Update: Aaaand less than 12 hours later we’re back with an update on the bottom of the post for ya. Smooth, right?
Hey there! Long time no see.
The break has been great. Admittedly a little weird, but really reinvigorating. So we’re immensely thankful not only for your support and kind comments, but also for helping put words to some of the things that we had been feeling for some time. And while the last month hasn’t been enough time to fill in all of the blanks about our future (heck, when are life’s blanks ever clearly filled in?) it has made one thing pretty obvious to us: after seven awesome years of sharing our home and our life, it’s time for our next adventure.
This blog has been a staple in our lives for 80+ months, tagging along for all but three months of our marriage and our entire existence as parents. So we thought it would be nearly impossible to click off that urge to over-share this past month (we expected our blogging spark to come back with a vengeance). But maybe it’s us getting older, the kids getting bigger, or a general shift in life priorities – but it actually felt just right. So this break has given us the clarity (and the guts, I guess) to move on… and hopefully move the needle on that life balance we’ve been talking about for so long.
We won’t go as far as to declare this the end of Young House Love or our blogging days. Who knows, maybe somewhere down the line (when the kids are both in school?) we’ll get that burning in our bellies again – perhaps here or in a completely different capacity. We don’t know what the future holds, but we know that the most amazing things have happened to us when we’ve stretched waaay out of our comfort zone – as much as that sounds like advice you’d find on an inspirational kitten poster.
We plan to keep the blog archives available for as long as we can, and will be freezing comments soon, but we won’t be completely dropping off the planet. Some completed product designs with Liberty Hardware and Shades of Light may pop up, and our second book will come out on September 22nd, 2015. Those folks have all been amazingly supportive of our decision, for which we’re incredibly thankful.
Speaking of which – “Thank you” doesn’t come close to expressing how grateful we are for getting to share our weird little world with you guys for so long. We have nothing but love and gratitude for this whole experience – and for you. (*This is probably where we should fade up on that Dirty Dancing song*)
But let’s not say “goodbye” let’s just say “see you on another time.”
Peace, love, and ceramic animals,
John & Sherry
PS: We did randomly snap a few fresh photos for the House Tour page over the break (some of the rooms were pretty outdated). Feel free to give the dining room’s blue trim the side eye for us (yes, it’s still there!).
Update: The same few questions kept popping up in the comments (we just can’t quit you). As for the “what are your new jobs” thing, we’ve mentioned in a few previous posts that we left the door open in our past professions (advertising/copywriting/consulting), which we can do as freelancers from home a lot of the time, while switching off on the stay-at-home parent thing. We know things like the book and products we design are driven by this blog, so we can’t live off those or anything. Didn’t mean to be mysterious! As for the Facebook/Instagram questions, we’d love to pop up there from time to time to say hi. And we hope our blog archives will be up for a good long time (we use them to reference things like paint colors, so we’d never want to lose them!).
We’re also really sorry if this feels abrupt. We’ve made a few public attempts to wind down and gain balance over the years (like when we moved to this house and after Teddy’s birth) but they’ve always been at odds with our “all in” personalities, so it wasn’t until taking this break (yet another attempt to recalibrate) that we realized we felt closer to our goal. We debated lots of alternatives – drastically fewer posts / shorter posts / no comments – but nothing felt like the version of Young House Love we were excited to carry on with. And we tried to keep today’s post light and happy (the last one felt so heavy) since this truly is a moment of extreme gratitude, despite it being a difficult decision to make.
Flawless and graceful exit, eh? Right. So here we go. Ack, we suck at this! We will miss you!!
Lins says
I feel like you just told me that my dog died.
Robin says
I’ve read and enjoyed your blog for years, and now that you’re leaving, I’ll finally say thank you! Isn’t it wonderful that life keeps changing who you are and what you want from it?
Ashley M. [at] (never)homemaker says
I’ve been reading since we bought our first home in 2007. Honestly, I feel like I was just punched in the gut or something equally abrupt. But best of luck to you and your family.
Danielle says
With a tear in my eye…and a lump in my throat…thank you for sharing your life…inspiring me every day…and best of luck in all that you do…now go enjoy life…xoxo
Deanna says
I am so glad you guys came to a decision you are happy with! Thank YOU for being our source of inspiration and entertainment these past 7 years <3
Will you still be on instagram or any other social media? Would be great to "stay friends". Good luck you awesome family!
Lisa says
I was also wondering if IG would still be used or not. That would be a nice way to “stay in touch” without pressure.
