The One About Trying New Things, Setting Boundaries, & Taking A Respite, For Sooth

/ Ally Bean

I’ve heard it said that when you get down to it the world is held together with safety pins and duct tape. There’s a truth to this idea, especially when I contemplate my personal blog here on ye olde WordPress.

Safety pin meet duct tape.

I’ll take credit for the safety pin part, that’d be my weekly blog posts ‘pinned’ here for all to read, contemplate, and comment on. Thank you, my fellow cool kids*, for doing so.

But the duct tape part? That’d refer to WP’s support of this blog, the way they attempt to ‘tape’ this virtual place together. And let’s just say bless their heart for trying to doing so.

Although I have to admit that some weeks I wonder how much longer WP will be around. There are glitches galore making it increasingly tedious to write, edit, format, and publish my pithy thoughts— and for you to receive them in the way I intend.

All of which brings me to the reason I’m writing this post. You see, my bloggy friends, I’m going to try something new, setting a boundary where I’m feeling drained, and taking an extended respite from writing this personal blog.

Because I’m tired of writing it**.

It really is that simple.

Tired.

As an introvert I feel that I’ve come to a point where I need a bit of space between me and whatever it is that I’m doing here. I want to relax into my real life, contemplate why I’m blogging at this point, and review what I hope to gain from writing. It’s time to reprioritize my blogging expectations.

Thus I’ll quietly duck out of here, probably returning sometime in 2025. Or maybe I’ll go elsewhere and find a new place to share my flapdoodle and twaddle.

I dunno.

And you know what? I don’t have to know right now because I’m keeping it loose, keeping it light*** by not worrying about the deets today.

Thanks to everyone who follows The Spectacled Bean, adding joy and laughter to my days. I appreciate that you’ve included me in your lives. I plan to continue checking in on yours every so often, enjoying what you have to say on your personal blogs.

Y’all are the best.

Later, kids.

* HERE is the explanation of what I mean when I talk about cool kids.

** HERE is how it has come to be that I am tired.

*** HERE is why I’m referring to wanting to keep it light.

228 thoughts on “The One About Trying New Things, Setting Boundaries, & Taking A Respite, For Sooth”

  2. Sending love…oodles of love to you, Ally Bean. I like your game plan. Open-ended…eyes wide open for what comes next. Sounds like you’re honoring yourself. Keeping it loose and light. I love it. xo! 🥰

    Liked by 1 person

  3. I’m really sorry to hear this, but whether it’s a vacation, a sabbatical, or a resignation, there are times when one or the other is just the right move. I’m always a touch perplexed by the comments made about WP by so many people, since it’s been essentially trouble free for me for years. I guess I should be happy and just keep trucking. Some day I may give it up myself, but for now I’m happy to spend the effort.

    Liked by 2 people

    • Linda, in the last few months I’ve had issues with the WP system that slow me down when I write. Edits don’t hold. Images don’t publish clearly. And now with the recent glitch that refuses to allow me to send excerpts in emails, I feel like I’m losing control of how my thoughts are seen and distributed. That’s not what I signed up for, so I’ll take some time to think about what to do next— and why.

      Liked by 1 person

  4. I’ll miss your posts while you’re away, and I do hope you come back when you’re ready. But I also support your decision, whatever it turns out to be, wholeheartedly. Blogging is supposed to be a fun hobby, not a chore. If writing feels like a chore right now, then don’t do it. Reading and commenting is also a big commitment and is fun as well, so that should be PLENTY I think.

    Enjoy the real world. ❤

    Liked by 1 person

    • J, I knew you’d understand this decision, you’ve been blogging for about as long as I have. I agree that personal blogging needs to be fun, or what’s the point? I’ve never wandered away from this blog with no set return time, so this is a new thing. And I do enjoy commenting elsewhere so for the immediate future that’s what I’ll do. Am hoping WP gets their problems resolved, their legal woes give me pause. [No pun intended there.]

      Liked by 1 person

  5. We all have to recharge our batteries from time to time, shed, and it does no good to set a timeline for doing so! It sounds like you are drinking from an empty cup right now, so refill my friend at your own pace, sip slowly. We’ll miss you while you are gone, and think of you!
    Take care of you, be loosey goosey, and don’t forget to breathe! 💕❤️💕

    Liked by 3 people

    • Dorothy, thanks for such a lovely comment. I do need to recharge and autumn here is the perfect time to be outside, goof off, just go with the many holiday flows. I shall take your advice to heart and breathe deeply whilst contemplating what to do next.

      Liked by 1 person

  6. Yesterday I was corresponding with a blogger who writes about Women’s Heart Health on her weekly Sunday post. This is part of her reply to my comment that I think it might help you today. Take what benefits you, Ms Bean, from this:

    “I remember this terrific quote:

    “Whenever you say “yes” to something, you’re saying “no” to something else!” AND I believe the opposite of that statement is true as well. So by saying NO, I’ve just said YES to an unlimited array of other potential good things ahead. . .”

    ❤️🍎

    Liked by 2 people

    • TD, that quote is spot on to how I’m thinking about writing for this blog right now. Thank you.

      I’m not saying NO to blogging forever, I’m saying YES to some new things right now just to see what is what. I’m allowed to do that, I’m sure of it. 😊

      Liked by 1 person

  7. I commend you AB for being a long-time blogger and most definitely a conscientious one as well. Big kudos for being kind to your readers to alert all of us to this major decision. Some of us (tired folk) just wander off, fade away and on rare occasions make an appearance. Some of us, okay me, have that apparent indecisive gene I suppose 🙂 It was helpful to voice some of my thoughts on this with you yesterday. I appreciate that greatly as I believe that was the first time I had actually voiced those aspects for consideration.

    Enjoy every day to its fullest as you move forward discovering life without the obligation to document for others. So glad I was able to be in the cool kids club with you 🙂

    Liked by 1 person

    • Deb, your post yesterday was prescient for me. I was thinking the same way as you about stepping away from blogland for a while because how much more could I possibly have to say? While that is a rhetorical question, it is one that is hanging tough in the back corner of my mind. I just need some space, I’ll comment on other people’s blogs when I can plus contemplate what I’m trying to do here now. Then we’ll see where this takes me.

      And of course you’re one of the cool kids, how could you not be? 😉

      Liked by 1 person

  8. 31 days of self-care sounds like a plan the whole world should embrace, Ally. The safety pins and duct tape aren’t working too well these days. Enjoy a non-blogging life for awhile; hopefully that will recharge your batteries. We’ll all be waiting to welcome you back.

