And Then It Was Time For Me To Say Goodbye

/ Ally Bean

The following may come as a shock to some, less so to others, but after bouncing around in the blogosphere since 2004 I’m ending The Spectacled Bean, an almost 15 year old blog*. I feel it is time for me, a free spirit, to move on.

I need a change of scenery.

Something simple and new.

Without a doubt I’ve enjoyed being here, sharing my flapdoodle & twaddle, chatting in the comments, learning about how other people live their lives, introducing bloggers to other bloggers. I appreciate the support and attention that you, my gentle readers and kind lurkers, have shown me.

Thank you. You are awesome.

But you know that, right?

Truth is I don’t know what I’ll do next online. Maybe another personal blog with a different name and focus? I’ve seen that done successfully. Maybe a Substack? They’re a thing now. Maybe I’ll join former bloggy friends who currently post exclusively on Instagram? That’s another possibility.

No need to rush into anything.

Something will pique my interest when the time is right**.

And with that I shall formally say goodbye knowing that this little corner of the blogosphere is the best. A smart place where ideas flow and solutions abound. A magical place where dreams unfold in real time. A fun place where cool people hang out.

Do good. Play nice. Take joy.

Later, kids.

* First post here.

** Leaning into one of my favorite sayings: when the student is ready the teacher will come.

[PLEASE NOTE: I’m aware that WP comments are glitchy again. I feel this is providential, a confirmation that it’s time for me to end this blog. It’s like WordPress is saying don’t let the door hit you on your backside on the way out. 🫤]

272 thoughts on “And Then It Was Time For Me To Say Goodbye”

  2. Hard to leave a like but oh, how I understand you, Ms Ally. Life to be lived and hey, if you are still connected, we will find you.

    I had a Substack for a short while. Might resume, might not. Haven’t managed to post anything in over a month so.

    Your wittiness and fun will be missed here, tell you what. However, I do wish you well and thank you for the time we have spent together in this little part of the world!

    Be happy, be well, love life!

    Liked by 2 people

    • Dale, yes, you’ve said it: life is to be lived. That’s where I am in my thinking right now. I feel tethered to this blog, fun as it has been, yet also limiting. Technically I have a Substack but have never posted a thing.

      Your final words… right back at ‘ya! 🥰

      Liked by 2 people

  3. This one does catch me by surprise Ally, (I’ve done this same thing at least twice myself so I get it)..pretty please, let me know if you do decide to do another blog? (leave a comment, shoot me an e-mail, whatever works) I enjoy your snappy, sharp, bantering! I don’t do any of those other mediums, so maybe, this will be good by (for now) Take care, DM

    Liked by 1 person

  7. So sorry to see you leave but I’m not surprised since as you say, you seem ready to turn to something else. As I come up to my 13th WP year, I’ve been considering the same. I will miss you. And if you decide to start another blog here again, stop by my little corner to let me know. All the best to you, Ally. 😊 Cheers.

    Liked by 1 person

    • Lynette, I understand your thoughts about maybe ending your blog. I decided to take the leap, start something new— more in keeping with who I am now. Will stay in touch. Thanks for reading and commenting here. 🤓

      Liked by 1 person

  9. Oh my! I am at a loss for words… However, as you have always said, “You do you” and so if now is the time to step away to other adventures or to simply sit on a cushion admiring the world as it passes by and silently surveying life then I will be thankful for the memories of this blog and of Ally Bean. You know where many of your friends hang out so as others have said, drop by with a hi if you are so inclined. Best to you dear AB! I will miss you.

    Liked by 1 person

    • Deb, thanks for this sweet comment. You know me well, I may start sitting on a cushion admiring the world as it passes by and that’ll entertain me for a while. But eventually I suspect I’ll want to use my words again and write something, somewhere. Fear not, I’ll keep you informed. 😊

      Liked by 1 person

  11. I’m glad that you are restless for new adventures online, and not just tired of it all, so that means we shall meet again. Thank you for your bloggy friendship lo these many years.

    Liked by 1 person

    • J, thanks for stopping by to read and comment here. I know we’ve been together in this blogging journey for decades now— and how cool is that! I’ll let you know when there is something to know. Right now though, I’m off to not be a blogger.

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  12. All good things must come to an end. It’s been a great adventure! You know I’ll keep haunting you with texts and emails! Wishing you the best in your next journey!😻

    Liked by 1 person

    • Beth, thanks. I appreciate your interest in what I’ve been up to all these years that I’ve been in blogland. Texts and emails are good, I look forward to keeping in touch. 😉

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  14. loved meeting and reading and knowing your here. life is a series of comings and goings and path crossings and glad to have crossed yours. live well and prosper and hope we cross paths again one day, I feel we just might –

    Liked by 1 person

    • Beth, thank you for this heartfelt comment. I agree that paths cross, we come and go, yet end up finding those who we’re supposed to find along the way. Happy to have met you. I’ll let you know what’s next.