Christy says
I enjoyed you guys earlier on and even though less so most recently since a lot of my fave things on the blog were no longer, you all will still be missed. I can’t help but wonder what you guys will do now? Is Sherry having post partum issues, how will we know what happens in the new house with reno especially the kitchen, is this to have more new material for the second book, will John go back to the corporate world? Certainly wishing you all the best of luck in your new endeavors!
Lisa says
I’m thinking that all of those things you asked are exactly why they are packing in. Why on Earth would you ask someone you don’t know if they are having post partum issues?!
Lauren McCormick says
I seriously wish ANY of the other blogs I read (well, maybe not BP) was calling it quits instead of y’all. :( I’m going to miss you so much. It’s going to be so hard to quit you!
Jeanette says
Bummed – you’re going to be missed, but completely understand your decision. Best wishes and much love xo
Chris says
Not surprised, but very much disappointed. I had hoped that if you decided to end your blog you would do so in a way that didn’t smack of sour grapes. I understand that you do not owe your customers (and that is what we are, after all) anything whatsoever and while your readers may feel they know you (and sometimes in the creepiest of ways), they do not. And that is how it should be. But, as with money making operation, it is (and has always been) your readers who allowed you the lifestyle that you’ve become accustomed to. You are most certainly allowed to leave your current jobs to pursue your next big adventure, but I think you’ve missed a terrific opportunity, with a final and very short corporate-sounding sign-off, to allow your readers an inside understanding of what exactly had happened. After all, you never minded sharing the details of your life until exactly right up to the point that you received some criticism. I am sorry to see you go in such a final way. I learned a lot from you…goodness, I stenciled my entire powder room following Sherry’s detailed instructions. It’s the best room in our house. But, I also helped fund your lifestyle by buying your book, buying some of the products you ran ads for on your sidebar, and helping through page clicks to prove to your publishers you are popular and worthy of a second book. I feel like you skipped out before telling the final story. Simply my opinion and in giving it, I sincerely wish your adorable family all good health, good luck, and great success in the future. Burger is still around, yes? I missed him in that final post.
Sarah says
While selfishly I am really sad about this, for your family this new adventure is so exciting! Thank you for sharing your lives with us and for being an inspiration. It has been a privilege and you will be missed! Best of wishes and I can’t wait to find out what the next step holds for you.
Jessica says
I always enjoyed your personal posts about your family, which I know must have been so hard to share so much about that particular part of your life. My two kids were born within months of yours. It’s been fun watching your kids grow up “side-by-side” (so to speak) with mine. I feel like we’re friends… and I don’t even know you!! Good luck with everything. I’m so selfishly bummed, but I’m very excited for your next adventure. Good luck, and enjoy your new freedom.
Melissa @ HOUSEography says
We’ll miss you! I’m sure I speak for everyone when I say… can we just get a peak at whatever you do with your kitchen and family room at some point down the road??? :)
JoAnne A says
Oh hey there! I’m glad to see that you guys are doing well and that the second book is still coming out! Despite how demanding it is, will there be a book tour? Nevertheless, I just want to thank you both for all that you have done! While I will miss you guys deeply, I’m so happy for you guys and your decision to take on a new path. You guys will always hold a special place in my heart and on the blogosphere. Again thank you and take care, Petersiks.
PS. I live in the area so in the event that I were to see you guys out in public, would it be okay to say hi? I can’t promise that I won’t scream like a preteen over a boyband.
Brooke says
NOOOOOooo!!! I was so excited when I saw this post, only to be crushed! :( I have to find a yhl replacement, but no one will come close. I’ll miss you guys! Tears.
Megan says
THANK YOU! You have truly helped transform my home in so many ways. I wish you guys only the best and am honestly excited for you in this next phase. What a luxury to have the choice and ability to move on – that is a gift in and of itself. You’ve earned this new adventure… I’m sure it’s thrilling to consider all the possiblities! And as much as I’m sad to see you go, I think your timing was spot on. I often say I was more productive when the kids were babies vs having them in school. It’s a lot to juggle. Definitely smart to streamline and not burn the candle at both ends. Take Care and Good Luck! :-)
Angela N says
Wow, I have been longing for you guys to come back but didn’t think it would be a good-bye for good come back. You are the only house blog I follow everyday. You guys have such a talent and a gift. I wish you weren’t leaving us but only you know what you need. Thanks for all of the inspiration. “So Long, and Thanks for All the Fish”
Tracy says
Sad but totally understandable. Thank you guys for 7 years of a peep into your life and for being funny and real and thoughtful and creative and awesome. Thanks for inspiring us to think outside the box of “oh my home comes like this” and for giving regular people the courage to make their homes and lives as awesome as they can be. Rock it out.
