It's pretty clear that I haven't been as active on my blog in the past year. The last time I was truly consistent on here was May 2018 before I began my Mediterranean travels to Italy, Croatia, Greece and Istanbul. Once I returned to the states last summer, I made a lot of life-changing decisions that pretty much correlated to my lack of posts on the Muse.
"I became an advocate for minimalism and sustainability...and implored myself to start living my life on my own terms."
This meant simple changes like volunteering at libraries, helping with environmental efforts, feeding the homeless, working at pet shelters, and finally making the effort to do things that I'd wanted to do forever -- like taking lessons to become a better swimmer, working on my green thumb, or just saying yes when I would normally say no. So I was spending my time focusing on other things that made me happy and that left me with less of a craving for the blog.
Up until this point, my life was pretty perfect on paper. I wanted for nothing, but I wasn't happy. And I didn't feel it was fair to me or my partner to be unhappy, especially as we edged closer to our mid-30s. It wasn't an easy decision to make, but it was a necessary one. But even though my life is on the internet, there are many aspects of it that I like to keep private, at least until I'm ready to share.
"I was spending my time focusing on other things that made me happy and that left me with less of a craving for the blog."
Now, I can't guarantee that I'll be as consistent on here as I've been in the past 10 years of blogging, but I will say that my yearning for blogging has been trending upward as of late. Honestly, I'm simply enjoying my life -- and the people in it -- outside of the internet, but there will be times when my desire to write and share on the Muse will take center stage. Thank you to everyone who has stopped by here looking for a new post, lol, or who still remembers Oh to Be a Muse and enjoys the content. If you don't see me on here, just know that I'm out living life...
| Wearing: For Love & Lemons - bright lights long sleeve mini dress / Steven by Steve Madden - Greece sandals |
Welcome back, an impressive ten years of blogging. Going it alone sounds scary but even in a relationship it must be done now and again to find yourself. I love the dress and sandals, too cute : ) xo
ReplyDeletePs I hate cooking too or I'm just lazy, I too are in my mid 30's, I don't see it changing anytime soon lol : ) xo
www.juanitalikes.com
Yes, 10 years is crazy! Thanks for your comment. And yea, I don't see myself ever loving cooking. It's just not my thing and I'm OK with that, lol.
DeleteGirl you are so motivational!
ReplyDeletex Lisa | lisaautumn.com
Awh, thank you so much. You're too kind.
DeleteThis is a great story, thank you for sharing! Very inspirational, it takes a of courage to take risks like that and simply do what makes you happy. I applaud you, happy you're back. :)
ReplyDeleteI appreciate this so much. Glad to be back.
DeleteGreat post! Love all photos so much :)
ReplyDeleteIf you want that we follow each other let me know by leaving a comment and please click on link at the end of post :) --> https://beautyshapes3.blogspot.com/2019/06/elegant-outfit-manzara.html
I have noticed you haven't been around in the blogging world. And now it all makes sense. I'm glad you are putting yourself first and truly enjoying life. I always love coming back to here to see your content!
ReplyDeletewww.rdsobsessions.com
Glad that this post could bring some much needed clarification. And same - I do enjoy reading your blog as well.
DeleteWow, lady- what a change! I'm happy for you- you're so brave to make such a huge change like this. It's definitely not a small thing- and if blogging takes a backseat while you figure it out (and enjoy the process), that's the best thing for you. :)
ReplyDelete-Ashley
Le Stylo Rouge
Enjoying the process -- absolutely! Thanks, Ash.
DeleteThank you for being so vulnerable! It's not easy bearing it all and letting people in especially as influencers! Such huge changes for you, girl. Get it!
ReplyDeleteI appreciate that so much!
DeleteIt is so important for us to remember why we became bloggers in the first place! We want to use this space as a creative outlet, and when you feel forced to create content it just isnt the same!! xx
ReplyDeleteTrue.I never feel forced to post. I just post when I feel it, which is why I haven't been posting as much.
