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…
Savannah says
What a bittersweet post! I’m thrilled for you and your sweet family. Long time reader with no plans to stop! Thanks for sharing your lives with us.
Regina says
First let me say congratulations to your beautiful growing family! I’ve been a reader for almost a year now and you both are very inspirational and role models to me. I graduated in 2010 with a Bachelors degree in Interior Design and work as a Designer in Pittsburgh, my Fiancé has been doing construction/ building houses (family business) all of his life. The way you and John collaborate as a team and your passion for design reminds me so much of my fiancé and me. We love doing projects together and helping our family with their home projects. To say I enjoy reading your posts would be an understatement! However, as much as I love your blog I am very happy to read that you will be focusing on your beautiful family. Its refreshing (and very respectable) to read that you’re content with your life and not interested in chasing a silly business goal that you never wanted. Regardless of how often you post as long as there is a Young House Love I will always be a loyal reader :) Thank you for sharing your projects, family and life for all of us to read! I look forward to seeing what the future holds for your family.
All my best,
Regina
Erin Ohio says
Good for you – work to live not live to work! I always wondered how you did it in the first place, especially with the side projects like the House, books etc. Many people also think it gets easier when the kids get into school but between lunches, outfits, homework ans sports it’s a full time job in itself! Enjoy this time and your kids….and you have the advantage of being able to work more when you want to as opposed to having to. Congratulations!!!!
Rebecca says
If only I lived closer, and for real knew you guys so this wouldn’t be creepy, but I’d babysit fo’ free yo! ;) Part of me wants to scream, “Don’t leave me!” But it’s so nice to read this and see all of the positive feedback! Our world needs more family time, less screen time. More personal interaction and less go-go-go. More priorities and less responsibilities. When I first started reading, I loved the less posting because waiting is sometimes more fun! And the posts always feel beefier because it’s like there’s more to share, even if it’s shorter.
Forever will love your family…so please don’t ever leave us, even if it’s a once a year Christmas letter kinda thing, okay??? haha
And I’m always game for more Clara+Teddy pics, please! ;)
ChristieD says
This is the most amazing post I have read on your site, hands down. I can’t help but feel proud of you both for taking the leap backwards – it’s something that I think so many of us dream of doing. Congrats on the beautiful addition to your family and many wishes for a continued amazing journey!
Sherri says
I just read Somer’s message from above, and may God bless them in their future and comfort them in their sadness. May God continue to bless you and your precious family in all that do. You guys are special, and your blogging family adores you. So we will miss all of your attention!! But, we are thrilled for your success and certainly understand your priorities. You can pursue design and get paid for it!, partner with other companies like Target and be creative, and explore countless other opportunities that come your way. Go for it, and take the time to enjoy those beautiful kids of yours and each other. Wishing you all the best from the bottom of my heart.
Sarah says
Good for you for making a decision that’s best for your family. We just had our third, and there’s nothing like a newborn to focus your priorities. Enjoy your kids and each other. Thanks for sharing your blog with us. I look forward to your posts – house-related and otherwise. Some of my favorites have been the more personal ones.
chelseyadele says
Just want to say I enjoy each and every post and have for several years but I am so happy with the decision you guys have made. You did what is best for your family and that is nothing short of amazing in todays world. I’ll stay as a loyal reader and wish you guys all the luck in world :)
Kathron Griffin says
You are wise beyond your years! Your children will be children for such a short time, and you have made a life choice that will enrich your lives and your children’s lives in ways you cannot yet realize. I applaud your decision, and your fans will understand. I, for one, will be even more appreciative of your posts, whenever they appear!
Rebecca says
Hooray 4 u guys from a fellow Richmonder… I love your site and will continue to follow all the time!
iris says
So totally amazing how you guys do life….congratulations on putting family first. Wish alot more people took the time to raise their little ones. Your little people will be amazing adults one day. I will always check by everyday to see you, Clara, Teddy, and Burger too! God Bless!
Brianne says
You both are amazing and it is a great time to just enjoy life! I have two little ones as well and have realized that my time with them is my most favorite and worthwhile time. I think you have made a great decision!
