Taking A Break From Blogging + A Tally Of YOUR Favorite Ice Cream Flavors

/ Ally Bean

QOTD: how many words did I use in this post? Hmmm…? Care to guess?

~ • ~

I’m tired.

My home is in chaos with no end in sight for these remodeling projects. The country is going to hell in a handbasket courtesy, most recently, of the Supreme Snort Court. And the world is a dumpster fire thanks to Mr. Putin.

I am almost without words.

Thus I’m going to step away from blogging for the month of July, maybe longer, so that I might REGROUP. Perhaps RECONSIDER what I want to do here. RELAX, even.

But before I go, let me share the following with you. 😋

~ • ~

AND FINALLY READER COMMENTS IN THE FORM OF A TALLY…

About ice cream flavors. You told me your favorites. Listed below in descending order of preference are the flavors with two or more votes:

  1. VANILLA
  2. CHOCOLATE
  3. STRAWBERRY
  4. MINT CHOCOLATE CHIP
  5. MOOSE TRACKS
  6. COOKIE DOUGH
  7. ROCKY ROAD
  8. PRALINES AND CREAM
  9. COFFEE
  10. DARK CHOCOLATE SORBET

~ ~ • ~ ~

222 thoughts on “Taking A Break From Blogging + A Tally Of YOUR Favorite Ice Cream Flavors”

  1. I get it. I have found it really hard to write about my silly little world when everything around us is on fire. I hope you recover and come back to us soon. The light helps to balance out all that dark.

    Liked by 12 people

    • Nicole, thanks for the hug. I could use a few about now.

      Also, I ordered a Cuisinart Ice Cream maker. It’s supposed to be here this week! Thanks for the idea.

      Like

      • Oh yay yay yayyyyyyy!!! Oh Ally, I think you will love it. I sure do love mine. It’s the easiest-peasiest to use, and homemade ice cream is just so delicious. If yours doesn’t come with the dark chocolate sorbet recipe (mine came with a little recipe book) let me know and I’ll send it to you via IG.

        Liked by 1 person

        • Thanks Nicole. I’m looking forward to making ice cream again. I love Bluesy, but she might not be the best at making ice cream, the poor girl. She tried– and we cannot ask more than that. However this new machine, I have high hopes.

          Like

  7. I hear your exhaustion, Ally and echo your, (possible?) disillusionment with blogging. The world is a disconcerting place right now and humorous musings seem trivial in comparison to the global maelstrom. I hope your break is restorative and also hope when you return to the blogosphere you will find the world has reshaped its path forward in far better ways. Us readers will probably go into a Spectacled Bean withdrawal as there are few other bloggers like you to help us laugh at the quirkier side of life and mock those who need a good mocking. Breathe, rest and rejuvenate!

    Liked by 8 people

    • Amanda, you’ve explained how I’m feeling. I can’t find anything worth writing about when everywhere I look inside my house and out in the world I see problems and messes. I’m a solutions girl, feeling overwhelmed, by what you aptly described as, the global maelstrom. Thanks for the kind compliments about The Spectacled Bean. I like to quirk, but maybe not this coming month.

      Liked by 3 people

  9. As others have said here, I ‘get it’ and have struggled with these same points…and yet right now, I have to assume others know I’m not being shallow or unfeeling or disregarding the harsh realities of our NOW. In fact, some of what I do manage to put out there in a post is cathartic for myself and hence a bit selfish. I like to think others might be refreshed by them at times.
    I am always refreshed by your posts, Ms Bean.
    Why? Because you’re one of the Cool Beans, of course!
    Take care – from your musical moon beam blogger buddy
    😎

    Liked by 6 people

  10. I so get it. My mojo has mostly mogone and there feels like a lack of centering going on. I very much agree with all the comments so far (knowing there will be a hundred or so more) stating that you are a welcome dose of positivity and fun in this cray-cray world. I wish you a wonderful rest. Breathe, enjoy the little things and find your centre. We will be here when you get back!

    Liked by 6 people

  11. Vanilla was number one!? That surprised me in a world of so many flavors.

    Enjoy your break. I hope things begin to pick up with the remodel. I understand the frustration because in when we did our in the time before Covid and no shortages there were delays and set backs. Hang in there. As for everything else going on in the country and world… I have faith that in the end it all will be well. Hugs! 🤗

    Liked by 5 people

    • Deborah, I was surprised by Vanilla, too. I thought the favorite would be something with stuff in it, like Moose Tracks or Chocolate Chip. Go figure.

      The painters are here today and now there’s even more stuff where it shouldn’t be. They’re doing the bathrooms and a bedroom and a huge closet. You can imagine what a mess it is around here. I like your faith, I shall adopt that attitude too.

