awesome (Sherry) with lots of nice shared topics thrown in for good measure. I think having baby Teddy has naturally changed that system for a bit. It feels like the back and forth is what I’ve missed lately, but I totally understand it. You have a new baby. And a preschooler. And lives of your own. You haven’t lost your awesomeness. You are just human. So that’s my two cents worth. I haven’t ever commented here, but I’ve thought about this last post way too often over the last couple of days and I just hate to think that you guys are feeling like you’ve lost something or broken something–done something wrong. You haven’t. You are {one more time} AWESOME and I’ll be excited to read your next update. No pressure. : )
George Patterson says
You know, bottom line, you have to do what is right for you, even if it means taking a large break from something you once loved. It could be that you’ve outgrown this portion of your life, and whether you ever end up back here or not, you’ll be better for having made more time in your lives to live while you’re alive. Time passes so quickly, and your blogosphere will still be here if you should ever choose to return. You might find that you come back with an entirely different set of things to write about, and even if you don’t, you’ll have stories you can pass along for generations.
Emily says
Much like everyone else commenting here, I absolutely love your blog, and you guys feel like the cool people down the street that would be awesome to hang out with. :) So, selfishly, I’m hoping you come back from your sabbatical feeling like you want to continue YHL in some way, shape or form. I also hope you find what works for you. Along with the thousands of other folks writing in, I will be sad to see you go if you do, but I’ll totally understand that you need to do what’s right for all of you. Good luck, and I’m sure we’ll all be waiting with baited breath to see what happens!
Kate says
If it weren’t for you fine wonderful people, my husband and I would not be spending the past few weekends having an amazing time together building a play kitchen for our little guy’s first birthday. (Thank you for letting us copy cat Clara’s kitchen!!)
p.s. I admire you for breaking away from ALL social media. I hope you inspire more people to pause and live life! :)
holly says
I AM SAD!
Savvy saver says
Enjoy your time as a family. You all are awesome & raising two kids is a full time job. Thanks for all the inspiring stories over the years!
Sarah says
I love your blog. I have been a faithful reader for the last few years. I have loved seeing your transitions and seeing your family grow into these new and wonderful experiences. I’m going to miss seeing posts, but understand that breaks are very much needed sometimes. Whatever you decide to do, I wish you the best. Thanks for sharing and teaching so much. Your family is adorable and amazing!
Leslie says
Ugh, I so get this. And a break sounds like a fantastic idea. I hope the time off is beneficial. For what it’s worth, I think you all do a great job walking through projects in your posts. Enjoy your break!
Val says
I love your blog…how many times has this been said in all these comments lol. Your family radiates joy and I soak it in. I love your style, and essentially have taken decorating lessons from you guys. Thank you for every post! I hope to see you back, but if not, I hope you find a place elsewhere that you really, really love.
Melora says
I love your blog!!! It’s the only one I read daily :). Just wanted to add to all the other comments… You & your family will be missed!!! So glad to see all the loving support :). Hoping to see you back, but wanting the best for you!! Much love!!
Amber says
I’ve never left a comment to you before this, but I just want to say I love love love you guys & everything you do. I have been a faithful reader for a couple years now & will for sure miss the posts, but totally understand the need to step away & regroup. Thank you for all you share with us! You guys work crazy hard & deserve a break. Enjoy it & those sweet sweet babies!!!
zana says
wat!! nawww!! ill miss you guys so much!!!! =( come back after the break and we shall all do a “YHL Returns” party!!! =))
Ally says
Until I hear otherwise, I choose to believe that $herdog has finally realized her life-long dream of touring with the real Slim Shady as his hawt backup singer/dancer. JBoom is head roadie and official infographic guy, and sweet little Clara & Teddy pie are busy manning the merch booths .
