Cassie Bustamante

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Back to the Start: Announcements on Business, Blogging, Babies

September 5, 2017 by Cassie 120 Comments

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Hello?  Hello?  Is this thing on?  Ahem…. well, that was a rather long and unintended but much enjoyed break from blogging.  While I’ve been on hiatus spending time with the family, I’ve done so much thinking, soul searching, and traveling.  Our family took a giant road trip stopping in Chicago, Madison, Sioux Falls, landing in the Black Hills for a few days, and then stopping in St. Louis on our way back home to Maryland.  The trip was just what this girl needed… time with my family, experiencing new things, and seeing some of the most beautiful and moving sites in our great country.  I took a million and one photos on our trip, so I thought I’d sprinkle them into this post as I ramble on about updates to keep you somewhat visually stimulated.  Today, however, I don’t want to talk much about my trip; I want to talk about what has culminated in my mind these past two months away from you.  I’ve been digging and I’ve decided that I truly need to get back to my roots in both blogging and business, and do the things that made me passionate about my endeavors.  Basically, just like Chris Martin (Coldplay reference), I am going back to the start.

Old Chapel I saw near Al’s Oasis in South Dakota

Let’s talk about blogging first.  I’m basically a dinosaur when it comes to the blog world, and have been sharing on my little corner of the internet since 2009.  When I began, it was primarily to share my furniture makeovers and I assumed I’d use the blog to market my furniture.  I had no idea what I was getting into, and it grew into more of a DIY blog where I shared my methodology, paint colors, and more.  As time went on, it evolved and has become a bit more of a lifestyle/home blog, and I love that it’s become more personal because I feel like I connect with you, my readers, that way.  I’d prefer you know who I really am, and I love when you share pieces of yourself in comments.

Over the years, blogging as a platform has grown, and it’s quickly become a career for many.  The numbers, pageviews, ad clicks, subscribers have all become important to bloggers.  Everyone works together to do collaborative blog tours and blog hops, and it’s really a great thing to see bloggers pull together and share in these ways, but it can also become time consuming and draining.  The pressure is on to have my Fall home tour up September 1, when all I really want to do is hold on to the last days of summer with my kids.  Also with these hops and tours, it’s a common courtesy to visit the others on your tour and leave them comments, and pin some images from their site.  I’ve also taken the time to do that, but other bloggers seem to be “too busy” to return the favor and it honestly leaves me feeling like they must think I just suck compared to them.  The comparison bug creeps in that way, and I am left questioning my own blog’s value.

Riverwalk in Chicago

All of these feelings were taking the joy out of blogging for me… I don’t want to be looking at my numbers and wondering if they’re good enough.  I don’t want to be working to promote bloggers in collaborations who don’t reciprocate or even reply to your comment.  It doesn’t feel good, and it’s mentally draining.  I have loved this little blog of mine for over 8 years now, and earlier this summer I was honestly feeling so ready to just walk away from it. However, over the years I’ve connected with so many readers, and I didn’t want to lose those relationships. I recognized that what I needed to do was take it back to the start, back to what I originally loved about blogging.  With that said, I’ve decided to really scale back to the basics in a retro-blog movement.  I’ve left all of the tours I had signed up for as well as any other collaborations and from now on, everything will be as I want it to be and when I want it to be… no pressure on me.  It’s just Cassie and her blog.  Of course, in the future these things may change, but for now, I’m going to do what I have to do to keep feeling inspired in order to inspire you.

Bison bull in Custer National Park

Now let’s get to business… I have a really exciting announcement!  If you’ve been here for a while, you know that I used to own a vintage barn sale in Frederick, MD, called Sweet Clover.  Last fall, my partner and I made the decision to sell the shop to a fabulous pair of sisters.  We sold it for many reasons, including wanting less stress and more time with our families.  What started as a part time side gig became a full time job where people always wanted more and more from us.  At the end of the day, I didn’t feel I had much left to give my family, aside from a tired and cranky mom.  My partner, Sarah, and I used to always say, “Remember the good old days when we were just vendors in a store?  When we could come in, set up, and be on our way?  Wasn’t that fun?”  The answer was YES!  It was fun back then.  Hunting for fantastic vintage finds, giving them new life, and then styling them in a space are all things that I love about the vintage shop business.

Chicago Industrial Building

In August, I made the decision to see if Sweet Clover would take me back as a vendor and I am happy to report that they said yes!  I’ve been busy working this last month, with Emmy by my side, on all of the fun parts…. thrifting, painting, refinishing, styling… it’s been a breath of fresh air and I feel creatively inspired again.  To be quite honest, I didn’t even really want to do it at first, but life has not been easy for me this year (more on that in a bit), and I recognized a need in myself…. I needed to just get moving, and just grab life by the horns and start taking some direction.  Sweet Clover has been exactly what I needed and I’m looking forward to being ready for the September sale in a week and a half.  I’ll be taking some better photos next week and will be sharing here. But here’s a little peek from what Emmy and I accomplished this weekend.

That decision will also impact the blog in a positive way…. I will be sharing so many more furniture makeovers once again!  Stupidly, I am so out of my game, I forgot to photograph all the pieces I’ve finished before hauling them over.  I won’t make that mistake again!  I’m really excited about bringing that back to the blog!  I have to also say a huge thank you to everyone at Sweet Clover who welcomed me back with open arms… I have absolutely no regrets about selling the store, and am anxious to once again just do the things I love while continuing to have a flexible schedule and time with my family.