    Liked by 1 person

    • Jane, you are right about the 31 days of self-care. Everybody needs it anymore in our topsy-turvy world. I like how you said “a non-blogging life” which is what I’m doing, isn’t it? Hadn’t parsed it like that, but there you go. A few months with no blog writing, more goofing off, and I hope to be renewed.

      Liked by 1 person

    • nance, I knew you’d be onboard with this idea. I feel like I’m to a ‘blogging is dead, long live blogging’ point in my life. I do enjoy commenting on other people’s blog posts so I’m not disappearing, just stepping back a bit. As one does…

      Liked by 1 person

  11. I hate writing to a timetable. I want to write WHEN I have something to say . . . and not because I feel I have to say something.

    Hence the long pauses between posts on SLTW these days.

    Enjoy the sights and sounds of autumn. Breeze through the holidays. Rest. Relax. Breathe. Have fun exploring infinite possibilities that await!

    Liked by 1 person

    • Nancy, I understand about having a schedule and feeling like you have to post on certain days. That’s why I’ve never been good at joining weekly or monthly blogging challenges, not that there’s anything wrong with them.

      I blame part of my decision to bug out for a while on WP’s wonkiness, but also autumn is so pretty here and with all these holidays in the next few months I want to goof off without telling anyone what I’m up to.

      Think of me as a blogging rebel! 😁

      Like

    • Donna, thanks for your encouraging and hilarious comment. Yes, I need some distance between me and writing, so a break it’ll be. As for pigs flying… yep that does sum up my experiences with WP. Would that the pigs would fly!

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    • Deborah, thanks for your encouragement. I suspect that once I goof off for a while I’ll get a hankering to write again. Flapdoodle and twaddle is in my blood. I promise that if I go somewhere else to write, I’ll post it here… but I’d prefer to stay put IF WordPress can get its act together.

      Liked by 2 people

  16. Twenty years is a long time and I’m always amazed by the number of comments you receive. I’ve never seen another blog come even close. Boundaries are good and maybe you can come back in a different way, whether it be once a month/quarter or blogging around different themes (which has helped me with ideas). Best wishes to you, whatever you decide to do! It’s been fun getting to know you.

    Liked by 3 people

    • Bijoux, I’m amazed by the comments I receive, too. I never thought that would happen, I appreciate it and enjoy talking with people in the comments, so it’s all good.

      I like your ‘different way’ idea. I usually wing it about what I’ll write about but maybe a bit more pre-planned structure would give me a monthly goal? I do know that that the most popular posts are the ones where I share a list of links, then we all discuss. I could make that a monthly feature. 🤔

      Liked by 1 person

  17. I believe I understand where you’re coming from, which is why I’m so conflicted about your decision. I get it, because even though I’m a novice compared to you, I often feel that way. But I’m sad because in so many ways you are (or is it were) a role model for how blogging can and should be done. And even during my breaks (which have become more frequent and longer), I’d stop by on Tuesdays to see if there’s a new Bean to be read.

    And so I wish I could give you a big encouraging hug and ask you to just drop by and mention where you’re moving to once you’ve made your decision, and I do hope to hear from you from time to time.

    Thank you for dubbing me one of the Cool Kids.

    Liked by 3 people

    • EW, thanks for such a supportive and kind comment. It’s not that I dislike writing this blog, I’d not have lasted this long if I did, it is that I am just tired of using my words. You understand. And if there is one thing I’ve learned about blogging, you gotta like what you’re doing or you’ll implode.

      I’d prefer to stay here on WordPress but I also know it ain’t what it used to be in the sense of supporting personal bloggers. We were their bread and butter, but now… the emphasis seems to be on selling things on your blog. WP likes that. Make $$$, not friends.

      If I move elsewhere I’ll let you know. You are, after all, a cool kid. How could I not tell you?

      Like

      • Your passion and skill in weaving the Spectacled Bean posts shines through them, and I can see how such high quality posts take a lot from time and effort (if not blood, swear, and tears) to produce. So I do get the break, I’m just (selfishly) saddened by it. And I feel that the blogosphere (remember your post about what to call it? 🥹) will be dismissed by your absence.

        I noticed the requests to buy “AI support package”, but I’m afraid I’m not in the know in terms of how the platform is trying to monetize its creators. Help me understand?

        I do find it disappointing how several companies in the past have started out with a mission to serve, and somewhere along the way just remembered that they were there to make 💰?

        So, no, it’s not something that I would take for granted, and I am grateful to know that you’ll tell me when more magic beans are going to be available in the future!

        Liked by 1 person

        • I don’t know anything about “AI support packages” so can’t help you on that front. I do know that my blog posts that you receive by email are referred to by WP as “newsletters” as if you have a business rather than a personal blog. And I see plug-ins available for a price that have to do with SEO and for getting readers to pay you money and for keeping track of stats. Nothing I’m interested in.

          Thanks for the compliments. Generally speaking I’ve enjoyed all the effort it takes to write my posts, but the shift to the Block Editor was the beginning of the decline of WP. I’m a Creative, not a Marketing Wonk. 🫤

          Like

  18. Ally, I understand your decision to step away. I felt the same way a few years ago and an extended hiatus turned into a permanent break. I’ve enjoyed reading your posts and being part of your unique community.

    Earlier this year, I started reading all of my old blog posts again, and you know what? I was kinda proud of what I did. This is not to brag; it’s to say that I hope you do the same thing at some point.

    You not only are an excellent writer, you have gathered a disparate conglomeration of bloggy friends and made a community. If there is anything we need these days, it’s community.

    If you ever decide to start publishing again, I hope you will let me know. Until then, sail on and good luck finding new adventures.

    Liked by 3 people

    • Laurie, you should be proud of what you wrote on your blog. I enjoyed it, your thoughts and perspective rang true. Might ring true again if you ever get back to blogging.

      Thanks for the compliment about the community here. It’s been fun to reach out to other bloggers then find that they reciprocate by reading and commenting here. I’m not trying to break up this community, just take a respite from writing about myself. I know that there’s good chance I’ll be back here next year, but if I’m not… so it goes, eh?

      Liked by 1 person

  20. I feel you, Ally. I’ve never really been structured on my blog and I am impressed by those, like you who decide to write once per week, on Tuesdays; I prefer those to the daily dudes, to be honest.
    I was thinking about this very thing the other day. What did I do with my time before blogging came along? And it’s not the writing that is the hard part, it’s the participation, the reading of others’, the responding to comments – which, as far as I am concerned is absolutely necessary when choosing to blog. I will never understand those who blog and run. Not a comment is responded to. What? Why not take out the comment box if that’s all you want to do?
    Anyway… here I am blathering on when what I really want to do is tell you that, as much as I love your blog and our exchanges, I wish for you a blissful, self-loving, exploration of things that make you tick, relaxation, whatever it is that tickles your fancy wonderful time! If you come back, we, the faithful, will be here.
    Sending you much love.

