Sorting is the first word that comes to mind when describing my re-entry into the real world – laundry, photographs, mail, meal plans, wrap up blog post, thoughts. It’s all pretty overwhelming when you consider that we lived on cruise ships for two months. Those floating hotel rooms brought us to many beautiful places, the staff catered to our every need, and we enjoyed our time away, but it’s good to be home. It hasn’t been quite as dramatic as the Artemis astronauts returning to Earth after circling the moon, but you get the idea. Life is different now.
There are many benefits to travel, but one that frequently stands out for us is the opportunity to gain perspective. When we travel, we realize both our potential and our limitations. It reflects our connections, personal relationships, responsibilities, and commitments in a new light. Even hobbies and interests fall under the lens of scrutiny at some point.
It was during one of those reflective moments (actually several) that I decided to close this blog. Many of you know that I have been flirting with the idea for some time, so it should come as no surprise. My reasons are varied, but mostly it comes down to time investment and shifting priorities. I don’t know if this is a permanent decision or a temporary one, but I know I need to make my exit.
So, with that said, I thank you all for reading, commenting, and investing in my life story as I traveled this path with you the past ten years. I have enjoyed participating in this existential world of give-and-take, support and motivation, despair, growth, and gratitude. Thank you for the many positive contributions you have made to my life. I wish you the very best and will check in from time to time. But for now, it’s goodbye.
Hitting you with one more barrage of selfies that I took in Australia and New Zealand, along with a reminder to be the star in your own story.
To experience life with the one you love is the best gift of all…..
Picture Retirement 
Oh noooooo – another blogging goodbye. It seems to be the way of things with blogging these days. Maybe you’ll join the crowd that have moved over to Substack to blog for free when the impetus takes them? Regardless it’s sad to see you go Suzanne – I’ll miss your posts and your comments on mine – I hope life treats you well as you process your way through what’s next, and maybe it’ll be a short goodbye followed by a “hello again” if you decide to return. Until then….. I’ll be the first to say how sorry it is to say goodbye. x
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Hi Leanne, I’m not sure yet how I will ‘scratch the itch’ to write about our lives, but it won’t be on Substack. Maybe I’ll go back to journal writing, like I did the thirty years before WordPress. I’ll miss the interactions, but not the time commitment required to maintain an authentic give and take. You have been with me for a very long time and I appreciate your loyalty, your encouraging comments, and your virtual friendship. I love the flow of your writing these days, peaceful, content, resolved in many ways. I’m getting there, just a few more hurdles to overcome…Take care.
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Hi Suzanne,
I’m sorry to see you go, but I understand. In fact, it felt strange to “like” this post as if I think this is a great decision for you to quit blogging. Instead I “like” your posts, because, well, I’ve always liked reading your perspectives and experiences.
I think most of us have had the (fleeting) thought of quitting our blogs, because, indeed, they take a long time to compose and publish. And a lot of commitment to stick with it and engage. Will you still read other people’s blogs and comment or will you reduce that as well?
I will be curious as to if and when you ever find your dream house. I know you said you were on Facebook and I tried to become friends there, but my request might have never reached you as it was right before you set off on your recent cruise journey. I’m happy to follow you and stay in touch there.
I wish you all the best with your other pursuits in life, which I know there are many. See you somewhere sometime!!
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Hi Liesbet, please try again with FB. I must have missed your request. I’ll be posting trips and significant lifestyle changes there from time to time. Yes, I will still be following my favorite bloggers, I just won’t be commenting as often. I can’t wait to see where life takes you and Mark. I hope you find your new home on wheels soon and resume your chosen lifestyle. Thanks for being a big part of my blogging experience these many years. Yes, we will meet up one day, somewhere….blessings.
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Best wishes, Suzanne. You’re choosing what’s right for you in the present time and that’s both valid and admirable. In the short time I’ve “known” you in the blogosphere, I’ve enjoyed joining you in your adventures via your posts and great photos. Will you still be active on IG?
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Hi Terry, yes, I will continue to post on IG when I have something to share. I have enjoyed our ‘brief’ encounter, and wish you well as you move forward. Keep sharing beautiful photos and snippets of your life. I’ll check in from time to time. Thanks for stopping by.
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Suzanne, I have enjoyed following you and I will miss your blog posts but I understand your reasons for giving up the blog. I wish you good luck in finding a new home. May you continue to enjoy life every day!
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