We’re a funny looking bunch, but this, right here, is my entire world… At Sioux Falls

And now I have one more update that I feel I owe you.  Last Spring I wrote about the two miscarriages I had up to that point, and how lost I was just feeling in regards to everything.  If you had asked me one year ago where I would be right now, I would have told you I would be home with a baby, and working hard on my blog as a source of income.  Clearly, that hasn’t worked out.  Summer brought me two more miscarriages, one in June, and one in August which happened to be the week of my birthday.  I’ve been seeing a specialist, so I’ve been doing all of the right things, but some things are just unexplainable. Also, I’m older… I turned 39!  That 4th one in August hit me the hardest.  Because we had seen a specialist and were doing everything right, we truly had a good feeling and thought that was it.  We had to travel that week to see family, including my sister in law whom I adore but who happens to be pregnant.  Seeing her while I was still bleeding crushed me, and I felt so much guilt about that.  I was left feeling defeated, sad, and so angry with myself for allowing my feelings to get in the way of time with family. When I arrived at their home I said I had a headache and a nap would be good, but nap was really code for “go upstairs and sit on the floor and sob.”  Chris found me there, and I just couldn’t stop the tears. Of course, they eventually slowed, and I was able to survive the weekend, but it was so much harder than I had anticipated.

A very pregnant burrow at Custer National Park

After I returned home from that trip, I decided it was time to take my life back.  I contacted Sweet Clover, I started running a little bit farther again (I had eliminated long runs in the process of trying to get pregnant), and I said yes to my first design job, which happens to be for my pregnant sister in law.  I told you, I absolutely love her which is why I was so filled with shame at being so broken hearted. She’s a true champ though, and handled me and my emotions well.  I did all of those three things in one day, and I felt incredible after… filled with hope and happiness.  As far as a baby for us goes, I am not ruling it out, but I need to get myself out of this rut and move on and do the things I love simply because I love doing them.

I’m excited to once again bring you posts about furniture makeovers, and will continue to sprinkle in other home posts as well as some of the personal.  Although a schedule can be a wonderful thing, I’ve decided not to commit to one and will just blog when I have something to say.  From the bottom of my heart, thank you for sticking with me on this journey.  I know that taking it back to the start will only lead to wonderful new places!

Finally, I want to say a huge thank you to these three people… they’ve been my support system, my cheerleaders, my rock through everything this past year.  When I questioned whether I was even able to do a space at Sweet Clover again, Chris encouraged me and pushed me forward; Emmy volunteered to help me find things and stage, and honestly, she’s really good at it.  And Sawyer, he’s just my love bug who wants me to be happy.  If it weren’t for the three of them, this blog post and its sentiments would probably not be here.

The Fam-bam at the Badlands

While the kids went back to school today, so I think it’s time for new adventures.  Shall we?

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Comments

  1. [email protected] BoxyColonial says

    September 5, 2017 at 2:14 pm

    yay! I’ve missed seeing your posts! (even though I didn’t have time to read blogs at all for most of the summer, so I’m secretly glad some of my favorite bloggers were on semi-breaks, too). I was just looking through some of my old posts last night and feeling nostalgic for the olden days of blogging. I just realized this month is the 5th anniversary of my blog, but getting excited about something like that seems kind of quaint and silly these days. Anyway, here’s to retro blogging!

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      September 5, 2017 at 2:55 pm

      we need to make ourselves some retro blogging t-shirts featuring maybe word processors on them. 😉 thank you so much for your comment, my friend!

      Reply
  2. Amber says

    September 5, 2017 at 2:21 pm

    Oh Cassie, you are the best. You are seriously the most faithful and sweetest commenter! You ALWAYS take the time to let others know you are thinking of them…ALWAYS! I strive to be like you in your thoughtfulness!

    I’m so thankful for your honesty and authenticity. You are a Light and I continue to pray for your precious family!

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      September 5, 2017 at 2:56 pm

      thank you so much for that, amber! i have always loved your blog for the same reasons. 🙂 cheers to new beginnings!

      Reply
  3. Katja - A Home for Design says

    September 5, 2017 at 2:26 pm

    Yay. It’s great to have you ‘back’ here in blog land.
    I can’t wait to follow along once again! 🙂 Good luck with your Sweet Clover furniture makeovers!

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      September 5, 2017 at 2:57 pm

      thank you so much, katja! it’s going to be a good year ahead…. i know it!

      Reply
  4. Kandice says

    September 5, 2017 at 2:28 pm

    I’m so sorry for your losses. I’ve been down that road and know that there are no words that could make the hurt go away. I’m also glad youve found your center again in starting your new/ old ventures again ❤

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      September 5, 2017 at 2:58 pm

      thank you so much, kandice. i am so sorry you’ve traveled that road, too.

