Studio and Blog Makeover Underway

I've been doing this blog thing for a long time now (going on seven (SEVEN!!) years!). I love that I've been able to help support my family and do so many of the things that I love to do, and do them from home. Truly, I'm so grateful for what I have, and the trade offs have been just right for me, but I also have a million regrets about things I chose to not make time for (never wrote my book, still totally stink at AutoCAD, still on blogspot, etc, etc, etc), but I'm trying to let go of some of those regrets and focus on the good parts. I hope to hang on with the blog after the baby comes, too, but I am also ready for a bit of a change in my schedule and content that better reflects what my life and career look like now, seven years after starting LGN.

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There are so many question marks, and my feelings on the answers change daily, hourly. Should I scale back and focus my work on the things that bring me the very most joy? Or hire and expand and take my design and blog/Domino work out of my house and maybe let go of the reins a little? The blog world seems to be changing at light speed lately (we're dropping like flies!!) and it seems like a good time, both personally and professionally, to gear up for some of my own changes.

One piece of exciting news is my site redesign is suuuuper close to being done! We're moving everything to jennykomenda.com (long story for another day - been in and out of litigation for years on the obvious url), and everything is looking great. I can't wait to show you the pretty and way more organized site when it's ready for it's close up.

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While that's getting done, and while we're figuring out what my business will look like and where I'll run it from, I've decided to do some quick updates to the studio space we have over the garage, mostly just to hold me over. Whenever I feel the itch to make some big life changes, I force myself to get organized first, just in case that was the underlying problem all along.

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We're almost done painting the floors a glossy white to brighten up the room and I spray painted the frames of three giant, industrial shelving units (inspiration HERE). We started organizing my fabric stash and I think I'm going to hold another big fabric sale in a couple weeks. Maybe with pillows this time!

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Other changes to the space will be pretty minor, mostly just streamlining what I already have. I do have a desk project in my future though. My brother and his wife bought a new house and I gave them the Widdicomb table I had been using as a desk. And as luck would have it, the very same day I found this beat-up beauty at Goodwill for a song.

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It's clearly not in the best shape, or at least the top isn't, but the lines are amazing. It's pouring rain here (like flash flood warning levels of water), so as soon as the weather cooperates, I'll start fixing her up and hope that in return for the favor, she'll whisper to me what I should do with my career.

It's just occurring to me that maybe this desk is like my blog? Not in perfect shape, especially compared to others, but the lines are there, and it's probably worth fixing. :)

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PS Some of you asked what the Arteriors Tilda chandelier in our entry looked like at night. Ask and you shall receive!


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107 comments:

  1. I would love to see how you fix up that coffee table. I have one with similar veneer problems, but I love it, and don't want to get rid of it because it's the perfect shape & style, and is very sturdy.

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  2. omg that table is amazing! is there a maker on it? i have some milo baughman chairs that need a dining table with lines like that!!

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  3. A couple thoughts: First of all I am so excited for you to finally make those industrial shelves!!! When you first posted that inspiration picture it made a lasting impact on me. I cant wait to see what you do with it. Second, as an architect I would urge you to try leave autocad in the dust (of course I have no idea how you use it for your business, but I find other software to be so much more useful). Do you use sketchup? It has amazing capabilities for a quick, simple, easy to use program and its free. If you need drafting software, revit would be worth learning. It seems a little more daunting upfront but it really helps you get to the look and feel of a space quickly while still created drafted views. Just a little advise to a fellow "beautifier" of the built environment:)

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  4. Oh Jenny! I love this post. It seems regardless of age/situation, your always wondering what the next direction to take is. Keep the blog and decorating projects going! Your a rare talent!

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  5. I know this is a HUGE job, but may I humbly request that you sort all your old posts by various categories? There is just too much awesomeness there to get lost in the archives of a new site. I still find posts of yours from 2008 that are totally fresh and inspiring, while other site's posts from 2008 seem dated and dull. Good luck reveling in all your question marks and congratulations on that baby!

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  6. I hope you get some clarity on what would be best for your family and career. I must say, though, that the loss of this blog would be absolutely devastating!! :)

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  7. Yours was the first blog I started following, right before I bought my first house and didn't know anything about decorating a space. It's still the first one I read when I see that there's a post in my Bloglovin' feed. I have learned so much from your posts over the years! Whatever direction you decide to take moving forward, I'll remain a devoted admirer.