      Liked by 1 person

  18. You’ve warned us that an ending was on your mind so it’s not a surprise, but – if I may – it is nevertheless a sadness. I’ve much enjoyed being part of your online world Ally Bean and, while I hope that you will enjoy your time doing whatever pleases you, I like to think that I’ll find you somewhere else on the online road in the not too distant future. Take good care and enjoy living your life on your terms.

    Liked by 1 person

    • Deb, somehow I knew this wouldn’t be a big surprise for you. It just is time, ‘ya know? I promise that if/when I end up elsewhere I’ll let you know. I like writing, but also need some space from words and here. *waves hands around*

      Liked by 2 people

  19. I was waiting for the “just kidding” punchline, which never came. Ally, have been a beloved facet of the blogosphere for the longest time. I’ll miss your fun and quirky posts, and the way you are able to effortlessly draw people together. Hell, I’ll miss you! Anywho, cheers to all the good times hosted at The Spectacled Bean, and here’s to whatever comes next for you, my friend! 🍻💛

    Liked by 1 person

    • Erin, such a sweet comment. Thank you. I’ve enjoyed this blog, writing and connecting here has been wonderful. I like getting people to talk and may do it again somewhere else. In the meantime I want to take a breather from blogland. So happy we met along the way. Sending good wishes your way. 😘

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  21. All good things must come to an end, as they say. Enjoy your exploration as you find a new outlet for your flapdoodle and twaddle and whatever else you feel like sharing. Maybe you’ll transform completely and write about something totally different. Happy trails!

    Liked by 1 person

    • nance, I like the possibility of doing something different online. I’ve been feeling stuck for a while so I’ve decided to become unstuck. I’m allowed to do that, you know! Thanks for stopping by to read and comment. I appreciate it.

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  22. I came late to your place, but have enjoyed it immensely. I had to laugh at your mention of Instagram. I read some on Substack, but otherwise haven’t joined any of the ‘other’ sites, and always have said I’m never, ever, going to get on Instagram. If you landed there, I’d have to reconsider! Best wishes, and enjoy living in whichever ways develop for you!

    Liked by 1 person

    • Linda, I’m glad we met along the way. Technically I have a Substack but have never posted a thing. I don’t know if I’m really an Instagram only chick, but I know many former bloggers who are there. We’ll see. In the meantime, take care. I’ll let you know where I land if/when it happens.

      Liked by 1 person

  25. Hi Ally, you’re too creative to sit on the sidelines, so I suspect you will find your way back soon. Please share new developments on Instagram when you can. Two of my favorite blogs folded in recent weeks. I knew there would be a third – there always is. Just sorry it is you. ‘Till we meet again.

    Liked by 3 people

    • Suzanne, I’m flattered by your faith in my creative spirit. I know that I enjoy writing so, yes, I’ll probably turn up again. I’m the third blog down for you in a few weeks? Sometimes letting go of what was can make space for what will be. Thanks for reading and commenting. I appreciate it.

      Liked by 2 people

  26. MS Bean: it’s been an honor to have been included as one of the Cool Beans here in your sliver of the blogosphere. I get it about the juxtaposition of being a free spirit yet being tied down with WP tech. 😎
    And yet, as you know, this does appear to be a safer place than most others in the realm of 21st century social media…more intelligent, more curious, more open and definitely more polite…
    MS Bean, let us know where you land, if possible. Would love to fly by to visit from time to time.
    peace

    Liked by 1 person

    • Laura, I’m happy that I’ve gotten to know you here in blogland. You’ve nailed it with my free spirit/WP tech conundrum. I hope that by stepping away from here for a while I’ll find a new path.

      If/when I decide on what I’m going to do next I’ll let you know. Ever onward, eh?

      Liked by 1 person

  27. Your flapdoodle & twaddle has been fun for me, for us! But I understand the impulse to pause. . . perhaps change. I’m on Substack if you happen to wander over there although I’m keeping my WP blog. Let’s stay in touch somehow, even if it’s just every so often.

    In the meantime, enjoy fall! ((( )))

    Liked by 1 person

    • Marian, yes, yes! I like the idea of writing another blog, but couldn’t tell you what it’ll be about. I’ll still be me, of course— but maybe share different slices of my life? I didn’t know you were on Substack. I’m there in name only, haven’t posted a word.

