As I prayed over the new year and the future of this blog, The Lord has been prompting my heart that it is time for a season of rest. 2012 was a very challenging year for our family, from business failure, to insomnia, to over committing ourselves in service. I have been writing and editing here at Passionate Homemaking for over 5 years now and it has been the most amazing journey. I started out as a simple family update blog and it quickly soared into an amazing highly trafficked website as I shared about my passions in natural and frugal living. To this day, there are over 20,000 subscribers. I never planned for it. I never anticipated the income that came with it. It was never my goal. I didn’t plan to have a big blog…but God had other plans for my simple and messy words. I was just an empty vessel desiring to be used by my Lord.
I would have never imagined how God was going to use this site. Day by day, I have received the most encouraging emails and comments from ladies all over the world that have been impacted in some way through this online ministry. It has been a little outlet for me to be able to use my gifts to bless others from my home, which has been my heart and passion for so long. I have seen people come to know Jesus, or simply be inspired in realizing that there are others out there who struggle just as you do. Through the resources we have earned in sponsors and giveaways, we have been able to fully support two different orphan homes first in Cambodia and then in India, in addition to many other giving opportunities. All glory be to God!
I honestly admit that I have struggled for quite a few months now, struggling with lack of inspiration and ideas for posts. It has been challenging to maintain the blog while juggling all my various responsibilities within my home, church, and community. I have struggled repeatedly with my identity and comparing myself with others in the blogosphere. God has used it to prune and refine me and make me more like Himself. I’m tired of this sin in my heart. I’m tired of finding my approval in this stuff rather than wholeheartedly in my Lord. I’m just ready to let that all go once and for all.
I have been sensing that it is time for a lengthy sabbatical. God has been prompting me in this for awhile, but I’ve been fighting hard. It’s been one of the hardest decisions I have made. It’s not something I wanted to give up. I have loved this little world from my computer screen. But I feel like I have loved it too much as well. I want to fully live in the here and now. I want to turn my full attention closer to home, towards nurturing the relationships closer to home, rather than stretching myself too thin in various committments. I do not want to fight what God is leading me to do…even if it means letting go.
I may be back again…but I’m waiting on Gods timing. He may have a new adventure in store. In the meantime, I wanted to share throughout the month of January, the top ten posts that have been written on Passionate Homemaking over the last 5 years. These are posts that I feel God has used in sweet and powerful ways and I wanted to share them with you all once again as a parting present for a time. All the resources here will still be fully available for your use and service. Although comments will be removed as I will not be able to moderate them.
Also, I wanted to share a few blogs that I feel would be very worthwhile to mention for you to enjoy that have served in inspiring me over the years that may effectively take my place. Many of these blog authors have become dear friends over the years:
You all will remain in my hearts and prayers…thank you for taking this journey with me! Thank you for all your love and support! Thank you for choosing to follow me here in my own little messy world. I love you dearly even if I have only meet a tiny fraction of you. May you be strengthened in The Lord and be empowered to embrace joy and thankfulness where you are, whatever season of life it may be. May you be faithful to bring Him much glory! Treasure the precious moments he has given you. Smell the flowers and rejoice in His loving care of you!
I want to conclude with a quote that has been my life quote:
“Only one life, twill soon be past…Only what’s done for Christ will last.” – C.T. Studd
I came upon this late… but I pray God’s peace and blessing upon your family as you follow His leading! He will bring greater maturity in you, if you follow His voice and direction. What a joy that you are open to whatever God has for you, even letting go! Your blog has been a source of inspiration and blessing to me on many occasions. I am thankful for families like yours around the country and the world that are committed and devoted to God. We truly are of “one mind” though we do not know each other!
Thank you very much for sharing of yourself with all of us and giving us great ideas, recipes and insight. May your life and your family’s be blessed.
Sincerely,
Belinda
Thank you for all the encouragement and inspiration you have given so many through this outlet. Even this decision to lay it all down to be obedient to the leading of the Lord is inspiring. Be encouraged, I feel like the Lord would say to you: ‘well done my good and faithful servant.’ Now on to the next season. I pray for grace upon grace in this new season. May you find a renewed joy in His presence and an intimacy with Him that you never knew possible. I will keep you in my prayers when I think of you or revisit your old posts : )
Be blessed Lindsay! I hope you have a wonderful year as you continue in your homeschooling journey and building your home. Thank you for your ministry to us ladies from all around the world.
I was blessed to hear you speak at Selah a few years back. At the time, I didn’t realize that I had already read quite a few of your blog posts, but soon after Selah, I read more of your blog and realized how closely your heart for your family reflects my own. I have been greatly encouraged by your passion for your family and for God. You’ve given me many things to think and pray about. Blessings to you as you take a break. I look forward to seeing what God has in store for you and your family. And even if you never get back to blogging, I know I will continue to use and pass on the wisdom you’ve shared in this blog. Thank you!
O God bless you over and over! You have blessed me so much with this blog and I will keeping visiting to re-read post and continue to learn.
I know God will continue to give you the grace to carry on being a passionate homemaker.
I’ll miss you and all the information, recipes, mothering-tips, etc. – but am happy that you’ve come to the decision you know the Lord wanted you to make. From the deo recipe, to the childrens’ book lists, to stick-blender mayo and so much more, though you’re no longer blogging, you can be assured I and so many others will continue to be helped by that which you took the time to research and share with the rest of us. For quite some time, I’ve wondered how you managed to do the normal daily activities with 3 littles, not to mention blogging on top of it all. I hope you will experience much peace and joy in the Lord as you go the way He takes you. Thanks so much and many blessings to you and yours!
May the Lord bless you and your family during this season of rest as you have blessed so many others. I am so so so thankful for you and for the way your blog has encouraged me so much in being a wife, a mother, and a follower of Jesus. My children, my husband, and all the people are in our lives have benefited from your influence in my life. Thank you so much, and thank you for demonstrating even in this decision how to listen to the Lord and prioritize the right things.
Lindsey,
Just discovered your blog early this morning when the Lord prompted me out of bed. (4:30 a.m.) I have been coming “off” of my time of rest and delight in the Lord and struggled with the all the same things in the ironically similar and opposite way. Your blog made me smile and laugh out loud. I found you through your U tube post for making Lip balm.(a long story) The Lord is so good and amazing how he weaves our lives together touching others. I am inspired by your blog and look forward to reading and discovering it. I just wanted to encourage you in your “rest” with the Lord. I have found that the Lord purposefully made me tired so that I would “rest” in him even when He seemed to be making everything great! When I made the decision with the “perceived guilt of letting go/giving in in while the Lord was blessing me was hard.(and in hindsight, ego-centric) I prayerfully apologized and thanked him for his abundant blessings when the “aha” moment came! It seemed as if God said it’s ok!, smiled and said I have other great plans for you! I was just waiting for you to say “ok Dad” what’s next? Blessings to you and your family! Be of good courage! For I know the plans I have for you! says The Lord!
Sincerely,
Your sister in Christ
Jackie J
I have loved, loved, loved your blog!!!!! I will miss getting updated posts, but will definitely come back to this site often!!! I do appreciate how you are making the right decision for your family. I do hope to see you back some day, but for now, God bless you and thank you for blessing us so much with this blog!!!
