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Sunday, May 15, 2011

WITH TEARS IN MY EYES

For a long while, I have felt like I have run out of things to share on a blog.

I am going to take a blog break.  I feel pretty sure that it won’t take long for me to come running back to post something on my blog (since I’m not known for being able to stay quiet for very long), so I’m not going to shut down BH&CWL.  I’m sure I will be visiting your blogs, because I love doing that, and I don’t want to lose contact with all of the wonderful friends I have “met” through my blog.

I do want to say that I have gained SO much from having a blog (other than just a bigger rear end!).  The wonderful people, who have consistently left comments on my blog, have been so supportive.  When I began blogging, I thought I’d email a few of my old friends from “Rate My Space” days and tell them about it, and maybe they would comment on my first blog post.  After that first post, I was sure I’d be the only person reading my blog.  I had no idea how many kind people there were in Blogville. 

This blog has enabled me to find such amazing friends and to laugh, cry, share, and learn with all of you.  I do not regret one minute of sitting in front of this computer for hours, while my rear end grew bigger and bigger, and….  I am sure I will continue spending a lot of hours in front of this computer, because I can’t miss seeing what all of you are creating and thinking (so I guess there is no hope for my rear end).

When I began blogging, I thought I would probably create a few posts just for fun, and then I’d be “over” the blogging thing.  That was 2 1/2 years ago!  Had it not been for the wonderful friends I was meeting through my blog, I probably wouldn’t have lasted a month at blogging.  I work full time, and I am so fortunate to be able to have my grandchildren around frequently.  I also try to cook meals for my sweetheart and myself, and I try to occasionally have a conversation with him.  When I began blogging, I told myself that I didn’t need any more responsibilities, and if blogging became a responsibility, I could just stop blogging.  Unfortunately, for the past few months, blogging has felt like a responsibility.  (I began feeling that I had nothing worth sharing~it’s really y’all’s fault, because you were sharing such wonderful things!  Some of you may be sighing with relief, because that is one less blog you have to visit and come up with something nice to say in a comment.) 

I cannot even begin to tell you how much your encouragement has meant to me.  I have laughed, cried, and learned with all of you, and it has been a life-changing journey for me. You have touched me in ways that I never thought that someone, whom I had never met face-to-face, could do.  I am a stronger, more creative, and more knowledgeable person because of each of you.

This is all going to sound very melodramatic if I come back next week and start posting again!  Just writing this post is bringing tears to my eyes.  You are the BEST, and I will miss your loving comments so much.

 Is there anyone who would like to host Favorite Things Saturday?  Please let me know, (bargainhunr@gmail.com) and I will add one more post to direct bloggers to link up at your blog. 

I’m already missing y’all!  With much love, laurie

70 comments:

ellen b. said...

Blessings on you dear Laurie!

Tricia said...

I hope it's a SHORT blog break, because I will definitely miss your posts! I love your "voice" -- maybe it's because I'm an Arkansas girl and it reminds me of home? Take care!

Lynne (lynnesgiftsfromtheheart) said...

Laurie, I certainly understand about needing breaks, mine come without giving notice. That's our life around here. You definetly will be missed. I'm sure you have an adventure of some sort planned, if nothing else to enjoy your beautiful home and family. You bring so much joy to so many of us here in blogland. Know we'll be waiting here for your quick return.
hugs ~lynne~

Four Paws and Co said...

Laurie,
My blogging inspiration well ran dry over a year ago, so I followed many of our blogging friends to Face Book. They became my friends and neighbors on the various games that I play. (Farming is my favorite type of game - who knew.)

I'm wishing you all the best to find new inspiration for those future posts. In the meantime, you may enjoy playing a game or two with an old friend. ☺

Hugs!
Diane
aka Four Paws and Co

Helen said...

Hello! I left a message for you on facebook ... but wanted to leave a comment here as well.

If I counted the times my well has run dry, I would lose count. When I take the summer off or travel to visit relatives ... it usually means I have run out of blog steam.

Hang in there my dear .... you still have plenty of steam in that engine!!!

