To everything there is a season, and after fourteen years, it’s time for me to say goodbye to the Big White Farmhouse.
Since my last update, I’ve discovered quite a bit about my health and how I need to proceed going forward. Iron deficiency was just a symptom, not a cause. It turns out that chronic stress was starting to kill me. When you’re constantly in “fight or flight” and your body doesn’t know how to turn it off, your gut stops working and stops absorbing nutrients. And while the human body is incredibly resilient and will compensate for awhile, even the helpers eventually get depleted. This was my problem. At some point, my body screamed, “I’ve had enough.”
During my summer of healing, I kept returning to the idea of retreating into the desert: embracing silence, creating margin, calming my mind and heart of all unnecessary noise. This has resulted in many life changes and retiring the blog is the latest. I think after fourteen years, I’ve said all I need to say?
The saddest part is saying goodbye to all of you lovely ladies who have commented here over the years. I have been so blessed by your wisdom and encouragement. In so many ways, you have helped me feel less alone in this big world. I can’t thank you enough for that. I’m not on any social media anymore but would love to stay in touch via snail mail if anyone is interested. Send me an email!
Anyway, the purpose of this blog has always been to seek out and document the good, true and beautiful. Thank you for the opportunity to share a bit of that here. I will definitely still be on the hunt; I hope you’ll continue in your part of the world too.
May the Lord bless you and keep you in the palm of His hand. Your friend, Ashley
Im sorry for your health struggles but glad to hear you are finding what you need to heal. I have missed your blog and appreciated your writing, but definitely understand your need for less noise. God bless you Ashley.
Ashley,
I was just checking in on your blog this morning, before this post and praying everything was okay. I totally understand the added stress of a blog, though I am sorry to not be able to read yours anymore, your health is more important! I hope you can find peace and healing. God bless!
Colleen
Very sad to read this. I hope your health improves and that you know you can come back if you ever decide to do so.
🙁 so sad to see you go but praying you are able to heal and find peace.
Sorry you had to make this necessary decision! I’ve enjoyed following along on your farm and thrifty adventures. And I’ve really appreciated your book recs.
I stopped to say a prayer for you and your health. I hope you continue to find answers and heal.
I had a feeling this was coming. I have enjoyed your blog for about 5/6 years and I have been so encouraged by your homestead journey, your homeschool efforts, the sewing/crafting and home improvements. sending snail mail or emails sounds lovely. Prayers from Oregon!
Ashley, sending prayers for healing your way! I will miss seeing your inspiring posts, but hopefully we can continue the conversation through pen and paper. God bless you and your family!
Ashley, I will miss the way your blog inspired me in so many ways- reading, saving money, and being intentional about my life. I am sending you so much love and strength as you get yourself healthy.
I have such enjoyed reading your thoughtful posts about so many different things! I will continue to pray for your healing. Corresponding would be wonderful!