Life has been busier than ever for us – and there’s nothing like having a baby to confirm your true priorities. We’ve been doing a lot of thinking lately: what exactly are our goals? What are we working towards? Hoping to gain? The answer, we realized, was definitely not more blog hits or traffic or approval. Honestly we both feel unsettled by the idea of our blog growing any larger, and we look fondly back on the earlier days when we worked less, slept more, and spent more quality time with our family and friends. This little website of ours has already surpassed every expectation we ever could have had for it. So what are we chasing?
When Clara was born we were both blogging full time, but we had about a third of the traffic that we have now and we usually shared around one project a week amidst other home-related chitchat, family happenings, polls, reader makeovers, etc. It was one of the best times of our lives. We did less and had less, and we were completely comfortable. So in light of everything on our plates, this new baby boy, and a girl who’s growing up entirely too fast (cue the Armageddon music), we’ve decided to paddle back towards that.
We know this choice may directly correlate to fewer hits and therefore less income – and we’re ok with that. Sure, it’s a little scary not knowing where we’ll be in a few months or years (but we’ve never known that as professional bloggers anyway). We’ve made “risky” career choices before in the name of life quality – like leaving the NYC rat race and giving up steady salaries for blogging – but they’ve also been some of our best decisions.
Just like we did when we made those leaps, we’ve saved enough to help us sleep at night. We’ve also both left the door open in our previous professions, so even if this choice means we’ll eventually be taking on freelance advertising work again (which I did to make a living before we started this blog, and which John has dabbled with over the last few years) it’s a risk we’re willing to take in the name of bringing some balance back into our lives.
The good news is that our love of home improvement and blogging is burned deep into our hearts, and our to-do list is still a mile long. We have no plans to stop blogging anytime soon. We’ll still be posting our projects, planning, shopping, and other usual fare here regularly. But things will be noticeably different as we recalibrate our priorities (we think we’ll end up in the 3-5 posts per week range).
We’ll also be going back to sharing all of our family posts on Young House Love (sorry Young House Life). We’ve always had family stuff here – in fact some of our favorite (and most popular) posts are the personal ones about things like breastfeeding, Clara’s birth story, her photo project, this ridiculousness, and random facts about me and John. Between those types of posts always existing on our main site, and Instagram taking the place of the smaller family updates, Young House Life has felt less necessary lately, so we won’t be posting over there anymore.
We know some people will be relieved by this change of pace (many of you have encouraged us to slow down) or excited about the new looser style of posting, while others might decide to tune out – and we’re ok with that too.
We feel extremely fortunate to have the opportunity to make this choice. It’s not a decision that we’ve made lightly, and we realized that if we don’t seize it now, we may never have the chance to again. Teddy is our last baby and Clara is just a year away from kindergarten (how did that happen?!), so we want to enjoy this time with them instead of working our nights, weekends, and vacations away chasing some business goal we don’t even want.
We have no idea what the future holds, but even if the internet exploded tomorrow, we’re already so grateful for this amazing and completely unexpected journey of ours. This blog has surprised us in the most major of ways, and has led to some unbelievable experiences and opportunities, many of which we can’t quite wrap our minds around.
We still have big dreams for this house of ours and can’t wait to share how it evolves with you guys. But if you’ll excuse us, I have an almost impossibly tiny diaper to change and John’s off to buy some lumber again…
Cyan B says
Good for you guys! Family should always come first. We have to work to keep everyone clothed and fed, and I know you guys love what you do. But the work has to come second to what’s most important. I respect that. And I will keep reading as long as you are blogging. Enjoy your time with those babies before they grow up. :-)
Lauren says
Good for you guys! You have to make decisions that are best for your family!
Mamaw says
First of all, I must say that Teddy is absolutely precious! Love the pictures you have shared. Secondly, I am so glad you and your family have made the decision to cut back on your blogging. You should give your time to your children, like you say, how did Clara get to be a year away from Kindergarden? Definitely enjoy this time. They’re only young once and for a very short time. I feel like a proud grandmother every time I see pictures and updates on the family. I will miss your posts on the house, but will check in to see how the family is doing and what they are doing to celebrate life. Go for it! Love y’all!
Raegen says
You’ll never regret slowing down and putting family first. As a “business owner” it’s hard to find balance but totally worth it when you play house one day with your kiddos and the next they ride the big yellow bus to school. :)
You make great life choices! Congrats!