      Thanks for stopping by here to read and comment. I’m glad we met along the way. Happy Fall right back at ‘ya. 🍁

      Liked by 1 person

  28. Oh, Dear Ally, I have been reading almost every one of your blog posts since I met you and you will be greatly missed by me and many other readers. Then I continue to read and see you will stay on Instagram where you can share and we can continue to connect. Your sentence is serendipity and coincidence (I know you and I have ‘talked’ about this before ‘when the student is ready the teacher will come.’ (This is my final sentence on something I wrote yesterday – debating on whether I will share my story – and guess what?!) This is not goodbye, Ally, since I know I will see you again. Another chapter, another door opening … the opportunities are endless. Much love and hugs in your direction. 💕 Erica

    Liked by 1 person

    • Erica/Erika, thanks so much for reading and commenting and being here in this corner of blogland. I appreciate your support and understanding about why I’m doing what I’m doing. I enjoy writing so I can envision returning to the online world in a wordy way. In the meantime I’ll be on IG in my own haphazard way. Returning love and hugs back at you. Until we meet again… 💕

      Liked by 1 person

    • Anne, what a lovely comment. Thank you. I feel like now is the time for me to see what else I might do. So I shall. Take care. Sending you hugs for being such a good bloggy friend. 😊

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  30. Ally, you will be missed! I completely understand, and I hope you find a spot that feels right (write) to you, and not one that feels like a chore.
    Cheers to you and your next (or not?) endeavor! XOXO

    Liked by 1 person

  31. Sorry to hear that you are closing down. I’ve enjoyed being one of the cool kids with you. But all good things must come to an end. Best of luck figuring out where your creative spirit will go next. I’m sure it will be a grand adventure!

    Liked by 1 person

  33. Well, it’s hard to hit the like button on this post, but I must say I’m not surprised as you’ve been leaning this direction for awhile. I’ll miss your blog posts as nobody does Flapdoddle and Twaddle as well as you do. I hope to see you on IG from time to time sharing your corner of the world with us. Where ever you land I hope we meet again. Be happy, safe, and healthy!

    Liked by 2 people

    • Deborah, thanks for your support. I knew you’d understand this decision. I may write my flapdoodle & twaddle elsewhere eventually but for the moment I’m stepping away from the blogosphere. I’ll look for you on IG so that we don’t lose touch. You be happy, safe, and healthy too!

      Liked by 1 person

  34. Oh, dear, no wonder I had an uneasy feeling when I woke up this morning. Well, I totally understand your desire/need to move on, and I truly appreciate all the many opportunities we’ve had to engage, converse, rant, and rave (as in, rave about things we like).

    Although my online presence has not been as long and as consistent as yours, I’m finding myself more often scratching my head as to what to do about it. While I still enjoy reading and commenting on others’ blogs (whether WP or Substack), other social media such as IG, FB, BlueSky, etc., seem to be much less engaging for me these days. I know a lot of that is on me. I’m not visiting those platforms as much as I used to. To be engaged one must engage, I guess.

    I will be very interested to see what you do next. I hope you keep your mailing list from WP so you can give us all a heads up once (and if) you settle somewhere else.

    Aside from it’s annoying prompts to get readers to pay for a subscription, Substack seems so far to be a stable platform. It’s not perfect, but neither is WP.

    Okay, before you go, here’s one of my major complaints with WP: there are different “versions” of WP and those different versions seem to handle comments differently. That is, even if I’m already logged into WP, I might have to log in again to leave a comment on a blog. I’ve found workarounds, but still … if the blogs are all WP, why should I have to log in more than once?

    This affects me more as a reader of WP blogs than a writer, but knowing that these problems exist makes me less interested in maintaining my blog here.

    Well, sorry for the long comment. I wish you the best in figuring out what you might want to do next. Xo

    Liked by 1 person

    • Marie, I’m glad we’ve met in blogland, too. I know we often are on the same page about *waves hands around* things. It’s been wonderful to have someone to talk with.

      I also find social media less interesting than it once was. I try to find something to say on Threads or Bluesky but am not sure who is there, what it is about, why I should join in. Back when Twitter was new it was easy to start conversations and talk with people, but now on wordy social media I find no one replies.

      Technically I’m on Substack but haven’t published anything there. No time to get to know it, so I’ve put off learning about it.

      I’m yelling YES about your observation that WP’s inconsistent commenting processes are nuts. I do the same thing as you to be allowed to comment. It’s time-consuming and to what end? I mean, what is WP getting out of irritating me/us?

      I’ll let you know when I figure out my next move. I want some time away from blogging so that I can start anew. I mean same old me, just in a different headspace in a different place.

      Liked by 1 person

  37. I will miss the free spirit (your words and mine) in your writing and thinking, Ally. I truly admire your ability to express yourself “off the cuff”. I am much more conventional, which is probably why I blog instead of write novels. What will I take from “The Spectacled Bean”? Creativity knows no end when you simply let it flow. A positive approach trumps a negative one every time. And always remember Dave, it’s “Spectacled” not “Speckled” :). All the best in your future endeavors.