      Liked by 1 person

      • Before they, the construction crew moved into our bedroom and bathroom to begin work there we moved our entire bedroom including the closet to our living room! All the living room furniture was in the garage, and I bought clothing rails to put our most worn clothes on to keep in the living room the rest went into my retreat. I feel your pain, and can well image the mess, noise, and dust!
        It does take a strong and special person/people to live in a house while the remodel is going on. I know you’ve got that strength. My favorite motto may help a little. ” Set backs are the stepping stones to come backs”. It’s going to be beautiful, shiny and new when done. 🤗

        Liked by 1 person

        • Yess, yes. You understand the mess and how we’re living right now. I couldn’t find my pajamas last night, not because of senile dementia, but because I couldn’t remember where I hid them before the painters came that morning. Nothing is where it should be– and I’m not a neat freak but… 😳

          Set backs are the stepping stones to come backs. I LOVE THAT! Thanks for a perfect mantra to keep me calm in the midst of chaos.

          Liked by 1 person

  12. Step back, recharge and enjoy. I’ve lost count of the number of breaks I’ve taken over the years, some of them have been LONG — like two years. And I think I’m also heading for another.

    There are times when no matter what you try there is nothing on the inside to come out, nothing that seems worthy or important enough to share. Especially when everything around you is a mess.

    Life happens.

    But, eventually, things settle and you get that itch, that longing to return and put a few words down which become a few sentences and paragraphs. Suddenly everything seem to make sense again and, when it does, we’ll still be here.

    Liked by 4 people

    • Colin, thanks for your encouraging words. I appreciate it. I’ve taken a few blogging breaks along the way, too. You said it with: “nothing that seems worthy or important enough to share.” That’s exactly where I find myself today.

      I’m sure you’re right that once things settle down to a normal amount of mess and chaos, I’ll get back to writing and commenting in blogland. Until then, take care, my friend.

      Liked by 1 person

  13. I somehow missed the ice-cream survey, but the number one flavor seems to be symbolic of the country and its highest Snort. It’s also my least favorite flavor/ Snort.

    I’m having a hard time writing, too. Too many other pulls of my time and brain, plus too much fury at our country to write even a small, nonpolitical post–but too much despair to write a raging political one that rehashes what others have said (and said more eloquently).

    It is all…too much.

    Liked by 3 people

    • AutumnAshbough, yep, you said it: “It is all…too much.” I want to write something about what has happened to women in this country but other people have done so, more eloquently than I can. Then anything else I think about writing seems too trivial to mention.

      I was surprised by Vanilla winning. I mean I actually love it when it’s a high end ice cream brand, but I figured I’d be the outlier. Wrong-o Moosebreath!

      Liked by 3 people

  15. I deleted my blog (not sure it was interrsting enough)😏, shut down FB, closed out some IG and kept Twitter for hurricane warnings, no pun intended. I’ll keep following you though as you have a liveky, joyful knack for some worthy material. Rest, Revive, and then we can Rise again. I missed the ice cream but….mine is peach!

    Liked by 3 people

    • cj, I’m not ready to delete my blog, but I am ready to take a step back from it for a month. I deleted FB years ago, but remain on IG because I like pretty pictures. [Shallow much?] I’m on Twitter although the system blocked me this morning so I don’t know how much longer I’ll be there. One other commenter mentioned peach. I haven’t had that in years, but it does sound good to me.

      Like

  16. Me too. Hard to write humor these days. Nothing seems funny. I’ve been considering buying some voodoo dolls and a huge pack of pins to get rid of my aggression. Good luck with your house projects. We are done at the moment but I’m still moving things and forever cleaning, cleaning, cleaning. (How can the inside get so dirty when the workers were outside?) We’ll see you when you are ready to re-enter.

    Liked by 3 people

    • Kate, nice idea about the Voodoo dolls. I like how you think. I want to keep the tone light here, but I am without humor today. I know what you mean about dirt finding its way inside the house. And having workers every which way but up does contribute to mess. Anyhoo, I’ll get back to blogging… eventually.

      Liked by 1 person

  18. Enjoy your rest and recharge! Violet and I just had a conversation about how giving up our light and happy doesn’t do anything to make the world less dark but there are also times when the dark does make it hard to feel light and happy.

    Your Supreme Snort Court comment gave me a much needed chuckle this morning! I’ll miss your wit, but know you’ll have plenty of that when you return!!

    And I feel you on the reno frustration. Met with the contractor yesterday – the job has been pushed back again and the timeline extended. It will be GORGEOUS when it’s done, but getting there is gonna be tedious.

    Liked by 2 people

    • Katie, I agree with you that giving up your light [permanently] isn’t what the world needs now. I do try to keep this blog light-hearted which is why I’m going to step back until my joie de vivre returns.