Terra said...

Laurie, I hope you come back to blogging soon, like in a week or two, since I enjoy your blog.
Sometimes I lack an idea for a post, so I know what you mean. Yesterday I couldn't think of anything to post, so I posted about a favorite flower, lobelia.
Come back when you are inspired, friend.

Marty@A Stroll Thru Life said...

Laurie, love you so much and you have been so supportive of all of my efforts and taught me so much. Ok, so take a little break and then be back. I don't care if you post once a month, I just would love to know that you're here. Love you bunches dear friend. Hugs, Marty

Ginger said...

I can relate to you so much on taking a break. You always seem to have the neatest pictures and the best things to say on your blog, but when it becomes a chore, it's not fun anymore. Hopefully taking a break gives you time for your family and then you'll be back.
I feel like I know you, even though I've never met you. You are such a warm caring person.
Take care.

Glenda/MidSouth said...

You will be missed - but enjoy your break. I also, have thought about taking a break - will see.
What happened to temps in the 70's and sunshine?

lvroftiques said...

Girlfriend I can so relate! I don't know how the heck you've done it so beautifully for 2.5 yrs working a full time job!! I bow to you my friend!
I struggle just putting out a post once a week.
Having been the one who took a good long blog break, it really does help....and you WILL miss it! I hope very very soon *winks* But even if it does take you years as it did me, I'll be watching and waiting to read you again. You were the one that told me "if it becomes a burden and isn't fun anymore, take a break from it" AMEN sister friend! I'll sure miss you though! Vanna

Ceekay-THINKIN of HOME said...

do you see me pouting? You certainly are entitled to a break...but it makes me sad. I wait to see your vignettes and your shelves full of collections. I think you will be back....I mean girlfriend...memorial day and July the 4th is coming,.....surely you have decorations for that!!! Love ya

FABBY'S LIVING said...

Oh my goodness, sweetie, I hope it's not really for long! I am missing you already! You're right though, I often think: Oh wow, I think I've ran out of things, or china to tablescape, but sure enough I received a present from hubby that's made me run and make a post! Please don't stay long! Meanwhile, have a wonderful week!
Love you always.
FABBY

KBeau said...

Enjoy your break. Lately, I've not been posting very much on my own blog. I still like to post occasionally, but right now there are a lot of irons in the fire. Your blog will still be here when you are inspired again. Meanwhile, we'll miss you.

Scribbler said...

Laurie, we all get to this point. The first time, I shut down my blogs (I had two) and very dramatically announced that I was no longer blogging. (I did write a novel, as yet unpublished, during the break.) Then I started again, and I decided there would be "New Rules" as Bill Maher says. That would include only writing when I have something to say, or something to show. Also, I decided not to beat myself up over it. I have had exchanges with a number of bloggers on this very subject. Everyone has agreed that you really have to get some perspective, because blogs and Facebook can take over your life if you let it.

I hope you will find time to read GENEVA and let me know how you liked it.

See you when you get back!

Ellen

Courtney ~ French Country Cottage said...

Oh Laurie~ I hope it's not for too long!!! I understand but I am going to miss you!!! Hope you find the balance you need and look forward to seeing you around on here from time to time...Take care of yourself ~ big hugs from me to you!
Courtney

Debbie said...

Well, I want to cry too.
I just got back from being out of town and decided to try to catch up on blogs. This is first thing that I saw.

Since discovering it, this blog has been one of my "favorite things". I will very sincerly miss your posts and hope you come back when you've had a rest.

I do understand how you feel, though. Because of some changes in my life, I haven't felt like my blog self lately, either.

You'll be missed!

Cindy (Applestone Cottage) said...

NO.....I can't stand it! Laurie your posts are always some of my faves!
You are humerous and clever and creative too!
But I do understand, I know you have other things to do in life.
But really how will I manage?
Don't be a stranger too long....Ok? Now I have tears...
Big Hugs,
Cindy

Sarah said...