Lindsay,
I want to thank you for allowing the Lord to use you for His glory. He most certainly has. Your words and encouragement have touched so many hearts, mine included. Yours is the very first blog I followed, and the one I always came back to. I love your lifestyle and learned so many neat and healthful things through you, and it truly helped to shape our way of living. Mostly, though, you truly sought to glorify God, and I thank Him for that. That is more important than all else!
I also want to commend you for your sacrifice and for putting Christ and family first. I understand it is truly difficult to give up, but you will be greatly rewarded! Thank you again, and may God bless you and your sweet little family!
But by the grace of God, I do not know how you’ve managed to do this as long as you have either. You have been a blessing to so many women by sharing your successes and failures with us. Most of all, you have shared your heart that is filled with love for our Savior. I can’t thank you enough for the encouragement you have provided my heart in the daily tasks of Motherhood and Homemaking. You have sacrificed and I pray you will be blessed as you rest…but we know you will still be actively pouring into your family and all that God has for you. In the meantime, I will come back to reference older posts and any I missed along the way. God bless you. You have been a friend to me though we have never met and the comments have felt like community. Thank you and peace to you!
Dear Lindsey,
I have admittedly been a lurker….not much for commenting, but sure enjoying all your posts! I am sad to hear you won’t be posting anything new since even though I’m not subscribed, yours is one of those blogs I look up on a regular basis. It’s that memorable. I have many of the same passions and some similar struggles to yours, so I have identified a lot with what you’ve written. Thank you!
I do totally understand your struggle to pull away from the distraction and related heart struggles that come with blogging. I did the same thing several years ago, and it has been very good for me. So I pray the Lord would bless you as you listen to Him and seek to serve your family with greater focus.
And that quote at the end almost made me cry. That’s one of my favorites, too. I think I first read it in Don’t Waste Your Life by John Piper. Such a good one to hang on to.
Only one life, twill soon be past.
Only what’s done for Christ will last.
Grace and Peace, sister!
Thanks, Lindsay for all the ways you’ve allowed God to use you. I’ve been a reader since the beginning and will say a prayer for you and your family as you transition into this new phase.
Thank you so much for your service. As a mom of four little ones (soon to be 5!) I always appreciate learning from others. I have to share that one of your blogs mentioned moving the dishes down to a lower cabinet so that the little ones can help put the dishes away. I tried this and it has been such a blessing to have another task the children can do that helps in a small (actually HUGE!) way
My 8, 5, 3 and even 1 year old now routinely empty our dishwasher. This small change has brought such joy to my life and I want to thank you for the great idea!
May we all find strength and rest in the hope that comes from new life in Christ Jesus!
Dear Lindsay,
To start off, I am so, so sad that your blog has to hit the pause button! In fact I think a tear may have threatened to spill over.
I say this not to freak you out, as I don’t even personally know you, but to just say thank you for all that you’ve done the last five years, opening up and sharing about your life and thoughts, wisdom and perspective and discipline with all of us strangers! I have never been affected like a blog the way yours has challenged and encouraged and even shaped my day to day life. I have 3 girls under 5 and they have greatly benefited from the curriculum posts and games and books and crafts that you’ve posted about. And My whole family has benefited from the lifestyle changes I’ve made in regards to our food, rhythms, missional outlook, frugal and natural living. And it was because of the blog give away you did a while back that I learned of and got involved with Trades of Hope. I’ve since been able to be a part of designing a necklace for a ministry out year that reaches out to women who have been in the sex industry and we get to be in the next Trades of Hope catalog! Trades of Hope has become a huge part of our life out here! …But I totally understand what you have to do and just want to encourage you and say that I believe you are doing the right thing and I pray for lots of peace and rest for this year for you and your family!! Selfishly I hope to hear from you again, I don’t want this to be the end! 
God bless you Lindsay and your wonderful family,
jaimie
Lindsey, As many others have commented, your wonderful blog has changed my life and the life of my family in so many positive ways! Thank God I happened to google homemade cleaning products several years ago and stumbled upon your site. I wish you all the best and thank you for sharing your words with us for all of these years.
Thank you so much Lindsay for your ministry here! I have been reading your blog from our overseas home in Hong Kong since my son was born 4 years ago. I have learned so much from you and been encouraged time and time again. I admire your decision to prioritize your life and know that God will bless you abundantly in all you do!
Aww! Im so sad to hear that. But am glad you are following God’s lead.Yours is my favorite blog and I’m always excited when there’s a new post. I’ll pray God leads you to come back
Hey Lindsay! God is definently using you to reach to other women. You have a gift for writing and being real. I LOVE your blog. I don’t really have time to read any other blog. I really enjoy reading yours and I have recommended your blog to many of my friends. I am going to miss you but I am glad you are taking care of yourself. I hope to see you back in the future! One of these days I might get to meet you when I am back visiting family.
Take care of yourself! You are loved!
Lindsay: Thank you for introducing me to Trivium Pursuit, Montessori, essential oils through the MomEssentials guest post, elderberry syrup, Ann Voskamp, homemade deodorant, kefir, peanut butter treats, your personal struggles which helped me in my similar ones (depression comes to mind), picture of your messy living room (would have loved to see the kitchen and see if yours is better than mine), living purposefully, real food, Ann Dunagan, and so much more. Thank you for letting yourself be a light for Christ and in turn encouraging and spuring me on in my daily housekeeping and schooling and wifery and childrearing. Thank you also for showing us that obeying God and letting go is more important that continuing to pursue something that you love. Much blessing be heaped upon your head!
Hi Lindsay,
Thank you so much for how you have blessed my family through your blog. We’ve used your blog as a reference and research tool so many times.May the Lord bless you abundantly for what you have done.
More importantly though, be completely released in knowing your greatest call is to God, your husband and your children-in that order. All the rest is lower priority. You have made the right decision-be completely free to be all the Lord wants you to be!!Blessings to you and your family
Mili
Thank you for your blog over the years. It has encouraged me so much.. God bless you and your family as you embark on this new season.
We’ll miss you!
I can’t figure out how you’ve done it this long! Over the years, I’ve even had to take a break from your blog. You keep me so busy trying new things (kefir is my latest success) and thinking about things in new ways, that it can be exhausting! A couple of weeks off, and I always come back. You’ve done such good work. Thank you!
Beautifully written and beautiful sentiments. I will still come to your blog to search for things in the archives!
Thanks for all your hard work here over the past few years. You’ve helped me greatly. I pray God blesses you on your renewed focus.
Thank you for all your efforts on your blog! I have been an avid reader and have enjoyed watching your family grow. Your writing has prompted me to examine my negative attitudes and to try to change in my heart to be the person that my husband and son need me to be. I will miss reading this blog and think of you fondly. With great affection, Gretchen
This is the first time I have commented… as a Mother of three under three, I have so appreciated your blog. What an encouragement and inspiration! There is nothing better than to be in the centre of our Father’s will for us – what you have decided makes a lot of sense. Go with it sister and in moments of doubt, as you have written before, ‘do the next thing’ in your day. I will refer to past blog entries often, in the future. Thank you so much.