    Liked by 2 people

    • Dale, you and I are on the same wave length about attending to our comments. I figure I just tee up a topic, then let my bloggy friends take it away in the comments. In fact replying to the comments is more rewarding than the actual things I write. On Tuesdays!

      Your wishes for me are delightful and I appreciate them. I want to be a blogger, but I also want to experience life sans blog. And considering we’re heading into a fun holiday time of year, I thought this would be a perfect time to step back for [probably] a while.

      Sending love back at ‘ya. 🥰

      Liked by 1 person

  21. Thank you for sharing yourself in blog land for lo these many years, Ally. Very sorry to see you go but I hope you feel better and are able to return when or if it makes sense to. Robert Frost in his famous Road Less Travelled said, “yet knowing how way leads on to way, I doubted if I should ever come back.” if that’s the case, then I wish you safe journeys and sunny skies. It has been a pleasure.

    Liked by 1 person

    • Lynette, thanks for this sweet comment. I am at a crossroads about blogging here so instead of being impulsive & just ending it, I’m going to reflect on what, if anything different, comes next. Also I’m going to enjoy all that this time of year has to offer away from the virtual world. I figure if I’m going to bug out I might as well do it during my favorite season.

      Liked by 1 person

  23. I always say, if we’re not inspired/enthused/motivated to blog why continue to do so? If blogging ever becomes a chore instead of a pleasure, it’s time for a break. Maybe this is respite or maybe this is retirement, but definitely this is the right decision. I sense your answer to the “7 Ideas” list is “Try New Things”. That needs to be mine as well whether I continue to blog or not (although “Help People” belongs on its own list titled “1 Idea”.

    Liked by 2 people

    • Dave, you’ve nailed it. I’m getting close to thinking that blogging is a chore rather than a way to enjoy friendships around the world. Thus the break while I contemplate what is next.

      Why yes, my answer to the 7 ideas is Try New Things. How clever/observant of you to notice that. Ask me next week what is my favorite idea and there’s a good chance I’ll pick a different one. They’re all good ideas in different contexts.

      Like

  24. This makes sense. Sometimes we need a break, even from things we enjoy. Your switching things up/taking a break sounds like a great plan. You will be missed, but I look forward to your next post. Enjoy ditching the routine of blogging. I hope you find great ways to relax and new adventures to consider. Be well.

    Liked by 2 people

  25. I understand how technical difficulties can dampen enthusiasm!
    Why do blogging platforms have to be so complicated? If it’s not one thing, it’s another, and it’s very frustrating. When my current site’s subscription is up (March 2026), I’m definitely going to look for another platform. If you happen to find something easier, please let me know! 😊
    Meanwhile, I hope you have a lovely break! ❤️

    Liked by 2 people

    • Michelle G., you understand what I’m saying about how what was once easy here on WP is now difficult for no extra reward. I enjoy writing and formatting my posts but the system has other ideas about what I’m trying to do. Stupid system.

      Thanks for the good wishes. I’m looking forward to just kind of being and reading about what other people are up to.

      Liked by 1 person

  26. By all means take a break, Ally! You’ve earned it! Your mental health is more important! You will be missed, but we understand the need to step away from something that has become a chore (the reason why I have ditched many books I began reading). Take good care of yourself!!!

    Liked by 2 people

  27. Shit happens Ally, my blog is ending in Dec because I really need a break and am honestly tired of a lot of b.s. as of late thru WP…it was nice reading ya 😁

    Liked by 2 people

  28. I’ll miss your clever wit, but I understand this decision. Patience has its limits when dealing with WP changes and some ‘improvements’ simply don’t need to be made. Enjoy your time away, but please touch base when you can. Wishing you all the best.

    Liked by 1 person

    • Suzanne, hear, hear, about WP ‘improvements’ foisted on us for no understandable reasons. They tire me. I look forward to only being a commenter on other people’s blogs. This sounds like fun to me at this point.

      Liked by 1 person

  29. I enjoy your flapdoodle and twaddle. You have a unique voice that makes me smile and laugh. I hope you come back and find joy in writing again. But by all means, we need to take a break when we need to take a break!

    Liked by 1 person

  31. I will miss you. You’re one of the first blogs I check out in the morning. I’ve seen many many bloggers lose interest and disappear. Unfortunately they’re often the ones who really know how to share smiles. Take care!

    Liked by 1 person

    • Jan, thanks. I know what you mean about bloggers who are just gone; I miss them too. I may return when I feel like I should, but in the meantime I’m going to be goofing off by enjoying our autumn weather.

      Like

  32. So, I don’t blog, but I do religiously read a handful of blogs. It began for me when my mother was in very bad health in Skilled Nursing Care, and I chose to spend most of my weekends with her. Problem was, she slept A LOT, leaving me in her room with not much to do. I was lonely not being able to spend time with my friends, and I started to do online research about relevant medical things. I happened upon a couple of blogs that interested me, for example Ronni Bennett’s blog, and then I clicked on people who commented on her blog and found that they had interesting blogs too. I have been following some of these people since around 2015. I really can’t convey how helpful it was to find this connection at such a sad, difficult time.

    I hope you enjoy your well-earned time off, and I know you will find the right answer for what comes next.
    Nina

    Liked by 1 person

    • Nina, what a lovely story. Thanks for telling me this. I appreciate how alone you must have felt sitting with your mother in that skilled nursing facility and am pleased to know that reading personal blogs helped you through those days. I remember Time Goes By blog and how personable Ronni was. What a flashback!

      The thing here is that I don’t want to give up on writing a blog entirely, yet I feel like I need some time to not think of myself as a writer. [That might make sense. 🤔]

      Like

  34. I understand. Sometimes I take stock of why I am doing what I’m doing, whether it’s volunteering, writing a blog, or maintaining certain relationships. When I start to feel resentful, it might be time to reevaluate–or simply jettison!–certain items on that list. But I will miss your weekly blog even though I wish you joy in your break!

    Liked by 1 person

    • Autumn, thanks for your support. I don’t want to get to the point where I find that I’ve become a bitter old pill about blogging. Instead I’ll make some space between me and me writing about me and see where that takes me.

      Liked by 1 person

  35. Oh, friend, I feel truly sad at the possibility of not reading your words here anymore, but I completely understand your decision. If you do end up sharing your writing somewhere else, I’d love to know where—though no pressure at all.