    Liked by 1 person

    • Dave, thank you for such a positive comment. I like being creative which is, of course, how I came to write a blog. Laughing out loud about your awareness of the difference between “Spectacled” and “Speckled” because not everyone has understood that over the years. Best to you in your blogging endeavors. So glad we met along the way.

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  38. Oh, Ally, I am disappointed! I feel as though I only JUST found your blog, and now you’re leaving! But I understand the need to seek greener pastures, and try your hand at something new. When you figure it out, will you alert all your readers to your new venture? I’d be interested in following along!

    Liked by 1 person

    • Suzanne, thanks for your kind comment. I’m glad we met in blogland and promise to let you know what’s next, when [if?] there’s something to report. I’m feeling restless about blogging so instead of forcing myself to do something I’m not in the mood to do, I’m giving myself some time away to recalibrate.

      Liked by 1 person

  40. Hi Ally, Sorry to read that you’re leaving blogland. You’re the second blogger that I follow who decided to stop blogging in the recent weeks. We’ll miss you. I’m not on IG so I hope once you decide what to do next, you’ll leave a message on your blog. Enjoy your ‘new found’ freedom!

    Liked by 1 person

    • Natalie, maybe it’s the time of year to let go of our blogs. Another commenter said I was the third blogger she followed who was moving on. I’ll let the world know where I end up, but at this point I couldn’t tell you where it’ll be. Thanks for reading and commenting. I appreciate it.

      Liked by 1 person

  41. I’m an occasional commenter and kind lurking Ally Bean. I’m not surprised. I often wonder why I keep reading WP blogs though I have no blog or interest in creating a blog. I read your possibilities for what might be ahead of you. In keeping your focus for simple the possibility that was not listed is to just be without social media presence. I have been considering just that in my ever so simple retired life.

    Well wishes!

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    • TD, I’ve found that my interest in blogging comes and goes. For me overall it’s been a good creative outlet and oodles of fun, but I feel stuck here now. You’re right I could drop out of all of blogland and social media, but I know I’d miss the interactions. I need to rethink my priorities and will do so while I’m off goofing around in the real world. Thanks for dropping in to comment. I appreciate it.

      Liked by 1 person

  43. I will miss you Ally! But good luck in your new adventures and enjoy your rest. When the right thing comes along you will know it. In the meantime, as the Beatles said…..let it be.

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    • Joni, great advice! I love how you think. I shall let it be and remove myself from blogland for a while. I imagine I’ll return— me being me. But somewhere else, just cuz I can. Thanks for following along and commenting over the years. I appreciate it.

      Liked by 1 person

          • Let me know where you are hanging out, once you decide….if you want to. Or maybe you would prefer to be anonymous when you start over?! Substack scares me a little, but then I don’t know much about it – but I wouldn’t want anyone stealing my stuff, but then AI seems to be grazing here on WP too. I wonder how much longer I will be hanging out here myself – I haven’t posted in over a month. I think of topics but lack the motivation to put the time and effort into writing them up. Plus I started another writing project during the pandemic and I have picked it up again, and I think every hour invested here is an hour I could be spending on it. Not that I have any great hopes for it, but I’m finding it enjoyable, except for the endless editing. You have tons of followers and comments here, but I have few, and even fewer since I took two years off. Keep in touch, and I wish you creativity and joy in whatever you decide to do, even if it’s nothing. After this peaceful summer, I think there is a lot to be said for doing nothing!

            Liked by 1 person

            • If I come back I will be me, Ally Bean. I’ve never blogged anonymously so you’ll know it is I. Hadn’t thought about Substack and how AI may be using it. I take your point about scary.

              I get it about how you need motivation to write a blog post. Finding topics is easier than writing about them. I don’t think non-bloggers understand how much effort + time we put into writing posts. And replying to commenters.

              Thanks for such a lovely blessing: I wish you creativity and joy in whatever you decide to do, even if it’s nothing. I wish the same for you. Good luck with your writing project if you choose to go forward. I’ll be around.

              Liked by 1 person

  46. We’ve been together for a long time in BlogLand, so I hope it’s not adieu, but instead au revoir. Thank you for the many years of sharing interesting tidbits and those quizzes that I can never resist. Keep in touch and happy trails, wherever they may lead you!

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    • Margaret, yes you’re the oldest, in the sense of longevity not age, bloggy friend I have. I promise to stay in touch, but I’m feeling restless with a need to find greener pastures in which I hope I find some happy trails. Take care, I’ll catch up with you later.

