Hello Friends!!!
It has been a little while since I have shared anything with you. Too long in fact! If you are new around here than you might not have noticed my absence, but I ended up taking an extended summer break. I have played out this blog post over and over in my mind of how to start, and what exactly to share, I wanted to give you an update on life, what I’ve been up to, and most importantly what has been on my heart that lead me to quietly slipping away and taking some time off earlier this summer. If we were chatting in person, I imagine we would be sitting face to face in a coffee shop, or curled up on a couch ready to dive deep into conversation. And while I would love to be able to get together with you in real life (maybe someday), today we can virtually curl up, and lean in while we pretend that we are having this conversation in person.
Let’s Chat ~
First, I want to start off right away and remove and worry or fear and let you know that everything is fine. My family and I are all healthy and happy, and doing great. I know that sometimes when people fall off the face of the internet it can be as a result of a family emergency or health related issues, and that is not the case for us. Also, I want you to know that my blogging days are NOT over. This is not an update to fill you in on what I’ve been up to, only to tell you that I have decided to no longer continue with blogging. So you don’t have to worry the whole time you are reading this post, that I’m ending with a farewell.
PHEW! Ok, now that we got those two things out of the way, I did want to say THANK YOU from the bottom of my heart to every inquiry, private message and e-mail that I received over the past couple of months letting me know that I was missed. It honestly was the biggest reason and driving force that encouraged me to continue with blogging and come back after my little hiatus, and I just wanted you to know that your words of encouragement were deeply appreciated.
While of course I can’t wait to tell you about all the fun things we did in and around the house this summer, or how I’m itching to give some spaces around here a new coat of paint :P, I want to share what led me to taking a break in the first place. And if I’m being completely honest with myself this tension that I was wrestling with really surfaced back in the beginning of the year.
Since the beginning of this year I have felt a stirring in my heart that would come to the surface every now and then, a sense of longing for “A Season to Rest”. Similarly to how some describe getting a word for the year, mine was no less a word but a phrase. As I began to think about what that meant and what it would look like to actually rest, I realized deep in my heart that for me it meant to stop striving, surrender MY plans and agenda to God, and letting go of the pressure of feeling like I would let everybody down if I didn’t do x,y, and z. Of course when I first started processing these thoughts I dismissed them, telling myself that if I don’t continue with all of these things than who will? And then one morning when I was journaling I came across this verse.
“Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place, and get some rest.” Mark 6:31
As I read those words in my bible, it resonated deep within me, bringing to the surface all the feelings I tried to suppress, along with a wave of emotion that I could no longer ignore. I think sometimes it’s easy to dismiss those subtle thoughts, or gentle stirrings when we don’t find ourselves in the midst of chaos. Everything was fine, I didn’t feel on the verge of a mental breakdown, there was no current trauma I was facing, yet I found myself feeling more and more tired than ever before.
When I couldn’t shake off the feelings of needing rest any longer, I began to think about what it would look like if I in fact took some time off. Away from all the noise, a break from consuming the never ending content on social media, and the pressure to produce more. I think one of the reasons that I struggled with this idea the most, was because I truly love this online community of friends that I have found over the past 10 years, I didn’t want to let all of you down by not showing up on here or on social media. But as I found myself feeling like I was scraping the bottom of the barrel for creativity, uninspired, I began to question the quality of the content that I would even be sharing, if I did press through and carry on.
I began to think about about what my summer could look like, and I remembered in my first years of blogging when my kids were toddlers how I would take the summer off to be fully present with them. Even in those early years of blogging I remember feeling the pressure to always be “on”, and thought it was suicide to take time off. But you know what? I did it anyways, and it was fine, and I didn’t have to live with the regret of wishing I had spent more time with my kids. Fast forward 10 years and I found myself longing for the same thing. Knowing that I only have a few summers left before my kids get their drivers license’s or jobs, I wanted to be fully present and intentional with the time I had with them. I didn’t want to look back with regret wishing I had closed my laptop more, and said yes more often to their simple requests of wanting to do something together.
This message of taking time off and finding rest feels so counter cultural to the message the world throws at us constantly of hustle harder and do more. That there is always more to be done, and we are never doing enough, and if we pause for just a moment to catch our breath, that the world will pass us by, leaving us in the dust.
I’m so glad I listened to my heart. And that I didn’t allow the fear of missing out rob me of one of my most favorite summers with the kids.
Friend, I have so much more I want to share with you about this, and things I did to help bring the creativity back. And you know I can’t wait to share some of the projects we tackled this past summer with you, and don’t you worry I even have a Thanksgiving tablescape that I will be sharing with you this week as well (before we head into all things Christmas). But until then, I just wanted to say from the bottom of my heart, Thank You for being here friend. Thank you for choosing to stick around, and support this girls dreams with all the encouragement and friendship that you bring!
I can’t wait for what’s to come! Until then ~
Can you please tell me where you got the hope quote print? Thanks and welcome back!