Margaret says
I don’t know why I feel like congratulating you guys on this decision, but I will anyway. Good for you for analyzing what you truly want and making the (sometimes scary!) leap to get there. This is one reader you definitely won’t be losing! Now go enjoy some of that newfound — and well-earned — freedom…
Emily says
I’m happy for your family. This is a decision that you will never regret and I know that you know that. This decision is how you know that you two are good parents.
I’m also a little happy that you won’t be introducing me to as many new projects that always seem to somehow end up on my own house to-do list. Maybe, just maybe, with your slower pace, I can keep up! :)
erin says
good for you! LIVE!
Jenny says
Wonderful decision! I’m not going anywhere though! :) Family is always first! And these photos – FAN-FREAKING-TASTIC! I’m jealous of the one of Sherry and her babes in bed. My son was so freaked out of me when I was in the hospital, I guess the IV and everything else I was hooked up to scared him. I had this vision of him hugging me and he was scared! LOVE you guys, your honesty and your lease on life! :)
JoDi says
Yay to EVERYTHING in this post! You will NEVER regret working less and spending more time with your family and friends. I made the same decision about the whole work/life balance when my son was little. Our son is grown now, and I have never regretted choosing work that allowed me to be on a school schedule and home with him on days off, school breaks, etc.
I am also looking forward to seeing all the family stuff posted here again. I missed a lot when you started YHLife and recently started subscribing to those posts via email. I hated missing things because I would forget to click over and check there.
I wish you all the best as you find the right balance for your family! I’ll be here reading along every day!
Marissa says
Enjoy the babies-take some time and distance to rebrand and think about your goals. You have a foundation that will last. I’ll be checking in a few times a week as always!
jessica says
Do it! Way to go. I’m sometimes exhausted trying to not miss anything here on your blog. (because I love your projects and family pics so much). I think this is a spectacular change!
Emily Clark says
I’m so happy for you guys. I’m sure the hardest part was just putting it out there, but I know it’ll be a decision you’ll never regret. Plus, once one has achieved his/her own line of products at Target, I would say that’s pretty much achieving superstar status :)
Jeanie says
This post made me cry. You guys are even more wise than I thought, and I admired you before….even more now.
I still am home with my 9-year-old son because I want to be the one who picks him up from school, to be there in those vital hours after school…to not be so tired from working a conventional job that is not as important to me as my son that I have the energy to be the best mom I can be.
I can see you painting portraits of your children while they play…your creative gifts span many areas, maybe ones you’re not even aware of yet.
When our son was born, it was the happiest days of my life. I can relate to your basking in your family “love bubble” with your newborn. There is nothing that can compare to the peace, contentment and love you feel when you experience your purpose in life…to love…to hold and savor and nurture your children.
Thank you to you and your family for contributing good things to this world through your blog and wise words!
Tiffany says
I’ve been reading your blog for four years, I actually fell in love with DIY and design because of YOU! I’m even going back to school to get my design degree. So, thank you! We’ll always be grateful for any amount of posting a week, so take a break, enjoy your kids, enjoy your life. We’ll be happy to read about it all! <3
Tamara (Provident Home Design) says
What a wise and admirable decision! Great job listening to your hearts (lol, sounds like a cheesy 80’s song)! I have a new blog (only 3 months old) and I have already had to scale back on the time I put into it. Blogs can seriously take up every minute of the day I you let! I had no idea!
TRICIA says
to be honest with you, i always wondered if you guys ever got to sleep!!! lol i get tired just thinking of all the work you have to do to keep up with this blog!
the projects and work and your real followers will always be there!! your babies will only be young once!! i quit my job to stay home with my babies and it was the best decision ever!! it is so important to be there for your kids during the formidable years!! i will say that i’m a little sad. i talk about you guys like you’re my friends!! haha we’ve been through so much together! :)
i’ll be waiting with baited breath for the posts that you guys do put out!! be well and cuddle lots with those babies!!
Sheralyn says
GOOD FOR YOU!
GOOD TO HEAR!
Just want to be one of hopefully many readers to affirm your decision to do what you need to do to enjoy your family :)
Much love to you five!