Hi Lindsay. I have been an avid reader of your blog for the past couple years. It has been an incredible source if encouragement and great conversation starters with many girls in my church. My friend Sarah and I read your blog together and your posts have helped us in many situations. We feel like you are our friend and we actually refer to you that way.
We just really appreciate you and I’m very thankful that your blogs will be here for future use! Thank you!!
Thank you Lindsay for your wonderful service here on Passionate Homemaking! I was telling my husband last night that you would be taking a break, and I started listing all the things that I had learned from Passionate Homemaking. My kids and I now recite scripture before bed, we followed your preschool homeschool program, I learned about Graham Gardens, I POURED over your newborn cloth diaper review, went on my first to make a “mom retreat”, and I learned how to make my own cleaners, deodorant, and toothpaste! And to worship and love Jesus in the midst of it all. So you will be GREATLY missed and a huge thank you for sharing so much of your life. Praying for you and your family as you take time to rest with them.
This was the first blog i read and got hooked on!
Your words of encouragement to my mama’s heart have been so appreciated. Thank you for being who you are and right to the very end and following the Lord’s leading in your life. A very hard decision to make….you will be missed. Love and prayers.
I will miss your words of encouragement. I started following when my oldest daughter was born (the same time as your son). Then my son was born the same time as your youngest daughter. I’ve felt so incredibly blessed to have your wisdom guide me. I will miss you, but am so happy you are doing what you feel inspired to do. I just hope you truly realize how much your honesty and insight has helped me. I hope you can get some much needed rest!
Lindsay, I’ve followed you since you had one child and I had just had my second. I’m now pregnant with baby number 5. Your blog has often encouraged me over the last several years in my walk with the Lord, in my home, in cooking, cleaning, childrearing and marriage, and living intentionally. Thank you. I hope you sleep better in the year ahead!
Our loss as readers
, but defintely your gain if you were feeling the prompting. Blessings during this time and thank you for the blog you have given!
Lindsay, I have been reading since early 2008, I have loved seeing you grow. Thank you for your time here. God bless
Kristina
Hi Lindsey! Your post brought me to tears–good tears. I’ve followed your blog for some time now, and I absolutely love and look forward to your posts showing up in my reader. You’ve helped me grow as a wife and mom and have blessed our home with wonderful and now all-time-favorite recipes–from deodorant to banana muffins, to homemade pizza crust, to natural how-to’s… we love it all. And, we love you! My husband has read several of your posts as well and is happy that I “follow” you. Most recently, you’ve inspired me to read more this year. I’m not a big tv watcher, but at nighttime, after the kids are snuggled into bed, I often plop down and turn on the television. Well, no more of that for a full year! My goal is to read one book per month and to increase how much time I spend in God’s Word. I know this will bless my soul and equip me to be more like Him. Thank you so very much for your honesty, inspiration, and most importantly, your obedience and faithfulness to the Lord. May He bless you, keep you and make His face shine upon you and give you peace!
I have thoroughly enjoyed and been challenged (in a great way) by your blog for the past four years and while I will miss you, I totally applaud your decision to follow God’s prompting and focus more on your sweet family. That is precious time and I am certain you will not regret it
Blessings to you and your family and thank you for all you’ve shared with us!
Bethany Brown
Thank you for sharing your heart! I have found myself with those same struggles-when I had a blog/as a pastor’s wife/as a photographer/etc… So many times God calling me away from my “current” source of identity to my TRUE source of identity. I know God will bless you for following His leading. May He draw you ever closer to Him, and fulfill you beyond what this world ever could… Thank you for your blog. It has been a blessing to me over the past few years. God bless you!
May God richly bless you as you turn your heart closer to family etc. You should not in any way feel like a falilure in giving up blogging for this season. Obeying God is more important than pleasing people. You have been a blessing to me even thougth I have never met you. You have inspired and encouraged me to be a better wife and mother. Thank you for sharing your life with us!
Thank you for all your encouragement; I truly appreciate your willingness to be honest and sincere in your pursuit of God. I’ve cried while reading your blogs and smiled wide! Thank you for the gift of yourself. God bless you in this new step, whatever it may entail and for however long it may be. With love and prayers, Sheri
I’ve wondered how you have been doing lately. You have been on my mind and I have been led to pray for you throughout the past few months. I have really enjoyed your posts. Thank you for sharing your family, your life and your heart with us all. May you receive and experience the riches of God’s grace. May you rest in God’s love and tenderness during this next season.
I had a feeling that this would be soon in coming. I understand and admire your willingness to step back and listen to God’s voice in this season of your life. I do want to tell you that I have followed your blog for 3-4 years now and it has been so encouraging. I found it when my daughter was about 3 and I was doing child care full time in my home in order to stay with her and believe me…I NEEDED the encouragement! haha You have inspired me to think passionately about my role as a wife and mother and to do it all as unto the Lord. I hope that you will at least give us updates a few times a year on your family. God bless you and your family and may God greatly use you where He wants you right now. Thank you!!!
I’ve been reading your blog regularly for about 4 years after stumbling upon it in a google search of a use for tea tree oil. Thank you for so much inspiration and for your courage to follow the Lord where He leads.
God bless your going out and coming in – you’re doing both as you’re “leaving” here to do more, be more where you are – “coming in” to your home more and more. I totally understand as our 3 kids are about the same ages – #3 has been more my “tipping” point where I need to be even more mindful of where I spend my time. Thank you for the encouragement and inspiration all these years. If you come back, we know it will be God’s calling. If not, you are still enriching the niche where you are. From what I gather you have many meaningful relationships to still invest in, you are not limited by not being here online for a season or for the future. Thank you for all the insight and sacrifices you’ve made for us all these years. We’ll still use the information you have provided, your work goes on! God is with you!
Dear Lindsay,
Your blog has been such an encouragement to me. I’ve been following it for a few years now and it has been such a help as I learn the art of homemaking. Your passion for the Lord and following His calling for your life is so evident and such a great witness especially now as you follow His leading, all the the Praise of His Glorious Grace!!! I know He will continue to use this blog whether you are able to return or not. Praying that He amply blesses your desire to follow Him during this time of rest in Him!!
Blessings in Christ,
Renee
Congratulations Lindsay on your decision! I give you so much credit for the courage it takes to make a decision like this, particularly with social media, when as Mom’s and homemakers, we can feel so isolated. I have loved and found so much Joy in your blog! The simplicity and frugality of living intentionally in all things for the Lord has been such a beautiful, much-needed witness, message and personal inspiration for me, as has your deep honesty with your personal struggles. I too struggle with comparing myself to others and feelings of not being adequate enough and the Lord is pruning me as well and I am deeply grateful. I have found so much encouragement and inspiration in your blog.
I wish you all the best during your time of rest and wish you & your family all of God’s blessings wherever He may lead you.
I definitely agree that you need a break! Probably long overdue. And I say that as a reader who selishly would love more posts, of course.
Maybe it’s time to never even come back, and that is okay! 
God has used you for His glory.