      Liked by 1 person

  47. Ally, I for one certainly know how to take a break(s) from blogging, so I totally get that feeling of wanting to step away. I am soooo glad I found your blog awhile back, because you immediately became one of my favorite stops. The cool stuff you found on the web to “test” us with, the neat questions you asked of your audience, and your overall conversational style made for a wonderful reader experience. I hope you will let us know what you are up to…where you land…and I am quite confident we’ll all follow you there. 😊

    Liked by 1 person

    • Bruce, thanks for this kind comment. I’m flattered. I’m glad that we connected in blogland and know that you understand why I’m evaluating what to do next. You are a good example of how moving onto greener blogging pastures is a sound idea. I’ll let you know what happens next. Take care. 🤓

      Liked by 1 person

  48. I will miss your blog, but I understand wanting to focus on something else. Your “Do good. Play nice. Take joy” reminded me of my son at four years old recording our phone message. He said “Be good. Do good. We’ll be doing good.” I kept that for years! I’ll keep track of you on Instagram, so please post there when you find your new format.

    Liked by 1 person

  49. Sorry to see you go dear Ally. I have so enjoyed reading you over the years. Thanks for the heads up so we don’t worry about your physical well being. Hopefully I’ll be able to find you in whatever form you choose to use in the future. Be well.

    Liked by 1 person

    • Janet, thanks for following along here and being a bloggy friend. For the very reason you mention, I knew I wanted to let everyone know what I was doing: not ill, just restless. If/when I land somewhere I’ll let you know. In the meantime, you keep smiling! 😃

      Liked by 1 person

  50. Oh, I’m so sorry to hear this, Ally Bean! It’s been a busy year for me and I haven’t had much time to read and post but I always enjoyed your writing! Thank you for sharing with us your blog, your words — you covered many cool/fun topics and your wit was always appreciated/enjoyed. Hope to see your writing again when you are up to it!

    Liked by 1 person

    • M, thanks for this kind comment. I tried to keep things light here and maybe I did? Not that I won’t again, but change is good, ‘ya know? Take care and I’ll see you when I see you.

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  51. We will be the worse for your decision but we understand your decision must be best for you. Thank you for the time I have spent reading your pondering. I’m sure we will meet up again somewhere. Best wishes to you!

    Liked by 1 person

    • Micheal, thanks. I’ve enjoyed writing here and had great fun in the comments, but I also know I’m ready to try something different. It may end up looking similar to this blog, but I’ll know I made a fresh start. All the best to you, too.

      Liked by 1 person

    • Thank you, Susan. I appreciate you following here. I’ve enjoyed sharing my snark and sass, might do it again elsewhere, but for the moment I’m going to bug out of blogland. Take care.

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  53. You’ve been hinting at this for a while, but DANG, I’m seriously bummed. I understand your reasons, especially that WP is just too complicated and glitchy! I hope you’ll keep me updated about whatever online thing you decide to do next. ❤️

    Liked by 1 person

    • Michelle G., thank you. The last day of the month seemed like as good of time as any to make this announcement. I like writing and I like my bloggy friends, but I’m also tired of fussing around with keeping this blog going. So, I’ll mosey off for a while and return somewhere refreshed. I’ll keep you informed. 🤓

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  56. I don’t know how long exactly I have been following. But I am guessing it’s somewhere over a year. But under 2 years. I may be completely wrong on that with my head in a spin as it has been for months.
    Whatever you plan to do, enjoy and have fun.
    Take care too.

    Liked by 1 person

    • Carol, hear, hear! When I started this blog it was what I needed to do to feel whole then, but now I have a different perspective so moving on is sensible. Thanks for stopping by to comment. I appreciate it.

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  59. I will truly miss seeing you every week, Ally. Your blog always made me smile, and also made me think. There will be an Ally-shaped hole in the blogosphere. But I can also totally relate to knowing when it’s time to stop, to move on, and to find the next adventure. May yours be filled with joy and discovery. Hope to see you again.

    Liked by 1 person

    • Donna, thanks for this sweet comment. I appreciate it and how you’ve been following me here. I’ve like blogging here [except for WP glitches] but I also feel like it’d be a good thing for me to give a new *something* a go. I need some adventure. If/when I return I’ll let you know. I’ve enjoyed your thoughts and perspective over the years. Take care, be kind. 😉

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  60. Good luck, Ally Bean – wherever you may land, or not! Coincidentally, the latest bill from my hosting service has me thinking about my blog in that way as well. It’s turned into a very expensive hobby. Last time I checked YouTube and the ‘Gram were still free…🤔

    Liked by 1 person

  65. Yes, you have been hinting at this, but I am sorry to see you go. If you do come back on Substack, sign me up! If you leave for good, I have no doubt it will be because living IRL is just so much better!! I keep wondering at what point I’ll get tired of blogging, but I sense it’s a good ways off yet. I’ll miss your insights, good humor, kind comments, etc. Flapdoodle and twaddle have been underrated in this world—thanks for demonstrating how to do it right.😊🤗👋

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    • Eilene, thanks for this lovely comment. I’ve enjoyed my time here on this blog, have had fun [except for WP issues], so starting another blog is a possibility. Technically I’m on Substack now, but I’ve not written anything there. Maybe now I will.