      Yep I’ve begun to call them the Supreme Snort. As Sheldon would say, I cast a “haughty snort of derision” their way– until they get their shit together.

      I’m sorry your job has been pushed back again. We first met with our contractor in October 2021– and we’re just now getting near the end of these renovations. It’s been so long that I’ve more or less forgotten what the plan is.

      Like

    • Natalie, thank you. I plan on eating ice cream while I’m away. I ordered an ice cream maker so we can create and indulge at home. The machine is supposed to be here this week!

      Liked by 2 people

  21. Like so many, I am at a complete loss for words with regards to the state of our world. Take whatever time you need to refresh & regroup my friend. We’ll be here waiting for you when you do💕

    Liked by 3 people

    • Lynn, thanks for your encouragement. I feel like I should have something to say but I’m at a loss. Not to mention when I’m surrounded by too. much. mess. inside the house I begin to unravel [and I’m not a neat freak, trust me].

      Liked by 1 person

    • Robin, you are the sweetest. Thanks for your kind words. I’ll get back to writing and commenting eventually. I know me, which is why I’m going to bug out for a while. You take care, too

      Like

  24. I hope your topsy-turvy world rights itself during your break (at least at home – possibly not much hope for the country). At the very least you will likely return with some witty banter, as you are wont to do. I will be here (or maybe on break, but will always come back).

    I do like vanilla, too, but more as a milkshake flavor.

    Liked by 4 people

    • Eilene, I have to believe that all this renovation will be over by the end of July. How much longer could this possibly take? Rhetorical question

      In the meantime I’ll try to keep abreast of the news without losing my cool– or my center– or my hope. And I’ll eat ice cream, for medicinal reasons of course!

      Liked by 1 person

  25. Wouldn’t it be lovely for the entire world to stop, step away and reset- like a very strongly enforced time out for incredibly bad behavior? Turn the world off Ally Bean, maybe take a DIY remodeling class and finish up the house yourself. In the words of someone else- catch you on the flip side!

    Liked by 2 people

    • Deb, yes I like your thinking. The world needs a reset and a reminder that we move forward in life. 🙄 I believe, rightly or wrongly, that the renovations will be completed in a few weeks. Then I’m sure I’ll feel more like my self, light-hearted with a bit of snark.

      Liked by 3 people

  26. Enjoy your time away. As I’ve grown older ( and older and older ) I’ve seen and come to appreciate life away from the digital world. Nowadays I spend more time in the garden and watching my beloved birds, and other cute little critters, that I’m blessed to have on my property. Myself and probably all of your followers understand and will await your return. Peace to you my friend.

    Liked by 4 people

    • Johnny2Toes, I’m following in your footsteps and detaching from social media more often. I’ve never suffered from FOMO [fear of missing out] instead being more worried about being rude to someone by not replying in a timely manner. That’s how they hooked polite me. Anyhow, thanks for your insightful comment. ☮️

      Like

  27. I ‘get it’ Ally. This year I have felt overwhelmed physically and emotionally, and I am considered the ‘positive one’ among family and friends. Not always feeling like the positive one, yet I always count my blessings. Many good people continue to shine their light. As you know by now, our bodies usually tell us what we lack and need before our minds catch up. 😀 I look forward to ‘seeing you’ when you return. 💕Excellent quality vanilla. 😀

    Liked by 3 people

    • Erica/Erika, yes, yes. I’m the same as you, the positive one who is getting overwhelmed with, and the exhausted by, so many issues. I agree that our bodies do show us the way if we pay attention, and mine is saying: forget the screens, go for a walk, do an arty project, make something in the kitchen. Just put words aside for a while.

      I agree about high quality Vanilla. It’s divine. It’s not Spumoni, my favorite & only my favorite, but it’s good.

      Liked by 1 person

  28. I understand the need to take a break. I hope you enjoy this time. May it be filled with great ice cream treats. You will be missed, but looking forward to your next post. Best of luck with the home updates. I know too well how irritating, yet ultimately wonderful, that can be.

    Liked by 3 people

    • Ernie, I’m usually pretty good at remaining centered, but there is too much going wrong everywhere I turn. I want this blog to be fun, so until I feel the *silly* return I’ll take a break. And eat ice cream. I’m sure that couldn’t hurt.

      Like

  29. I can’t believe I missed a post about ICE CREAM! (I’ve been traveling. Literal traveling, not the kind where I visit other blogs.) Mint choco chip all the way. Or cookie dough. Anyway, sorry for all the garbage. A reset sounds good. I hope you have cool enough weather to get outside for a walk or several during your time away. Take good care, friend. And keep in mind how awesome your house will be when this is all finished! Despite the chaos and concern and weirdos using someone else’s portapotty, and delays and mistakes… it’s all going to be worth it when it’s over!!! 🙂 Hang in there!