DeleteIt's wonderful that you managed to visit and explore in those Mediterranean countries and have lived on both West and East Coasts of the United States.
ReplyDeleteCongratulations on your being a vegetarian for almost a year now, on embracing sustainability, and on your charitable endeavours. It's wonderful that you have been having so many experiences in the real world and still find time to blog more often than I do and share your feelings. I love reading what you write.
I also really love the For Love + Lemons lacy mini-dress you were wearing in the outfit photos above - it's very pretty, and you look beautiful wearing it.
https://full-brief-panties.blogspot.com/2018/10/last-minute-halloween-excuse-post-with.html
So glad you enjoy my content. Always a pleasure. ❤
DeleteYESSS to the new Che. There is nothing better than a "Do Over".I love your ideas and look forward to more. Cheers!!
ReplyDeleteThank you, Ms. Neti. I also really enjoyed your most recent post about the VJ, lol.
DeleteI love your dress! thats neat you had a great move!
ReplyDeletekelseybang.com
4allthingsdisney.com
Glad you like the dress. It also comes in black.
DeleteYou really have made a lot of changes! High five to you on the minimalism, sustainability, and vegetarianism!!
ReplyDelete-Morgan
How 2 Wear It [] http://how2wearit.com
Thanks, Morgan. I'm really striving to be better at all of those things.
DeleteOh wow! Cheryl...I was wondering what had happened. I did notice on the last post how you mentioned Georgia and I was like, wait, what? When did that happen?
ReplyDeleteYou certainly don't owe us any explanation but thank you for sharing such a personal journey. I agree with the comments above...girl, that is really brave. I do believe everything happens for a reason and I know it's cliché but as the saying goes, when a door closes, another one opens. (((hugs)))
Yeah, this post was supposed to go live before that one, but I had a scheduling conflict so c'est la vie. But yes, I also agree with you that everything happens for a reason, and I'm in a good place so happiness is the only thing on my list these days.
DeleteWow! You’ve made a lot of changes, the most important to focus on happiness. Very inspirational post. Thanks for sharing! I hope you continue to enjoy your time in Atlanta.
ReplyDeleteYes, happiness is the most important. It has its issues, but for the most part I'm loving it here in Atlanta.
DeleteOh Cheryl, I just want to give you a hug girl :) As bloggers we should be able to share as much or as little of our personal lives as we choose. It sounds like you've been on quite a journey of self discovery since last fall. It couldn't have been an easy decision to separate from your partner but if that's what's right for you and makes you both happier, that's all that matters. And you just do you as much as you want to. We should all be free to enjoy our lives as much possible. The blog and we will still be here whenever you return.
ReplyDeleteA journey of discovery, indeed. It's actually quite nice to be back -- all sorts of cathartic.
DeleteI love that you're living life and doing things offline that are helping the world. I've missed seeing you online but you gotta do what makes you happy girl!
ReplyDeleteYes, I did a lot of volunteering last fall but have slacked a bit this year. Need to get back to it this summer. Definitely going to start with puppies :)
DeleteI'm sure all these changes were not easy but it sounds like you are doing well, so I'm happy for you. I'm also almost in my mid 30s and I know the feeling of realizing that you have to live on your terms. You got this!
ReplyDeletexo
Pinksole
Living on our own terms for the win!
DeleteNice to meet you in your space. Pretty awesome story and I love that you took a leap of faith by making major changes in your life. You've definitely experienced a lot of growth which I commend. And your outfit along with your photos are beautiful. Hope to catch your next post about your journey sooner than later.
ReplyDeleteXo,
http://www.stylemefancy.com/how-to-own-your-look/
thank you -- glad you like the dress -- I love white pieces in the summer
DeleteYou go girl! Takes so much courage to go out of your comfort zone and really challenge yourself. You got this, you are awesome. Sending you positive vibes!
ReplyDeleteKileen
cute & little
Thanks for the positive vibes, Kileen!
DeleteThank you for sharing! Our lives can take unexpected turns and you just have to do what's best for YOU!
