Hey there, Besties! 🌟

Today, I'm writing from a place of reflection and rejuvenation. I've taken a step that feels as significant as repainting our entire home or reinventing a vintage piece of furniture. I've decided to take a hiatus from social media. Yes, you read that right - I'm pressing pause on my social media presence, especially my main hangout, Instagram. 🌍✨

Why I'm Taking a Break

You know how I love to share the nitty-gritty, the raw and real parts of life? Well, let's dive into why I've made this decision:

• Mental Health Matters: My mental well-being has been feeling like it's stuck in a cluttered, dark attic, needing a serious spring clean. Social media, particularly Instagram, was like an endless maze where hours vanished in mindless scrolling. It started to weigh on me, like carrying a heavy piece of furniture that just doesn't fit anymore.
• The Endless Race: Trying to keep up with the fast-paced world of likes, shares, and algorithms felt like endlessly chasing a trend. It was exhausting and brought little joy or value to my life – like refurbishing a piece of furniture that continually falls apart, no matter how much effort you put in.
• Seeking Authenticity: Being a blogger, social media is often seen as the storefront to our digital world. But I've realized that I don't need that window display if it costs me my peace of mind. I want to connect with you all in a more genuine, meaningful way.

What This Means for 'On the Creek'

Fear not, my dear friends! This isn't a goodbye; it's just a shift in how we'll stay connected. While I'm stepping away from social media, my heart and soul - my blog, On the Creek - will continue to flourish. Blogging is my sanctuary, a place where I don't get lost in the scroll but instead find myself in the stories and projects we love.

Life Beyond the Screen

Consider this break as me taking time to tend to my garden, both literally and metaphorically. It's about focusing on the tangible aspects of life - my home renovations, gardening, thrifting adventures, and, above all, living in the moment.

The Future of My Social Media Journey

This isn't a permanent farewell to social media. Think of it more like putting a beloved renovation project on hold. I need this time to refresh, to rediscover the joy in the little things, and to come back with new stories and insights to share with you all.

Final Thoughts

So, here's to embracing change, stepping back when needed, and always seeking what makes our hearts happy. Life is our biggest DIY project; sometimes, the best step forward is a step back to realign.

Keep shining, keep loving, and keep crafting your beautiful life story. I'll be right here, sharing mine in words and pictures, just a blog post away.

With love and gratitude,

Tiff 💖

P.S.: A Little Note About My Instagram

Just a quick note regarding my Instagram. I've deactivated my account as part of this social media break. This means I haven't unfollowed or deleted anyone. So, if you can't find me there, don't worry, it's not you, it's me! I just needed to step back for my peace of mind. Can't wait to reconnect through my blog. Until then, keep spreading those positive vibes! 💖

I've got some piping hot news to share—literally and figuratively! As the leaves turn and the air gets crisp, I'm stepping into a new chapter that I'm calling my 'Soup Lady Era.' 🍲 But wait, there's more!

Why I'm Taking a Break

First things first, let's talk about the work break. After pouring my heart and soul into countless projects, home renovations, and, of course, being a mom to my amazing son Braxton, I've decided to hit the pause button. Sometimes, you've got to step back to leap forward, right? 🍂

What's the 'Soup Lady Era'?

Now, onto the fun stuff! I'm dedicating the next two months to exploring not just the world of soups but also a smorgasbord of other creative pursuits. Yep, you heard that right. From classic comfort bowls to exotic blends, furniture flips, Christmas crafts, and homemade gifts—I'm on a mission to stir up some soul-soothing, taste bud-tingling concoctions and creations. 🥄🎨🔨

Why Soup and More?

Soup is more than just a meal; it's a canvas for creativity, a hug in a bowl, and a culinary journey all in one. Plus, it's the perfect way to welcome the cozy vibes of fall. But why stop at soup? I'm also diving into those clerical tasks I've been putting off and exploring new avenues in crafting and home improvement. 🍁📋

What to Expect

While I'm off the work grid, I'll be sharing my adventures right here on the blog and over on Instagram. Expect recipes, tips, DIY projects, and maybe even a few fails (because, let's be real, not every experiment is a winner). 