      Reply
  5. Jessica Gourley says

    September 5, 2017 at 2:36 pm

    Friend, you had me at Coldplay reference.
    But really, it’s been a hell of a year for you so I’m so glad to see you finding a new (old?) focus and feeling empowered. You are a badass and you deserve all the best, however that may look.
    I am glad you’re back, glad you’re being you, and glad we all get to benefit from it! I live closer to Sweet Clover so I’m *really* hoping to get there in the near-ish future! xoxoxoxo

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      September 5, 2017 at 2:58 pm

      coldplay for the win, always! i am so glad you will be closer! it would be fun to hang out and hit the barn sales together- we must make it happen one day!

      Reply
  6. Anita says

    September 5, 2017 at 2:52 pm

    I haven’t blogged in few years, heck I haven’t even commented on a blog in, I can’t remember. But I just wanted to say that you have always been one of my favorites. You seem so genuine and full of so much talent. I look forward to seeing all of your new creations. Best of luck to you with your next venture.

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      September 5, 2017 at 2:59 pm

      wow, anita- that is such a huge compliment! thank you so much! i know the year ahead will be great! thank you for your friendship and support!

      Reply
  7. Carmel says

    September 5, 2017 at 3:05 pm

    I’m so happy you’re back! The blog world just isn’t the same without you! My heart aches for your losses. I wish I could do something other than let you know I’m thinking and praying for you. You have the best heart and your family is so blessed to have you! xoxo -C

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      September 6, 2017 at 11:01 am

      thank you so much, carmel! i appreciate that comment, and your friendship and support! i am looking forward to hugging your neck next time we are down your way! XOXO

      Reply
  8. Kate says

    September 5, 2017 at 3:30 pm

    Cassie, I want to reach out to you and give you a huge hug. Thanks for being so honest and open with all of us, and for sharing your talent. You are SO right about blogging, though. It is hard work, has lots ups and downs, and it’s too easy to compare yourself to others (I do this all the time). All that said, I so admire you for figuring out what is most important in your life and embracing what makes you happiest. Cheers to new beginnings, friend.

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      September 6, 2017 at 11:00 am

      thank you SO much, kate! i appreciate your friendship and support and am looking forward to great things!

      Reply
  9. Emy says

    September 5, 2017 at 3:45 pm

    A million hugs to you. I’m so happy that you’re returning to furniture makeovers! It seems like they make you happy. Are you going to be selling prints at Sweet Clover as well?

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      September 6, 2017 at 10:59 am

      thank you so much, emy! that is the plan though i am not quite there yet!

      Reply
  10. Karrie says

    September 5, 2017 at 3:49 pm

    I literally have tears in my eye, Cassie! You are amazing and I’m so happy that you are taking back your life and moving forward with what makes you the most happy! You have so much to give and I appreciate all the love and encouragement that you give to everyone, in your family and your Internet family! I have a feeling that you are staring a great new chapter… I for sure will be standing by cheering! Love ya!

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      September 6, 2017 at 10:57 am

      aaaw, your support and friendship across the country means so much to me. and i love getting to know you more in your show so i hope it’s a smashing success!

      Reply
  11. Jennifer Griffin says

    September 5, 2017 at 3:52 pm

    Cassie, I’m glad you’re back and love your new approach to blogging! I completely agree… all of the extra “stuff” and commitments can really zap the joy out of it. You all made some great trips! I’m so sorry about all of the miscarriages. Lots of hugs to you! Excited to keep following along with you!

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      September 6, 2017 at 10:57 am

      thank you so much, jennifer! you’ve always been so positive and wonderfully supportive and i appreciate that!

      Reply
  12. Lizzie | Emmerson & Fifteenth says

    September 5, 2017 at 4:03 pm

    I think we all need a bit of that ethos! I’m so sorry you’ve had such a tough year, but very happy to see you back to blogging old school style. (Old school is the best school!) Hope you get more peace this year lovely lady. Hugs.

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      September 6, 2017 at 10:56 am

      thank you so much, lizzie! old school really is the best, right? 😉 vintage everything.

      Reply
  13. Ashley says

    September 5, 2017 at 4:22 pm

    I’m so sorry for the rugged terrain of life you’ve been hiking through this last year, but I hope you can truly feel grateful and proud of your refusal to give up. I’m encouraged by you, take heart in knowing you are inspiring and that God really has a purpose for you in all of this and that I’m praying for you! I’m so glad you are back to the barn!

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      September 6, 2017 at 10:56 am

      thank you so much, ashley! only good things ahead and i am excited to be back and inspired!

      Reply
  14. Annabella says

    September 5, 2017 at 4:28 pm

    Oh yes to retro blogging!!! …. from a reader in Limassol Cyprus (Europe- in case you don’t know where that is!)
    Love your thoughts Cassie and so glad you are making a stand!! I was late in discovering blogs ( fall of 2014) and already feel that there has been a huge change. Will be following you for sure!
    Love from this sunny part of the world xx

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      September 6, 2017 at 10:55 am

      yay! thank you so much for that comment and so glad you’re into the retro-blogging movement! let’s do this!

      Reply
  15. Jaime Costiglio says

    September 5, 2017 at 5:07 pm

    Cassie I couldn’t agree with you more about the changes in the blog playing field, it’s all so so different now. So glad you’re focusing on what’s true to you and your heart.

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      September 6, 2017 at 10:55 am

      thank you so much, jaime! you are always so good at doing your thing and doing it well- i admire you.