It may be time to leave these posts here, and move on to bigger and better things for your family and yourself. Family is the most important thing….this is just the internet!
Go live the rest of your life, and hug your little ones and your hubby. They need you more than we do. Take care of your insomnia. Make that your first priority, without any blog even in the back of your mind.
Lindsay-
May God bless you for making the hard choice. I have been blessed by this blog and will refer back to it for encouragement, resources and recipes. Enjoy that family, they grow and change so fast.
Blessings,
Jennifer
I have been so blessed by your blog over the last 5 years. You are truly an excellent writer and I have so enjoyed reading all of you posts. Thank you for blessing me and thank you for all of you knowledge.
Cindy
Lindsay, I am probably not your average reader. I am a Muslim, raising 5 little ones, 4 girls. I found your blog while I was living overseas, and I fell in love with your passion and humbleness. I honestly wish I could find a Muslim blogging in English with the same passion you have. You remind me how much we have in common among faiths, how much we can learn from each other, and how much we share the same struggles. This last year, as I moved back to the US and prepared for the birth of my first son, I noticed your blog posting less and less. I always went into my email hoping for another post from you. And as I enter this season of my life, with 5 kids under 9, three three and under, I understand your need to step away and focus on your family, and your relationship with God. However, I must say, I will still open up my email hoping for a random post from you. You always remind me of God, of what is important in life, and you inspire me. May God draw you closer to him, may He grant you the best thing for your family, and may you grow in faith and wisdom. I will always remember you in my prayers, and I thank you for all you have done for my faith and my family.
Thank you so much for your blog! It has been a huge encouragement to me. I always wondered how some women manage such busy lives as well as a blog and you’re being so realistic and honest with your readers about your commitments. You’re a wonderful example! Thank you for keeping the content available I refer to it often
You are a lovely sister in Christ!
Lindsay, it’s too bad the pressure got to you. This was a very uplifting blog to read, and eventually, your followers will move on. You may never get a successful blog again. If it’s not right for you and your life, that’s one thing. I just hope you thought this through. Best of luck to you and your family in the future. God Bless.
Angela, I believe she said she struggled with this decision for months. Im sure she truly “Prayed without ceasing” in order to come to this decision. I applaud her. Many will still be blessed by her previous posts, and the fantastic advice of most of her commenters. We all need to find what our priorities are, and make sure we are aligned with what God wants for us.
Lindsay, God bless you in all you do!
I have been so encouraged and learned so much through your blog! As a homeschooling mom of 6 myself, I totally understand the need for a break! Thank you for keeping the content available, I will most certainly be re-reading your old posts and look forward to reading more when you come back!
You will never regret time invested in your family! It is the one thing that you can never do over or get back. God bless you and thank you for your example even in this area!
I’ll miss you! I’ve learned a lot from you about keeping a home and feeding a family, and I’ve always been inspired by your willingness to seek God’s will in all that you do. God bless you and your family!
Times of transition are always a bit of a struggle, as well as an adventure. While I will miss your practical and godly posts, you are wise to obey and follow the Lord’s leading. A new season of growth and great blessings await you. You are running the race well. Keep going! May the Lord continue to use you for His glory, and may He bless and keep you and your dear family.
Wow. Yes, always follow God’s leading. You’ve been a blessing. Blessing to you and your family.
I will truly miss reading new posts on your blog, but am glad that you are doing what you feel is right. Thank you for sharing your love and wisdom!
I think this is a wonderful, wise choice for you and your family.
Enjoy this time! Don’t look back!
Glad to see you following God in this way.
May you be able to spend quality and a good quantity of your time with your family. What a wise choice! Even in that you are giving us moms great advice.
Dear Lindsay,
Thank you for allowing yourself to be used by God, and blessing us. Your efforts have been gifts to your readers. I too treasure the poem by Mr. Studd and it gives perspective. Your heart is for God, and in that you will never live for nought. I pray God’s rich blessings over your household, during this time of change.
In Christ with love,
Cassandra
Lindsay, thank you so much for your service to us — your readers. I often felt like you and I were kindred spirits on opposite sides of the country. My husband and I even have three children, ages 6, 4, and 18 months, much like yours. I will pray for you, your family, and your ministry. God bless, sister!
I have learnt so much from your blog and those of others I was led to through it. I’ve grown in faith and am not so shy about saying it! I’ve marvelled at your openess, your devotion to God, your family and those around you including us – the unknown thousands who would be an unlikely gathering of women if you could meet us all but who have all found in you something of the God who loves each one of us. May this new stage in your life be full of blessings. Thank you from the bottom of my heart and be sure that I will be praying for you and your family. I think I will be only one of many keeping you daily in my heart.
Thank you, Lindsay, for your wonderful blog. I will miss your posts. As my last child is now a sophomore in high school, I can affirm to you, that you are doing the right thing. You will never regret the time you spent on your precious little ones and the fruit of a balanced life will bless you all. God Speed.
Thank you for all your wisdom and inspiration. I have appreciated you and your blog. May God bless you as you continue to listen to him.
I thank God for you and your family. I am so grateful that God allowed me to stumble across this blog last January because your encouragement and practical advice has helped me through a busy year with many changes. As a (new) pastor’s wife and one who hates to fail others, I know how hard it is to let go of the excess and just focus on the here and now – the things that I know God has called me to. Your words have helped me this past year to regain my focus on those things and I thank you for that.
May God bless you and keep you during this time of rest. May His face shine upon you and be gracious to you as you find your identity and your strength in Him. May the Lord look upon you with favor, and give you peace as you devote yourself wholly to His calling and purposes for your life.
(And thank you SO much for allowing the content to be accessible – there is a lot I can still learn from your words and experience even in your absence.)
Thank you for your obedience to the LORD! What He has done through you has been truly inspiring to me and others with whom I shared your ideas, thoughts etc. Even in this act of obedience, your vulnerability in sharing what is on your heart as you prayerfully take this step in faith – He is doing great things! It is a strange and glorious thing to have a sister (in Christ) that I’ve never personally met or spoken to, but my how you’ve impacted me! Thank you for humbly modeling joyful and humble servitude – it isn’t always glamorous or in step with the world, and that is exactly what sets apart your blog and the act of leaving it behind (for a while or for forever – only the Father knows.) Praying for the richest of God’s blessings to wash over your entire family and generations to come!
May God bless you as you committ to following His desires for your life. Thank you for sharing (and thanks for putting out your book list Ü)
Blessings on you!!!!
Dear Lindsay, you and your beautiful blog havw been a true inspiration. You have lead me to a fulfilling life of intentional living. Your experiences and ideologies have led me to cultivate a more peaceful, contented and natural life. My youngest 2 little bundles of joy are similar ages to yours and sure do take up your waking hours! I like you reached a decision to move on from my blog (wedding) last year. It was for the best, because I have more time to live purposefully and follow new projects and I know this will be the same for you. God blessed you with a wonderful gift and a very big heart. You should be very proud of your achievements because you have touched so many lives. Thank you so much for inspiring mine. Good luck, your exciting new journey has already begun. God bless.
