I debated even posting this, or anything for that matter. But decided I owed it to my 10 loyal readers to fess up…I’ve lost my creativity. I can’t find it. I’ve contacted Holmes and Watson but he’s busy and really feels this is a case that is simply too boring for his skill set. Great minds must be stimulated!
I mentioned the idea of quitting the blog business to one of my loyal readers (my sweet daughter in law, Sarah) and she reminded me that I said the exact same thing last year around this time.
The truth is, I’ve tried to alter my attitude towards summer and I’ve certainly had a fun one this year. [Babysitting our 3 1/2 year old granddaughter for 8 days was a highlight]
Still, in my heart I really hate do not care for the heat of summer (I know its me, its not the season, its me). I play a waiting game of tolerance until late October, early November, when signs of autumn arrive here in sunny, Southern California.
So without further whining…I’m taking a break. Tack it on to the already 2 week break I’ve enjoyed and I’ll do my best to return sometime in September. Meanwhile, I hope you’ll return to read whatever I come up with. I am still always fascinated by anything to do with home enhancement, and take great pleasure in reading so many of the great posts that appear in my mailbox almost daily. In addition, I have grown quite fond of all of you…my virtual BFF’s. 🙂
xoxo,
Karen
Garden, Home & Party 
laney said:
…no sweet friend…it is not you…it is the end of the summer blahs…i am a fall and winter person…summer…and all it involves wears me out…i love the yard and flowers…when they are done…just not the doing…so…when you come back…and please please do…i will be here waiting…i with soup on the stove…in front of the fireplace…with a cup of tea…(even if i do have the air conditioner going or not)…blessings laney
Karen B. said:
Laney, Just reading about soup on the stove, a fire in the fireplace and a cup of tea in hand warmed my heart. Thank you so much for your kind words and encouragement. When the gray cells have recharged I’ll get going on the ideas that sit in the WordPress draft box. See you soon. 🙂 xo, Karen
On Wed, Aug 20, 2014 at 3:22 AM, Garden, Home & Party wrote:
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Norman Ringgold said:
Amazing what a 3 year old can teach you.
Karen B. said:
So true. Out of the mouths of babes.
Karen
Kelly - Talk of the House said:
i agree with Laney. The end of summer is a sad sad time. Mine seems especially sad since I have sent daughter off to college and am about to move our two sons across the country to Seattle. Those emotions have even sent me to speak with a retirement advisor to see about retiring in Dec. Yikes!
Blogging requires work, and all work should have a break now and then just to get the creative juices flowing again. So you are just refueling. 🙂 Enjoy the freedom of your break. We will see you when you return – ready to show us the beauty of autumn.
Karen B. said:
Kelly, Leave it to friends (blog friends or otherwise) to help you see a balanced perspective. Sincere thanks. But wait! Both sons are moving to Seattle?! A new adventure begins for them and you and family. 🙂 When life changes routes, we have to sometimes get a map, but all of us usually figure out a way to make it work, right? xo, Karen
On Wed, Aug 20, 2014 at 4:19 AM, Garden, Home & Party wrote:
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msshe said:
Karen…I think a break is just the thing! I enjoy your posts but understand the need to take the pressure off for a bit. Artistic people have to be inspired and not crank out articles like a newspaper. I have an idea for you to research….find me some shrubs that are not affected by dog urine. I want to plant this fall…but do not want my dog to kill the new stuff. You may even use my Mikey’s pic from the blog for inspiration. Behind that cute face is a killer, a bush killer! Looking forward to your return! Sheila
Sheila E http://www.mykentuckyliving.blogspot.com
apologies for typos from autocorrect …Sent from my iPad
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Karen B. said:
Sheila, You are the best, what a great idea. Okay. I’m on it. This already gives me hope, and a big dose of joy! Thank you, Karen
On Wed, Aug 20, 2014 at 4:57 AM, Garden, Home & Party wrote:
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beggingforattention said:
you are modest dear friend, i cannot help but believe you have a big following. so few readers comment. but a break will refresh you and the creativity, without pressure, will flow back in…….and i cannot wait
xoxoxo
debra
Karen B. said:
Debra, I was exaggerating, but you know sometimes, when you’re in the midst of a pity party, things seem much worse, right? I’ve received a writing assignment from a reader and it gave me a jolt of excitement to do some research. Maybe that’s just the shot in the arm I needed. Thank you for always being such a good friend. See you in September. Karen
On Wed, Aug 20, 2014 at 5:40 AM, Garden, Home & Party wrote:
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Victoria • Restoring our Victorian said:
I have a really hard time recovering from vacation. Even if it is the GREATEST vacation ever… Being away disrupts my routine and I have a hard time getting it back.