      Reply
  16. Designing Vibes says

    September 5, 2017 at 5:18 pm

    Cassie!
    You totally hit the nail on the head …I can relate to you on so many levels as it relates to the current state of blogging. I am so with you on the retro-blogging movement and in a sense, I feel blogging on my own terms is the only way I am going to be able to sustain my sanity and creativity. Just know that you are not only incredibly talented…you are a great writer and a sweet soul. Thank you for being so candid. Keep doing your thing, girl. I cannot wait to see your furniture makeovers.

    Much Love,
    Erica

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      September 6, 2017 at 10:54 am

      let’s do this retro-blogging thing! we just have to! thank you so much for your kind comment, erica! i feel the same about you and am really glad we connected through doing tours together… so see, some good comes out of them! 😉

      Reply
  17. Jess says

    September 5, 2017 at 5:29 pm

    Aw Cassie. I love how open and vulnerable you are. Sharing your heart. I’ve often felt many of those same feelings about blogging… just not sure where to go with it. Can’t wait to see your stuff at Sweet Clover! Hoping it helps re-gnite that fire!

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      September 6, 2017 at 10:53 am

      thank you so much, jess. i know it will! and i think i need to step back with the blogging to move forward… a new direction instead of joining the rat race.

      Reply
  18. Cathy says

    September 5, 2017 at 6:36 pm

    Good for you Cassie! May the changes you are making be the ones that lead you to a really good place. Part of life is the wandering of paths to find the right one, I’d say you have learned a lot about what is important to you and what works for you and are onto the right path!

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      September 6, 2017 at 10:53 am

      thank you so much, cathy! i appreciate it and i think i did learn a lot this year.

      Reply
  19. Renee Houston Zemanski says

    September 5, 2017 at 7:56 pm

    I, for one, am very happy that you are going back to your roots. I’ve always enjoyed your blog and your great writing, but I honestly missed the furniture makeovers.
    I’m very sorry that you had to go through all of this heartbreak. There is always hope. Look at me… a baby at 41! You just never know.
    We should get together. I have a lot to share with you. Call me if you come back this way. My number is still the same.

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      September 6, 2017 at 10:52 am

      thank you so much for that, renee! i appreciate your support and friendship and maybe a thrift shopping meet up should happen!

      Reply
  20. Calypso in the Country says

    September 5, 2017 at 8:00 pm

    Glad to see you back! I can definitely relate to your blogging thoughts. I have been blogging almost 7 years so I feel like I view blogging in a different way than the people who have started over the last year or two. Things have really changed. Sometimes I question why I keep doing it with so many out there doing bigger and better things on their blogs. I am glad you found a new direction for yours and I wish you the best. I am also sorry to hear of your losses. Take care!
    Shelley

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      September 6, 2017 at 10:51 am

      it really is a totally different animal these days! and we have to stop thinking of others as bigger and better and just think of ourselves as different. 🙂 we’ve got this!

      Reply
  21. Lisa says

    September 5, 2017 at 8:34 pm

    Cassie, glad to see you’ve found a way out of the woods. It’s hard to feel lost and not know what’s the right move. I think that’s something that a lot of mothers who have divided their time between raising their kiddos and working, or been stay at home moms entirely know…..where to go from here. I’m sorry you’ve experienced so much loss and I know it’s been hard on you!! Good for you for taking some time to figure things out. I pretty much gave up home tours two or three years ago when they were stealing the joy out of my very existence!!

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      September 6, 2017 at 10:50 am

      thank you so much, lisa! i think you are so right on it being an issue for so many of us moms. we need to help each other get through it. 🙂

      Reply
  22. Kim says

    September 5, 2017 at 8:52 pm

    So glad to see you back!!

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      September 6, 2017 at 10:49 am

      thank you, kim!

      Reply
  23. Catherine says

    September 5, 2017 at 8:57 pm

    Cassie I’ve always loved your blog and the inspiration and ideas I’ve found here, as well as a wonderful person across the other side of the world! I’m so glad to hear you feel a renewed sense of direction and can’t wait to see what the future holds.

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      September 6, 2017 at 10:49 am

      thank you, catherine! cheers to great things ahead for BOTH of us.

      Reply
  24. Beth Barden says

    September 5, 2017 at 9:39 pm

    So glad you are finding your groove again during such a hard couple years! I am so sorry about the two additional miscarriages. I am sure you feel very stuck in limbo not knowing how the rest of things will turn out but I hope you continue to find comfort in your family and passions. You’ve always been an open welcoming book and your blog should be nothing more than a reflection of you! Home tours nearly killed me 🙂

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      September 6, 2017 at 10:48 am

      yes- i totally noticed you pulled back from tours and all that jazz and it really feels like such a weight off! thank you so much for your words and friendship!

      Reply
  25. Colleen says

    September 5, 2017 at 10:03 pm

    So good to hear you’re back with a plan for new exciting things! I look forward to your upcoming furniture makeovers – you have an amazing eye for thrifting and making old things beautiful, so I happily await these posts. I am sorry for your losses. I hope you feel all of the virtual hugs and love though, because sometimes these well wishes and shared sorrows are enough to push you to a place of peace. All of that positive energy has to go somewhere, right? Here’s to a beautiful fall, free of house tours and DIY pumpkin crafts. 🙂

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      September 6, 2017 at 10:47 am

      thank you so much, colleen! i am not saying there won’t be DIY pumpkin crafts… i mean who knows? it just won’t be planned… it will be spontaneous and on my own. nothing like spontaneous pumpkins.