      It’ll come as no surprise to you that I tend to agree with you about the need for flapdoodle & twaddle in our world. Not that I can’t be serious, I just don’t want to be that way all the time.

      If/when I land somewhere else I’ll keep you in the loop. Until then take care and blog on my friend! 🤓

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  66. Since this is the last time (maybe) I get to be a ‘Cool Kid’, I will echo all the best wishes, etc, etc that you have got from others. I truly understand where you are at. I have been blogging for over 15 years now and am at that crossroads of thinking – do I keep going this way or not? (I think I jinxed things by renewing my WordPress plan for 2 years instead of one…)

    For me, my blog is like a scrapbook of memories and photos – it is my Codex Vitae. (I just went back to read my post about Codex Vitae – and it was a good reminder of something I figured out and wrote about in 2018!)

    So thanks for what you have given to all us readers! I know I can only keep writing new chapters if I am learning from all people. I can only keep writing if I keep aiming for better and moving away from the person I don’t want to become.

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    • Margy, I hear ‘ya. After many years of writing a personal blog I was at a crossroads, too. Writing this blog has been fun, offering me glimpses into other people’s lives and thoughts which is great. But I also am feeling restless, in search of a new road.

      I’ve envisioned this blog as being a lifestyle column in a local newspaper, but I like your idea of thinking of a personal blog as a Codex Vitae. I’ll muse on that.

      Hear, hear, about becoming the person you want to be. We need to be learning as we go lest we become old and rigid. Take care. Thanks for stopping by to read and comment. I appreciate it.

      Liked by 1 person

  67. I will dearly miss you, Ally, but I also respect your need to move on. So best wishes to you in your next endeavor. I hope we will cross paths again soon!

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    • Christie, thanks. I have liked being here, but I also am ready for something new. It’s an odd place for me to be in, however I am sure it’ll work out for the best. I, too, hope we meet again in blogland. Take care, thanks for stopping by to comment.

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  68. Aw, nuts. Well, I will miss your posts and the fun you brought to blogging. Your posts were always a bright part of my day, and often made me laugh or giggle, or both. I do understand that when it’s time, it’s time. Enjoy your next steps. All the best! XO

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    • Ernie, thanks for stopping by to comment. I appreciate it now and all the other times you’ve been here. I want blogging to be fun which means I need to follow my own muse. Take care, do your own thing, eh?

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  69. Ah Ally – I knew in my heart of hearts that this day was coming; but I’m still saddened to hear it. I’ve loved visiting you here – let us know where you land; because I’m sure you will land somewhere…you have too much to share not to land somewhere. xo

    Liked by 1 person

    • Gigi, thanks for this sweet comment. I admit that I like blogging in general, just need a fresh start of it somewhere down the line. Take care, been lovely to talk with you here.

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  71. Oh, Ally… I’m going to miss you but I do understand the call of the wild (I’ve been hearing it too lately). I want to add my name to your Cool Kids list of those you’ll notify if and when you show up on another venue. I don’t look at IG as much as I used to but will check in now and then to see if you have posted anything. Your absence will leave a big hole in the blogosphere. XX

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    • Janis, your words are so kind. Thank you. I don’t mean to leave a hole, but I also feel it’s time for me to do something new and, dare I say, simpler? This blog has been fun, but maybe a tad overwhelming. I’ll let you know when I do something, if I do something, but I probably will eventually want to come back. In the meantime I’ll look for you on IG.

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    • The Travel Architect, thanks for such a kind comment. I’ll miss everyone here but also know it’s time for me to do something different. Take care and if/when I land somewhere new I’ll let you know.

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  75. Sorry to see you go, Ally! But I trust your creative spirit is moving you to the next right thing. I’m absolutely honored that I got to spend a little time with you in this corner of WordPress. Your wit and wisdom is wonderful! Best wishes, my friend!

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    • Wynne, thanks for stopping by to read and comment on this blog. I’ve appreciated your bloggy friendship over the years. I know not where my creative spirit is taking me next, but I promise to let you know when I get there. Cheers!

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  76. Thank you for all the wonderful posts over the last 6+ years of my blogging. I’ve particularly enjoyed your blog because of your creative posts. Settling for the ordinary is not your style, and I like the way your mind works, Ally.

    Who knows? Someday, you might wander back to the blogosphere with a new blog. I’m not giving up hope. What does the commercial from Motel 6 say? “We’ll leave the light on for you.”

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    • Pete, thanks for your sweet comment. You’re the best. I set out to write this blog by following my creative muse, which either resonates with people or not. My mind is an addled place, but a kind one, so why not use it!

      Ha! I remember that Motel 6 commercial. What a wonderful way for me to envision blogland, a place with its light on waiting for me… just in case.