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  8. Please oh please don't leave us all alone in blogland... while there is so much inspiration I still seem to find in your archives, I would be devastated to see you go. Yours is the first blog I check everyday and I always get a little thrill when I see a new post. Congratulations on your baby and I can't wait to see the new site!

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  9. Can't wait to see the change! You are amazing and everything you do inspires me.

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  10. You are my favorite blog to read . . . while blogs may be dropping like flies, devoted readers are not . . . I hope whatever direction you feel like taking it still includes the candid and oh so helpful and inspiring look into your world and process.

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  11. I really admire that you know yourself well enough to determine whether your itch for major life changes stem from an underlying urge to get organized. You have a great space there to put to good use. And I love the purple door and lavender chair. My favorite colors. Rock on, Jenny!

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  12. Yours is my favorite blog hands down. I share it with everyone. I have learned so so much, and I would love to see your name expand and become a brand. But, I also know that raising babies is incredible important work too. You can rebuild and redecorate endlessly, but you only get one chance to raise your kids. Sincerely, I hope you find your answers and comfort level. ( You could post once a month and it would feel like a letter in the mail!)

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  13. I appreciate the decor inspiration and glimpses into your life so so much. My wish is for the blog to continue even if some posts are written by your assistant and/or sister. Can't wait to see the new site.

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  14. Love the table and that light is so peaceful! I have really enjoyed your blog over the past 7 years. It is actually the first blog I ever read! Didn't know what one was but my sister sent me the link:) I just wanted to wish you luck in whatever you decide to do. I know it will be great. And thank you for sharing your ideas, tips, DIYs, and giving me the inspiration to try some of things at my own home. All the best! And super excited for your growing family;)

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  15. oh my gosh a baby??! where have I been?? congrats!! whatever you decide to do, just know that i will miss you terribly if you leave! Your stuff is the good stuff. i love love love it. seriously :) can't wait to see the new design too!

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  16. I saw that table at Goodwill!!! I was SO tempted to get it, but my husband would have probably left me if I came home with yet another piece of furniture that we don't have space for. Can't wait to see how you transform it. I am also excited to see the table you gave your brother, I grew up with your sister in law and am going to see their new house tomorrow :)

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  17. You are the best designer/blogger there is, hands down. I and many others would be truly devastated to lose you and your blog. I hope your new fabulous table whispers sweet nothings to you about how much we all love you and your talent.

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  18. Just want to say... I love your blog! You provide me inspiration on a daily basis, and coach me through things I would have never thought were possible for me to do. It's wonderful! Seriously, you should see how often I refer to your blog when contemplating home design work... you're my #1! Change this blog and your business however you need to to make your life its best, but know that you've got some loyal & inspired fans out here. :)

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  19. I love your blog and wherever you go, I will follow :) But I'm a mommy too and totally understand if new baby takes precedence over blogging. Super excited for you!

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  20. Please don't stop blogging!!! I don't care what other bloggers do; let them drop, but your blog is my favorite by far!!! I would miss you terribly!!!

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  21. I love your blog!!! Don't know how you have time for everything but I hope you keep the blog alive, even if you only post once a year I will be a faithful follower.

    In the meantime (and you may already have this planned) I would LOVE to see a house tour with before/afters of everything you have done. I know a lot of the rooms are posted on the blog but it would be nice to see how things are currently.

    Congrats on the baby and best wishes for you and your family!

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  22. I love your blog and it is truly exciting every time you post something! Your skills and creativity are truly special! Please don't go away, you have such talent!

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  23. That table is crazy amazing!
    I hope you don't get rid of the name all together. I have always loved "Franny and Zooey", even more than "Catcher in the Rye".

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  24. Do whatever you need to do - but I would be so sad if you didn't blog anymore! You're one of handful that I check daily! and CONGRATS about babygirl #4!!

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  25. Whatever you do next you can always hire meeeeeeee ;)

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  26. Your blog brings me do much inspiration and happiness. Thanks for sacrificing so many things over the years to share your creative genius.