      Reply
  26. Rachel says

    September 6, 2017 at 12:26 am

    Cass, I’m happy to hear your plan for the future. I’m also sorry to hear of your struggles. I’m sorry I didn’t comment very often on your blog before, returning the favor… because you would always comment on my and it really brightened my day. I noticed you would do that with a lot of people and I feel guilty that I wasn’t a better friend. I hope you can forgive me, and I’m excited to read about your upcoming makeovers and adventures and whatever strikes your fancy! 🙂

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      September 6, 2017 at 10:46 am

      thank you so much, rachel! looking forward to a more enjoyable and laid back approach and just doing my think in my little space over here!

      Reply
  27. Deb says

    September 6, 2017 at 3:49 am

    So glad you are back. As to those collaborations, i really dislike them. They are just too much and who has time for it all? Just be yourself, that’s why we return to your blog after all. Looking forward to some great posts!

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      September 6, 2017 at 10:46 am

      thank you so much, deb! i really appreciate that and yeah, “ain’t nobody got time for that!” 🙂

      Reply
  28. ART says

    September 6, 2017 at 7:22 am

    YAY!!!!!!!!!!!!! So glad to read this…Welcome home! Thanks for being YOU…I am all in for the retro-blogging as a reader…I have been taking a break , too.

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      September 6, 2017 at 10:45 am

      retro-blogging for the win! let’s do it! 😉

      Reply
  29. [email protected] Chronicles of Home says

    September 6, 2017 at 8:50 am

    Sounds like you have so many great things on the horizon, Cassie. I hope putting yourself out there in different ways brings you so much happiness. xoxo

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      September 6, 2017 at 10:45 am

      thank you so much, jen!

      Reply
  30. Haley says

    September 6, 2017 at 9:03 am

    Retro blogging for life!!! I’m so excited for your new sweet clover vendor adventure and I love that it is something that you and Emmy get to do together. I can’t wait to see some of your newest furniture makeovers and how you set up your vendor space. Also, I’m just excited to see your face pop up in my feed again.

    Sending prayers on the baby front. I lost a pregnancy this summer and it has been bittersweet watching as TONS of my friends are announcing their pregnancies or births of their babes. As a result, there has been lots of soul-searching, practicing gratitude, and learning to get back to happy… so I’m here if you ever want to chat.

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      September 6, 2017 at 10:44 am

      thank you so much for that, haley! things will get better for both of us, i know it. and likewise, i am here if you need it! XOXO

      Reply
  31. Gill says

    September 6, 2017 at 10:58 am

    Ah! Good for you! Beautifully written from the heart and I am truly sorry for your losses this year. All the best though….look forward to seeing what you have up your sleeve.

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      September 6, 2017 at 6:04 pm

      thank you so much, gill! who knows what will come out of my sleeve, but i feel good about it!

      Reply
  32. Jessica | Petal + Ply says

    September 6, 2017 at 11:27 am

    Big hugs Cassie. I’m so glad you’ll be back at Sweet Clover! I always enjoy seeing you and your work. If you ever need a shopping buddy let me know. I’ll pack Oliver up – we’d be happy to keep you company!

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      September 6, 2017 at 6:04 pm

      thank you so much, jessica! i tend to not make plans to go and just go on a whim, but i will certainly text you when i do! or if there are any epic yard sales to go to in frederick we can meet up- i love that one in mt. airy at the lion’s club… it’s 9/23 and i would love to meet up!

      Reply
  33. Lauren says

    September 6, 2017 at 1:34 pm

    So many things to comment on ….. first off, I am so sorry for your losses. You are amazing to share that with us and your raw feelings about it. I am SO HAPPY to hear your thoughts on blogging. Blogs have always been a love of mine but these past few years its been really aggravating to see how commercialized and fake its gotten. I don’t want to read Nordstrom sale picks and sponsored posts. Ugh!! I want to see furniture makeovers and how women are decorating on a budget with their thrifted finds and the struggles of real life as a mom and wife. So as my blog reading list continues to dwindle down, yours will remain at the top. I am so looking forward to your posts to come, and congrats on going back to Sweet Clover!

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      September 6, 2017 at 6:01 pm

      lauren, thank you SOOOO much! and yes, i feel the same as a reader! i skip all the nordstrom posts because i don’t need to be tempted to spend money. 😉 i also know that the message my blog to carry is one of making the best of what you have… not a message of buy this and then you’ll be as happy as i am. it’s just not who i am. granted there are probably going to be some times when i work with companies but it will be those i feel good about. thank you so much for your comment! 🙂

      Reply
  34. karin chudy says

    September 6, 2017 at 1:49 pm

    AMEN!!! When my mom got sick last year, I basically walked away from blogging. When she died, I just didn’t have the heart to be where I was at before she got sick. ( I was doing minimum 2 posts a week and busting my butt for OTHER companies) It took that life changing moment to remind me why I started. In the beginning it was on my terms…how did it slowly creep into this hyper Competitive, non emotional, crank things out as fast as you can or regurgitate the same ole thing over and over again Monster? We get sucked into that even when we have the best intentions. It’s just natural. I am so glad you are going back to your start. Thats when I first found you and loved the NORMALCY it made me feel. Knowing that not all bloggers are in it for the numbers. Good luck with all your new ventures and enjoy this stage in life!
    Hugs,
    Karin

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      September 6, 2017 at 5:58 pm

      i know you’ve had quite the year, karin, and through it i have appreciated your support and friendship. i saw everything you went through, how hard it was, but also what it taught you about what you want from life. i love seeing the photos of your family making memories!