ReplyDeleteTrue that
DeleteSounds like it's been a great year of positive changes in your life! Of course I always hope you will decide to share more here, but if not, I'm happy to hear you are just living and enjoying life!
ReplyDeleteChic on the Cheap
Definitely have more posts on the way!
DeleteAs long as you're in a place where you're happy, feeling loved (even if that's just love for yourself), and satisfied with life, that's all that matters! When you want to blog, you can blog! :) We will be here to support you no matter what!
ReplyDeletethere's always room for improvement but I'm enjoying the process -- thank you
DeleteGirlfriend, you are so courageous! Isn't it funny how some of the most challenging seasons of our lives brings us to the most fruitful new beginnings? I can't wait to see what's in store for you!
ReplyDeleteThank you so very much!
DeleteWelcome back and good for you focusing on what is making you happy! <3
ReplyDeleteThank you
DeleteGood to have you back and a very big Congratulations on ten years of blogging. You look amazing in the all white look.
ReplyDeleteThank-you for sharing a bit of your personal story with us; it is indeed scary to start over but I know you are doing just fine; you’ve got all it takes and God would help you along the way. Enjoy the weekend.
http://beautys-fashionzone.blogspot.com
Thanks. Hope you're having a great weekend, too
DeletePicking up and moving somewhere new can be scary! Props to you for having the guts and the drive to do so. I'm glad you're doing good! Keep it up.
ReplyDeleteYea it was crazy but I got it done!
DeleteSuch a cute little white dress! It sounds like you have been so busy, it's easy to see why blogging wouldn't be a priority then! The best thing about blogs is they are always there so we can come back to them as much or little as we want.
ReplyDeleteHope that you have a great weekend! :)
Away From Blue
So true - the blog is always here. So dependable.
DeleteIt's really lovely to hear you're enjoying your life, that's what it's all about. I'll always adore your blog :)
ReplyDeleteAnika | anikamay.co.uk
Welcome back doll! I felt the complete same way a few years ago having "everything" but not being fulfilled. This is such great insight :)
ReplyDelete-xo, Azanique | https://www.lotsofsass.com
How did you get through it? Are you still getting through it?
DeleteThis dress is gorgeous on you!
ReplyDeleteWelcome back gal and good for you! What a mature and exciting step you took. Super proud of you and happy to hear you have enjoyed it!
ReplyDeletexo Laura Leigh
www.louellareese.com
I am a private person and it’s totally fine to share what you want and what is sacred keep that way. Welcome back, girl! A new YOU! I have only been to Atlanta once but loved it!
ReplyDeleteyes, I enjoy having ownership of my privacy even though I have this public blog
DeleteI'm right outside of Atlanta if you ever need someone to hang with! XO
ReplyDeleteSounds great, Sarah! We should definitely meet up.
DeleteHey Lady- I know I disappeared from the blogging sphere a few years back now.... but I am sending you lots of love and am so happy I saw this post so I could know what you are up to! PS- will be back in GA next month for a visit.... would be great to reconnect (since I have seen you since Singapore!).
ReplyDeleteYay! I'll be here. Just hit me up. It's been a long time since Singapore. :)
DeleteHey Cheryl, I wanted to send you a big virtual hug first. Life is tough and as you clearly wrote above, we all have our own sets of issues, heart-wrenching decisions, and new awakenings that may not be apparent to the rest of the world. I'm glad you're living life on your terms - you're right - life is short, so do what makes you happy. Here's to new adventures!
ReplyDeleteHello lovely!! Am super happy that you came back. Hugs to you, life is hard and it can hit us even harder at the least suspected times, but I'm glad you were able to get back on your feet and make good choices for your well being because that's most important. Life is too short and we have to live our own paths or it's not really living. I hope you will continue to reach all the goals you wish!! xx
ReplyDeleteSupportive of you in all you do! Happy that you’re living and enjoying life 😘❤️
ReplyDeleteThanks, K! I'm also vicariously living my life through your Instagram Stories right now.
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