September will be here before you know it!!
Victoria • Restoring our Victorian said:
I think your spam filter is eating my comments?
Rebecca Dexter said:
you need to spend some time in Door County, WI (northeast) where there has been NO summer…just coming off the worst winter ever and now a cold, rainy June, July, Aug…see, it could be worse!
Karen B. said:
Rebecca, I have always said I was born in a state with too much sunshine. I thrive on cooler temps and have ready with envy that the temperatures in the eastern quadrant of the nation have been unseasonably cool this summer. 🙂 xo, Karen
On Wed, Aug 20, 2014 at 6:25 AM, Garden, Home & Party wrote:
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Rebecca Dexter said:
cooler is one thing, but wearing a turtle neck, wool sweater and jeans in Aug. is cold! My husband asked me yesterday when the snow was coming!
Karen B. said:
Ha,ha,ha. You are probably right. I might be wishing for the warm temps after one *true* winter in the east. All in all, I do like our weather, August has always been the warmest month and you’d think I could just go with the flow after so many years. I need to adjust my attitude for next year!
On Wed, Aug 20, 2014 at 6:57 AM, Garden, Home & Party wrote:
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taylor greenwalt said:
I totally understand…take as long as you need and we will see ya back in Sept.
Karen B. said:
Thanks, Julie. Fall always energizes me. See you then. xo, Karen
On Wed, Aug 20, 2014 at 6:26 AM, Garden, Home & Party wrote:
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countrymeadowsdesigns said:
I love to see who other people are following; it would be great to get a re-post of someone’s post that caught your eye; burnout happens, so recharge your batteries and enjoy
Karen B. said:
You know, it’s been awhile since I’ve shared new blog friend’s sites. That is always fun. Like you, there are so many blog sites and it’s like a little present when you find a new one to enjoy. Thank you for the idea. Hopefully, I’ll be back in September refreshed and renewed.
xo,
Karen
Dawn said:
Enjoy a nice, relaxing break, Karen! Doing other things you are passionate about will fill you with inspiration. It will be so nice to see you when you are back! again!! ♡
Karen B. said:
Thanks, Dawn. I’m looking forward to some new ideas with the onset of fall! xo, Karen
On Wed, Aug 20, 2014 at 7:32 AM, Garden, Home & Party wrote:
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Vicki said:
I know just what you mean- I’m hoping I’ll feel more creative when the weather cools, too. I like those ideas from the commenters- maybe include gardening tips for novice So. Cal. gardeners? 🙂 Your posts introducing new blogs and designers are always great, too. At any rate, enjoy your break- you’ve earned it!
Karen B. said:
Vicki, Thanks, I think I’ll try to remember that I just need a hiatus in August next year. I am taking to heart the suggestions and doing my homework for some new ideas in September. Thanks so much for weighing in on this…it probably hits all of us, especially blog writers, from time to time. xo, Karen
On Wed, Aug 20, 2014 at 10:08 AM, Garden, Home & Party wrote:
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Tone on Tone Loi Thai said:
Hi Karen,
I’ve been on a mini blog break myself this summer. It’s good to take a little hiatus, I think. But, please, don’t joke about quitting your blog. I thoroughly enjoy it, and love following you on Instagram. Enjoy your break! Cheers
Karen B. said:
Oh, Loi, You made my day. I agree with the hiatus. I always think I don’t really need a break, but it feels good to have some time to relax and recharge. Summer is the best time to do that. You enjoy your break too, my friend. xo, Karen
On Wed, Aug 20, 2014 at 12:14 PM, Garden, Home & Party wrote:
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D'Arcy H said:
Hi Karen,
I think you’ve got the message by now, but it’s true–blogging is hard work and sometimes you just have to take a break and not worry about it. We will be here for you when you’re ready to come back! It makes no sense to put pressure on yourself to be creative when it’s supposed to something you do for fun. Relax and quit thinking about it, and suddenly, wham–something will catch your imagination and you will be inspired to write again.