      Reply
  35. Scottie says

    September 6, 2017 at 2:23 pm

    I L.O.V.E. the idea of “retro” blogging!!! Totally Brilliant! ((hugs)) and joy for you on your new and revisited ventures. XO!

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      September 6, 2017 at 5:57 pm

      retro-blogging is where it’s at! let’s do this! can’t wait to check out the painted pig this fall! wishing you so much success!

      Reply
      • Scottie says

        September 6, 2017 at 8:36 pm

        Wow! You would come?! That would be so fabulous and I would be so honored!

        Reply
  36. Karen Simon Peterson says

    September 6, 2017 at 3:27 pm

    I missed you soooo much and I’m glad you’re back. I’m happy that you are making changes to do what you love- life is too short not to do what makes you happy and spend time with your children while they are young and to guide them as teens. I’m so sorry about your miscarriages. They can be heart wrenching. Take care of yourself.

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      September 6, 2017 at 5:56 pm

      karen, that makes me feel really good that you missed me! seriously! thank you so much for that! it feels good to be back and on my own terms. 🙂

      Reply
  37. Kirby says

    September 6, 2017 at 4:35 pm

    Yay…I missed you, LC!
    I plan to retro-blog too. 10 more months and I will have ALL my days free…not just a few in the summer. Maybe a retro-blog meet-up where we can just discuss real life?

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      September 6, 2017 at 5:55 pm

      cheers to LC and AK hitting the road on junking trips and retro-blogging! the future is bright!

      Reply
  38. Kim from Reposhture Studio =-) says

    September 6, 2017 at 5:27 pm

    So much of what you said about the business and blogging side of things registered with me! You already know about my shutting down of my shop for very similar reasons but I stopped blogging because I felt like it was very one-sided as well. So many people asking other bloggers for “votes” on their various projects in competitions also drove me crazy bc I felt like that was really fake and not a truly earned win. It was just bloggers voting for other bloggers. I just didn’t feel I had the time to do things how I wanted to either so I give you a lot of kudos for continuing! Keep at it girl, you have what it takes.

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      September 6, 2017 at 5:54 pm

      yes, exactly! it’s isolating instead of unifying. thank you so much for your words, kim! i appreciate your friendship and support!

      Reply
  39. Kim says

    September 6, 2017 at 7:58 pm

    Loved seeing your blog post pop up – you are a wonderful person – inside and out. And you have gone through a lot in the past year. Much love and luck to you as you are making these big changes in your life and blog. I wish you nothing but happiness and fulfillment.

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      September 7, 2017 at 9:18 am

      and you know i am over here thinking the same about you and wishing the same for you. XOXO

      Reply
  40. Revital Mitchell says

    September 6, 2017 at 10:24 pm

    So glad to hear from you! Just follow your own path, don’t compare yourself to others. We all have our own wants, needs and if we just follow what works for us, and stay authentic to who we are the rest will follow naturally. I love your honesty and that you are really ‘keeping it real’ so refreshing. I am truly sorry to hear about your miscarriages – I am sending you a big hug and lots of positive energy. Write when you feel like it, and look for things that make you happy. Take care Cassie! Tal

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      September 7, 2017 at 9:18 am

      thank you so much, tal! i truly appreciate your comment and support!

      Reply
  41. Stephanie @ Casa Watkins Living says

    September 6, 2017 at 10:29 pm

    So much going on this summer Cassie. I’m sorry about the miscarriages. That is one tough event to go through let alone two. I will say that I enjoy seeing you and reading about how you and Emmy spend your time together. I’ve been keeping mental notes of things to do with my daughter when she gets a little older. 🙂 Looking forward to seeing those posts from you and Emmy.

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      September 7, 2017 at 9:17 am

      well it’s been 4… 2 back to back this summer, but who’s counting. 😉 here’s to a new beginning and adventures with emmy!

      Reply
  42. Kathy says

    September 7, 2017 at 1:14 am

    Oh I’m so excited to see your post pop up in my inbox again! I’m sorry you’ve had a challenging year but I love how you stay true to yourself and how genuine and open you are. I’ve been a huge fan since the beginning and will always be! Xoxo

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      September 7, 2017 at 9:16 am

      thank you so much, kathy! i appreciate your comment and friendship!

      Reply
  43. Aniko says

    September 7, 2017 at 7:48 am

    Oh Cassie! Thank you for being so open and share all this with us. I am truly sorry for your losses And I hope that this new beginning will help you to leave all that behind and lots of new, daily adventures will brighten your days! Xoxo

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      September 7, 2017 at 9:15 am

      thank you so much, aniko! i know it will be a great new start! 🙂

      Reply
  44. Shelley | Crazy Wonderful says

    September 7, 2017 at 9:10 am

    You have been missed, my friend! I am so sorry for your losses. What I love so much about you is how genuine you’ve always been. In a world of having to give more and more, there’s nothing left for ourselves or our families. I don’t know how people do it. There is nothing basic about you getting back to basics on your blog. There is always so much inspiration in what you do and share. I get so excited when you post your furniture transformations and stylings around the house. I will always be here soaking it all in!