Kasey M. says
You’re family really is an inspiration. In a world where we’re often so focused on business, on doing more, and on comparing ourselves to others it’s so refreshing to see you publicly post about your desire to do what is best for your family and scale back. By committing to these changes (and sharing that with your readers) you’re giving a whole lot of readers a role model for a much healthier way of life. I’m sure at least some of us will use your example to give ourselves permission to do the same. That’s really something to be proud of!
Nancy says
Totally and completely in your corner. Love your blog and will continue to love it for as long as it’s here to love! Congratulations on your precious little Teddy and your recent decision. I’d still like to have Clara as my daughter-in-law someday so I hope you don’t ever drop completely off the map! ;) Take care of you and thanks for your awesome blog!
Jen says
Congrats, and great choice. A year ago I chose to quit my job and stay home with my baby and I haven’t regretted it for a second. They are only this little, and you are only so needed, this one time in your life! Enjoy it. I’ve been here for years and I’m not going anywhere. If anything, I’m looking forward to more family stuff as some of my favorite things were your more family related posts. We even did a photo project with our daughter inspired by the one you did with your daughter. Enjoy your itty bitty newborn, as you know, time flies.
Trude says
I think it’s great that you guys are constantly evaluating what’s important and what you really love. It’s something so many people forget about until they burn out. I’m glad we can still follow your adventures! Hugs!
Susan says
Amen!! God Bless You All!! Oh, and I’m not going anywhere :)
Chelsey says
I could go on and on about how amazing, and well-deserved, this post is. But I hope a simple ‘thank you’ is enough. You are all so wonderful and do an amazing job.
Jillian L says
You have my support all the way. So happy to hear you are doing what’s in the best interest for all of you. Go Petersiks! We’ll still be here cheering you on & loving the DIY adventures :)
Kristen says
Clara and Teddy are so so lucky to have you as parents. They’re obviously too young to remember “that one time that mom and dad cut their work hours back”, but they will always have memories of a childhood spent with parents who had their priorities in line. There is no better gift to give your children. Enjoy all this precious time with your sweet babies…so happy for you guys!
Kelley Kay says
You’re doing the right thing! Time goes by so quickly and little ones grow so fast – you will never for one minute regret every single minute you spend with them…only the minutes you didn’t. So enjoy this time in your lives and feel so blessed you have those sweet things to take care of. I’m very happy for you both that you have the opportunity and are willing to do what it takes to be more apart of your own life. Such decisions aren’t always easy. Just know that I for one will stay tuned – I love this blog! Even if it’s less :)
Kim says
Congratulations on your new addition + kudos on making the best call for your family. Always look forward to your posts – whatever + whenever they come; this reader isn’t going anywhere. :)
Sarah Westphal says
FINALLY! Amen. THANK YOU! So happy to hear this news:-)
I thought (hoped) you were going to do this YEARS(!)ago.
However, if it took a sweet little man to be birthed for this to happen–much the better.
Congrats and welcome to working at a reasonable pace where HAVING a young house LIFE is possible:-)
Why bother working from home if you aren’t allowing yourselves the benefits? You are hard bosses, glad you are lightening up. (I work part-time for myself at home with 4 kids (4 and under) and after having our second, I realized I was WAY too hard on myself and was missing the point of being home–you know–to be with the kids!
Keep up the great work!
Sarah
Ann says
I’m one of your older (age 58) readers. I just want to say how proud I am of you two! You have your priorities in the right order & know that family is the most important. You continue to be trend setters and I hope that because of your wide audience people will take note of this step you are taking & that it will have the positive impact it certainly deserves. Thank you for your site and I’ll look forward to your coming posts. With love!
cas says
but just mayyyyyybe you could plllleasseeeeee do one more young life post…. so if i forget and click the link i dont get Kevins brother from Home Alone looking all creepishly at me…
unless thats the high note you want to leave that page with hahaha
YoungHouseLove says
Hahaha! Watch out for Broze…
xo
s
Sally G says
I think Broze is pretty much the best possible note YHLife could be left on!
Christine says
Good for you! I applaud your decision! When I had my daughter a little over two years ago, and I brought her in for her very first pediatric appointment at two weeks old, I remember the doctor (a woman) saying, “Enjoy her. Really. ENJOY HER!” I loved that advice. It is easy to get wrapped up in so much silly stuff (not to mention the hormonal crap that you have to deal with postpartum), that time just flies by. So I think you guys are making a very wise move. ENJOY Teddy, and your new family of five.