Hi Lindsay, thank you for your service. I have enjoyed your site long before I started my own blog. Thank you for your inspiration. I saw the post on FB regarding your decision. God Bless you and your beautiful family. Thank you for sharing your life and love of Jesus Christ. Thank you for your encouragement and wisdom. With Love,
The Gilbert Family!
So sad to see you go, but I know your time will be filled with such blessings and love for the Lord and your family! You have been such an inspiration, and your blog has been a lifesaver for me. I have followed you for the past 3 years, as well as through my pregnancy and the birth of my daughter. Your posts have always been so encouraging and helpful. You will be missed, and may glory of the Lord bless you and yours in all that you do!
I think I echo almost everyone else’s comments that although we will miss your challenging and encouraging posts, we hope that you have a wonderful season of rest! You have blessed so many with your insights, prayers, and helpful posts. I’m thankful you still posted your book list–that is one of my favorite things to read!
I was wondering (just an idea) if you plan to take off the entire year of 2013, perhaps quarterly you could do a family post like you did at he end of every month? I so love those and we’d love to be updated on how your family is doing!
Sarah M
Thank you Lindsey and bless you!! I have been reading your blog from my home in Hong Kong since my son was born over four years ago. I have learned so much from you and been greatly encouraged. I know God will honor this time of rest!
Thank you so much for this post. I am sad to see you go, but understand. May you grow where the lord leads you.
Maybe others could post their blog’s names so we can subscribe? Thank you.
Lindsay, thank you for all the work you’ve put into your blog over the years. I’ve followed your blog for awhile, but rarely, if ever, commented. But your blog has been educational and helpful to me. (I even bought a Joovy stroller after you recommended it, and we love it!) I truly admire your decision to put God and your family above your blog, and I believe He will bless you for that! I will miss your posts.
Thank you very much. And goodbye for now. May God’s blessings always be with you and may your life be filled with joy and peace. Once again, thank you, my friend.
Lindsay, i’m so happy for you! What a huge decision to make, glad you are choosing to do what you think will serve God over what you want. Bravo!
I have LOVED your blog. You have been such an inspiration and encouragement to me as your kiddos are about the same ages as mine (we just had twins last year) and i have found such helpful, encouraging, God-honoring and intentional-living advice/wisdom from you. It seemed like every time you posted something, it was an answer to some trial i was going through. Thank you for sharing your sweet life with me. I will miss you, but God has given me all that I need for life and godliness, so pressing on with gladness till we “meet” again.
I echo Caroline’s sentiments exactly. Thank you so much for your honesty, your godliness, your passion for His glory, and your for sharing your wisdom on the many gifts he has given you. I have benefitted from about a zillion of your posts. You are my favorite blogger by far…I love the combination of your godliness, your wisdom and the way you write so clearly yet succinctly. I love the layout and the uncluttered look of your blog…truly a standout blog. Thank you again for sharing these years.
Thank God, you, and your family for keeping up this blog for 5 years! I have read it for a year and a half now and God has used it remarkably to change my life for the better. I feel so blessed to have learned such a great deal through you. I have learned how to better know, obey, and serve the Lord, and how to be a better wife and mother. You have been an amazing role model demonstrating how to better love God’s people. Your gentle and quiet spirit comes through your writing.
I have been and will continue to pray for your family (thanks to my prayer stick bucket I was inspired to make from your blog…..or your pinterest page….I can’t remember which one:-).
I will miss your posts greatly but I so excited for this new chapter God is revealing for your life right now. I know of quite a few people in ministry right now that are coming to the conclusion that God wishes to redirect their paths. Love watching Him accomplish His great plan!
That’s great! And I’m happy for you! Whenever we obey, God blesses it. So you can be sure to gain in your liberating and faithful decision. I’ve loved this blog though, don’t get me wrong!
Like so many others have said, Passionate Homemaking was the first blog natural living/food blog I stumbled upon. I found you a few months before I got married about 4 1/2 years ago and voraciously read the entire blog in a day or so! I still have a long way to go in my real food journey, but I want to thank you for starting it! Bless you for being willing to do what the Lord asks of you…and thank you for letting Him use you in such a powerful way!
Thank you for your encouragement in the Lord and ideas on your blog as I became a new mom and homemaker the last two years!
Will you be leaving the blog up so we can find recipes and such that we have bookmarked?
Love your blog and you will be missed!
Yes all content will still be accessible.
Thank you for all that you’ve written and shared with us. For awhile now, I was thinking that you may have needed this time of rest and i even thought about writing you an email, but the Lord spoke to you in His own way
. Of course, I don’t know you personally, but reading about your various challenges throughout your life as a wife, mother, etc. helped me to rethink about my own life as a mom with three children and my tendency to want to commit to more things than I could handle. I see it all the time with us moms, driving us to absolute craziness sometimes! Even reading about comparing your blogs to other people’s blogs and seeking approval from others struck a chord within me. I am constantly trying to prove my worth to others and it is a sin that God is drawing out of me. Thank God for His amazing love and grace! Anyway, may you be blessed with sweet rest during this time away 
Shalom,
Steph
Lindsay,
I haven’t been a frequent commenter, but I have faithfully read your blog for over 4 years. I do believe that Passionate Homemaking was the very first stay-at-home mama blog I ever found. That was back before I had kiddos and I was still eating ramen noodles and velveeta cheese on a regular basis.
Even though I was raised by a stay-at-home mom and had intentions of doing it myself, your blog gave me my very first glimpse of what a intentional, motivated, and well, passionate homemaker looked like. It was here that I first learned about natural and whole foods and creative homekeeping, which led me to other like-minded blogs along the way.
What I first read here started me on a journey that has literally changed my life. I’m now a stay-at-home mom of 2 little ones, as well as a homesteading whole-food enthusiast and blogger myself. If you would have known me 5 years ago, you would understand that this is quite a change.
I admire and respect your decision to step away from the blog to concentrate on your family, although you will be greatly missed.
And thank you so very much for inspiring me to be a homemaker.
May God continue to bless you and your family– I know He will.
Many, MANY blessings to you, Lindsay. You have blessed so many with your words, ideas, and sweet personality – and obviously, your generosity. You have blessed me specifically in more ways than you will ever know. May the Lord bless you richly in this time of reflection, rest, and just plain enjoying your family!
If and when you return to the blogosphere, I for one will look forward to it eagerly.
Lindsay, you are the first homemaking blog I subscribed to 5 years ago after googling a bread recipe. I certainly noticed as the kids added the blog posts subtracted. And I think this is totally as it should be. May God bless you as you trust and follow him. You’ve always been an inspiration and encouragement because of your honesty and humility. Thank you for never being a “perfect,” fake blogger. You can’t do it all. Either the blog or your family will suffer and you have made the completely right choice. This season is short. Revel in it. Your family is blessed to have such a wise and caring mama. Have a restful and rejuvenating 2014 and beyond!
May The Lord bless you Lindsay and your beautiful family. Thank you so much for sharing the wisdom God gave you.i was blessed in so many ways. Gratefully ~Christie from Magnolia, TX
You go girl! (I guess literally). Obedience is better than sacrifice. While I have been encouraged by you, and your shared life in bloggy world, your obedience to the leading of The Lord is yet another inspiration. Celebrating with you still being pliable in the Master’s hands. God speed to you and your family.