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      September 7, 2017 at 9:14 am

      thank you so much, shelley! i have always admired how you do just that- you do tend to do your thing when you want and how you want and i love that!

      Reply
  45. Alison says

    September 7, 2017 at 11:19 am

    Cassie- I came to your blog for YOU, your style, your design, your projects and your words…not to be linked to anyone else’s blog or tour or content. So, whatever you put out on this blog is e.n.o.u.g.h 🙂
    My heart aches for you but I know you will have peace and contentment as the weeks go on and you are so blessed with your sweet family of 4… or 5.

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      September 9, 2017 at 5:59 am

      alison, thank you so much for that! who knows what the future holds, but i am so excited to get my hands into projects again! i’ve been cranking out furniture like the good ol’ days and am excited to photograph and share some before and afters!

      Reply
  46. Brenda Pruitt says

    September 7, 2017 at 12:54 pm

    Since the first of the year, I decided to not do sponsored posts, home tours, or collaborations. I do post every day, but unlike you, I don’t have a young family to worry about daily. I am sorry about the miscarriages. But you’re right: the only way to take back control is to make decisions that are within your control and let fate decide the rest.
    Brenda

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      September 9, 2017 at 5:56 am

      good for you and good for me! let’s just do the best we can on our own terms, right? thank you so much, brenda!

      Reply
  47. Julie Boarder says

    September 7, 2017 at 3:05 pm

    I’m so sorry to hear all that you and your family has been through this year. It sounds like you are enjoying life though and appreciating your family which is a great thing.

    I’m so glad you will continue with your blog and the projects. When I first discovered blogs, that is what I was so excited to read about. Now so many are tours of beautiful houses, but unless it’s a before and after and preferably on a budget with some repurposing or painting of some of the before items, I find them boring.

    Have a great fall and I can’t wait to see what you get up to!

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      September 9, 2017 at 5:54 am

      thank you so much, julie! i am really excited to dive back into projects!

      Reply
  48. Jennefer Elie says

    September 7, 2017 at 6:52 pm

    Good for you Cassie! It is extremely grave of you to share all of this with your readers. I have really grown to love your blog because it is obvious you do this because you love it. Not to get clicks, not to sell something, just because you want to share what you know and learn. Whether you post every day, or once a month, I can promise all of us will be here to hear it!

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      September 9, 2017 at 5:50 am

      thank you so much, jennefer! i am so glad to hear it!

      Reply
  49. Bliss says

    September 7, 2017 at 11:14 pm

    Ya know….I had a little surprise at 40. And if I ever do a home tour, I would do it with you and I’d have your back in comments and promotion. But you might turn blue holding your breath waiting for a home tour from me-hasn’t happened in the past 7 years!

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      September 9, 2017 at 5:46 am

      hahaha! thank you so much, bliss! i’ll consider it an open invitation. 😉

      Reply
  50. [email protected] says

    September 8, 2017 at 9:56 am

    Sorry I’m so late to this post. It makes me so so happy and I can’t wait to see all your new finds and furniture makeovers. And I really really love your photography it’s all so good. That first chapel makes me want to buy it and put windows back in and plant a little garden around it. It’s so cute. I’m also feeling you on the pressure and number thing but will still continue with the tours because I actually really like them. I’m always just participating in one of them which isn’t too much pressure I guess.

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      September 9, 2017 at 5:45 am

      isn’t that chapel just the cutest? we were literally at some rest area dive and i made chris drive me to a side road by a cemetery so i could go take a pic.
      and i have been SO busy knocking out furniture makeovers… i’ve completed 5 dressers and 3 nightstands over the past couple of weeks! it feels really good to get my hands dirty and work again. it’s really good for the soul! i didn’t realize i missed it… but at the end when we owned sweet clover, i was so drained that it wasn’t fun. now it’s fun again!

      Reply
  51. Carli says

    September 8, 2017 at 5:24 pm

    First of all Cassie, I love this post! Congrats on taking your life (and blog back)! Your images from your travels are stunning. I’m so sorry to hear of your losses and I pray that you are able to find peace, comfort and happiness with Sweet Clover?

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      September 9, 2017 at 5:41 am

      thank you so much, carli! i appreciate your friendship and support! good things ahead!

      Reply
  52. kristin salazar says

    September 9, 2017 at 2:22 pm

    So happy you are here to stay! I get you and the blogging industry, I stepped back over the summer and it felt good! I’m so sorry for your losses, I know it isn’t easy, praying for you! xxoo

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      September 10, 2017 at 5:19 pm

      thank you so much, kristin! and yes, it did feel so good to step back! 🙂

      Reply
  53. Mimi Matthews says

    September 9, 2017 at 6:53 pm

    Hey sweetie, I know all about that voice that says, “You should….”. It sucks the life out of us. As a blogger that is all over the place, and no one ever comments on my posts, I wonder if what I do is even effective. But I just have to go back to the root of why I do it in the first place, to encourage and relay a bit of my life.
    I’m so glad that you have found your true calling and that your heart is becoming full again. I’m very sorry about your losses. It can be devastating to have hopes dashed again and again. Sounds like it’s time to allow some of what you love to do to just ease some of that. I’m glad you’ve chosen it. And how fun that Emmy is now helping you. Doesn’t get any better!
    Thank you for returning and allowing us to be a part of your life. Blessings on this year ahead.