    Liked by 2 people

  31. Totally understand. I had to speak out for the foster children – an equation totally forgotten in this debate but from now on I think I’ll just write nonsense. The dark chocolate sorbet! Definitely! For breakfast? Why not! Good luck with the remodeling ….

    Liked by 2 people

    • Jan, there are so many things wrong with the Supreme Snort’s decisions lately that I can’t even begin to grasp the longterm implications of these decisions. Like I said, wordless. I’m looking forward to making dark chocolate sorbet once our new ice cream maker gets here. I know if I like it, I’ll eat it whenever I want.

      Like

  32. So glad you’re taking care of yourself. Modeling rational thought and radical self-compassion for those of us who have one foot in and one foot out and don’t know which way to step. When you return (and I fervently hope you do) the world will undoubtedly have undergone some new major upheaval . . . perhaps even a good one. And your home will feel like new. Have fun, Ally!

    Liked by 2 people

    • Donna, you are right about not knowing which way to step. I usually am pretty good about wandering down my path, but right now I’m overwhelmed and confused so I think I’ll bug out for a month or so. Cannot wait for the home improvements to be history. 🤞🏻

      Like

  33. I feel your pain. Way too much going on and something’s gotta give — as long as it’s not your sanity! Step away from the blog and breathe for the summer. The world will turn and hopefully the muse will return. Happy blogging break!

    Liked by 1 person

    • MELewis, I’m exactly to that point where I feel something’s gotta give– and it’s not going to be my sanity. After all I write this blog for FUN. So I’ll bug out for a while then mosey meself back here eventually. Thanks for your kind comment.

      Liked by 1 person

  34. I wonder if the American Supreme Court decision will turn out to be the catalyst for the people of each state to make family planning a higher priority and access to abortion a reflection of what the majority of women in a state really believe in. (Is this something men should be deciding?) Real and lasting progress rarely comes as the result of top down mandates, it seems to me…

    Liked by 3 people

    • Margy, good point about this being a catalyst for change. Perhaps it’ll facilitate action and improvement for women on a state/local level. I, too, question whether men should be involved in ultimately deciding this issue, but they seem to be in the thick of it. This is going to be one long drawn out nightmare for women everywhere.

      Liked by 1 person

      • Maybe only women of child bearing age should be drafting legislation?!
        Here in Canada there are no laws restricting access to abortion but the Supreme Court did rule that criminalizing abortion was unconstitutional. Each province decides how to provide them.

        Liked by 2 people

        • Canada’s plan is reasonable, but that’s not a surprise. I can only hope we can adopt something like that here– and vote for the people who promote such an idea.

          Like

  35. I get it. I do. I don’t feel like I have any wise words or anything of value to add to the Real Topics… and complaining about my (wonderful) little life seems off key. When I’m feeling unsettled or upset, I do appreciate the humdrum, and the break from facing the fact that everything is in such shambles, so I may try to get back to it. And I hope you do, too, when you feel ready. (No pressure — I just feel like I JUST found you, and so I don’t want you to leave! But that is obviously a me thing, not a you thing.)

    Liked by 3 people

    • Suzanne, this blog is mostly a light-hearted look at life, so for me to start going deeply political would be off-key. On the other hand, talking about my flapdoodle and twaddle seems tone deaf. ANYHOW, I’ll step back for a while, and return after all the home improvements are are finished– and I can think straight in my own house. I’m glad we’ve connected via blogland and I look forward to getting back here again.

      Liked by 1 person

  36. I like all the comments suggesting rest, relax, recharge and RISE again. We all need to do that and I hope we can.
    See you later alligator!

    Liked by 3 people

  38. I find myself taking mini-breaks because I just can’t find the words to write what I’m feeling. I don’t like to get political on my blog (unlike how I am in real life) but ignoring what’s going on seems so disingenuous. Enjoy your break and recharge your batteries. We’ll miss you and will be here when you return (you will return, right?).

    Liked by 2 people

    • Janis, I’m finding myself in the same place as you. I don’t want to go political, but feel like it’s the elephant [figurative and symbolic] in the room. To not at least mention in passing what’s just happened in this country seems, like you said, disingenuous. Anyhoo, I’ll take a few weeks off, then return here, refreshed and living, I hope, in a house with all home improvement projects finished.

