Today I turn 29, and I’ve kept a tradition of writing a birthday life-update, so here I am. This year’s post feels different: it’s less about me personally and more about this business growing up alongside me. (On the personal side, I previously shared goals I want to accomplish before turning 30.)
I wanted to write about a shift I’ve been thinking about for a while. I touched on it in my end-of-year reflection, but this felt like the right day to expand. Over the past several months the content here has changed — I’m not sure exactly when, but since becoming a mom I’ve felt a big personal shift. In many ways I’ve “grown up,” and I’ve noticed a change in the blogging landscape too. Readers seem more interested in the person behind the blog than only in projects or recipes. Because of that I’m experimenting with different types of content as I pivot.
After Arlo came home, my creative flow changed. I’d been waiting for the same quick idea-sparking energy I used to have — the constant stream of DIY projects and recipes — and it hasn’t returned in the same way. Instead my mind fills with larger, more personal creative tasks: making memories with family, shaping our home to fit our life, and adapting my personal style for parenting a messy toddler. It’s still creative, just expressed differently than before.
Have you noticed?
I’ve shifted away from frequent DIYs and recipes toward more personal and home-focused content. Some readers are happy with that shift; others may be disappointed. I’m okay with it. Still, I’ve wrestled internally because the older content felt visually cohesive and tightly branded. Lately, that strong visual brand identity feels less consistent. In its place is a clearer brand message: not only “make life a party” but sharing honest, personal stories that might inspire or brighten someone’s day.
On the industry side, it feels like blog audiences overall have grown hungrier for authentic storytelling. DIY used to dominate; bloggers and creators competed to produce more and faster. Now, readers often crave the person’s perspective and their story more than just the project itself. Does that resonate with you? Were you also worn down by an oversaturated DIY world where the only real difference between sites was the writer’s voice?
As a reader I felt the same and evolved to follow people for who they are, not only for what they make. As a creator I didn’t anticipate how much I would enjoy this change. I’ve been moved by messages telling me our story helped readers consider adoption, helped pull someone out of a bout of depression, or reminded a parent to enjoy the joyful moments. Conversations at events and emails have shifted from “I love your DIYs” to “I love following your story.” That feedback has been unexpectedly meaningful.
What I enjoy most about this work is connecting with people. I’m proud to be an advocate for adoption because it transformed my life. I want to show both the real challenges and the joyful moments of parenting. I enjoy sharing our home as it becomes more a reflection of our family, and I’m excited that the content here is coming from a sincere personal place rather than only trying to fit a brand mold.
In short, I’m ready to grow this blog up with me: keep the colorful zest for life that’s always been here, while shifting content to match this new stage. The work will look different from what I produced before, but that’s natural — and it feels true to where I am now.
I’d love your input. Have you noticed this shift here or across the influencer and blog world? Why are you here — what keeps you reading? If you’ve followed for a while, has your reason for reading changed?
Please give us some grace as we adjust the visuals and format to reflect this new direction. I’m excited for the changes, and rest assured the bright color and cheerfulness that define this space aren’t going anywhere.
I can’t wait to spend the next months experimenting and creating with my whole heart. I hope you’ll stick around for the journey.