Kimberly says
Congrats on your decision! How exciting for you that you will get to spend even more time with your family! I look forward to continuing to read your blog and see how your family grows and your house evolves.
Rachelle says
Hah! You guys can’t get rid of us that easily :) I was so worried you guys would say you’re quitting for good but relieved to hear that’s not the case. Enjoy your family and this unique time in your lives, in a world where many many people are working so hard to get ahead etc etc. you guys are a breath of fresh air.
Besides I can’t imagine my 10 am without Young House Love!
Sara says
Such an eloquently worded post on a difficult thing to find: balance in one’s life. I applaud your honesty and frank understanding of what you all need, and I couldn’t be happier for you.
Also hoping book #2 helps the income, too – I absolutely devoured your first book and can’t wait for the second!
xoxo, Sara
Gilly says
Proud of you guys. Way to use your platform to be leaders, and examples to parents and families everywhere. Blessings on your home and so much LOVE to you all.
Mel says
I’m so happy for you guys. I think this will be even better! Here to cheer you on!
Laura says
Having a priorities, and walking the talk. Good for you! You’ll never get these early days back–that’s scarier than any professional uncertainty. Enjoy every moment (even the whiny, driving you bananas ones). Thanks for taking us along on your adventures, both home and family.
Trying to do TOO MUCH, means nothing is done well. A friend of mine was wrapping up her master’s degree when her baby was born. Her new little guy spent so much time in that carrier seat by her desk that his head was misshapen (flattened in the back) and required a special helmet.
BTW–and I’m not ‘encouraging’ this by any means, because I’ll miss y’all terribly, but many people take ‘Family Leave’/maternity leave for several months (moms AND dads)…
Peggy says
Hooray for you guys! Your pace lately had to feel dizzy-ing. So glad you are doing this for your family! But I will definitely keep reading!
Jennifer says
Best decision you will ever make. Supporting you 110% !!
Chyenne says
I’ve been a reader for more than five years, and will continue to be a reader until you stop writing! Enjoy the extra time you will have with your littles now. Soak it in. Lots of happy vibes your way!
K says
This is great to hear! I am also self-employed and think one of the biggest benefits is being able to scale work up and down around family commitments.
Herta says
Well done and well expressed, too many of us walk through life and forget to ask those important questions; ‘what do we want’ and how do we best achieve it?’ Family, relationships and ‘living’ a full and present life are it! Enjoy your lovely children and the extra time to create more happy memories (extra blog hits and money can’t buy these).
Warmest wishes to you both, big sister Clara and Teddy
Kara says
John and Sherry, I am so pleased with your decision and thought process. Given the insane popularity and wide-readership of this blog, I believe that your family has the ability to inspire, challenge, and influence a global community in a powerful way. With this new decision and direction, you are reminding us all of the importance of family, relationships, and rest. Thank you for being brave enough to live this example in a world gone busy with competition, consumption, and advancement. I truly respect your values and lifestyles. Blessings!
Michelle says
Amen to all of your choices! Your charm and zest for life is what keeps me coming back, so unless you choose to become someone else(how do you pluralize that?), I’m hanging on for the duration. Congrats on your new family member, he is a lucky boy. xo
Melanie says
How can I be so proud of two people that are complete strangers to me?(Well, more like, I am a complete stranger to you.)This is wonderful and absolutely as it should be. I have four kids and it has gone by in a flash. My oldest is graduating in May and the rest will follow soon enough. We made a similar life change a couple years ago(with a large cut in pay) and we are so very glad we did. The time spent together has been priceless.
Kaki says
Amen! You only have this one life, and boy does it pass by quickly. Enjoy every moment! :)
Jacki @ Two Forks One Love says
Chase your dreams, you guys. No matter what that means for you. I’ll be sad I won’t have your morning post to look forward to every day, but I’ll get over it (tear).
Have you ever considered opening up your blog to guest bloggers? It might be cool to one or two other DIY, home re-doers share their progress and tips and tricks with your audience. You know, just in case we can’t live without our daily dose of John and Sherry :-)
YoungHouseLove says
We have thought about that, although we’re not sure how it feels. It’s really fun to learn from experts on certain subjects, but maybe in more of an interview setup so it’s not us just passing the mic to someone else – and maybe just once in a while. Will have to think about it…
xo
s
buhdoop says
It might be nice to read about “living with kids” interview style posts about how people manage to decorate around having kids in the house. I always love reading Motherhood Monday posts from A Cup Of Joe, so something similar at this site would be really interesting (for me at least). :)
YoungHouseLove says
That’s a fun idea!
xo
s
Andrea says
Hooray for having the courage to define what “success” means to you. Thanks for today’s post. I think we all need a reminder that it’s not a race, it’s life. Sometimes you need to pick your head up and really make sure you know what you’re running toward. <3
Jaclyn says
Have no fear, your readers will always be here! Like a few others, I’ve been following along since (almost) the very beginning.