      Liked by 1 person

  40. Totally get it, plus I just came back from what…5 or 6 months of break from blogging? Life during that time was just too much. Kind of still is…but I’m more chill about it. Will miss you while you’re gone, but the most important thing is to take good care of yourself! Enjoy your time off, my friend! Eat lots of ice cream! Mona

    Liked by 5 people

    • Mona, I knew you were away for a while and that it did you good. I like writing here, but I’m going to take a step back for a month and live my life away from blogland. Is it heresy to say that? 😉

      Liked by 2 people

      • Not at all, just know your voice of sanity will be missed. I’m sorry I missed the ice cream survey, I’d have voted for CHOCOLATE in all caps. It must have happened during my double whammy of a power outage which I complained/blogged about to get the heat and bitterness out of my system. It only partially worked.

        I’m looking forward to your speedy return!

        Liked by 3 people

        • Endless Weekend, people who like chocolate REALLY like it. I was surprised that Vanilla won top spot, but there you go. I like writing here but I also like keeping things light-hearted and I feel anything but that right now. Thanks for stopping by to comment. Seize ‘ya when I sees ‘ya!

          Like

  42. I too get the feeling of how in the world can I write about things in my life when it feels like there is a dumpster fire right outside my back door. Compounding that w/ living in a remodel (also can relate), although ours is 90% finished. The simple pleasures of life..being able to do dishes in a kitchen sink again, rather than in the bathroom teeny tiny, vanity sink…. If you’re anything like me, when I feel the need to step away from the keyboard (blogging) sooner or later something will come up in my life that I just HAVE to write about, and bingo, I’m back. Take care Ally Bean! DM

    Liked by 4 people

    • DM, I’m exactly like you. Something will happen and I’ll suddenly NEED to tell everyone about it. I’m sorry about your dishwashing scenario, but I’ve been there and done that too. Right now I’m hopeful the work will be finished in a couple of weeks so I can have my days back to do with what I will. I always seem to be waiting for someone to show up or do something. I’m patient, but… tired.

      Like

  43. I certainly understand the need to take a break from blogging. Just don’t do what I did, Ally Bean!!! Selfishly, I want you to keep writing. I can’t believe I missed the ice cream poll. I also can’t believe rum raisin (my favorite) didn’t make the list. Take care, Ally!

    Liked by 2 people

    • Laurie, no one mentioned rum raisin which now that you mention it I am surprised. I’ve known many people who love it. You could get back to blogging again, yes? I miss seeing your posts show up in my feed, but you do you.

      Liked by 1 person

  44. I could enjoy any of those ice creams. As for a break, I get it, and I hope you have a good one. One of the problems is we think our ‘little’ world is too boring in comparison to the what is going on in the world, but maybe it’s the break our mind and soul need from what is going on. How much news can one read, watch, or talk about because it just makes it all feel heavier and hopeless. Every week I question whether I should write a post, but I enjoy other’s writings and hope maybe someone gets a smile or a chuckle with mine. I’ll be hope you get to relax and your projects are going well and are finished sooner rather than later. Take care!

    Liked by 3 people

    • Judy, you are right, of course. I think my little world is too silly to talk about when we’re all confronting much. bigger. serious. issues. You make a great point that maybe what I write here, what you write there, is what people need to feel better about things in general. I, too, hope these home improvement projects are finished sooner rather than later. NOT having workers traipse through the house M thru F would be nice. Relaxing even.

      Liked by 2 people

      • I have ‘one’ coming Thursday to give us a bid on an insulation project, and I’m not looking forward to it, let alone having them there all day every day plus making a mess. We hope for them to come, and then we can’t wait for them to leave. 🙂

        Like

        • Yep, that’s the size of it. We had the insulation in our attic removed and replaced in May. It wasn’t too bad, really. The men who did the work were super conscientious– and were jovial. That makes a difference. Good luck with your project.

          Liked by 1 person

  45. Having a house in chaos–how I relate to that one! It was hard to even pick up my computer at times. Hope that July is restful for you. I wish I had hopes that the rest of this mess would improve. 😦

    Liked by 2 people

    • Margaret, I knew you’d relate to the house mess and people traipsing through it. I am tired of that, but you’re right the rest of the wrongness in our world right now… I don’t know how to process it.

      Like

  46. The house mess/stress is enough to spin me out. Throw in everything else?
    Yeah, I get it. Take the break – you more than deserve/need it.

    I’ve been so frazzled and out of sorts with life, the news, and everything else, I can’t even string enough coherent words together to form a sentence, much less a blog post.

    Sending lots of hugs.

    Liked by 3 people

    • Gigi, you’ve gotten to the heart of it. With the house in turmoil and the world a dumpster fire, I cannot figure out what to write about. I’m exhausted. I understand why you’re frazzled. Coherent words? What are those! Thanks for the hugs. Much appreciated.

      Like

  47. Oh, no…but I just found you, and you’re gonna leave me??? I kid!! I totall understand, though. There are too many things topsy-turvy right now, so I hope you find your calm and fortitude, even if aided by lots of homemade ice cream! Looking forward to your return.

