Making room for the things that matter

A few of my favorite things

Dear friends,

I am so humbled that many of you have continued to come here to read my posts over the past few months, likely wondering when and if I would ever blog again. Your kind comments and concerned e-mails have brightened my days and encouraged me to find a way to return. Today, I'm here to say that yes, I am ready to give this blog another go now that I've had some time to rethink my focus and to gain new energy.

A new reading nook since there’s always time for books in our home

Since I last wrote, I've spent much time pondering over what is truly important in my life. With the start of a new year, I found myself at a crossroads, questioning whether I was on the right path toward achieving my personal and professional goals. I finally faced up to the difficult reality that an overflow of clutter at home and in my life was slowing me down. I scrutinized everything, including my beloved thrifting and blogging. I found that thrifting, as rewarding and enjoyable as it is for me, was creating more work for me in the long run since I was spending an inordinate amount of time cleaning, repairing or repurposing items I was buying.

Taking stock of what’s important meant taking a look at the big picture ...

And blogging? I wrestled hard with myself over this one. As many bloggers know, blogging is time-consuming work. I am a professional writer and, frankly, I'm used to getting paid for my writing. My knee-jerk reaction was to eliminate my blog altogether, preferably with a proper good-bye note. But, friends, I could not do that. I love blogging too much, especially all the connections I've made with so many of you all over the world. I finally came to the realization that my blog is rewarding to me in ways that go beyond dollars and cents. Aren't these always the best things in life?

... to be able to make small changes and go from this:

to this:

though a few things stayed the same

Over the past few months, I've made many changes in my home and in my life, mostly small ones, that I will write about in the weeks to come. Added up, these changes have created room for the things that truly matter. The simple and not-so-simple: An impromptu baking session with my kids. Thrifting, less frequently but far more focused. Writing that feeds my family and my soul.

With my priorities (and home) in order, I hope to avoid rushing through the important things in life.

Thank you for helping me along in my journey. I'll be by soon to visit all my blog friends. It feels good to be back.

Hugs,