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  79. It’s been a pleasure following your blog, Ally. I’ll miss you. We usually know when it’s time to move on to something else. I’ve done that a few times. I think you’ll look back on this time with love not regret. You have such a lively mind that your next interest is bound to be something worth doing.

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    • Nicki, you understand my situation perfectly. I’ve enjoyed this blog and the people who’ve read it, but I also know I’m not into writing here like I once was. I think some time away from blogland will do me good, help me see what to do next. Thanks for being a good bloggy friend here. I’ve enjoyed chatting with you.

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  80. You’ll be missed by many bloggers, including me, in this community, Ally! I understand when you feel the need to move on. I just said goodbye to another blogger who had been blogging for more than ten years. If you do start another blog, please keep the same avatar. Best wishes to you!

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    • Miriam, thanks for your kind thoughts. I’ve enjoyed my time here but also feel stuck. Instead of doing something I’m not 100% behind, I’m stepping away. Might eventually be back to blogging elsewhere, might not. We’ll see.

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  83. Wishing you all the best in your next creative adventures. I’m not on social media, so I’ll miss out if you head to the ‘gram, but I have no doubt whatever you do next will be fabulous.

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    • Elisabeth, thanks for your sweet comment. I don’t know what I’m going to do next, we’ll see what strikes me fancy. I’d hate to lose you as a follower, will keep in mind that you [and many other bloggy friends] aren’t on social media. I’m there but not sure to what end. Take care, see ‘ya when I see ‘ya!

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  84. This was not what I was expecting on my return to Bloggerville. I’m sorry to see you go, but I understand. Please let me know if you return to blogging. XO

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    • Bijoux, I knew that some people would find this surprising, but I also know it’s time for me to do something new. I promise to keep you in the loop if/when I start anew. I’ve enjoyed getting to know you in blogland. Take care. Cheers!

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  86. Well, (now that’s a deep subject, as kids used to say)
    It’s been great fun and as you see, you fan club is wide and will miss you – ditto from me.
    Enjoyed all the whimsy and levity here – so rare these days
    Yes, leave bread crumbs. Substack seems very attractive and many have migrated there. Am considering it, too
    Tethered to WP is an apt observation. So many changes – (good for brain maintenance, I always said HAHAHA)
    Sometime s recently I’m just tired of scenes ( and drama queen screams. Please.)
    Real life and outdoors is pretty seductive these days.
    Cheers for Flapadoodle!
    Best wishes for a new landing.
    Onward and hope to see you on the flip side!
    Hasta later

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    • philmouse, I remember being a sassy kid and saying that! Thought I was clever.

      I admit I don’t know what Substack is all about but I do have an account there just waiting for me to figure it out. It’s popular right now but not sure if it is my kind of platform.

      Excellent point about how all the WP changes, generally for the worse in my opinion, are forced brain maintenance. Great term, btw.

      With you about no more drama queens and mean-hearted scenes. My gentle readers have been the best, but the rest of the online world can be rather seedy and unwelcoming.

      Take care, happy we *met* along the way. 🤓

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  87. I’ve only recently discovered your blog and am sorry you’re leaving it, but I’m sure you will find a new adventure to spark your creativity. Hope to connect with you then. Best wishes!

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  88. bummer, dude! i know i’m not on your “cool kids” list, but would also enjoy knowing when/where/if you come back to blogging. best of luck on your new adventures. xx, ren

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  90. Well, crap! I, for one, am shocked. I’ve really enjoyed your blog. I’ve been reading mine from the start and it’s disheartening how many former bloggers have disappeared. Hate to add your name to the ranks, but as others have said, you have to follow your heart.

    I’ll be here until I die, but I’ve always been stubborn that way, ha.

    Good luck and thanks for letting me get to know you.

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    • Mark, well here’s the thing: while I’m not going to be writing here anymore, I will still be reading and commenting on a few blogs every so often. I don’t want to lose touch with blogland, I just want a fresh start with a different blog. Later. When I’m in the mood to write one again. You carry on in your own stubborn way— and I’ll see ‘ya when I see ‘ya. 🤓

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  91. I am both surprised and not surprised by this (for selfish reasons only, unhappy) news. It seems to me that you are a writer, though, and I suspect you just need to be scratching that itch in a different way. I do hope that if you do, you’ll find a way to share the news with all of us. 15 years is an impressive and good run! And even though I expressed unhappiness just a few lines up, I also get it and part of me is saying, “Good for you!” So much of the world is just so different than it was 15 years ago, and I regularly find myself wondering why I’m putting my words out on the internets and if that’s a good use of my so-called one wild and precious life. Let me know what you find out about that, yeah?