    Liked by 2 people

    • M, I like writing here, really I do, BUT I am exhausted with everything going on– well, everywhere. I figure I’ll just forget about blogging for a while, then when I feel centered and refreshed I’ll return. With stories to tell!

      Like

    • Nicki, I was surprised by Vanilla, too. I like it when it’s good quality, but I figured I was unusual. Wrong-o, for once I seem to be doing something popular. How’d that happen?!! 😉

      Like

  50. July is a good time for a break. With all the sh*t going on, I don’t blame you for needing/wanting a hiatus. In fact, this evening before I read your post, I was complaining to my husband about how I was so tired of trying to appear “upbeat” on social media. It’s the biggest reason why I haven’t been writing much. Aside from an obligation I have, I’m going to step away from blogging and such for awhile. I might need more than a month, though. In the meantime, you know your “cool kids” will always be close by.

    Liked by 2 people

    • Marie, you raise a good point. There is a kind of unspoken, yet internalized, goal of appearing upbeat on social media. I see it on IG all the time and sometimes in blogland. I know I try to keep this blog light-hearted just because that seemed like a good plan when I started. Now that I’m overwhelmed by all the negative in this world I’m at a loss. Oh well, I’ll come back eventually– as I’m sure you will, too.

      Liked by 2 people

  52. You’re an experienced blogger and realize how important these breaks are for our mental health. See you back on the flip side when you’re rejuvenated, Ally.

    Liked by 2 people

    • Pete, yes you’re right. I do know when I’ve gotten to a point where the ideas/words won’t come. No need to pretend, this is after all a personal blog that I write for fun.

      Liked by 1 person

  53. Pingback: Fandango’s Provocative Question #171 – This, That, and the Other

  54. I’m going to add a quick comment and then go back and check other comments. I applaud you for making the decision. Not an easy one. I want to make that decision too but I’m not ready. I think almost there. Even though it’s summer where you are, it’s good to hibernate and be like a bear (they actually hibernate very lightly).

    Look forward to seeing you on the merry-ground Ally Bean … and meantime may order come out of chaos.

    Liked by 2 people

    • Susan, your last line is my hope too: “may order come out of chaos.” THAT’S the idea I’m latching onto. We’re heading into the hottest part of summer so hibernating won’t be difficult. Especially with a glass of iced tea and a book. Thanks for stopping by to comment. Enjoy the merry-go-round while I’m away.

      Liked by 1 person

  58. Nothing wrong with a writer’s RECHARGE, especially this time of year. Maybe you put add an alarm to your phone so you’ll be prompted to REWRITE at a later date. I will miss your musings in the meantime. The top three on the ice cream list fascinate me, as if no flavor will ever topple them no matter how creative. If you took this same survey fifty years ago you would’ve listed the same top three. Peanut Butter & Chocolate doesn’t make the top nine, sigh…

    Liked by 2 people

    • Dave, the weather this time of year always slows me down. I’m not keen on high heat and humidity, so to back off from writing is in keeping with my lassitude. I think you’re right that the top three ice cream flavors always reign supreme. I can’t explain it other than maybe those are the first flavors we tasted as kids? I thought chocolate chip would be mentioned, but it wasn’t. At all.

      Like

  59. Ally, you’ll be missed, but I hope you’ll return feeling refreshed and ready for the fray. It’s a great shame that the outside world had to mess up on such an appallingly grand scale, otherwise we’d have been able to participate more keenly in your renovation. Good luck with it and may any problems you encounter along the way be easily solvable.

    Liked by 2 people

    • Deb, if I was just dealing with the home improvement projects, and all that they entail, I’d be ok. But somehow all the other chaos in the world makes everything seem more difficult. Also in my experience July isn’t an interesting month, so why not lay low? 🤷‍♀️

      Liked by 1 person

  60. Well, of course I’ll miss your writing, and also there are all kinds of reasons why now is the best time for some humor and light, but also: I wholeheartedly endorse listening to yourself and taking care of yourself. Last week I felt like total crap–had been migraining on top of migraining, was depleted from all kinds of things–and pushed myself to go skating because exercise is good when you feel like crap, right? Um, not always. It was drudgery that just made me feel worse and wonder if the problem was skating more than me. After pulling back and resting and getting some distance from all the depleting things, I was able to go skating on Monday and it was great. I loved it. The problem had totally been me, not skating, and skating was not the solution to my woes. Rest was. So, go! Take care of yourself! The sparkle will return, and when it does I’ll be here to admire its light.