Jessica says
So so sad, enjoy your new adventures! You will be missed more than you know!!!
deb says
Feel like I’ve been punched in the stomach.
Lauren says
Loved the updated house tour, the house looks great. All the best.
Alicia M says
You will be greatly missed. I have LOVED spending my mornings with you for the past 7+ years. You guys have been a great inspiration, trusted mentors and friends. I will selfishly miss our mornings together, but I admire you and understand your need to move on. You’ve given us FAR more than we needed and for that I am eternally grateful.
Although through all of this, I can’t shake the feeling that this was all sprung from the bullies, haters and trolls. I know you guys said that you had been feeling it for some time, but I can’t help but wonder if that’s where it all originated from and it breaks my heart. I know blessings come in disguise and because of that, no matter what the reason, I’m glad that you’re devoting your time to your family and what makes you happy. So…I guess I can’t stay sad for too long ;)
Just know, in whatever you do (return to blogging, other business adventures, etc) we, your *true* fans will still be there, welcoming you with open arms! Best wishes in ALL you do…I know whatever it is, you guys will rock it! With much love <3
Staci says
Thank you for inspiring me. Thank you for being creative enough and articulate enough to share your projects in a way that made me feel that I could make my home beautiful too. I will miss your blog, very much, but wish your family nothing but the best from this point on. And if you’re ever in the SF Bay Area, you’re always welcome at our house. Good luck!
Pat S says
You will be missed but best of luck to you in your new adventures, whatever they may be.
Stephanie says
Well, I guess I can go ahead and start that kitchen renovation I’ve been putting off. My kitchen has the same layout as yours and I kept telling myself to wait, because I just knew you would come up with something wonderful to make the best use of the space. I didn’t want to look around at my newly remodeled room and think “I wish I had done what John and Sherry did in their kitchen!”
Best of luck to you all in whatever new adventures you take on!
Sonia says
Nooo……..
One request – please dont remove your archives ever. Thanks !
Noelle says
So sad to read this! I have loved reading about all your projects for the past 3 years. I can’t help but wonder what you guys will do next, what are you doing for work, I know its none of my business really but I can only HOPE you’re leaving us for something awesome like… A TV SHOW! Wouldn’t that be nice! Well, for us anyway. :) Thank you for sharing your lives with the world and inspiring many!
Gail says
I am sad…very sad. Sadness like when a friend dies.
Martin Luther King said “In the end, we will remember not the words of our enemies, but the silence of our friends”
Your silence will be profound.
Sayward says
Oh man, what a sad but understandable announcement. I read your post about taking a break while I was on my honeymoon, so I didn’t get a chance to comment then. I’ve been reading for 6+ years; I’m definitely attached to you guys and I’ll miss you so much! I can relate to a passion turning into an obligation that is burning you out, and can relate to growing and moving forward as well. I’m excited for whatever comes next for you guys and wish you all the best, but this is like finishing the last chapter of the last Harry Potter book and knowing there’s no more.
Sidenote: the updated house pictures look SO GOOD. I just want to know where you bought/how you made everything, and when the blue trim is completely gone, please consider throwing us a taste of your sweet sweet victory.
megs says
Can anyone recommend any other blogs that might come even a little close to filling this huge gap being left? YHL, can you? … Please!
Dorothy says
I would like to know too. Must fill void…
Lisa says
Manhattan Nest is fantastic. He just bought a new place, so there should be lots of content. He doesn’t post everyday or anything, but he’s funny and knowledgeable.
Stephanie says
Oh man. I never comment. But I’ve been following y’all since the very beginning. I bought paint to paint my floor based on the color y’all had used (it actually didn’t exist and was a typo, which I did comment to tell y’all which you of course responded so quickly and apologetically- but it was a happy accident for us and worked out great!) Your interaction with the commenters and friendly style is what set y’all apart and I’m sure made more work for y’all! I’ve moved and added quite a few more kiddos but your blog has always been my go to. I teared up when I read your post cause even though you don’t know me and I rarely have interacted with you, y’all have been a staple in my life for years! Sad to see you go, but thrilled for y’all and the adventure you have ahead! Now I’m really bummed I didn’t make it to a book signing!!! I’ll be excited to see where you pop up next!! Much love from my family to yours!!
Christina P (NS) says
What a great photo of the four of you!
Well this weekend is Thanksgiving here in Canada so I wish you all of the blessings you can hold and the best of luck in your future endeavours.
I am thankful to have had you al in my life for the past few years; your inspiration, adventures and humour has always been (and will always be) welcome.