PS … I am cooked and feeling done with summer, too.
–D’Arcy
Karen B. said:
Seriously, I’m a slow learner. I will be wiser next August and be on a full months hiatus. You said it, I’m doing this because it’s satisfying that creative vein, I want to be excited, not dread it. I’ll see you in September. xo, Karen
Sent from my iPad
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kristywharvey said:
Shew! Glad to know you’re just on a break! And you’re so right: It’s too hot to think this time of summer! I’ll be waiting with baited breath for your next post 🙂 Everyone needs a little break now and then!
Karen B. said:
Thanks, Kristy. I feel like a wimp…next year I’m taking August off. I’ll be good as new in September. 🙂 Karen
Sent from my iPad
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Teresa @ Splendid Sass said:
Understand, Karen! I am tired too, and I detest summer. Just nothing fun to post about. I mean, how man times can you share pictures of the beach or a flower. Ready for fall and Christmas.
Enjoy your time, and I will watch for your next post.
Teresa
xoxo
Karen B. said:
Thanks so much Teresa. I knew my blog friends would all understand. I’m feeling better now that it’s cooled for the past 2 days. We’re heating up again this weekend. It’s nice to share a love of fall and winter with you! Isn’t it the prettiest time of year? xo, Karen
On Thu, Aug 21, 2014 at 9:47 AM, Garden, Home & Party wrote:
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Linda Coble said:
Hi Karen,
While I’ll miss your blog, I certainly understand the need to replenish those creative juices. I’ll try to come with some inspiration for new posts while you’re taking a well deserved break. Enjoy your time away and know that your loyal blog followers will be looking forward to your return.
Loved the pics of little Livi!
Karen B. said:
Thanks so much, Linda. You’ve always been so supportive of me, especially where my blog hobby is concerned. xo, Karen
On Fri, Aug 22, 2014 at 1:09 PM, Garden, Home & Party wrote:
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Phyllis said:
Karen! I just came to catch up on what you have been up to this summer – I was ‘off-line’ for most of it and have enjoyed a rainy day at home reading all my old favorites. I was a little concerned by the first few lines here, but I do believe that we all need a little break to recharge from time to time. I have done it myself – I could never blog ‘professionally’ – and I know that before long you will suddenly feel inspired to share the things you love with us lucky readers again. You will see something and that will be it. That’s what happened to me after taking a few months off last year. In the meantime, stay cool!
xo,
Phyllis
Karen B. said:
Thanks, Phyllis. I start thinking of fires in the fireplace and hot tea and a good book around this time. Reality check, right? I do feel refreshed have some time off. I hope to return in September with some fresh ideas. Enjoy your rainy day. We’re in a serious drought, I’m praying for rain. xo, Karen
On Fri, Aug 22, 2014 at 1:56 PM, Garden, Home & Party wrote:
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Luisa said:
Hello Karen!!
I just want to visit you , read your post and say you HELO,!
From my long summer and of line time!
From Spain
Good week end!
Luisa
Karen B. said:
Hi Luisa, So happy to hear from you. I hope you have a wonderful weekend. How’s the weather in Spain? Is summer winding down? Karen
On Fri, Aug 22, 2014 at 3:39 PM, Garden, Home & Party wrote:
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Design Chic said:
I will anxiously await seeing your post in my inbox when you are ready to return. Sometimes all we need is a little break to get those creative juices flowing again. Love seeing your precious granddaughter!!