    Liked by 2 people

    • Rita, a few other commenters have mentioned how now is the time to add some light and goofiness to the world, to counterbalance the darkness. In theory I agree, but I don’t feel my usual flapdoodle and twaddle self, so I’m stepping away for a month or so. I’ve no doubt the blogosphere will survive without me.

      Very interesting about your experience with skating. Like you I’d have thought that doing a bit of exercise would set you right, but obviously not. There’s a lesson in there. Sometimes doing less– or nothing– is the best plan.

      Liked by 1 person

      • Yes, and skating can be a metaphor for blogging. When I feel the way you describe, I step back from writing for the blog. Can’t give from a dry well, you know? And while writing is often something that fills me up (or helps me cope), putting it out in the world is giving. When I took my winter break, I did quite a bit of writing, but it was just for myself. Take care, and I hope you return to your usual self sooner than later.

        Like

        • Well said. I write many things that never make it to this blog. I find writing can help me process my life, but I don’t necessarily need to share all my thoughts and feelings here. See ‘ya later, alligator. 🤓

          Like

  61. Totally get the need to take a break with all that’s going on around your house, Ally! I hope you’ll at least get some time away from the chaos.

    My favorite ice cream is cookies and cream, which wasn’t on the list. I probably missed that post somehow.

    Liked by 2 people

    • L. Marie, I like how the projects are going, it’s just that they’re going slowly with someone here almost every day. As an introvert this tires me. I only listed the flavors that got two or more mentions– not that all the other flavors were awful, just not crowd-sourced popular ones.

      Like

  62. Enjoy your break…and my opinion is always that when you feel the need for a break, then take one! Creativity can sometimes make us feel better in hard times, but then again, hard times can rob us of our creativity. You’ll know when it’s time to write again, and I look forward to reading it!

    Liked by 2 people

    • Ann, well said. I do feel like my creativity has been stolen because of these difficult times. I usually am centered regardless, but this time I am exhausted. I’ll get back to blogging eventually.

      Liked by 1 person

  63. Hmmmm…..ice cream. Anything with coffee flavor in it. And butter pecan. I know, I know, late to the voting…but still. Enjoy your break. I hope we see you back. I only just lately realized I was saying your blog name wrong..you’re not a speckled bean after all! It would be a shame now that I have it right for you not to write more! 🙂 🙂 🙂

    Liked by 3 people

    • Jen, I know! I thought chocolate would be number one, then something like Moose Tracks would be second, but not so according to my gentle readers. I’ll make sure to eat ice cream while I’m away, just to makes sure these results are accurate.

      Like

  66. Enjoy your blogging break, dear Ally Bean. It feels I know exactly what you mean about writing posts right now. Anything I want to say feels trivial…yet blogging has rarely been a place for me to share heartfelt political and social statements. It feels like something wants to change blogging direction but I’ve no idea what direction beckons. Blessings on your summer 💗

    Liked by 2 people

    • Kathy, I agree with you. Like your blog this one has never been a political blog, yet now I feel like it should be/could be BUT I don’t know if I want to do that. Pretty much I’m just tired with every thing in my life– and want to goof off away from screens and the news. So I shall. 😎

      Liked by 1 person

    • Anna, I’m glad you understand. It’s not that I don’t like blogging and reading + commenting elsewhere, it’s just that everything seems like too. much. now. I’ll take some time away and return refreshed.

      Like

    • Suz, while I like Rocky Road the commenters have spoken and it’s not in the top tier. I’m sorry. As for finding my sanity… we’ll see. At this point I’d be happy if I could hang onto 80% of it. No need to overdo.

      Liked by 1 person

  69. Pingback: FANDANGO’S PROVOCATIVE QUESTION #171 6-29-2022 – Sparks From A Combustible Mind

  70. Sadly I missed this post and the one with the tally because I didn’t get to vote. I doubt it would have changed anything and no judgement here, but only one of the flavors that “won” is one I tolerate. The rest I don’t especially like. Chocolate is my choice off the list. But my favorite (and I won’t be surprised if you’ve never heard of it) is malted milk. I don’t think they even make it any more and certainly not outside of Utah. A close second is sherbert, all but orange sherbert (yuck) I can tolerate rainbow sherbert, but pineapple, raspberry, lime or any are favorites. Lastly what happened to pistachio? Pistachio is freakin’ delicious. And yeah, it’s all in what someone prefers. I get that. Still. Vanilla?? Really. How very…vanilla of the responders.

    Liked by 2 people

  72. When I heard the news today about SCOTUS taking away the EPA’s ability to regulate greenhouse gas emissions, I just about lost it. I can barely read/turn on the news anymore these days. I don’t blame you for wanting a break. Enjoy your month (or more) off. We’ll be here when you’re ready. P.S. Vanilla? Really? It’s just so… vanilla!