    You’ve been a silent mentor to me over the years. I’ve learned so much from you about how to handle comments with grace and how I want to carry myself in my own writing. I’m so grateful our paths crossed when they did. I know it wasn’t by chance. Sending you love and all the good reiki energy I can. I really do hope our paths cross in person someday.
    😘🌈

    Liked by 2 people

    • Kari, I may come back here, I may go elsewhere, but rest assured I’ll let you know where I am when I get to where I’ll be. I’d miss hearing from you.

      I agree about how our paths crossed not by accident and that someday we may meet in real life. I’m flattered to think I’ve influenced you, but suspect you knew what you were doing long before I came along. Reiki energy accepted, sending some back to you. ⚡️

      Liked by 1 person

  37. WP is not what is was when you started. Neither is the world, particularly our shared corner of it. I find it hard to keep things light in this time we’re living through, but I also don’t want to dwell in the dark. I also struggle with purpose when it comes to writing regularly online, so…I get it, even if your struggle is different from mine. I do enjoy your flapdoodle and wit. There’s an argument to be made for the importance of lightness in dark times, but that doesn’t mean that YOU have to be the creator of light. Maybe it’s your turn to be the consumer. For now. Maybe for always. Either way, it’s all good. So glad I found you, through Kate at the now-defunct Oh Katie Joy.

    Liked by 1 person

    • Rita, you’ve summed this up perfectly. WP seems less than it once was at a time when we all need it to be more. I like being lighthearted and snarky but I cannot be that way all the time, my life isn’t a continuous upbeat romp, ‘ya know?

      I plan on consuming other people’s blog posts while I’m not writing here. I enjoy the comments in any blog so much that joining in is a given with me. I miss Oh Katie Joy. I see her on IG once in a while, but her blog was one of my favorites. How could it not be?

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  39. Oh, Ally, I don’t blame you at all… sometimes it’s just too much. Although I enjoy writing, I don’t enjoy the pressure (all me, I realize) of HAVING to write. I also realize how much time blogging – even just thinking about blogging – takes out of my life. I ask myself all the time: is this where I want to put a lot of focus in retirement? Like Dan said, let us know if you emerge somewhere else. I’ll miss you!

    Liked by 1 person

    • Janis, you’ve said it. There is a lot of time involved in blogging, just thinking about what to write next, then doing it. I don’t want to feel like I’m wasting my time, but I also realize I can’t write any faster than I do which is slowly. So it comes down to a time commitment. I have lots of ideas of things to talk about but little interest in writing them down. A definite problem for a blogger!

      Liked by 1 person

  40. Enjoy the break. If it works to come back all the cool kids 😎 will still be here. And if it doesn’t work and WP is driving you nuts we will get that as well. Take care. Love the 31 days of self care concept.

    Liked by 1 person

  41. If anyone deserves a break; that would be you! Of course, your posts will be sorely missed while you are gone; that goes without saying. And if you decide to jump WP’s wonky ship; please let us know if you land somewhere else so we can come find you. xo

    Liked by 1 person

  42. Enjoy your writing break, Ally. It’s like trying to give up dunking biscuits in a cuppa because you lose half of it in the brink after awhile the pleasure of dunking returns. I’m positive you’ll be back, you’re a natural blogger 😉

    Liked by 1 person

  43. I’ve found that breaks are essential to me. My #1 rule has always been if this ever starts feeling like a job, I’m out of here. The well-timed and sometimes extended breaks are why I’m still here.

    Liked by 1 person

  45. As a fellow Introvert, I understand because I think about stop writing mine as well. I use to post four times a week, and now I struggle once a month maybe. As for WordPress, it seems like they change something every week, and I’m at a loss to find what I’m looking for. I guess I could take it on one blog, but I also do a volunteer one, so the exasperation is times two. Take a good rest, and I’ll stay in touch on Instagram. Like Dan said, if you go somewhere else, let us know.

    Liked by 1 person

    • Judy, when I think about it I find it odd that I, an introvert first class, ever decided to write about my life and share it with the world. That’s kind of where I am now, uncertain about how much more there is to tell— and why I should tell it.

      I sympathize with you being in charge of two WP blogs. One just about does me in, WP changes things in ways that make no sense to me and I feel frustrated. Difficult to believe that at one point I felt empowered using this platform.

      I’ll look for you on IG. It’s such a simple place to hang out, which appeals to me right now.

      Liked by 1 person

  46. I totally get that a little burnout is almost inevitable after 20 years, especially when the platform is causing you grief. I’ll miss your flapdoodle and twaddle and hope to see you again when the muse calls you back. In the meantime, let lightness reign!

    Liked by 1 person

    • Eilene, thank you! The reality is that while I like the people in our little corner of blogland, I just don’t feel like I have anything new to say so I’ll be quiet for a while. And while I’m quiet, like you said, I’ll let lightness reign!

      Liked by 1 person

  47. Of course I hope you come back revitalized and with many more stories to tell, but I do appreciate you letting your devoted and loving readers (like me) know that you’re taking a respite. I’ve taken a few week long breaks but not really said anything; I just didn’t feel like blogging. Then something would catch my fancy and the urge to write would come back. Living life to the fullest can mean shifting priorities around and adding/subtracting activities. I get it! Know that you are loved and will be missed. xoxo Your Fellow Long Time Blog Buddy

    Liked by 1 person

    • Margaret, I’m hoping that by not being here and writing I’ll get enough perspective on what I want to do here so that I’ll want to be here and write. At first I was going to establish a specific date for my return, but then thought better of it. I’ll come back to blogging when I’m feeling it, not when the calendar says I should.

      Thanks for your sweet thoughts. I love all my bloggy friends, but I am tired of writing words, which is a problem when you communicate exclusively through the written word. 🫤

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  48. The idiosyncrasies of WP these days is annoying to me as well Ally. I know you follow Anne Mehrling. Since Anne posts randomly, not on a regular-day basis, it occurred to me she had not posted since her Hurricane Helene post. So I hopped on her site over the weekend to find two weeks’ worth of post s and I was no longer subscribed to her blog. The “likes” not showing up or disappearing is also an annoyance. I am sorry to see you depart, but I hope you will eventually resurface more energized and if on a separate platform, please let us know where.

    Liked by 1 person

    • Linda, uh huh. Your experience of being unsubscribed, not getting posts, has happened to me too with a few bloggers who I know post regularly. So I went looking for them and there were old posts I’d not be notified of. I’ve also had a few commenters tell me how pleased they were to see me back to blogging… when I’ve been here all along.