Karen B. said:
Thank you, it’s meant *a lot* to hear from my favorite bloggers! I’m looking forward to returning in September. xo, Karen
On Mon, Aug 25, 2014 at 11:50 AM, Garden, Home & Party wrote:
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Leslie Harris aka Gwen Moss said:
Count me in as one of your loyal followers…I LOVE seeing your posts pop up in my email and it doesn’t matter what particular project your working on. I just plain ol like to hear what’s going on in your life Karen. Don’t worry one bit about your creativity either, come Fall it will be back. And if it makes you feel better, my last post was on Aug 5th (I think, I can’t even remember) life gets busy and we’re all doing the best we can. Enjoy your last days of summer …BTW..your granddaughter is a little doll!
Karen B. said:
Hi Leslie, Thank you, it’s mutual. I’ve got my sights set on September and with the 3-day weekend before us I’m sure I’ll be energized and ready to go. August should be my holiday month every year. I hope your move is going well. Grandkids are the the icing on the cake. 🙂 Karen
On Tue, Aug 26, 2014 at 10:07 PM, Garden, Home & Party wrote:
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Anita Rivera said:
KAREN! HELLO! Oh my friend, please don’t give up! In the last six years I’ve been blogging, I have felt like giving up! Do you know that those moments of emptiness are actually GOOD for you as a writer?
Do you know the poem “The Real Work” by Wendell Berry?
Please Google it. Please.
Thank you for coming to visit me and leaving such thoughtful words. I would say this: take a break, but stay connected to others. But one day soon, just sit at your computer and write. Anything. Even if it’s JUNK. Listen to music. Go somewhere quiet. But come back to your computer ready to write WHATEVER, then the work begins.
Let me know how it goes! Anita
Karen B. said:
Anita, I feel so much better than when I wrote my post. I am touched by my blog friends that have been so supportive, thank you. Most of my comments come from fellow bloggers (such a dear group of people, don’t you agree). Once I relaxed and stopped stressing over feeling like there were no ideas left in my brain, I thought of some things I wanted to write about. I will definitely Google the Wendell Barry piece. I always enjoy reading what other writers have to say, your latest post was very inspirational. You are truly one very talented lady. xo, Karen
On Fri, Aug 29, 2014 at 3:49 PM, Garden, Home & Party wrote:
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alison said:
Hi Karen!
I have been MIA too, as you know. Life just pushes in and you get too busy.
I too say — what can I blog about that anyone would even CARE to see!?
I am not one to repaint a piece of furniture regularly. I am not a crafty type either so there is not much for me to blog about!
I wish my clients would allow me to share their homes and rooms that I have worked on but they like to maintain their privacy and I can respect that.
So I need a detective agency too! My creative blogging mojo is missing!!
Thanks for sharing pics of your darling little granddaughter, TOO CUTE!
xoxox
A
Karen B. said:
Alison, It’s funny but I thought since you were missing that perhaps this loss of new ideas happened to more bloggers that I originally realized. I know your work from seeing your incredible style in the Midwest Christmas issue I won from your giveaway, so I can easily imagine how fabulous your client’s homes that you’ve had a hand in decorating must be. Like you, I’m not a DIY person. Please know that your posts are always one of the highlights of the day when I see there’s a new post. I also really love your “favorites on the first”. Selfishly, that gave me an idea for a post, kind of like a fun homework project. 🙂 I’ve missed you so if you can do this, I can do this! Let’s try. 🙂 xo, Karen
On Fri, Aug 29, 2014 at 5:34 PM, Garden, Home & Party wrote:
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Sharon @ Roses and Rust said:
I’m sure you will get your blogging mojo back. In the meanwhile enjoy your downtime. x Sharon (PS I’m with you on the heat issue – hate hot weather!)
Karen B. said:
Maybe I was an Eskimo in another lifetime!? 🙂
On Tue, Sep 2, 2014 at 11:23 AM, Garden, Home & Party wrote:
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