    Liked by 2 people

    • The Travel Architect, I don’t know what to make of the Supreme Snort anymore. Their decisions are awful, reactionary, not where this country needs to go, where this country is. Baffling. That and Vanilla ice cream. Can’t explain that one either.

      Liked by 1 person

  74. I’m disappointed, since your blog gives me lightness of heart when the outside world puts a weight on it. So return in August – please. Your word count is always right. Always. And I agree with everything you say in this post. Except. Vanilla is #1??? REALLY????

    Liked by 2 people

    • Pam, thanks for your kind comment. I try to get to the point when I write things, although this time I went straight there, by cracky. Vanilla surprised me too, but I admit that I like it when it’s a premium brand– and the name of it includes the word ‘bean’! 😉

      Like

  75. Ally, if I recall my blogging history correctly I started in 2011 and that lasted two years. Three years later I got the bright idea to have two blogs…which lasted a couple of years. At the beginning of last month, I started blogging again. Oh boy, do I get the concept of “taking a break.” I am happy to have landed on your site and will look forward to your return. I think I am back for good this time. As for the question of promoting humor with current world events being what they are, perhaps making smiles is needed more than ever. That’s how I’m looking at it these days. Best of luck on those remodeling projects – I know that feeling of chaos!

    Liked by 1 person

    • walkingoffthechessboard, you’ve been around the blogosphere for a while. It takes a while to decide how to approach blogging– or at least it did for me. I like writing here but I am finding that with the house in total disarray + world events, I’ve lost my energy. You make a good point that humor can take the edge off things, but right now I’m not seeing the funny in things I guess. I’m sure I’ll get back here eventually. Thanks for taking the time to read and comment here.

      Liked by 1 person

  78. I know what you mean. It’s a sad state of affairs out there. Putin is a monster. Hopefully, someone will assassinate him. The right- wingers on the Supreme Court are very bad news. They are the opposite of forward-thinking.

    Like

    • Neil, yes you said it. I don’t know how to process all that’s happened recently and I’m tired. I figure a month of goofing off should allow me to regain my joie de vivre– I hope. Then I shall return. Thanks for stopping by to comment.

      Liked by 1 person

  79. Hi ally
    As much as we will miss you – I say come back when you are refreshed and enjoy your time away!
    I am planning on going a little lighter in my blog the next two months (after going a little extra with the Bleak House book posts and interviews) and so I just moved my July interview up to this weekend (rather than next) just so I could do the lighter summer mode! Hmmm – I will see how it goes
    -/
    And best wishes with the wrapping up of the remodeling and just enjoying the salad days of summer (or something like that) ☀️☀️☀️
    –

    Liked by 1 person

  81. Enjoy your blogging break Ally … we all need a break from reality as it’s all too much these days. Each newscast is more horrific than the last one and dealing with contractors is no fun. My sympathies to you on that topic. Vanilla is so bland and lacks pizzazz. Even with toppings, but I don’t like toppings, just “straight ice cream” if I’m going to eat it.

    Liked by 1 person

    • Linda, I’m looking forward to having our house back to us. These contractors are nice guys, but they are strangers traipsing around my home leaving dirt and stuff in their wake. As for vanilla, I was surprised that it came in first. The gentle readers have spoken! 😉

      Liked by 1 person

      • I “get” it Ally. When my mom/I had the house painted and papered, we went with a woman who was endorsed by the local paint store. We had a meet and greet and liked her. Our former painter had retired. She showed up late, took long lunches, multiple smoke breaks and hot flash breaks in the backyard and left early to pick her granddaughter up from school every afternoon. She played loud music too. I was at work during the day, but my mom was beyond upset. We had ordered a new bedroom suite for me to be delivered upon the expected finish date. We had to keep rescheduling delivery as it took her the entire month of September to finish the job. We had already given my bedroom suite to a neighbor to make it easier to move furniture around as she was working as it is a small house. My clothes were in boxes; I slept with my mom – a debacle. Vanilla it is!

        Like

        • It sounds like you had a much worse time of it with your painter than we’re having with ours. In fact they are finished painting and it looks great. Of course we’re back to the tile guy now, so this is the project that just keeps giving! 😉

          Liked by 1 person

  83. Dumpster fire sums it up well. I haven’t blogged in over a month: it wasn’t intentional, I just have nothing nice to say. Enjoy your regrouping!
    Ps. How can vanilla win?!?!? The most boring flavour ever, in my opinion! 😁🙃 Too bad I missed that tally!

    Liked by 1 person

  84. I completely understand needing a break. I’ll miss you though! Your blog is one of my favorites 🥹. Hopefully you feel refreshed and come back with all new amazing things ❤️ Don’t give up!

    Liked by 1 person

Comments are closed.