ROCK ON, PETERSIK’ S! ( see you after the tour :)
~Ally
xox
Anna says
Do what you need to do – nothing is static; change is the only constant. Your blog is so full of great, diverse topics and tips that I have no doubt we’ll all keep reading and referring. I’ve checked on the cutting-in brush and the breast feeding post (14 months!) in the last week alone. You two have a lot going on, and you absolutely deserve to regroup and press pause. Thanks for all of it. You’ve made a huge contribution. (Plus, I snorted when I saw “$herdog” at the end of the breast feeding post!) lots of love to you two, the Bean, and the Barnacle.
Anna says
And Burger!!!!!
Angie van der Meer says
I am an American that has been living in the Canary Islands for 25 years and I must say you guys are such an inspiration to not only myself, but many around the world. One note of advise, there are alot of nasty, jealous people out there that can´t stand to see others do good. I am sorry to hear that these people have affected you and you must feel like you have to explain your income, or if you make money on a give a way, etc. Whatever opportunity that has come your way was well deserved and you shouldn´t appoligize for that! Sponsers pay you because you guys are in fact an inspirtion and your readings are never boring. I am sorry that I haven´t never commented before on your blog, I´ve always been a kinda backseat type of person and feel like my opinion doesn´t really matter, but Im saying it now “I LOVE YOU GUYS”! Take all the time you need to get back on track and enjoy those little ones while their still little. They grow up so fast. I will be checking in from time to time (like once a week) to see when you guys are back. Im sure a million other readers out there are willing to do the same. Sincerely, Angie (the white witch)
Laurie says
I love your posts about upgrades to the house. Laundry one was great, the ones about your sunroom transformation was fabulous. I also loved the ones about the show house and have used several things from that in my own house. Don’t listen to the neg comments. Either they have too much time on their hands or they are jealous! Come back soon. I’ll miss my Saturday mornings reading your posts for the week.
Cheryl says
Hi!
I can’t believe how many people say this is their favorite blog! Take that to heart! You are still the best of the best–the top of your game. Don’t get things out of perspective. You guys are awesome and inspiring, and you give us older folks a reason to believe in the younger generation. Whoever created the sabbatical knew what they were talking about, so take your well deserved rest and seek out your future. Those kids are a full-time job, too. Don’t feel bad about being frugal or taking time for your kids–dare to keep your priorities straight. Miss you!
Kelly says
I would LOVE for your next endeavor to be a DIY tv show (available via Netflix since I don’t have cable)! Hopefully you can find some normalcy in a new routine of rest and relaxation and rid yourselves of exhaustion and stress that I’m sure came with everything you have been juggling. All the best in whatever direction you decide to take!
Steph F. says
You guys have had to make some pretty tough decisions lately and I can’t imagine how you must be feeling. Personally I’m feeling a little bit like my first love just broke up with me. I’ve been processing this for a few days now, and it seems so silly. I mean, it’s just a blog right? But at the same time it isn’t. It’s been a journey. I’ve been reading your blog since its inception. My husband and I are around the same age and purchased our first house (also a fixer upper) around the same time you guys did. I learned so much from you two. I can’t tell you how many times I returned to your site muttering “How did Sherry make that light fixture again?” or reassuring my husband with a “Don’t worry honey, I’ve seen John do this before!” But the most important thing I learned from you guys can’t be found in a post. You made me realize that a house isn’t just a building; it is a living, breathing organism. Its lungs inflate with memories and laughter runs through its veins. There is nothing more satisfying than taking a tired, old house on its last legs and giving it new life. It’s what we do. It’s what you do. I understand your need for a break, I do. I just hope you know that there are those of us who miss you, not just showing up in our inboxes every day, but being a part of our lives. Best wishes.
Jess says
Enjoy the break. You deserve it. Great decision. And congratulations on being brave enough to ask for, take & use feedback.
Will miss the posts & hope you are recharged & back soon. If not, good luck in whichever path you choose to follow.
Thanks for all your great posts.
Lindsay says
Hope that things go well for you and your family! I will miss reading your house updates, but it’s really inspirational to hear that you are taking the time to put your priorities somewhere more important to you.