Robyn in Chicago says
You guys are the best. I am swallowing tears after reading this. I love how you guys just roll with things and make the best decisions for you as you need to.
Love Love Love to you all. Enjoy your family time w/ that new sweetie! I will never be tuning you guys out – you’re my fave!
Lots of love from Chicago~
Michelle says
I’m so glad you are focusing on what makes you happy! I hope you consider farming out some of the tasks that aren’t your favorite. Even if you can’t afford to hire employees, I bet you could easily get unpaid interns to help with proofing, comments, programming, photography, etc!
Plus I actually would love more shorter posts about things like what trends you are digging, quick updates, design inspirations, etc. We all love your ideas and thoughts, and that might be easier than having to work on projects.
Dayna says
Teddy and Clara are two very beautiful and very blessed children – they are so fortunate to have you two as parents! You guys have always amazed me at how much you accomplish, you are the best team together, and it makes me happy cry to see you put your babies and each other first. It is really hard to step back when you have so many “opportunities” in front of you, but really those things can wait while you are focused on your babies during this most influential time in their life. And who knows what the future holds? In 10 years, Clara may be approving comments for you after school :) Now you’ve got me considering if I should step down to work part time while my babies (ages 1 and 3) are still little!
artsygirl says
As a fellow Richmond-er and new parent, who left a big city for similar reasons… when I first started reading your blog, I was drawn to another young couple balancing the same things we were: family, jobs, a new/old house (renovating a 100 year old house), and “life,” and taking it one small step at a time. No reason not to go back to what compelled so many of us to read your posts in the first place. Balance is what all of us strive for… plus, it will inspire us fellow readers/DIY addicts to believe that we might just be able to keep pace with you two again. ;)
sue says
I don’t know how I started learning about YHL. But I remembered that one post of you guys coming back from the hospital with Clara and introduce Burger to her. Then i lost contact with the site for a few years and fall in love with you guys again in 2012. So, as we welcome lil Teddy to the Petersik fam, and with your decision to draw back a bit, just know that I SUPPORT & RESPECT THAT DECISION. PLEASE HAVE FUN WITH YOUR ADORB CHILDRENS :). Love always and forevaaah
P.s.: I just google your site for staining wood tips this morning(my-side-of-the-earth m’ning). Pity the hardware store didn’t have a water based wood stain
Becky says
When I was in my late 40’s, I realized that all I did was work. I missed some of my kids’ growing up because of it. I love this motto: Work to live, not live to work. You go, Sherry and John!
Jessica says
Amen! While I was initially saddened (ok, maybe a little distraught) that I wasn’t going to get my YHL fix every morning at 10:00, everything you are making excellent decisions! I love the part about chasing a goal you don’t even want. I often find myself working for things because I feel like I should want them, or because other people want them, or I WANT to want them. What an awesome stance to take in today’s society of bigger and better!
Way to be!
Jessica says
I don’t think anyone would mind if you took time away from comments :) Y’all are the most faithful comment-responders of any blog… you could easily cut your responses by 1/4 and still be involved! Not to mention you have the patience of a 3k teacher, answering the same questions over and over and over. In fact, this very comment might have been made already and I didn’t go through 40 pages to look for it!
My “Welcome Home Teddy” gift to you is… no response to this comment needed :)
misapb says
I’m nearing the end of a professional training program and in the midst of a job hunt. I included Richmond on my list of of locations. My sweetheart asked why Richmond and I replied “My friends John and Sherry live there.” I did not elaborate that our ‘friendship’ is really just me stalking you and your family on the internet.
Anyway, as your friend I’ve been worried a bit about your workload. I’m glad to hear you’re cutting back a bit. Thank you for being a professional and personal inspiration to us all.
Lauren says
This post makes me respect you all even more than I already did!! :)
alisha says
I think your decision is noble. You are putting your family first & that should be your #1 goal. I have given up a lot to be a sahm, but wouldn’t change anything. Congrats on baby Teddy! You’ll always have a reader in me. Now go take a nap! :)