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      September 10, 2017 at 5:18 pm

      thank you so much, mimi! i appreciate your comments… good things from here on out!

      Reply
  54. Nicki Parrish says

    September 10, 2017 at 10:29 am

    Hi Cassie! first, I am so sorry to read of your losses. I have been through it and trust me, I get it. I love this post, and all that you are standing for to make yourself happy. I get you completely, and I wish more people who follow suit! Good luck and I will be following along on your journey for sure!

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      September 10, 2017 at 5:18 pm

      thank you so much, nicki! i appreciate it!

      Reply
  55. Paula says

    September 10, 2017 at 8:27 pm

    I missed your blog this summer and was happy to see you back. I am so sorry that you have had to suffer miscarriages. That has to be incredibly tough. I miss the old days of blogging when comments were a regular thing. I’m glad I am not the only one who gets a bit perturbed when fellow bloggers in a tour aren’t supportive. Good luck with your new Sweet Clover endeavor. I look forward to pictures of your booth.

    Reply
  56. Lisa Capasso says

    September 11, 2017 at 10:31 am

    Cassie, I’m sorry its been such a tough year for you. I’m glad you’ll be back to blogging again–I feel like instagram has taken the blog world and condensed it into tiny picture posts. I look forward to seeing what you write about!

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      September 11, 2017 at 6:41 pm

      i agree about instagram and blogs! i hope to keep blogging alive. 😉 and thank you so much!

      Reply
  57. Kirsten says

    September 20, 2017 at 9:54 pm

    Thank you again for sharing your story. I had miscarriage #2 in June as well and feel many of the same feelings. Many hugs!

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      September 21, 2017 at 7:23 am

      kristen, i am so sorry for your losses. many hugs right back to you! and i am glad to share my story if it helps.

      Reply
  58. Rita Mireles says

    September 26, 2017 at 11:51 pm

    So this is a really random comment but I remembered seeing this on FB and thinking “I’ve got to make time to read that post”…and here we are over a month later and I’m finally reading. But I’ll have you know that the atmosphere in which I’m reading is really quite strange. I’ll explain. I’m getting ready to exhibit in a flea market followed by a trunk show the following weekend. I’ve got to get all my stuff ready to go for the flea market including tax papers, signs I’ve made, pricing, etc. To top that off I’m assisting with the vendor list of the trunk show and getting it all together for social media, etc. And on top of that I have two full days and evenings of work events beginning tomorrow. So what do I do? I make cookies and grab a cup of COLD milk, pull up your blog and start reading. It made me almost want to cry as to how much I’ve missed that part of my life, when I would paint furniture and read your blogs all the while hoping you’d like mine 🙂
    I’ve grown away from furniture over the years mostly due to space constraints, however I do on occasion work on a few pieces (shh don’t tell). But getting back into blogging is something that brings me peace. Kind of like reading yours now. It’s true what you said. There’s a kindred spirit among blog writers and I truly believe we celebrate each others triumphs and are genuinely sadden with each others trials. So when I take a minute to sit and read your blog it’s like having coffee and chatting with an old friend. I wish I could zap you to Texas and you could meet my circle of friends who I know you’d love and they’d love you right back!
    Anyway Cassie I’ll be following a long…and thanks for helping me to remember to take time for me!

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      September 28, 2017 at 9:24 am

      hi rita, thank you so much for stopping by when you did! i really appreciate your comments and i know you understand my feelings. i am so glad for you with all you are doing with signs- you are so talented!!! only good things ahead for us! 🙂

      Reply
  59. William says

    April 23, 2018 at 11:19 am

    Hey, Thank you again for sharing your story. I had miscarriage #2 in June as well and feel many of the same feelings. Many hugs!

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      April 23, 2018 at 4:23 pm

      i am so sorry to hear that and wishing you the best.

      Reply

Trackbacks

  1. Fall Home Tour: Living Room - Cassie Bustamante says:
    September 20, 2017 at 5:00 am

    […] sharing a few of the spaces I’ve decorated for the season over the next week or so here.  As I mentioned, I am not participating in any more tour hops, so today, this is just me opening my home to you. […]

    Reply
  2. Hello, 2018! House, Business, & Personal Goals for the Year Ahead - Cassie Bustamante says:
    January 2, 2018 at 5:00 am

    […] After the third loss last year, tired of feeling stuck, I decided that enough was enough and it was time to move on.  I took matters into my own hands and just started moving forward, one foot in front of the […]

    Reply

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Hi, I’m Cassie!

I believe that you don't have to spend a lot of money to live a beautiful life and be your best self.  Here you will find budget friendly ideas to live happily, healthily, sustainably, and most importantly authentically.  We all get one chance at this life, and this ordinary girl plans to make hers extraordinary. How about you? Read more...
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Hi! I'm Cassie.

Mother, wife, shop owner, blogger, writer, incurable diy-er, furniture painter, coffee and wine drinker, friend. Seeking happiness and passing it on. Read More…

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