Laurie, I haven't even been blogging for two years and often feel the same way. So I understand the need to take a break or at least put blogging into perspective with life. You know I'll miss BH&CWL and will eagerly await such time as you decide to pop back with a post from time to time. And I will definitely keep up with you through email. You're not going to get away from me! LOL I'll miss your posts though. I so enjoy your photos and sense of humor. ~ Sarah

Debby@Just Breathe said...

There is nothing wrong with taking a break. I know exactly how you feel. I am feeling it too. Take care and God Bless.

Anonymous said...

Laurie,
Your blog is so wonderful and has been a blessing to so many. Some of my favorite things about it are your Christmas trees and decorations, your sweet comments, your Saturday Favorites.
Hope you're back soon! but not before it's right for you.

Judi said...

Hi Laurie *Hugs*
I totally can understand what you were writing and how you feel. I have been feeling the say way this weekend and like you just the thought makes me miss those people who I am so used to visiting and have visiting me...My posting has dwindled down to mostly a couple or 3 a week but I visit more often. Its more manageable I find.

I hope you keep well and enjoy and hopefully you won't take toooo long a break..*s*...and please be sure to let me know when you are back although I'll be checking..*s*.

Enjoy this lovely time of the year.
*hugs*
Judi

Kathleen said...

A break is good, but just a break! I don't know how people post everyday, why??
I know you will be back, you are just taking a little vacation.
Keep in touch! Summer is coming, and I too have many other demands on my time. I don't post that often anyway, but I will cut back too. Time to smell the flowers, and wheeze, etc! :)

Sonny G said...

aww (((Laurie))) you are so loved in by us gals in blogland and we'll miss you bunches.. enjoy every moment of your break and we'll be looking forward to your return..

xoxoxo
Sonny

Mid-Atlantic Martha said...

Well now we have tears in our eyes too. Love you and all the fun you share with us from Laurie's Party Central! We know that you do so much for your whole family and how dear they all are -- gosh, you've just made us feel like family too. So, take your time and enjoy your break....we'll be right here waiting when you get back!

Debbie@Mountain Breaths said...

Laurie, it is healthy to take a break. I know exactly how you feel, and I plan on taking a little break myself to enjoy a carefree summer. Take care and come back when you are ready!

Anonymous said...

Oh, Laurie, we will miss you while you are on your break. May you be re-juvinated quickly and be back soon.

I, too, work full-time and I cannot imagine posting every day. It is a feat for me to get one or two posts done each week. Sometimes depending on what is going on, I can post more frequently. I am still working on achieving the right balance between blogging and the million other things I should be doing. :) I am new to blogging and still learning so much, so it is all quite invigorating for me right now.

I have so enjoyed reading your blog and joining Favorite Things Saturday. I hope you find your break gives you the peace you now need. I also hope you will decide to rejoin us, even if less often, to share your bargains and to chat.
(((hugs)))
Tammy

Stacey said...

Now don't stay gone long!! I understand about feeling that you've run out of things to say.

I just don't have time to blog much anymore. Still love it though. :)

Confessions of a Plate Addict said...

Oh, my Miss Laurie...I do understand! It has been really tough for me since my last grandson was born. My real life keeps calling me! Take as long as you need...or post as little as you like. Going to once a week has helped me a lot. Do whatever you need to do because we all understand that family comes first! We will miss you...hugs...Debbie

Lynn said...

Wishing you all the best Laurie! Enjoy your family and we look forward to hearing from you when you post-have fun:@)

Anonymous said...

We will so miss you sweet Laurie. I always have wished I could write fun witty posts like you do!! I do hope you will check in every once and again to let us know how you are doing! We love ya!

As to running out of ideas for posts I wish I could just have time to do all the ones that I have said I will do!! I have 1/2 dozen refashions that I need to do posts on along with room and furniture ones- Maybe you could just come for a visit and write my posts so they will be witty and creative like yours!!

bee blessed
mary

vignette design said...