Lindsay, God bless your time with your family. I respect your decision and have pondered the same thing myself. We have grown to count on my income from my blog and it’s hard to walk away from it. You are very brave in my eyes. There is plenty for us to go back and read and when you are ready to blog again, we’ll be here
.
Angela,
What is your blog name? I would love to follow yours.
Thank you! You and Stephanie @Keeper of the Home were the first 2 blogs I ever followed about 4 years ago. I have learned SO MUCH from you and your website, thanks for leaving it available to reference!!! My life has gotten busier since finding you years ago and I completely understand as I am having to make decisions too – what is important to God, me, my family – what’s eternal, what is fleeting? God Bless you, your family and your future!
Bless you and your time away, Lindsay! Though I’ve rarely commented, I have appreciated your blog so much and it has been a wonderful resource for me.
I do understand how difficult it is in this blogging world, and I have struggled with some of the same feelings as you.
Follow God!
While I’m sad to see you go, I wholeheartedly respect your decision to honor God’s wishes for where he wants your life to go. I wish you continued blessings in your life and thank you for all the great resources on your blog!
I have only recently discovered your blog so I am sad to see you go. I pray that you will be blessed for your commitment to following where God leads you. You have been a great encouragement to me as a mom, homemaker and as a follower of Christ. One last thing, I love reading through the comments section after recipes have been posted. I always seem to have the same question that someone else already had and got answered- if it’s possible can you try to keep these available to look at without allowing new comments to be added? All the best!
Good point Meagan. I’ll find a way to keep the comments viewable as well. Thanks for the comment.
Thank you so much for your years of sharing wisdom. You have been a blessing to me and helped me to grow as a wife and mother. May God bless you and your family abundantly as you enter this new season of life!
Like some of your other readers/commentors, I came to your site late, having just discovered you in 2012. However, I have enjoyed going back and reading your archived posts, finding inspiration that for various reasons was so needed in my life at the time. Thank you for all that you have shared and like other readers, I am hoping that you will keep your website live so we can continue to draw from its riches — a wonderful gift to us. I wish you all the best in your new ventures as you discover your next calling.
Thank you for all that you have offered. Praise God for following His will for you and your family!
What a blessing you have been to me! Thank you so much for your encouragement of the ups and downs of the ministry of homemaking. You have helped me find more focus and have inspired me in the valleys of being an at-home mom. As I’ve struggled to find the same balance with my “side” job vs. homemaking, I understand the pull and God Bless you for following Him where He leads you!
Lindsay –
Thank you so much for all of your time and effort that you have put into the ideas, research, encouragement for all of us. I completely support a decision like that…knowing how hard it must be! May I request one thing, though? Is it possible to keep your blog as is and just let us use what is already there as a resource or must you “take it down”? I haven’t read all I’ve wanted from your blog since I joined later in your journey…
Yes all the content will still be accessible.
Thank you so much for everything you do and have done. I only found you in the spring of 2012, but so much of you has made such a difference for me. The journey that is life of running a small home based business, managing my home and family, raising my 2 year old, looking at starting a pre-school co op and then moving int home schooling seems a little less overwhelming and impossible when I see that women like you are doing the things you do. Thanks for leaving your content as I use your recipes often and I will miss you and hope to see you again. Until then may you stand firm in the journey you long for, love your children and husband the way you do and find the recharged spirit you need.
Lindsay, you will be VERY missed. You had the perfect the blog at the perfect time with the perfect resources that was one of a few crucial things in my life three years ago that brought me to Christ. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.
I’ve always enjoyed your posts. I stumbled on your blog maybe a year ago after googling natural shampoos. God has used you to teach me so many things. May God richly bless you and your family!
God bless you and your family in this next stage of life! I have enjoyed your blog, recipes, books suggestions and encouraging posts so much! Thank you.
Thanks for all you do! I have enjoyed your blog, it has helped me in my journey. Good luck!
I have enjoyed all your posts & pray for blessings for you & your family!
My God bless this time for you! I admire you for making priorities and not over-filling your life. Thanks for all of your sharing and helpful posts through the years. You have been a favorite of mine, and I’ll miss reading your stuff, but I’m glad you are answering the more important Calling!
Just so wise, Lindsay. I applaud you for your difficult decision. I am giving you a standing ovation from Indonesia.
I am a very part-time blogger, and have often stepped away from it during busy times, and I understand so well your difficult decision to let it go.
May the Lord richly bless your family as you rest in Him and make special memories together this year!!!!!
I cannot thank you enough for all the wisdom you’ve shared and inspiration you’ve given me. I first found you when my first daughter was born 4 1/2 years ago and I was Googling info on cloth diapers. I have often shared your posts with others, knowing that they would find encouragement in your writing.
I pray that God will bless your family abundantly this year, and that you will be able to rest and enjoy your family more.
I am so glad you are stepping back to focus on the priorities you have around you. As young moms we get so busy with living in the moment and being the best we can be, for His glory, it is just sometimes hard to keep up with the basics.
I have been contemplating the phenomenon of young moms blogging. I so enjoy reading godly women’s words, but I often wonder what sacrifices are being made in order for them to get it done.
Anyway, cherish your new freedom and more time, and if you come back we will all still be right here.
Good for you. I hope you have a wonderful time away from social media! I recently had the same thoughts last year and took two months off from most blogging and social media and it was fabulous.
Thank you so much for sharing your heart! I have been following you for 3 years, right before my first son was born. Reading your words helped keep me focused on my Godly mission when I was severely sleep deprived with my newborn. I will miss your thoughts immensely but completely understand. I was looking forward to reading updates about your homeschooling adventures, as I will be homeschooling my 3 children. I hope that God blesses this new year for you all and it is a year of spiritual, physical and financial renewal. Thank you for always being honest, but never bitter, and for focusing your readers on God’s glory.
No, only because I just found you!! Been enjoying all you have to share, discuss, teach. But I understand with all you are doing, rest is something we don’t always include for us as women. We think we can do all things well and juggle as many things as possible,
May you grow during this time and if The Lord leads you back here, I am sure I will be one of many waiting for you.
Lindsay,
Thank you, friend, for your devotion and service to Christ through your blog. Blessings to you as you seek God’s next endeavor. Your posts will be missed, but I am sure all of us completely understand your need to go where God is leading. Blessings to you in whatever that may be!
Lindsay,
I will miss your blog more than you know! You have been such a blessing to me. Most of all, I love your heart for the Lord and your gentle spirit. May your time away be a time of refreshment and fulfillment as you follow the Lord. Obedience always brings blessing!
Thanking Him for you.
Thank you, and God bless.
I have had a micro-blog for under 3 years- but I hear you! Time to simplify!
I’ll be enjoying your archives until your return….
I just wanted to commend you for following God’s direction for you. I have enjoyed reading your posts and always look forward to hearing your insight on your topics but I am also so happy for you to be moving into a different season for your life. From reading all the comments you have inspired and lifted up so many women (and a few men I bet too) all through the power of God working through you. I pray for your time of rest and pleasure with your family and new adventures.