Your honesty, transparency and HUMOR are what keeps me coming back. I’m mainly here for the home improvement and I don’t have kids but I’d be lying if I said I didn’t love keeping up with your evolving family, too. Even my husband asks if there are any new Conversations with Clara once in a while!
Over the years my daily blog list has dwindled but YHL is ALWAYS the first one I check every single morning. You are pioneers in the blogosphere and you’re still doing it RIGHT which is rare these days. You’ve managed to maintain your integrity while growing a successful blog business while MOST other bloggers are blatantly in it for the money and free swag.
All this is to say, you could post once a year and I guarantee you, your readers would be planning YHL New Post Parties months in advance like they do the Oscars or the Grammy’s. We will always be here.
Now I want Oreo’s…..
Danielle says
I can’t believe I’m tearing up while reading this post! I can’t believe I’m about to say this to total strangers on the internet, either, but here it goes: I just love you guys and am so happy for you! I love to read your blog because you guys inspire me to be better and do better with my own life. I love your decision (not that it matters one iota how I feel about it!) and I think it will make checking in with you guys 3-5 times a week that much sweeter much the same way eating my only occasional PLATE FULL of piping hot french fries makes them all that more tasty! :) Blessings to your and your family!
Jayme says
Congrats! Teddy makes my ovaries explode. Sorry, that’s creepy. Also, I have always enjoyed your family posts the best. Cheers!
Katie says
Good for you guys!
PS – the bottom picture of Clara looking on at John and Teddy is THE most adorable thing I have ever seen. I am teary-eyed just thinking about how much love one has for his/her younger sibling (me being the older one myself)! Enjoy this beautiful time as a family of four, Petersiks!
Tamrah says
I’m so glad for you! My husband and I are both small business owners and it all can take over your life. We have had many conversations about our priorities and I feel like we are finally feeling a balance in our lives. It’s a good move and good for you for thinking about this before your kids are older! Our kiddos are 8,6, and 4 and I feel grateful to be discovering the art of balance now. Wish we had learned earlier, but better now than never!
Clare says
Wonderful!!! Enjoy this time and know that your fans will love you no matter what. So proud and happy for you. Teddy is just beautiful (as is Clara) and they are what matter as you well know. xoxo
Megan says
Congrats on your decision! A new baby changes everything, and I think you are really smart to streamline things as much as possible. And I have to say, 3-5 posts per week does not seem like cutting back all that much??? I would say 3 posts, max! As much as the blog has been the little engine that started it all… there is NOTHING wrong with focusing on side projects that continue to challenge you, allow for more family time and perhaps even garner greater income. Opportunities are fleeting, and my guess is you have more going on beyond the blog than anyone realizes. Your brand will always be a success because you keep your priorities in order. Don’t ever change! :-)
Maria says
Hey guys,
I’m a long-time (though sporadic) blog reader and I think your plan is right on! It’s wise of you to be making space for yourselves in your own lives. I recently did a similar thing myself and I’m happy with my decision.
Honestly I used to read your blog more often in the earlier days when the content/post frequency was (in my eyes) more laid back, so I actually look forward to the change.
Enjoy this special time with your family!
All the best,
Maria
Jordan says
So so SO excited for you two! Life is so beautiful, isn’t it? We’re here to enjoy, savor and absorb every minute of it, while hopefully adding to the beauty ourselves. Don’t get me wrong, your DIY projects add some nice eye candy to my screen, but your two babies will be your most evident product of beauty you will to add to this world. Love you guys for being who you are! Shine on!
Tina says
Yes! Totally understand and support that. And leaving the reader to comment and say I LOVE those photos of Clara with Teddy. The one with the joy on her face–priceless! :)
Ana from Portugal says
You guys make proud beyond measure!
Sure I’m going to miss everyday posts, but if I had my way you would do a morning, an afetrnoo and a night post!