I totally understand Laurie, I myself don't know if I can last 2 1/2 years as I'm already feeling like blogging can be a monkey on the back. It's probably good to take a break and jump back in to life before blogging. I know you will be back though as it is hard to just quit this thing! We will all be here anyway, just like you left us. Maybe I won't though, but you have my email address anyway--right? Enjoy your break! xo Delores
PS: I would be honored to host your FFS, but I have absolutely no idea how to!

Tardevil said...

Please just take a brief vacation! We will miss you way too much if you quit. Every blogger gets to the point you're at, I think, but I hope you come back b/c I love seeing your stuff! Especially at Easter and Christmas! Enjoy your time off, but please come back!

Anonymous said...

I know what you mean about needing to take a break, Laurie. I find myself with this same dilemma. I am trying to get back to the old Back Porch Musings. I've done a few just for me posts, to do with the gardens or quotes, recipes and things like that. I was getting worn out, if you know what I mean.:-)

I hope you will shoot me an email now and then and let me know how you are doing. And I hope to see you here at your blog again, down the road.

xo
Pat@BPM

Picket said...

Girl I think you put down in the best words ever of what most of us feel from time to time here in blogland...I can so relate to that. Enjoy your break time sweetie..feed your soul and enjoy your family...we aren't going anywhere...just give us a holler once in a while..we will miss you...Picket

xinex said...

I am going to miss you so much, Laurie. I can understand how you would need a blog break though cause when you post, you give it your all, that is why we all enjoy coming here so much. So take a day, or 2 or 3 day break or even a few weeks and then come bcak, but don't take too long, ok? Love ya!...Christine

Ginny said...

everyone needs a blog break once in a while. It will be good for you to not blog and then when you are ready, I am sure there will be once again so much to blog about! Take care and do relax! I will miss reading your blog. It always makes me smile!

Olive said...

Take your break and know you will be missed a LOT. hugs♥olive

Linda @ A La Carte said...

Laurie I understand and I will miss you so very much. I hope your break will not be a long one but you have to do what you must. Take care and enjoy your time off!
Big Hugs,
Linda

Sue said...

Laurie, I can SO sympathize with you! You've always had such an assortment of posts, including family and home, to make us smile. Do what is best for you! You obviously have set your priorities...

So many people make blogging their full-time jobs, hoping for big follower numbers and lots of comments to make them feel popular. I guess if they don't work outside the home, that is ok; but for me, it's not a competition and I definitely have a life outside of blogging! I can't do furniture re-do's or create crafty things- plus, I just don't have time. I also don't get the "let's go shopping so I can have something to post about" mentality! Bloggers sometimes create a false persona about themselves. I want to see the real person, and for me, you always fit that bill! Best wishes to you, my friend!

hugs, Sue

suzyq said...

Laurie, I hope you have a great rest and enjoy your family but don't be away too long!! I will check in from time to time to see if you've missed us all too much to stay away for long.
Suzyq

Marlis said...

Laurie, and I've learned so much from you and found great enjoyment when you visit and when I drop in to visit you. I will miss you much and I hope the break is short, but I do understand what you are saying (I haven't posted since the blogger fiasco)... the yard is calling the grandkids want my time and I want to sit with my husband outside.. take a break. Get renewed. Be Happy, Find joy. xo Marlis

Unknown said...

Dear Laurie,
You were my very first party I joined..A Valentine Party...I was so scared and worried I would fail as a party guest..Lynn from the Vintage Nest was my rock to join. After that you made it so easy. I wont ever forget those who have helped me grow and take blogging as a place to make friends! Thank you..enjoy some time off and please come back soon! Our butts are growing too! LOL! God Bless...

Linda (Nina's Nest) said...

Hi Laurie, I understand how you feel. I have felt that I am one post from extinction many a time. You have so many wonderful things that you are involved in, and I know you are enjoying them as well. Blessings to you (and come back soon!), Linda

Unknown said...

Hi Laurie,
It's always a good idea to take a break for a while. I will miss you, but perhaps all that you need is some time to gather some oxygen and inspiration...then you'll be back writing and sharing your magnificent posts.