Lindsay, I’ve only just stumbled across your blog in recent months, and I have been impressed by the thoughtfulness and surrenderedness (pardon the linguistic liberty) of your posts. I will miss your insights, but I applaud and cheer your step to see what God has next and to rest. May your family–and your heart–be refreshed in this time, and may you come out of this season–however long it may be–with clarity and peace about what God has next. May God bless you and your family richly in this new chapter!
Prayers…..
I have been a “silent reader” for almost 5 years now. I will miss reading your posts, you have really encouraged me and opened my eyes to things. Enjoy your family!
Thank you for the honesty from your heart! Your thoughts have been far reaching and bravo to you for knowing when you need to say no. Your heart definitely seems to be in the right place, so God has many more plans for you!
I am soooooo sad but can totally understand. I admire your reasoning and admire you!!!! I have learned so much from you and have been so encouraged by you! This is probably an silly question but will you still keep the sight up???! God bless you and your lovely family!
Love Rachel
All the content will remain accessible online.
What I really want to type is just ‘NNNNOOOOOOOO!!!!’ but even if I could sway you I know it would be wrong. Please enjoy your time with your family and hands on ministry. Thank you for all you have allowed God to use you for in this lovely blog world. Much love & prayers for you and your family!
I will miss your words so much! You have been my “mentor” for a few years now. We are about the same age, as are our kids. I did not grow up in a Christian home, and “real” food is a fairly new concept to me. Your words have helped my spiritual life, my marriage, and my homemaking.
Thank you.
I am happy to hear thatthe site will stay up. Your encouragement truly means more than words can say.
I pray the best for you and your family.
I’m staring at my screen, with tears in my eyes…seriously, who knew I would mourn the loss in a sense, of someone I don’t even know. But that’s how much your blog has meant to me these past couple years. I have been so immensely challenged and encouraged by you. Being a mom to 3 (4 & under), a wife, homemaker, children’s ministry coordinator, and extension of Christ to the world around me… you have been used to give me more strength, faith and remind me of God’s grace…than I could even begin to describe. I felt so connected to you with a likeminded vision in all areas of life, and that was a desperately welcomed and needed thing for me in this season. Although I’m deeply sad I won’t have that any longer, I know the Lord will provide it through another avenue and continue to enable me to be that to those around me. Thank you for even now, being an example through your obedience to step away. May the Lord richly bless this next season of life for you and your family. I pray (and know!) you will be an even greater blessing to those around you, as you press on for His glory!
Lindsay
Just to echo everyone else, thank you! I first started following you about four years ago. My husband does web development out of the home, so of course I thought we had a lot in common.
kids the same age etc…
I have learned a ton from you!! Thank you!
Jillian
Thank you for sharing your heart. It’s such an inspiration to many of us, to see you bring so obedient to the Lord. is this blog the Lord used you and so many ways. I am so thankful for this blog, it helped me grow as a Christian woman, I new wife, and a new mommy. through all of my pregnancy I was able to read your blog and really feel encouraged! I will be praying for you and your family, and waiting to see what the Lord has
in store for you next!
Blessings to you for making this hard decision! I love your honesty. May your time off be restful and full of joy and inspiration.
Good for you! Long time follower….more mature homeschooling Mom who is not ashamed to learn from the younger ! Blessings to you & your family
Thanks for all your time & effort
what a refreshing share of how the Lord is working in your heart. i praise the Lord that you are letting go of this space in obedience to Him and i’m inspired specifically today as i wrestle through my own blog thoughts
thank you for your encouragement!
I have enjoyed your blog so much since I stumbled upon it looking for a “Make your Own Deodorant” recipe. Thank you for your honesty. I can relate to your struggles and the passionate heart you have for your family! May God richly bless you as you rest in Him. YOU WILL BE MISSED!
How do I begin to say thanks for everything that you have taught me all the way across the United States? I have loved checking your blog for new posts and the inspirations that come from your information. I am so proud of you for following and obeying The Lord with this area of your life. I am praying for you and your family. May God bless you all.
You’ll be missed! But it sounds like you are taking a wise and courageous step in shifting your focus. Enjoy all your extra time and being in the moment with your little disciples and husband. It’s a good reminder to us all to examine ourselves and see that we are doing what the Lord would have us do. I’ll definitely still be coming back for various essential posts from the archives though, thanks for keeping them open!
Lindsay,
It will be sad to not find new posts on your blog, but your decision is something that many of us should probably do at different times in our lives, whether it be from blogging or other forms of outreach and ministry. Thank you for your ministry! It was through your blog that I began my weekly retreats that have been a huge blessing to me and my family. I now do seasonal menus because of your blog. Know that the lives you’ve touched have been many and I pray that you will be able to savor the time with your little ones and your community. God bless!
You’ve done a fabulous job here, Lindsay! It’s been great to get to know you through the world of blogging. I’ve prayed for you through the years and will continue to do so. Enjoy your husband, your children, your ministries, and your friends. Thank you for mentioning my blog in your post, I am honored. God bless your future!
I am recently new to your blog in the last few months; however, I took a couple of evenings to go through ad read most all of your past posts that you wrote. Since I am very limited on time and try to spend most of my home/ home school time with kids and family, your blog is one of the very few blogs I subscribed too since limiting the amount of blogs. Remarking on the part you said about the temptation to compare yourself to other bloggers. I have read some of the other bloggers that you have mentioned and others; however, I will say that this one was my favorite and the one I could relate to the most. What I appreciated most was the simplicity and that’s really hard to find in other bloggers. Your blog has been an encouragement especially because there haven’t been a lot of people even at my own church or middle class suburb who share this similar path in life so I say THANK YOU, I have appreciated all your blog posts including this one, and I love the quote at the end. Thank you for sharing apart of your life with all of us(even though it was probably originally meant for friends and family). Your blog has definitely encouraged others so much! I will enjoy getting to go back later on and read some of the old posts, you will be missed.
I think you are making a great choice! Your focus should be your family. There is nothing more important than that! I’ve really appreciated your good example and the inspiration you have been through your blog! You’ve helped me to be a better person! Have fun in your new adventures!
It is so hard to say no to good things. I have so much respect for your honesty and your decision to step away. Enjoy the rest.
Lindsay,
Thanks so much for what you have shared on this site! Yours is one of my favorite (and most referenced) blogs and I will sorely missing reading what you have to say. Thank you, also, for continuing to make the content available. I know that you will reap abundant blessings from following God’s leading. May God give you rest and renewed strength through your obedience to Him!
Thank you so much for all you have poured into this site and the readers over the years! You were such an inspiration to me over this past year as I became a mom. I truly received an education from you through your wonderful, insightful posts and yet I have never even exchanged an email with you. I believe your influence is probably much far-reaching than you will ever know! Thank you, Lindsay! And thanks be to God for providing you inspiration and motivation for your wonderful posts.
I have always admired your inclined ear to God’s whispers. I adore your website and reading about your family, and find comfort in the fact that our family, too, is simplifying our lives this year after a rough 2012. May God continue to bless you and your family in a mighty way!