      The shifty *Likes* are also annoying as are the inflated daily *Views* wherein WP said I had 5,000 one day then 2,000 the next, followed by days of normal views. NO. STINKING. WAY. did those large numbers happen.

      I haven’t entirely given up on WP and I hope they settle their lawsuit soon so that they can get back to being a reliable easy platform for writers. Like how they started out all those years ago.

      Liked by 1 person

      • So, when I got online a few hours ago I wanted to put my Wordless Wednesday post into Terri’s Black & White Challenge post from Sunday. Terri is no longer in my Reader, yet I’m still subscribed to her. It is annoying.

        I had been using my Windows 7 laptop since I began blogging in 2013 – suddenly in June or July this year, I could not create a post. I could put the header image in, perhaps a few paragraphs, then the entire post froze and this happened in multiple browsers. I’d shut down or restart my computer, go back – still could not edit my post. I was not amused at all and I figured it was at the same time they introduced all the AI functions to improve your writing, or so you could create a photo – suddenly those features were there and suddenly I could not create an entire post.

        I just Googled and read an article about the lawsuit, plus they had a 32-page Motion embedded inside the article. I had not heard about this. Well, you and I discussed if they went belly-up one time and starting a blog from scratch. I have saved every photo and narrative (which I do in Word) since Day #1 of my blog, plus I export and download a copy of the blog, sans pictures (I have too many), but I don’t think I would try to recreate it as much as I enjoy blogging.

        For me, I can spend a lot of time taking photos, going through those photos and creating posts as it is just me, but if I had a significant other in my life, I don’t know if I could devote as much time as I do to blogging. Today I stepped back from everything again to read a book – the second book in a month and am enjoying it. I have to find a better retirement life balance in 2025.

        Like

        • I first read about the lawsuit on Threads in September. It was a topic framed as something that would happen in October, so be aware. Well October arrived and WordPress began to go sideways, not totally broken, just not right. In ways that you mention. Now we just wait to see what happens next, if WP stays open source like the founding principles on which it was built.

          I get what you’re saying about finding balance in retirement life. Z-D is slowly getting to complete retirement, has only one client now. I know that we’re settling into a different lifestyle that will probably include more getting out of the house and doing things together. As it should. And because I only blog when I’m at home, nothing on my phone, I’ll need to factor when I’ll be able to write/publish/comment in blogland so that I feel in balance.

          Liked by 1 person

          • I hope they don’t shut down the WP platform, but if the WP warring factions can’t come to an agreement, I’d hope a third party would hopefully take it over, but please make that transition more successful than what happened at “X”.

            Since Z-D didn’t retire completely and phased out so to speak, that gave you time to prolong blogging and all the attention you give to your own blog and reading/commenting on other blogs. Yes, do enjoy your time together with no intrusions, especially right now since Fall does not appear to be fading fast – we have temps in the 70s again next week and you likewise have similar weather.

            Liked by 1 person

  49. Uh-oh, I’ll miss you, Ally… but I completely understand, respect and support your decision. While I do hope you come back, there comes a time when we all have to step back and reconsider our presence on this platform. I have definitely done that.

    Don’t be a stranger though. I do hope to still stay connected.

    Liked by 1 person

    • San, it’s not that I dislike the people I’ve met through blogging, I adore y’all, it’s that I don’t know if I have anything more to say… right now. So, yep, stepping back for a while.

      I plan on still reading and commenting on everyone’s blogs while I decide what I’m going to do next.

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  50. I’ll be sorry to miss your always enjoyable and interesting blog posts and comments. Your reasons for stopping (at least for now) all make sense. You’re tired of writing it and you want to relax into your real life and contemplate why you’re blogging. I think those are the kinds of things many of us long-time bloggers consider.

    If you start up next year on another platform, please let us know.

    Liked by 1 person

    • Nicki, thanks for the compliment about my posts. I wish I had a loftier reason for taking a break from blogging, but it really comes down to feeling like I’ve written all I can at the moment.

      I may return here or I may go elsewhere but rest assured I’ll let you know I’m back. I’d hate to lose contact with you, another long time blogger who gets what I’m saying.

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  51. I hear you, Ally. It is a shame it has come to this because, in part, greedy honchos at Wpress erode features we once had access to, with the goal that all are forced into paid plans. Some business model. It scares off writers and they leave wordpress altogether.
    But…
    There is I believe the conundrum of scheduled writing. Eventually, this seems to dull the writing shine. When I first started writing for magazines and newspaper, it was exciting and fun. It still is, four years later, but the regime of fixed deadlines dents the fun part somewhat. Especially if the writer is busy with other things in life.
    My blog posts have declined lately and I have been thinking of quitting my blog, because my writing brain feels tired! For me, fatigue means my writing becomes lacklustre, less bouncy. A break or a change is therapeutic.
    Enjoy it, Ally. And thank you for the entertaining, inspirational blog posts. It was such a pleasure to get to know you via the blogosphere.

    Liked by 1 person

    • Amanda, you’ve summarized the WordPress situation perfectly. The features I want are not the features that WP likes.

      I can understand how writing on a fixed schedule like you’ve been doing could be tiring and lead to not wanting to write at all. I also know how you feel about feeling like your writing is getting blah. I experience that, only about half of what I write I publish here for that very reason.

      I’m glad we found each other in blogland, too. I may come back to the blog after my respite and you may still be writing your blog, so this may not be a final good-bye. I’d hate to lose contact with you and your take on life.

      Liked by 1 person

      • Aw. Thanks so much! Our blogger community is why many of us are still writing here. They have given me a priceless gift.
        You mentioned only publishing half of what you write – I have some 186 drafts that mat never see the publish button. They sit in limbo for when or if we return.
        I am glad you will still read other blogs. Blogs are like our own little news channel. Offering a perspective unsullied by media moghuls. That is important.

        Liked by 1 person

        • You’re right about how blogs offer “a perspective unsullied by media moghuls.” That is so true and valuable. I’d not thought about that aspect of blogging.

          With all your drafts you understand what I’m saying about writing for a blog. I have many ideas, that’s rarely a problem, but I don’t like how I’ve said what I’m thinking about so I put it aside until I can say what I’m thinking better. Limbo it is.

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  52. I truly understand that you need a break from posting. Life at this stage should be relaxing and enjoying life. Sometimes we put so much pressure on ourselves. I know for myself, I feel like I need to always be doing something, being productive. It’s OK to let go and just be.