Thank you so much Jean!! I got it from Lindsay Letters. – Here is the link – https://lindsayletters.co/collections/the-meaningful-words-collection/products/never-regret-hope
So glad you’re back. Always love your decorating style, but a!so that you incorporate your relationship with God. Love the bible verse you quoted, but was also wondering where you got the “hope” Verse print? It really speaks to me about something I feel God has laid on my heart. Thanks – J
Welcome back!
Welcome back!! Thank you for sharing your heart and your testimony. Don’t you love when GOD pursues us in this manner because He knows what we need and He has a better plan for us?! So thankful to hear that He blessed your obedience with a wonderful summer with your family and great memories! And so looking forward to the ideas and inspiration you will be sharing with us! Blessings to you….💗
Thank you so much Lanita! You are so right, He does know us better and knows exactly what we need. I’m so thankful for listening to that gentle nudging, and the refreshing summer I had.
Thank you for sharing what was on your mind and in your heart and for taking the necessary time to listen…. You have a special spirit that loves to share your gifts- thank you!
Thank you so much Robin 🙂
Our children grow up too fast and we do need to spend time with them, I understand and admire you. God after all is the best one to listen to, he knows so much more about us than we do about ourselves. Glad your back and did miss you.
You are so right Marlene, and I am so glad to be back 🙂
I was just thinking I have not seen a post from you I n quite awhile, especially since the holidays are around the corner. Love seeing how you decorate. What a blessing you listened to your heart with the message God was giving you. Now that my children are out of the house all I can say is enjoy every minute with them. No one prepares you when you bring your first born home and no one prepares you when the leave your home. Blessings my friend.
Thank you so much for this post, Bre, it is wonderful to hear from you. Your post is very timely too, as I have been hearing a “little voice” of my own, saying something similar. Thank you for the quote from Mark too, I appreciate your willingness to share your faith.
Looking forward to that table scape!
Happy Thanksgiving 🙂
Thank you Diane!!! I’m so glad that it encouraged you during this season as well 🙂 XO
Love and hugs, dear friend. So glad you were able to listen to God’s leading and take a break. You set a great example that the hustle isn’t worth sacrificing time with your precious friends and family. Thank you for always speaking authentically, from the heart.
Thank you so much friend!! There was definitely a lot of hesitation, but I’m so glad I listened to God’s leading, and we had the best summer!
Welcome back Bre! I sent you a DM on Insta months ago & asked KariAnne about you from Thistlewood because I was worried!! I am SO relieved to hear that you are doing well and that you listened to the convictions for rest!! Your voice was deeply missed and I am so glad to know that you are back and that your absence was simply due to your obedience to what God was laying on your heart. Can’t wait to continue to be inspired by you! XO, Heather
Welcome back, we have been missing you and wondering if all was well at your home. So glad God led you to your much needed rest.
Can’t wait to see what you share with us next.
Welcome Back! We all need to listen to the voice of God more and less to outside distractions. Brings to mind my favorite Barbara Bush quote — : “At the end of your life you will never regret n…” “At the end of your life you will never regret not having passed one more test, not winning one more verdict, or not closing one more deal. You will regret time not spent with a husband, a friend, a child or a parent.”
I look forward to seeing what God has instore for you and how you will share that will all of your fans.
I think it’s hard to describe that nagging feeling that you should always be doing more in the blogging/social media world!!
I’m so glad you took a step back to relax your soul for awhile. It was the perfect Summed & Fall to just enjoy life in New England!!
Welcome back! While it was a long summer for us without you, I’m so glad you listened to what God was speaking to you. My oldest is a sophomore this year – the minute he hit high school I felt this giant countdown over my head – 4 MORE YEARS – this year – 3 MORE YEARS….. this mama business is tough!
As I’ve been pulling out my Christmas bins, I’ve thought of you many times as so many of my supplies and decor were inspired by you. I’m excited to see what all you’ve got for us! And know there is always grace from those who love you, any time you need some space or time away.
Thank you. From the bottom of my heart for being so real, so raw. We all feel it at some level in our selves, at times. Recognizing it is the hardest step. We missed you, we love you and we pray for your continued self peace. But Girl!!! We can’t wait to see what you have in store for us!! 🤍
Thank you so much Michelle!!! My heart is to always be encouraging and genuine 🙂 And I feel a fresh pep in my step now stepping back in to blogging 🙂 I for sure missed all of you!
Aah Bre I did wonder what happened to your lovely blogs and encouragement, good that scripture came to you at the right time and you listened and follow your heart… it can only get better. Welcome back!
Thank you Norma!
Good for you! You will never regret making you and your family the priority and listening to Gods direction!! Welcome back and I believe God will honor your obedience. 🧡🍁☕️
Thank you so much Nancy!! It truly does mean a lot 🙂
Bre, I love that you followed where God was leading. As friends, we need to support and encourage each other through the seasons of our lives. We missed you of course, but like all friends should, we want the absolute best for you and your family!