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  27. I stumbled onto your blog about a year ago, and to echo what others have said, it's definitely my favorite! I hope that even if you decide to take your talents out of the blogosphere and into another arena, you will find a way to let us come with you. Your creativity is inspiring, and your warmth is palpable even to a stranger who lives across the country. Good luck to you!

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  28. Oh my! So many changes at once...but then life is all about changes--until we die. So, go for it! There is never a "right" answer and circumstances change as should our choices and decisions. Good luck! A new baby, a new blog, a new business plan... lots to do. We're eagerly watching!

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  29. Follow your heart :) But I have to say, your style is unmatched, and yours is the only blog that I faithfully follow anymore for inspiration. Dying to see what you do with that table as always. That is the kind of thing that I almost pick up daily at Goodwill but the condition makes me question it!

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  30. Jenny, Thank you from the bottom of my heart for having this blog. And congratulations to your baby on the way!

    Words cannot express how much you have made a difference in my life as far as decorating & putting things together. Things that I only dreamed about but didn't know how to do, or where to find online how to do. You make design/style very accessible and gorgeous along with your wonderful demeanor. You are an Angel!!! Through your beautiful, (and I mean Beautiful!) blog I have learned that style is not dictated by wealth. Design is taste, refinement, knowledge, doing it yourself and more. And you have taught me how to do many lovely things, for that I am very, very grateful. I truly hope you will keep your blog and archives alive so that people like myself who love your blog can go back, look up things and continue to create for years to come!

    Big virtual hugs & blessings to you and your lovely family!

    Debbie

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  31. Nothing wrong with Blogger! some of my favorite blogs are on Blogger-yours and Cup of Jo and others :)

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  32. So many thoughts. That table is amazing. A new site is so exciting! And I'm so happy to see a glimpse of the chandelier at night. But most importantly, you should know how much your blog means to me and so many others. Your warmth and creativity come shining through all of your inspiring projects. I don't mean that to come across as pressure to create content. I mean that whatever you choose to do you have a lot of caring fans willing to come along for the ride. xx, K

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  33. Your blog is my favorite--of all of the many many out there! I think it's in perfect shape--especially compared to the others! Thank you

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  34. I know you have to do what is in the best interest for you and your family, but you truly are an inspiration and I would be so sad to see you leave your blog. Your ideas are unique and you stand out from so many of the other blogs out there. Best of luck and hoping your decision is to STAY!!

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  35. Although obviously we never met, I would be devastated to not have your blog to look forward to each day/every other day/weekly! It has inspired me sooooo much and you are so crazy talented. While I can't even imagine how much work running a blog, business and being Mommy/wife are, please don't leave blog land! Good luck with all your projects- and congrats on your baby!:)

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  36. I just wanted to say that your blog, no matter where it is, or what it looks like, is still the best out there in terms of consistently usable and interesting content that inspires us to be better home designers and creative people, bar none! You and your ideas are like a drug, missy! We'd all be so sad to be unable to lurk around and learn from you on a regular basis. But even more so, I hope that whatever that table whispers to you is what brings you the most joy & happiness!

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  37. Jenny, Jenny, who can we turn to?

    Pleeeease don't go the way of others and leave the blog behind. You inspire and teach so much!

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  38. Adding to my comment above to say...

    1. There is no decorating book I would (ad have!) most look(ed) forward to than one from you. Full stop.

    2. I have worried about you as long as I have loved all your work...how can you do it all and stay healthy & happy?

    3. Your actual decorating jobs for clients must be amazing experiences. You do such excellent work.

    4. It would not be surprising if you could build an empire of a brand and manage it like a rock-star. If rock-stars were excellent managers.

    All this is to say that...your talents are so great and varied, that you could be hugely successful if you only focused on one thing (blog, mommyhood, author, tv show, party hoster, anything)...you will have so much support whatever and however many things you choose to make up your life with.

    I would be very sad to see the blog posts be infrequent, but if you give the world your big fat decorating book it will be at the top of my stack, and no doubt will be as invaluable as your blog archives, which I frequently Google to find old tutorials...I agree with the commentor who hopes for the archives to be organized!

    Your content, creativity, writing and knowledge make up an unmatched package...please keep letting us in on that in some form in the future!