    Liked by 1 person

    • Hear, hear, Beth! I like the idea of relaxing more, being mellower about life, and right now that translates into less blogging. I figure being productive is overrated, or at least it is at our age! 😉

      Like

  53. As someone who has been writing only intermittently, may I say, “I feel your pain”? I do appreciate that you’re giving everyone a heads up about needing and taking a break (however long it may be). It can be quite disconcerting when a blogger just stops writing, leaving readers to wonder if the blogger had died or suffered some catastrophe. Oops … I’ve been guilty of that.

    I do hope this isn’t the end of your blog as I always enjoy your writing, but, as you note, commenting on other people’s blogs is also writing and responding to comments on your own blog is also writing. That’s a lot of writing beyond the writing of one post.

    I do highly recommend writing only when you feel really, truly motivated to write.

    I haven’t experienced as many glitches with WP as others have. I’ve even gone over to the dark side, the Block Editor. It’s okay. I’m managing … when I get around to it. I know a number of people who have switched to Substack but I’m still on the fence about that one. It’s kind of cultish over there. Also, even though a writer does not have to require readers to pay to read, Substack’s “encouragement” to pay is relentless and annoying. While I understand that paid subscriptions are how Substack makes its money, I can’t afford to pay a subscription for every newsletter I read.

    Right now I’m sticking with WP because I pay for it, not my readers. It gives me a sense of control, false though that may be. Plus WP offered me a nice discount if I paid for two years instead of one so I took it.

    Enjoy your break, however long it may be. In the meantime, I hope to still “see” you around. Oh, and by the way, Norway was also my top country!

    Liked by 1 person

    • Marie, you said what I was thinking as I wrote this post: “It can be quite disconcerting when a blogger just stops writing, leaving readers to wonder….” I wanted to clear that nothing is wrong here, I’m just tired of writing about myself. And I agree with you that it’s best to write blog posts when events motivate you to say something— not because you feel like you have to.

      I dislike Block Editor, find it cumbersome and a roadblock to my creativity. I applaud you for dealing with it.

      Like you I’m not a fan of Substack either. It’s a panhandler begging money when all you want to do is read a post. Give me, give me, give me $$$. That wears thin. Plus what is that platform supposed to be used for: is it a blog or a newsletter or a website? I get mixed messages about the purpose of Substack.

      I have a Business account with WP at the moment so I may be here a while longer, but when that ends… I dunno. Maybe I’ll move to Norway and start a whole new life! I could write a blog called The Norwegian Bean. 😉

      Liked by 1 person

      • I love that: The Norwegian Bean! Depending on the outcome of the election, I might have to seriously consider moving to Norway 😉

        I love how you describe Substack. It is too beggy. I do pay for a few subscriptions because I really want to support those particular writers, but Substack is not reader-friendly as far as I’m concerned. I mean, as long as you don’t pay for any subscriptions, you’re fine. But if you pay for an annual subscription (vs a monthly) and the writer fails to deliver, you are sh*t out of luck. Substack won’t take any responsibility. That lack of responsibility also makes me wonder how long it will last, at least as far as a money-making machine. Right now they have writers like Margaret Atwood and George Saunders (those two alone probably bring in lots of bucks), but who knows what will happen when the next bright shiny object appears.

        As for WP, I can see getting fed up with its glitches when you’re paying for a Business account. Mine is Premium, less expensive, but also less opportunity for disappointment. Whatever you do in the future, please don’t go to Blogger.

        Liked by 1 person

        • I hadn’t thought about how if you pay for an annual Substack subscription and the writer doesn’t deliver, you are out of luck. I didn’t know that and it makes me even more suspicious about what is really going on there. It’s not that I won’t pay for a known writer’s work, it’s that for the most part the accounts I’ve followed are bloggers who’ve moved to the platform to try something new. Same content, different location.

          Laughing! I started on Blogger a loooong time ago. I can’t see revisiting it at this point. Like it’d be better than here? Me thinks not.

          Liked by 1 person

          • Regarding the annual subscription: in one case, it was only $30/year so that’s a loss I can handle 😉 But in the other case, I had paid $300 for a year-long writing program (beyond the usual newsletter). After a few months, the writer went off the grid to attend to a family crisis. That’s understandable–needing to deal with Life–but there was no communication from her for three months. Crickets. It pissed some people off, especially when Substack kept insisting that the writer was responsible for refunds, not Substack. So … the writer did come back and resumed the program, but I don’t know how (or if) she managed the requested refunds. I didn’t request a refund. I’m going with the flow (which includes never paying for a year-long program again, at least not in advance). I am pleased with how earnest and diligent the writer has been since her return, and I’m still a fan of her writing. Still, it’s an experience that is more illuminating about Substack than about that particular writer … and not in a good way.

            I also agree that I can’t see paying for writing that was once offered freely elsewhere. I’m not sure that’s a good way to build community.

            Finally (yay!), the couple of times I have published on Substack, I have not liked the interface. Some writers swear it’s easy-peasy but I didn’t find it to be so. Could be just me but that’s enough 😉

            Liked by 1 person

            • Oh my what an experience with your year-long writing course. I’m glad the writer came back and finished but you’re right, that’s illuminating about how Substack shifts the blame. There’s something kinky about it.

              I didn’t realize you’d published on Substack. My account it there with zero in it, I’ve not tried writing there. I’m too tired of writing in general to take on another new editing system a la Substack, but maybe one day I’ll look into it. Thanks for the insights about it.

              Liked by 1 person

              • Well, I just published again on Substack … the exact same post as what I published on WP today. I had to retype everything but other than that, it was easy. Our discussion has piqued my curiosity … and I’m wondering if I should “diversify” in case WP does become unusable.

                Like

                • I wonder if I should, too, BUT I’m tired of fussing around with online platforms and writing words, so I’m going to let it slide for the moment. It’ll interesting to see which platform brings the most readers and commenters your way. You’ve got an experiment going there.

                  Like

  54. It’s always a pleasure to read your writings and I understand it’s also a pleasure to take a break from writing. Enjoy your respite. (I like those 31 days but if you plan on following that calendar I do take exception to Day #4. I’ve said it before, kindness is not a random act.🤓 Stay well!

    Liked by 1 person

  55. Oh, I will miss you and I hope you come back to stay. Perhaps you can self-host if you’re not already doing that? Still, self-hosting WordPress is a huge hassle, at least if you’re somewhat of a perfectionist regarding this platform and blogging in general.

    Sending you some love ❤️

    Liked by 1 person

  57. That’s sad to hear. I know you’ve warned us, in your own gentle manner, that the possibility was there, but you can hardly blame us for hoping the time would never come. If you decide you’d like to return to writing once more but can’t be doing with all things WordPress, maybe consider Substack.

    I do hope the joy will return and you find it calling to you again, otherwise I’ll simply say thank you so much for your company, your gentle humour and your pithy words.