Thank you Marcie!!
What a joy to hear all is well with you and your family and you have plans to carry on sharing your creative ideas.
Today’s culture is so demanding on families and when you are blessed to be a stay at home mom the pressure is even more. Enjoy every season with your kids and husband for they are what really matters. May you continue to be blessed in all that you do.
so glad you are back, rested and rejuvenated! you and your blog are one of the few guilty pleasures i truly look forward to on the great big internet:)
Bree, thanks for being real… honest.. because we all need to stop & let Jesus fill our cup, so full & overflowing that it bubbles over to those we touch in life. And kudos for having your priorities in order with your God & your family up top!
Blessings~ Dawn
Yes it is so true!! That was one of the questions I had to ask myself “Am I sharing from a place of overflow? Or is my cup empty?” So good!
I am so happy that you are back but more happy about you tsking a break! And if course those of us who have come to love would be here when you came back 😊
Thank you for sharing. I often looked deeper on social media to see if I missed a post. So glad you took care of you!! God will reward you for seeking His face and the path you gave with Him💖
Thank you so much for this update Bre! I thought about you a lot these past couple months and I am so glad to here everything is well with you and your family. So glad you took the rest you needed! I’m just coming out of a season of rest. I’d like to say it was a decision I made… But it was purely out of necessity. My body just simply gave me no choice. I’ve also felt the same stirrings, as you though.. My girls are getting older and I’m feeling the importance of these precious years left instructing and teaching them the life skills they need. I’ve felt my creativity come back and it’s such a gift to have a fresh perspective as I pick back up a few of things I’ve laid aside. I’ve learned a lot about myself this year! 🖤 I for one, can’t wait to see what you have been up to!
Jess
Jess!!!! I have so missed connecting with you!!! I too finally feel like my creativity is coming back, and it feels so good 🙂 Love you girl!!
Bravo, bravo!!! You did exactly what you should do! Putting, God your family and yourself before blogging makes sense to me because you can’t pour out of an empty pitcher. Keep following the leading of the Holy Spirit and you won’t regret it. Thank you for the update but take it as slow as you need to.
Jackie B
Thank you so much Jackie!!! I truly appreciate your words and encouragement!!
Think of you often….prayers for your fulfillment and Joy!
Happy Thanksgiving!
♥️Mae
Thank you Mae! XO
It’s so good to see this post! I sure have missed seeing you in my emails. I’m looking forward to the tablescape.
Thank you, I missed you.
I have missed you, but I am happy you listened to your heart. Family is number one. I appreciate your honesty. Be well dear friend.
So happy to have you back! The world moves too fast and time slips by so quickly. I love that you recognized how important it is to hit pause and enjoy what really matters…family.
Thank you Sherry!!
Hi, good to know that all is well, that you have had time to spend with your family to relax and soak in life and will be sharing your creativity through your blog again.
A Beautiful post and I get it 100%
THANK YOU Gail 🙂 I love knowing that I can share my heart with kindred spirits on here 😉
Sometimes in life we just have to “stop and smell the roses” and decide what’s next. So very happy to have you back!
Resting and waiting is a gift that you took time to open slowly and enjoy. May we all do the same. Thank you Bre for your openness in sharing. It is encouraging to me that I am right where I’m supposed to be. I can continue to rest and see what gift I have available to me.
Thank you!! Love you friend 🙂
Glad to have you back . Good for you that you listened to your heart and soul as it can definitely be difficult these days.
It was so nice seeing a blog from you. I am so happy that you were able to take time off to spend time with your family. The years go by so fast and you will never regret making you and your family a priority. Looking forward to seeing your coming blogs .
So glad you and your family are ok! Looking forward to seeing your posts again!
I was just thinking about you yesterday! Welcome back…so glad you’ve had a nice rest!
Good for you!! I totally respect wanting to slow down and be more present for the most important people – your family. I am so glad to hear from you again, mostly because I was worried you may have some awful reason for not posting anymore. Your blog is one of the places that I like to come because it’s genuine, down to earth and inspiring. The fact that you took time to rest makes me like it even more. We all should unplug once in a while. 🙂
Aww thank you so much Christine!!! I’m so glad you are here!
Thank you for sharing, although there was no reason to explain your absence. We are just glad you are alright!
I work at an elementary school and our boss is constantly saying…Your well being is more important then your job!
I came across this saying…
“How your life feels
Is more important
Than how it looks!”❤️
Thank you Laura! I know I didn’t have to share the “why”, but I also value each person that reads my blog, and wanted it to encourage anyone else who may be feeling how I was that it is ok to slow down and take time to rest if needed 🙂 I love that saying, it is so true that how it feels is more important than how it looks! You are so right 🙂
HaHa…but, can’t we have both? A beautiful house does make us feel good! 😉
Look forward to more future home inspirations.
Take care!