Enjoy your break, I know that you'll be creating up a storm.

Karen

Julie said...

Maybe during your break you can attend the Arkansas Women Bloggers conference and get some new tips and tricks! Are you coming to the Arkansas Women Blogger conference? There are less than 2 weeks left to register! Check out our website to register soon! We hope you come! http://arkansaswomenbloggers.blogspot.com/p/featured-blogger.html

Diann said...

Hi Laurie!
I have read the others comments and could just say "ditto, ditto, ditto....." Because they have all expressed what I feel as well. But, I am just going to babble on for awhile anyhow! When I discovered your blog it was such a breath of fresh air! I ALWAYS left your blog smiling! You are such a sweet and beautiful lady. Your posts always came across as if I was just sitting down and chatting with you over a cup of coffee. You feel like family. I have told Troy many times, if we were traveling in your neck of the woods, I would so want to stop and visit you. I think you have one of the biggest hearts in blogland. but, I completely understand needing to take a break. blogging can become so overwhelming and suddenly something you started doing on a whim just for yourself turns into a burden and takes away from your family and other things in your life. I am constantly reevaluating my blogging time. I post almost everyday but, I don't "blog" everyday. I do a lot of posts in one or two designated days. That would probably be why I am not one of the bigger blogs out there. But, I have a beautiful 3 year little girl who deserves my time more than a blog. Not to mention our own business and a gazillion other things that I enjoy too much to put on the back burner. So, you take a break for as long as you want and need. Your posts will be missed! But, whenever you decided to pop back into blogland, we will be here with open arms! Hugs my friend. Enjoy everything around you!

Stephanie ~ Angelic Accents said...

Oh,say it ain't so, dear Laurie! Well, as long as you come visit I GUESS I'll let you take a well deserved break! Seriously, I do understand. Still would love for you to join us at my annual Wedding Blog Party, tho, on June 10th!!

Will miss you!

Hugs,
Stephanie
Angelic Accents

Sweet Cottage Dreams said...

Laurie, I soooooo understand where you are coming from, but am relieved that you are not considering stopping at all. Your home, your posts, your spirit are beautiful! We are blessed to have you in our life!!! .... I haven't had the time to visit everyone like I used because my life is so busy right now. Sometimes taking a break from blogging - and the responsibilities of it - is what we need. Just know you are so loved....

xxoo
Becky

Kaye Swain - SandwichINK for Grandparents and Caregivers said...

Have a blessed and wonderful time with your sweetheart and your kids and grandkids and LOTS of hugs - all wonderful priorities and all sweet family memories in the making. :)

Maggie said...

Dear Laurie,
I just came over to see how you're doing only to read your goodbye note.
Missing you already!
As others have also said I too feel drained and unable to blog sometimes but a few days off always seems to do the trick for me.
Perhaps when blogger went down last week it showed you that there was really more to life than blogging!!
Enjoy your freedom sweet lady but please don't abandon us completely, hope to see you here again in the future.
Your pal Maggie in Normandy.

Susan Freeman said...

Oh how I can relate! I have only been blogging for just a little over 1 year and I often run out of ideas. I have a job and an elderly Mom to look after as well as my own home and hubby. Sometimes it's hard to wear all of the hats and do anything very well. Laurie ~ you are a wonderful blogger who inspires me every time I visit. Take a bit of a break to refresh and come back again. You know you will want to ~ it's in your blood now. Don't put pressure on yourself because that's sure to send the muse on it's way. We all love you and are looking forward to your future posts, even if it's just to say hi y'all!

Lots of love,
Susan and Bentley
xxoo

Jacqueline said...

Laurie, I say the beautiful thing about blogging is you can do it if you want and you don't have to if you don't want! Good for you, take the time you want. You will be missed, but maybe you will have the most fun just visiting, you let us know ok? I am sure the pressure of a weekly party is more than I could handle, so I won't volunteer!
I say amen to everything you have expressed, it is a wonderful adventure and the people are AMAZING!
Lots of love,
Jacqueline

Anonymous said...