    Liked by 1 person

    • Deb, thanks for your kind words. While I refuse to give up on blogging altogether I do think it’s best for me to take a breather from the *rigors* of blogging. Like I said, I’m tired of talking about myself.

      I know that with the WP lawsuit that’s going on in the background, and the odd ways in which WP is behaving, I’m alternately frustrated then entertained by how WP is trying to stay relevant as a blogging platform. It used to be so easy to use and it made writing fun. Now we’re all just fish caught in their net.

      Liked by 1 person

  58. Hope you find what you need and have a good time doing it!
    I contemplated shutting my blog down after my post yesterday (my 15th Blogging Anniversary.) But I won’t because I realized four things – I was having a bad day because even at my age I can get the monthly blues; if I didn’t blog, I would still write and take photos but I wouldn’t be able to share them the way I want to; many of the people who left a comment on that post are people whose opinion I value a lot and they said they enjoy reading my blog; WP has not defeated me in the past and I will not let them do it now. (I have lost count of how many times I have told them about things that seem screwy and invariably a Happiness Engineer has either agreed it is screwy and they will see what can be done, or they have explained how I can fix the screwy bits. It helps that I pay about $120 C a year for the upgrade so that ads don’t run on my blog and Happiness Engineers pay attention to my concerns…) (and I still use the old Classic Editor, which eliminates a bunch of options I wouldn’t use even if I understood them…)

    Okay, fifth thing I also realized. Mass and social media is a shit storm. I believe people like you (and I) can make a difference by posting content that is well thought out and encourages people to join us in the middle of the pack.

    Sixth thing I realized when I read your post today. On a good day I might get ten or fifteen comments and maybe a dozen likes. I can handle that. I could not handle the number of comments you get. Like you, I believe every comment deserves a well thought out reply – and it seems like I have about ten or fifteen replies in me and then my mind goes blank… I do not know how you do it!

    Liked by 1 person

    • Margy, congratulations on your 15th blogging anniversary. That’s an accomplishment. Yay you! 🎉

      Your reasons for continuing on with your blog are sound ones. I have a Business account and know that, like you, I’ve talked with HE about things that make little sense… often to no avail… but they agree something is off. I use the Classic Editor, too. I don’t want the bells and whistles in the Block Editor.

      I adore your idea that we make a difference “by posting content that is well thought out and encourages people to join us in the middle of the pack.” I’d not considered that before.

      The thing about the comments is that I enjoy talking with people to see what they have to say, so when I write and publish a post I factor in the amount of time it’ll take me to reply to comments. I post less often, but still write a lot in the comments. Replying in comments keeps my brain clicking, that’s for sure.

      Liked by 1 person

  60. Ms Bean: we’ve been around this WP crumbling mountain one too many times & each time we come to what works for us in the here and now. i myself am in a semi-permanent intermittent mode that works for me for now – jumping back in like jumping double dutch jump rope – whenever it is best for me and just starting with ‘now’ for that extra push to jump.
    enjoy your wholehearted jump back into what nourishes your soul. i’m honored to be called one of your ‘cool beans’.
    😎

    Liked by 1 person

    • Laura, ain’t it the truth about WP? I knew you were posting less often and understand about the double dutch jump rope jumping. It’s not simple here anymore and I miss that.

      You are a cool bean, no doubt about it. I appreciate you checking in here to see what’s going on with me— or in this case seeing what isn’t going on with me. 😉

      Liked by 1 person

  61. So many bloggers over the years have disappeared, so selfishly, I hate to see this – but I fully support you doing what works best for you. Oddly, I never have a single issue with WP, so I was honestly surprised to read this. Best of luck to you regardless of what you decide!

    Liked by 1 person

  62. Hi, Ally – Your words above echo how so many long time bloggers feel. I greatly admire your decision to try something new while keeping it wide open. I’ve greatly enjoyed hanging out with you in this little corner of the blogosphere. Sending you warm hugs for your next steps

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    • Donna, yes I realize I’m not alone in wanting to step back from personal blogging for a while. Whether this break is a respite or a retirement I’m not sure yet. The thing about our corner of the blogosphere is that I like the people, enjoy chatting with others about their lives, but am tired of talking about me. Who’d of thunk it’d come to this‽ 🤔

      Liked by 1 person

  63. I understand, Ally! I’ve been feeling the same way. It’s harder to want to write on a forum that is so messed up. I keep losing regular readers, but gaining subscribers from Nigeria, Lower Mongolia, etc. who I suspect really don’t care about the topics of my blog. I can’t always like or comment on blogs I follow. The Word Press community seems to be getting smaller, and I do wonder if those of us who use this blog to simply write and not sell things are simply being phased out. I’ll miss you, but you do what is best for you. I’m probably going to wind down my blog in December, on its ten year anniversary.

    Liked by 1 person

    • Ann, I have the same situation with followers, not everyone knows I’ve posted. And I sometimes can’t comment on other WP blogs. Plus my latest subscribers are more lurkers who *like* rather than readers who comment.

      You may be onto the real issue: we don’t sell anything on our blogs and WP wants to shift the focus from happy writers to marketing mavens.

      I understand why you may shut down your blog. I’d miss you, but blogging has to be fun if it’s worth it. I believe this and suspect you do, too.

      Liked by 1 person

  64. I totally understand and am glad you simply didn’t ghost us. A routine gets old, you need “you” time. Maybe you come back and maybe you don’t. If you go someplace else, please us know. And if at the farmer’s market, please don’t buy 60 cantaloupes.

    Liked by 1 person

  65. Oh, no, Ally Bean! I’ll miss reading your posts during your break. I do hope you’ll come back (not necessarily to WP since it sounds like it’s such a pain!) refreshed and ready to share with us your words again! In the meantime, I’ll “see” you in the other bloggers’ comments section.

    Hope you have a wonderful Thanksgiving and Christmas/holidays!

    Liked by 2 people

    • M, thanks for your kind thoughts. I appreciate how you read and comment here. I will be around commenting elsewhere which I find rather fun.

      Happy Thanksgiving and December Holidays to you, too. Plus Happy Halloween, mustn’t forget that one.

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  67. It’s good and okay (not that you need my permission) to take a break from blogging, especially when you respond to so many comments on each and every one of your posts. That and the writing itself takes time! Relax and do the other things that bring you joy, enjoy the holidays, and come back when you are ready to engage with your cool kids. Make sure you let us all know if you change platforms and until then, have a wonderful blogging vacation.