So, kudos to you, for being able to prioritize and decide what works best for you and your familiy, regardless what the “interwold” might think!
Congrats on TeddyBear! I wish him all the luck, health and love in the world. He’s the 4th gorgeous person in the family, which is almost annoyingly beautiful! Burger included!
Love from Portugal!
Evelina says
Yes! I always looooved your life posts. And I look forward to them even more now that Teddy is here! I think you guys totally are making the right decision to do what’s best for you and your family. Time flies by so fast. You were so busy with the showhome, Target line, blog, and all the other job stuff. Not to mention updating your own home! I promise to continue reading and checking in daily! And I agree. Oreos are the bomb. Esp the vanilla ones with extra stuff. Mmmmmmmmm.
elaine - Visual Meringue says
Great decision guys. We will all still be here following along when you have time to post. Enjoy every little snuggle :)
shelly hendriks says
Good for you guys!! Family really is the most important thing. Thank you for sharing and I will be checking in everyday no matter how many posts you do. Congratulations again on Teddy, he’s gorgeous and Clara’s face in all the pictures are priceless!!! :)
sally mae says
Thank you so much for this post. I have a little two year old at home and a BUSY job as a teacher and it’s just too busy. I’ve decided to resign and take time off until my child (and if I’m lucky to have more), children are older. It’s just going too fast and I can barely keep my head on straight. It is so nice to hear other families doing the same when our culture (and the internet!) is so opposite of that right now. I’ll definitely still be reading. :)
Marie says
Good for you guys! I worried about you during your crazy busy time over the last few months – I don’t know you did it! I hope you rest a little and get back to a good pace for your family! It’s a great example to set for the rest of us who admire you so much. :-)
sarina says
I honestly don’t blame y’all a bit! I always wondered how the heck you guys did everything you did. The hospital makeover.. the show house.. on TOP of having a baby and a business.. oh and the Target deal.. and so on and so on.
There IS something to be said for taking time to smell the roses. You have built a brand and a blog that are super popular and relatable to so many people. You should enjoy the accomplishments.. without sacrificing your family’s sanity!
Carrie says
Though I will of course miss your daily posts, I’m happy for your family and completely understand the need to enjoy your babies while they’re still babies. I love your blog and am so happy I stumbled upon it a few years ago. Enjoy those beautiful babies!!
Meghan says
Good for you! What amazing role models you are for young adults and parents :)
Bekah says
Good for you guys. :) I wanted to “Like” this, but then realized it’s not Facebook. Ha.
Janna says
Love love love this!!!!!!! Congrats on new life and wonderful life decisions!
Coco says
Congrats! So excited for y’all! Y’all are going to be great! :)
Sharon says
Excellent decision! You will never get the time back with your family so grab it while you can.
Amber says
You can never get these years back with the little ones. I am only 4 month pregnant (with my 4th) and your posts about your house and the show house makes me tired just reading them. I just kept thinking, how can she be on her feet all the hours of the day? I’m so happy you had a drama free delivery. I just started reading as you moved into your current home. Your energy levels amaze me. Enjoy and savor these quieter times.
Amy B. says
First, congrats on Teddy! He’s darling. Second, hurrah for putting family first. I’m a huge proponent of that – they are only this little once. My guy goes to Kinder in the fall and I can’t believe how quickly 5 years has passed. I still think this blog is a smashing success and will be for as long as you want it to be.
I have a question – does it make sense to hire an assistant? Rather than step back from daily blogging, could a PT person help do some of the backlog of blogs posts, etc while keeping your income and traffic levels steady? It might be an alternative approach to less posts, less income vs. same posts, pay someone.
Just a thought! (I, for one, totally support your intentions to focus on your family!)
YoungHouseLove says
We thought about that but it didn’t feel like managing someone else would make anything simpler (it would be one more hat to wear/job to tend to) so in the end we thought this route made the most sense for our family.
xo
s
Laura says
I’m usually a lurker on YHL – and have been a fan for a loooong time – and never post, but had to say that I think this is a beautiful post and v v refreshing. Congrats to you all and you and your family will be much much richer for the changes you will make…
Marissa C says
Bravo
Carrie says
Good for you for making the best choice for your family. I’m sure it’ll be so worth spending more time with each other and your beautiful kids. I will still be a devoted reader! :)
Vanessa says
Yes! Fantastic decision. We support you 110%. Good Luck and yeah for putting family first!