And as always, if your travels (or next book tour) ever bring you to the east coast of Canada – yes, there is life East of Toronto – you will have dedicated tour guides waiting!
ang says
I don’t know. I was really hoping that this would be a good opportunity for you to scale back on how much you shared and how often, but to still post maybe even just once or twice a week. Or perhaps not on a schedule at all, but just randomly! And maybe include some lifestyle posts. I hope that maybe you will rethink the decision to leave for good and just scale back. It’s totally doable with other jobs, spending time with your children, and having a life outside the blog. Maybe even on an unstructured schedule, you would have the chance to feel refreshed!
Susan says
I’m mad. :( I guess in my glass-half-full, Polyanna way, I never saw this coming. Can’t blame you, but I’m still pouting.
heatherlauraclarke says
I didn’t see it coming either, Susan! I’m so sad :( There is now a huge void in the blogosphere :(
Amanda says
I am sad that you won’t be back, but I get it. I can’t imagine sharing my own life with the world. Best of luck in the future!!!
LARK says
I wish you all the best, and am already missing you that much more. Life goes so quickly, so enjoy every moment that you have in a way that celebrates each member of your family. God bless!
Angela says
I wish you all the best. Thank you for all the inspiration, humor, and sharing your life with us strangers who are now friends (even if just imaginary :) ).
JIW says
so.so.sad
Christy R says
I will miss reading your blog every day, hearing about your adventures, and admiring your home’s transformation. Is it weird that this feels like a breakup? Yeah? Oh well, it does. BUT do whatcha gotta do! It’s clear this is what’s right for you guys at this point in your lives, and while we’ll miss you, we understand. Thank you for all that you have shared from stories to deck plans, which I used to build a deck (huge thanks for that). You have been more than generous with everything. Good luck, best wishes, and God speed with the blue trim.
Kara says
I’m sad too :( I will miss this soooooo much.
Lumy says
It totally feels like a breakup, soooo sad!!!
Good luck and a hug from Italy
Annette says
I’m so sad for selfish reasons, but happy for you! I can’t help but wish you would still update us on your house projects. :) You offered so much inspiration!
Lauren says
I was afraid this would happen. Thank you for taking us on this incredible journey with you — I have learned from you, laughed with you, and at times felt like part of your family. I admit, it feels like I’m losing a friend. But like any good friend, I wish you nothing but the best in whatever comes next.
Kelly says
Sooooooooooo grateful for the opportunity to bear witness to your home and your family for the past seven years (yup, I’ve been here since your first kitchen reno)! I echo the sentiments of readers who completely support your decision to move on to the next adventure but hoped for a more amicable conclusion, maybe some “end of the road” posts? I know you guys have probably been in the trenches of figuring this out for a long time, and my heart goes out to you for having felt that, but I feel like I got dumped and completely cut off and I have no idea why. :(
Lesley says
I think you’re making a good decision, for what my opinion is worth. The demands of writing on the Internet now and maintaining any kind of balance are absurd, not to mention almost nothing is what it used to be blogging wise. I wish you all the best, and much time to enjoy whatever life brings next, not to mention new levels of privacy (I don’t know how you all handled that for so long)!
Jenny says
I like a lot of blogs, but you guys are my favorite “blog people.” Best of luck. Enjoy your time.
Adeline says
Hi John and Sherry,
it takes guts to change life so I say “bravo”. Thank you for having allowed us readers to share a bit of your journey as diyers, dog owners, parents, and just people with such niceness, lightness and humor.
As many, I will miss you posts but I wish you all the best in your next adventure(s).
Take care,
Adeline (a French girl living oversea but who felt so close to you I can’t see a ceramic animal without thinking of you now).
Carli says
Wishing you guys the very, very best on your next adventure!! Thank you for all the hard work and inspiration over the last several years!
Jenna says
Ugh, so sad to read this but completely understand. Am I the only one wondering what’s next for you guys?! Do you have jobs? Are you still going to work from home? What’s the dealio?! When you start a new room renovation (I assume you’re not giving up DIY!), will you still take photos of the process? At least before and afters?! So many questions…
In summary, you will be missed and it will be a long while before I’ll stop wondering what the Petersiks are up to…
Jessica says
Omgoodness! I am so sad and will miss you guys greatly – this was all so sudden! But, proud of you for stepping out of your comfort zone to do what is right for you and your family. :) Best of luck to you in the future and hope to hear from you again at some point in time!
Now, I know I will never be able to completely fill this void and no other blog can compare to younghouselove, but do you or any of the other readers out there have any ideas of other blogs that may come close?
Sara says
I wish you the best in the future, professional and personal :)
Is it possible that you will upload a house tour video on youtube in the future, when it’s all done?
I would really like to see what you do with it.