    Liked by 2 people

    • Mary, thank you. While I don’t need your permission to take a break it’s wonderful to know that you understand. You’re right about the time commitment when it comes to this blog. I enjoy chatting with people in the comments and I enjoy writing something worth reading, but I am tired of using my words. And who would have ever thought it would come to that‽

      Liked by 1 person

  70. Hey Ally.
    I can totally understand that if you are already in a state of ‘not loving the writing part’ that when the PAPER AND PEN aren’t working properly, it can be even more tedious. I’m sorry about that.
    I’ve not been having any issues with WP. Are you self hosted? Hmmm….
    Anyhoo, I hope you enjoy your respite and that we ALL see your words again real soon. XO

    Liked by 2 people

    • Suz, I’m not self-hosted and I don’t know if that would improve my experience here or not. Are you self-hosted? I know that I use an old free template and wonder if that’s part of the reason things go sideways for me. Or it’s just a way to slow me down, keep me humble! 😉

      Liked by 1 person

  71. I’m sorry to see you go, but absolutely understand the need to do something that feels right to you! I hope we see you back here in 2025. ❤

    (I will note that I do not seem to have the same issues with WP – I'm self-hosted, though. But I disabled the Gutenberg editor and still use the old-school one, which just works SO MUCH BETTER for me. I hate Gutenberg – it makes writing so much more tedious!)

    Liked by 2 people

    • Stephany, it’s unusual for me to not want to write about what’s happening in my life, but that’s where I am at the moment. Nothing bad going, btw— just not in the mood to apply myself to words.

      I like the Classic Editor for writing, too. Any time I’ve tried to use the Block[head] Editor I’ve had trouble. In fact that’s what I’ve been trying to do this fall and have gotten into a tangle because of it. If/when I come back I’m using the old editor again.

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  74. I hope that someday you do come back. Your voice is such a lovely, funny one in the blogosphere. But blogging is exhausting, particularly when the technology doesn’t work.

    Hugs to you.

    Liked by 1 person

    • NGS, I’ve always enjoyed blogging, but I’ve hit a point where I don’t want to write. At least for a while. I suspect I’m going to miss it. Just need a breather.

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  75. Just letting you know since I past left a comment regarding this post of yours being stolen by another site, that since then, that site has removed the post it stole from you. It wasn’t there when I checked today. So good news for you.
    Hopefully my friend, Laura, will find hers taken down from there too after she informed the host of this blogger stealing content. If that person doesn’t take it down, he will have his site suspended.

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  76. Luckily for me I’ve been away & haven’t been reading much, so I have a few of your posts to catch up on, I’ll take my time reading them & make them last ☺️

    Enjoy your rest Ally. Hope it re-ignites your creative spark. (No need to reply by the way, just keep chill beaning 🫘 ☺️)

    Liked by 1 person

  77. I’ve put off commenting. I’ve been searching for a way of saying I’m going to miss you that doesn’t sound entirely self-serving. I look forward to your flapadoodle but I would never want to impede you from taking care of yourself. That’s so important and something that is often very hard to do with the expectations of everyone around you.

    So, take care of you. Get some rest. Dream some happy dreams. And, if and when you feel ready, come back.

    Liked by 1 person

    • Zazzy, thank you for this lovely heartfelt comment. You’re right about the expectations part of this situation, I know and appreciate that many people like this blog, but I also know I deserve a break from it. So instead of becoming stressed, I’ll bug out for a while.

      I’d love to dream some happy dreams, perhaps I will once this infernal election is over. But beyond that I’ll return when I feel so moved. Oddly enough I have many ideas about things to write, just no motivation to do so. Go figure. 🤔

      Liked by 1 person

  78. I’ve had some downtime this morning waiting for our dumpster rental to get here and I just came across your blog! I’m sad to hear you’re taking a break from things because I’ve liked what I’ve read so far, but it’s totally understandable. I look forward to you coming back but in the meantime, you’ve got a lot of great stuff I’ll read up on! Good luck with it all!

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  79. Well, this is sad. I mean, do what you need to do, of course, but the fact that I’ve already read those three other posts you linked to means I’ve been around these parts for a long time. I hope you will come back because you feel like a founding fath…. errr mother of the blog world. It won’t be the same without you. But, I wish you the best, whatever you decide. And I will always think of you when I see a Heineken.

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  80. Ally, I will miss you and your posts here but glad that you will still be commenting a little here and there. Blogging can be both rewarding and exhausting and when the balance is askew it must be addressed. It is good you are putting yourself first and I so hope the tiredness will alleviate and that you will enjoy writing away once again. WordPress have not helped over the recent years and at times I wonder if they want to push customers away. I’ll keep a look out for you, see if you pop up elsewhere. For now, enjoy the break from here and wishing you well for the rest of 2024. hugs, Annika xx ❤️

    Liked by 1 person

    • Annika, thanks for your encouraging comment. You’re right about the balance between reward and exhaustion; that’s really where I am about blogging. I love writing, but also don’t love it, so instead of forcing myself to do something that is completely voluntary I’m taking a breather.

      I wonder about WordPress’s motives, too. What used to be easy and intuitive is now a struggle, without any increased value for me that I can discern. I may make it back here on WP, regardless of how they run things, or I may go elsewhere… assuming my desire to write returns.

      Good wishes to you and yours! 2024 has been a doozy of a year for everyone.

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  81. I hear you, Ally! I emailed WP about not being able to enter the tags. The response I got was that it’s something they’ve been working on and that it’s the developer’s issue. I volunteer to post announcements for a writer’s group. They use WP,l and I have the same issue there. I gave up.
    Then yesterday, I couldn’t log in to my blog. I emailed WP to send me a link to reset my password. The form just said my email was unknown. It gave me a heart attack because I’ve scheduled to host a blog tour for a new release. Then one engineer recommended that I gave her a new email address and she changed it for me and send me a link to reset the password. As much as I didn’t want to do it, I did. As of half an hour ago, I logged in to my site. Who knows how long it’ll be good for.
    I’ve been blogging erractically anyway because my priority is to spend time with my grandkids.
    I like your idea of taking a break from writing. You can’t get mad if you have no expectation. Take care!

    Liked by 1 person

    • Miriam, your struggles using WP don’t surprise me but also make me sad that you had to go through that hassle to get to your blogs. I’m sure you remember back when WP was easy to use, intuitive, and fun. I’m glad you found a Happiness Engineer that resolved your problems, but I can’t help but wonder why there were problems to begin with. Reduced WP staff, perhaps? Too few people to keep the place afloat?

      I adore your take btw: You can’t get mad if you have no expectation. That’s the truth of it. Thanks for stopping by to comment. I appreciate it.

      Liked by 2 people

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