Dont we all have these spurts when we feel that the blog becomes a job and ask ourself why we continue to do it when it's possible no one reads it anyway? I understand totally your feelings. For me you have made a difference, and as I've told you before what really impressed me is that you took the time to write a comment that was more than trite. So many are somewhat meaningless as if the writer has a pat response for everyone. I'm not big on trite.....If you will let me know in an email how to host, I would consider it. Take care and enjoy your time off.

bj said...

I totally understand. I am thinking of doing the same. Life is very busy for me right now and blogging is beginning to take too much time.
Enjoy your break.
xo bj

Mid-Atlantic Martha said...

Just stopping by to say hello! Miss you girlfriend!

The Tablescaper said...

Oh Laurie, I'e so enjoyed your posts and getting to see all of your wonderful collections and celebrations. I feel like I'm losing a friend. I sure hope your blogging break is brief! You will be missed!!!

- The Tablescaper

Donna@Conghaile Cottage said...

Big Supportive Hugs to you in everything you do! Enjoy every day to it's fullest and we are here and will always LOVE to hear from you!
Have a wonderful Fun Weekend,
Hugs,
Donna

Laura said...

I can not improve on the sentiments expressed before me.
I want to let you know that even though I am a sporatic blogger and irregular visitor evey visit with you has been enjoyable. You have always made me feel welcome.
Your posts, your home, your love of family and your caring about others is inspiring and infectious. You make others want to be better and more caring.

I wish the best for you - relaxing times and wonderful adventures. When you feel you want to share, we will all enjoy and appreciate your posts.

In the meanwhile, I am going to catch up on posts I missed!

bj said...

oops, I came back to link..thought you would be having the meme today. OK, will take it off my blog.
Enjoy your weekend,
xo bj

Curtains in My Tree said...

Well darn

I just started my blog last August and have found some great blogs like yours

Anyway after 2 1/2 years you need a SHORT break

I will keep you in my favorites and keep checking to see when you come back to play land

best wishes Janice

The Charm of Home said...

Laurie,
Have a good break. Everyone needs a break now and then. Will miss you.
Sherry

Kathleen said...

Stopping by t say hello!
Miss you!

Simple Home said...

I hope you're enjoying your blogging break. We all understand and wish you the best :-) You are so right about all the friends we make through blogging. It has made the world a much smaller place for me.

Thank you for keeping Jordan's photo up. He was able to leave move out of the hospital into a home nearby, and his wife and son are with him.
He has a long road and more surgeries and rehab ahead of him, but he is with his family, and it is such a help :-)
Blessings,
Marcia

The Tablescaper said...

Oh Laurie, I've come to lik to Favorite Things Saturday and see what you've been up to - hoping your break is over! Alas, it's not.I do miss you.

- The Tablescaper

9405018--Pat said...

you will be missed...I remember your beautiful home of RMS..thanks for sharing will check back!,,,Pat H

Karen said...

I understand... and I will try to wait patiently for your return. (I too think it won't be too long.) Enjoy your break!!
Hugs,
Karen
Ladybug Creek

shannon i olson said...

well I am behind reading blogs so I sure hope your doing well and enjoying your break. Your such a wonderful caring woman that blogland wouldn't be the same without you.

Lauren @ My Wonderfully Made said...

Sounds like you've made the right decision! Enjoy your time off -- how ever long that may be and we look forward to your return when and if you decide it's time!

xinex said...

How wonderful to see you here, Laurie. How is the bloggy break going? I hope you are relaxing and getting some things done. I miss you and your posts though...Christine

GardenOfDaisies said...

Dear Laurie,
I totally understand about needing to take a break. I took a two month break myself, back in Jan/Feb of this year. My family needed me and the blog just had to be set aside for a while.
I really do hope that you will come back when you feel like you can. I miss your fun posts and humor. Your posts always made me smile.
And I loved your weekly "Favorite Things Saturday"! I wish I knew how those weekly memes worked, but I am such a clueless "computer idiot".
I hope you will pop in from time to time. We'll all miss you!!!