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    • Rita, I knew you’d understand my decision. You’ve moved from a blog, started when you were a different person, to a new online platform so that you can share who you are now. I admire that. It’s the pull of a fresh start that’s calling to me. Thanks for your support here and in what will be, I hope, a new adventure. I enjoy writing so I suspect I’ll end up doing/sharing it again. But for the moment my wild and precious life is going to a quiet one, not discussed on the internets. 🙂

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      • There’s a lot of wisdom in going quiet now. Some days I think I want to go silent, and then other days I think about screaming it ALL out. So much not discussed on the internets. So far, prudence is winning the debate. 🙂 See ya on the ‘gram.

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        • Yep, you said it. Prudence is the word. I don’t know where this country is going but shouting into the void doesn’t solve anything. Looking forward to seeing you on the ‘gram [love that term].

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  92. Wow, AB. I guess you did sort of warn us. Still sad, though. I’m glad I’ll still see you on Insta, aka “blog lite” as you so brilliantly put it. Thank you so much for letting us know rather than simply disappearing. It’s so sad when that happens. All my best wishes for you on your next grand adventure!

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    • Ilsa, thanks for your kind words. I know what you mean about people who just disappear and you forever wonder what happened. Nothing tragic here, just time to explore new spaces. I’ve enjoyed getting to know you in blogland and wish you well. See ‘ya when I see ‘ya. Take care.

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  93. I am very sorry to see you go. I’ve found such a great community here. Support, laughter, different perspectives, and bloggers who like my stories (they like me, they really like me). So, will miss you! Please let us know when you decide your next project.

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  94. I have always appreciated your blog and even though I’m not in the blogosphere much these days, I will miss you and your fascinating meanderings. I understand the need to move on. I’ve been in a state of limbo with my blog and that’s starting to feel uncomfortable. Do or do not, but make a decision kind of uncomfortable. Whatever you decide to move on to, please let us know. 🙂

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    • Robin, thank you. I’m pleased to know you’ve enjoyed this blog and that you get where I’m coming from about moving on to something new. I hope you find your way out of limbo. I know that feeling. I’ll keep you in the loop when/if I land somewhere. Happy Walktober! 😉

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  95. You’ll be missed! And best of luck to you. Believe me, I get it. I’m planning to end my blog in December, 11 years after I started it. It’s just becoming too much of a chore, mostly due to changes at WordPress. But something new and interesting will come along for both of us, I believe!

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    • Ann, if you’re already in the planning stages for saying goodbye then you get it, for sure. I agree, this blog has become more of a chore than a choice. I’ve enjoyed writing here, like I’m sure you have on yours, but there is a point when moving on is prudent. Keep in touch and best of luck

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  97. I totally get it Ally! My blog has been rather silent for some time and I find myself contemplating next steps. I have so enjoyed reading your blog and wish you nothing but success in whatever comes next. Take good care❤️

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    • Lynn, you get it. I have enjoyed being here, but when I started this blog I was in an entirely different headspace. Now I’m ready for something new. I hope to connect with you along the way again regardless of what you do next. Happy Fall! 🍁

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  99. Ally, your blog has been such a treat over the years. You will be missed but I trust you are on to another great adventure. Blessings to you as you wait for it to be revealed. 💛

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  102. I will miss your posts and chatting in the comments, but all good things must come to an end. (I simply ghosted my writer blog three years ago.😬) Best wishes for whatever creative adventure you go on next!

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    • Linda, I’ve enjoyed writing this blog and had some great conversations in the comments, but I feel like I need something different now. I wish you well, too, as you continue on your creative adventures. Bet we’ll meet again!

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  103. I really hesitate to click the “like” button on this one, Ally! I will miss your writing so much. I’m glad to hear you’re not stopping, just changing the scenery. Please keep us posted on where you land next!

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    • Rhonda, thanks for this sweet comment. I do plan on writing somewhere else eventually but at the moment I’m leaning into my free-spirited natural and living blog-free. I’ll keep you in the loop about what happens next.

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  104. Awwww. Well, I can’t say I didn’t see it coming – I kind of felt for the last little while that you were preparing to call it a day on the old blog, but I AM STILL SAD FOR ME. Happy for you because you won’t be battling with the tech stuff on the WP end, but SAD FOR ME. I mean, we still have Instagram, so I will console myself with that! Stay in touch, friend! xo

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    • Nicole, thanks for this lovely comment. While I enjoyed writing this blog and chatting with people in the comments, I also realize that I’m not the same person I was when I started The Spectacled Bean and as such need to move on. My goals are different now, so instead of struggling to hang on to who I was I’m off to find out who I’ll be. I’ll look for you on IG as always, and will keep you posted if [when?] I start writing elsewhere. Take care, see ‘ya when I see ‘ya. 🤓

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  105. Thanks so much for all your wonderful posts Ally, it’s been so great reading your blogs, always a welcome injection of humour & something for me to ponder on. Good luck for the future & wherever your words may take you 😊

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