    <3

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  39. Looking forward to seeing your new site! I'm already in love with that coffee table - can't wait to see the after :)

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  40. Jenny, this is the first time I've written a comment, so I guess I am speaking for some of us who follow your blog silently but *constantly*...it is my hands down favorite blog, one that I started reading as I was in a very long labor with my son. Your words, creativity, and "let's do this!" attitude have inspired and, strange to admit, kept me company over the years. I would be so bummed if you chose to shut this down, but as a fellow mom, I get it. Do what you have to do but please know that your work touches many more lives than you know!

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  41. I am also a regular reader...but I think I've only commented once. Just want to let you know that I enjoy your blog just like it is. I had no idea it was "not perfect".

    Congratulations on the baby.

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  42. Something must be in the Blogging water because I too have been have "deep thoughts" ....where is this all going? and Has it played itself out? and like you I am just continuing to do what I do hoping the answer comes to me...I know you will know what to do...but I have one word of advice...you will ALWAYS be talented and want to share it, but you will NOT ALWAYS be the mother of little ones...that WILL slip away before your eyes and THAT is where all the answers are...in my humble opinion...xo

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  43. I am going to join in and say that I love your blog and all the things you post. If you ever need an assistant, just give me a shout!

    www.stateofsunshineblog.com

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  44. The first time I read your blog was the last time you welcomed a new member to the family (and said goodbye to an ottoman, I believe!) Our lives are so very different, but your voice resonates with me nonetheless; I start my day here. Your style, productivity, skill and class are truly inspiring. Thank you. My one piece of unsolicited advice-don't talk about a book like it's a missed opportunity. You've still got places to go!

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  45. I really love your blog! It's part of my daily routine to check if there are any new and interesting posts up :) It would be very sad if you stopped blogging, but I think you should do whatever feels right to YOU!

    Take care,
    Lisa

    P.S.: Congrats on your baby girl :3

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  46. This blog is one that has such a great mix of DIY and design and that's rare these days. I know nothing lasts forever but you are an inspiration. Here's hoping you can keep us with you on whatever journey you take.

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  47. Jenny,
    Your blog is one of three that I regularly follow and on which I eagerly look forward to new posts. You are such an inspiration to me, and I hope you continue to blog regularly! I don't know you personally, but it is fantastic that your hard work has benefited your life in so many ways, and I hope you find the perfect balance for you and your family and your life. Even if it means less blogging. :)

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  48. Jenny,

    First time poster-long time lurker. Just wanted to tell you that your blog is much appreciated; and a continuous source of information....whenever I have a question about how to do something; I check here and chances are...you've already done it and posted about it!

    Would love for you to hang around and continue to share your ideas and talent!! Congrats on the new baby also :)

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  49. Please please don't scale back! I just lost Young House Love for who knows how long and both of your blogs are my very faves. Everything you touch is beautiful and checking your blog for a new post is one of my favorite parts of the day. :)

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  50. I hope life leads you in a happy direction where there is still time to inspire us. Even if it's from time to time. You are amazingly talented and inspire me greatly. I also hope that scrapbook style book comes to pass someday and love the gold shelves, I have been thinking of those since you posted them.

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  51. Yours is my favorite blog and one that I read whenever there is a new post. I have saved many of your posts for ideas for future projects! I would be very sad to see you go, but understand you may want/need changes in your career and family life. Just know your blog is valuable!

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  52. Whatever you choose, I am sure it will be amazing... though selfishly I hope that the blog doesn't go, since I adore basically everything you do. :)

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  53. Congrats! All of these things are awesome. I love the chandelier so much!

    Bromley's dry cleaners
    http://www.bromleyscarpetcleaners.co.uk/carpet-dry-cleaning.htm

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  54. I just adore your blog. It's the only one I read every day. You are so creative and have such beautiful projects. I look forward to seeing what you do in the future!

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  55. Jenny, I LOVE your blog! Take a break but come back to blogging! I love your home and all of your DIY's!!!!!!!!!!!
    Best of wishes to the new baby, can't wait to see the nursery!
    Follow your heart!
    Annette

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  56. Jenny, don't leave us! I need your blog posts more then I need a cup of coffee in the morning. Plus, I need to see how you fix the table from Goodwill!