A Nod to James

I can't help but think how much James would have loved this. He was always up for trying my kitchen experiments and DIY projects, and I know he'd be right beside me, spoon and hammer in hand. 

Join Me!

I invite you all to join me in this 'Soup Lady Era' and beyond. Please share your own recipes, tag me in your crafty pics, and let's make this a communal feast for the soul and senses. 🥳

Final Thoughts

So, here's to the next two months of broth, bisques, blessings, and much more. I can't wait to share this journey with you all. Until then, stay cozy and keep those spoons—and paintbrushes—ready! 🥰

PS: Are these illustrations the cutest?! I think they capture my vibe perfectly!

The Adrenaline of Year One

In that first whirlwind year without James, I ran on pure adrenaline. It's like my body and mind went into survival mode, fueled by a frantic need to "fix" my life. I was getting by on maybe three hours of sleep a night, and yet, somehow, I still had the energy to face each new day. It was as if my spirit refused to slow down, afraid of what would happen if it did.

The Weight of Year Two

But here I am in year two, and the adrenaline has worn off. The reality—that this is my life now, and there's no magic wand to change it—has settled in. And it's heavy, y'all. I've had days where I could sleep for hours, and sometimes, I do just that. It's like my body is making up for all the rest it didn't get in that first frantic year.

The Emotional Rollercoaster

Don't get me wrong; I've found pockets of joy and moments of peace. I've learned to accept my life as it is, but acceptance doesn't mean I have to like it. The truth is, I hate that it had to be this way. I hate that Braxton has to grow up without his dad, and I hate that I have to navigate this world without my partner. But here's the thing: it's okay to feel this way. It's okay to be angry, sad, and tired, all while finding moments of happiness.

Final Thoughts

So, if you're going through something similar, know it's okay to feel all the feelings. It's okay to be exhausted. And most importantly, it's okay to give yourself grace. We're all just doing the best we can, and that's enough.

I am sending you all love and light during these complex times.

It's even worse when it comes true.

I should know. Over the last three years, I've lost almost everything.

What began as a series of unfortunate events (my favorite dog dying, a failed foster placement) turned into a dumpster fire lit and fueled by gasoline when my husband, James, was diagnosed with cancer & passed away 5 months later.

What followed was me trying to work through my grief while facing even more challenges (some really crazy stuff went down at my expense). I was a complete mess at the time, but I have a lot of it sorted out now.

I was a completely different person before James died & the many epic disaster events that followed.

Aside from my trauma, something else completely changed me: seeing my worst-case events come to fruition.

Before these losses, I was a terrified perfectionist. I clung to minor inconveniences and made them into gigantic problems. I was always on top of bills and other household tasks.

When I went through the experience of losing everything, the small things that used to scare me were no longer significant. I've learned that there's some wiggle room in opportunities & deadlines & sometimes, I was fortunate to receive grace & a second chance. While my bills are still paid on time & documents get returned, I don't let it consume my life. I don't stress about a little (or a lot!) dust in my house.

I no longer fear the small things because what I've been through has been much more significant. I became more resilient and better equipped to handle life's challenges. I have (unwillingly!) faced my fears and came out the other side, which gives me the confidence to tackle anything that comes my way. (Confidence is also something I used to struggle with.)

While I would have never picked this life for myself, the events that transpired made me realize what really matters to me & helped me prioritize my values.

I began understanding material possessions didn't define me as a person before everything happened. Still, the experiences I went through really brought them home for me. It isn't about my status or how much money I make. It's about loving fully and kindly. There's much to be said about being kind, but I think Dr. Wayne Dyer said it best: "If you have the choice between being right and being kind, choose being kind."

While there's nothing worse than losing everything, it's also such a transformative experience to find yourself...that I wouldn't wish on anyone!