Thank you so much for all the wonderful ideas, bible verses and yummy recipes you’ve shared with all of us! You have been an inspiration to me. Thank you for obeying Gods will for you life. Many wonderful blessings to you and your family.
I will miss you terribly but understand fully the necessity of your obeying the Lord. I have not posted many comments, but as the mother of five, I have been greatly challenged, inspired, encouraged and instructed by your blog for several years. Thank you so much for all you’ve shared. You have touched my life and the lives of my children deeply.
Blessings on you and your family!! You will indeed be missed, but I just want to say THANK YOU. Thank you for sharing your thoughts, your goals, your ways of doing things. Your blog has been such an inspiration to me, it set me on the path to being an intentional mother, a homemaker searching for simplicity, a cook desiring to serve my family natural and healthy foods, and a follower of Jesus trying to find ways to practically live out my faith in the everyday. I cannot express enough how much your blog has shaped me. My home, though imperfect, shows evidence of an intentional homemaker now, and I am constantly wanting to learn, to declutter, to re-evaluate, and I have you to thank for it. I did not grow up with a mom or family that was very intentional about home, food, serving others, etc., and even my Mom is impressed with the intentionality she sees in my (imperfect) homemaking. I began reading your blog about 3 years ago, when I was pregnant with our first daughter (I found it on a whim through a link on Little Birdie Secrets, when a friend of mine told me about their homemade laundry detergent). At that time I could barely cook a decently healthy meal, much less any sort of homemade household product! I AM SO BLESSED I FOUND YOUR BLOG AT THE BEGINNING OF MY JOURNEY INTO MOTHERHOOD. Lindsay, I wish I could list everything: but here are some snippets. Your recommendation of Sally Clarkson’s book Mission of Motherhood (need I say more?!?); I make homemade laundry detergent, deoderent, dishwasher soap; we cloth diaper (UNHEARD OF to me until your blog); I use the Bulk herb Store for NUMEROUS herbs thanks to you advertising for them for a little while a few years ago; we are constantly going through toys, books, and the like to be intentional about what our children play with and watch; your Recipe Index alone is amazing and I can pretty much say at least 50% of the recipes are used on a regular basis; but most of all: your intentional ways you live out your love for Jesus has impacted and shaped my homemaking. I am now constantly looking for ways to make our home more hospitable, and looking for ways to involve my girls in serving neighbors and the community with me. We sponsor two lovely children, a girl and a boy, in the Philippines thanks to your blogging and showing us how much we are needed when you and your husband traveled there last year.
The list goes on! (oh! and we want to homeschool!)
But thank you. I feel that God lead me to this blog for all the reasons I’ve already stated, plus more. He needed me to learn that life doesn’t happen on accident, and that I, though I’m at home and spend most of the day with my kids, can have a kingdom impact because of being intentional with my time, my resources, and my home.
THANK YOU THANK YOU! You’ve made such a difference in my life. To God be the glory, and I give thanks to Him for using you and your family and your home to bless mine. May God bless you with rest, wisdom, peace, creativity, prosperity and new vision as you enter this new year with your family.
Lindsay,
Your blog has helped shape me as a servant, wife, and mother, and of the few blogs I do follow, yours has been my favorite by far! Thank you for all the time you put into sharing your experiences and wisdom, while caring for your family and community. I have to say, having been here in Canada for 18 months now (from the U.S.), without any community at all, your “signing off” is like losing a friend, though we’ve never met. I don’t say that to make you feel bad, but to let you know how much you are appreciated. I hope 2013 is a refreshing year for you!
Thank you for everything you have done. I’m sad this season is over, you have been so encouraging to me- though even in this step you make an amazing example. Thank you! Many blessings in your days ahead as you follow him more faithfully.
Thanks for all you’ve done on your blog! I’ve learned so much, been so encouraged, and connected with lots of great resources . I’ve really appreciated seeing you step back when you needed to in the last year or so, and now more permanently. All of us moms need this frequent lesson about letting go when it’s time to. I’ll miss your blog, but I know in this time of rest for you God is offering refreshment for us readers as well. Richest blessings!
You will be greatly missed (my favorite blog!
but I’m so thankful for what you’ve done here. I have recommended your site to multiple friends. Thank you so much and may God continue to bless and use you.
Thank you, Lindsay. I’ve found your site very inspiring and useful, and I hope you get the well deserved rest.
I think that at most of the faith-filled mom blogs I follow, the blogger takes a rest at some point. It means you are sane and normal and focused on what is important! I cannot even imagine blogging and doing this mom/homemaker life at the same time. Glad you did though, I know I will be referring to your posts in the future. Enjoy your rest, feel no guilt, soak up His love!
Amen to that!
Enjoy your rest! How sweet to listen and heed a word from the Father. I have been blessed by your posts for about 3 year, and will follow if and when you return. Thank you
Thank you for your site! It has been my favorite website since discovering it. I will certainly miss your posts, but I, too, sense God’s leading back to a saner life with regards to technology. Don’t neglect the most important people in your life. Blessings as you take this year and maybe more. May God grant you immeasurably more than you could ask or imagine.
Thank you for your faithful service to Him. I have greatly enjoyed your blog…your honesty and testimonies of everyday life have spoken greatly to me and have encouraged me in my life with my little ones. I’m sure He will use You in big ways in this new season of rest. Enjoy!!
Thank you Lindsay, for this blog! Blessings on you & your family! I will miss your blog posts, but I’m glad that you will now have more time with your family. It’s a lot taking care of a home, serving your husband, and your family with young kids! Again, Blessings on you all!
I have enjoyed your blog! Blessings over you and your family! May this new year be a sweet time for your family!
What a joyful encouragement you have been to me and many if the godly women I know! I pray Christ’s peace and truth to reign in your heart as you continue to set aside the sin and distraction that so easily entangles. Thank you for setting a great and godly example of what it looks like to walk faithfully with Christ. “Seek first His kingdom…”. Thank you for modeling this well in your blog, family, and heart! To God be the glory!
Blessings to you, Lindsay. Your thoughts have been a blessing and encouragement.
We will miss your writing, but I entirely understand. The word the Lord has put on my heart for our family this year is ‘savour’ – for many of the reasons you mention. May this be a year of refreshment and joy for your family!
Dear Lindsay,
thank you so much for letting the Lord use you in our lives. I will miss your blog so much, though.. but I know He has great plans for you further on.
God bless you and your family!!
Thank you so much and completely understand. I hope we can still access the archives as they are so very helpful. Lord bless!
Lindsey, thanks for all your words of wisdom and blessings on the next season. I was wondering (selfishly) if you were going to take the sight down or if you were going to leave it up? I go here for often and find back dated postings for info. that I was needing…. if you are going to take it down then I need to purchase a lot of ink and paper and start printing!!!
Please let us know. blessings.
I believe she mentioned in the post that all the resources here would remain available, just with comments turned off.
All the content on PH will continue to be freely available for your use and service! I’m just so thankful that God can continue to use every word written here! We will only close comments.
Thank you for doing what God is calling you to do! It blesses everyone, though I will miss reading your posts. I now have another reason to continue to be inspired by you!
You will be missed!!! Blessings as you follow the Lord in this season of your life <3