Hey guys! Big news!
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| Me waving "bye bye" |
Last night I had my first panic attack in 4 years. I used to get them all the time, and this one was mild compared to what I used to experience - but nonetheless, I was filled with a profound sense that "all is not right" in my world. Usually, an episode like this is a huge red flag that I am feeling stress. Honestly, I believe that God has been trying to get my attention for a while now - but I didn't want to listen. I love everyone I have met through this blog, and it has been growing so significantly lately that I just keep trying to hold on. But the time has come.
As of today, I am bidding farewell to Stuff I Love.
This month marks my one year bloggerversary. I had lots of fun giveaways and tributes planned. But I'm just not feeling it anymore, so I'm not going to force it. I started this blog because I loved to write and I had information I wanted to pass on - in my spare time. But I've become increasingly aware that I have no spare time anymore. Maintaining this blog has taken me over, and it's time to say goodbye. While I am sad about this, I also have a profound sense of peace and relief.
I have a basket of mending that's been neglected for months. I have projects that are long overdue for completion. I miss having time to read my kids an extra book at naptime, to relax with a magazine, to really focus on the nitty-gritty of cleaning and organizing my home.
This means 3 things:
1) My shops ARE going to stay open and I'm still planning to re-launch on Friday. I'm looking forward to having more free time to create fun new products to sell.
2) I'm looking to pass the torch on some bloggy projects I've put a lot of work into.
3) If you are a paid August sponsor of this blog, I will refund your money. I'm going to leave the blog up (who knows, I might be back someday), and will be glad to keep ads on the sidebar, but I probably won't be generating a ton of additional pageviews from here on out.
Here's how you can help:
1) I was planning a big giveaway for Friday to coincide with launching my shops. I have several fun items I want to give away and would love to go ahead with it - if one (or two) of you would be willing to host the giveaway for me.
2) I'm looking for someone (or several someones) to take over the Wednesday Wander, Getting To Know You, and Saturday Shop Hop linky parties. I have html ready to go for the next couple linkups - if someone is interested, I can send it on over.
3) I'm looking for low-cost or free ad spots for my shops. I obviously can't offer swaps anymore, but I can pay a little, or offer products, social media shout-outs, or similar compensation if you've got a spot for me. Let me know if you've got anything open.
So if you can help with any of my requests, need a refund for your ad spot, or have any other questions or comments, please feel free to email me at stuffilove.and.mimibaby@gmail.com. Thanks everyone! You will be missed!
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And now a super quick final WIW: Souvenir edition
My inlaws went to Wyoming for a vacation and all I got was this awesome t-shirt!
T-shirt: e.m.i sportswear
Shorts: American Eagle
Watch: Sanrio
Ring: 1saleaday
Shoes: Crocs
I am sad to see you go, but totally understand. You have to do what's best for you. I do have some medium spots open on my blog for $6 but could give you a discount since you've been a swapper with me if you like.
ReplyDeleteWe will miss you! If you are interested in donating some review items, I can give you some free ad space. Here is our blog: http://blondiezbabbles.blogspot.com/
ReplyDeleteYou can email me if you're interested! britibee@gmail.com
Will be sad to see you go, but I totally understand where you are coming from, family and real life should always come first. I'm more than willing to post an ad for you on my page for your shop(s) or blog. I am also interested in hosting or co-hosting the giveaway.
ReplyDeleteroguebaby.blogspot.com
Awwww, man, I just found you! But I understand that you have to follow your heart.
ReplyDeleteI'd love to help you host the giveaways for you, and would be happy to stick you on my sidebar :)
You can email me at mynotsoglamorouslife @ gmail . com
Just because your reasons for not blogging are so honest and real, I would love to give you free ad space. Just email ne your button linky thing. dysousa@gmail.com
ReplyDeleteSad face! I will miss you Cat! I have some spots open for ads($8-$4) plus a code right now for 20% off that: ITSAUGUST!
ReplyDeletePlus I would always love to do reviews or giveaways of your products for free!
Just know I will be here if you ever decide to go round 2!
Ashley:)
I'm so sad you are leaving the blogging world, but I know it's what's best for YOU. Good for you for making that a priority. I do hope you come back some day if everything works itself out.
ReplyDelete