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  57. LGN= my morning paper! I always look forward to your next genius DIY and beautiful interiors. The thing I love most about your blog is that despite the sponsored posts, I never feel like you are trying to sell something. Everything is your voice, with no contributors. I have three girls and can barely keep up with the laundry, I don't know how you do it. Thanks for all of the inspiration!

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  58. whatever you decide to do please know you have been a HUGE inspiration for me. i have so much admiration for your talent and drive. reading your blog has encouraged me to tackle DIY projects that i would have never considered five years ago. thank you.

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  59. Love, love your blog, your amazing creativity and the way you and your husband are nurturing your children, too. Congratulations on the new baby, come January! God's richest blessings on whatever you decide for you all.

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  60. I think I just cried a little. Seriously. It's that horrible internal struggle of, "She needs to let us go and concentrate on her business and her children" and "What in the DEUCE will I do without my daily fix of Sista JK?!"

    Your blog is that perfect mix of HOW you came to your design decision and WHY you chose to do it the way you did; it's not just an everyday how-to, DIY blog. It's a little part of you, and I honestly don't know what I'll do without it if you do decide to change direction somehow.

    That being said, a new life will need all of you for a while, so enjoy that precious bond. I was giggling this morning while hanging up my son's size 12 pants. When did THAT happen?! Wasn't he just in diapers?

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  62. We're all just lucky to get a peek into your design world!

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  63. Please don't abandon your beautiful blog! Yours was the first really good one I came across when I moved into my first home with my husband, and it's been such a blessing and an inspiration. I've been following you for years!

    I actually had a girl visit my house recently to purchase some chairs I posted on Craigslist. She was also into home design, and so I asked if she knew your blog and Emily Henderson, and of course she did! Then she looked at my chandelier over the dining room table - the DIY sputnik - and was like, "Yep, LGN!"

    If you left us in the cold, I would be so sad! Of course I would purchase your books, but it's not the same as typing in the URL every few days and feeling like I'm touring your home. You're an inspiration to so many. By all means, do what you've gotta do - scale back, change up some content - but don't leave us!

    Congratulations on your pregnancy! I wish you the best.

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  64. Please don't think you need to be like other blogs or sites. I LOVE how you are different. You are my ultimate favorite designer and blogger, and I hope that if any changes occur- they're because you want to for yourself, not because you feel the need to conform. You are amazing. If you decide to scale back for family or whathaveyou, please do not disappear entirely. I will cry myself to sleep. ;) But seriously. You are amazing. Thank you for sharing your talent with us. And good luck deciding which road to take. xo

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  65. You are amazing!! Your projects are so inspiring. Change the blog look if you want but do not change the content and please,please,please NEVER STOP!!!! I love my morning visits daily!

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  66. I can't imagine how exhausting all of your responsibilities are, but for what it's worth, this is my favorite blog by far. We are all so crazy busy and it's hard to keep up with all the blogs I would like to follow, learn and draw inspiration from, but I always allow myself time in the week to check yours. It never ceases to amaze me what your mind can come up with and pull off. I love the mix of high and low you give us. You've taught us that good design doesn't all have to be really expensive. Your content couldn't get any better and I wouldn't want anything to change. You're awesome Jenny!

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  67. Why are all the bloggers dropping like flies. I love your blog and would truly miss it. YHL has a book and has/ had a blog. I like the blog better. I read through the book once, but the blog, like yours is ever green. We totally appreciate your hard work and inspiration. Please keep blogging. I am totally looking forward to little baby design posts.

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  68. I have read your blog every day for years and like many of your readers I don't believe I have ever left a comment. However, I often reference your blog and direct my friends and family to your inspirational pages. Your posts are always fresh, exciting and beautiful! Good luck with whatever the next chapter may be (hopefully it includes some form of this blog) and congrats on the new baby. Four girls! That is wonderful.

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  69. I've probably been following you for at least five of those seven years you've been blogging. There were a bunch of design blogs that I used to follow, but I've cut back to a pretty homogenous diet of LGN. :) I often refer back to your old posts, and it's funny how they never seem outdated. I'm excited to see how your new website turns out!
    Also, I know how life is with four kids, so I'll be grateful and inspired to see anything you post, even if it's only a few times a month! Best wishes through these big transitions!

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  70. Hi Jenny, I also wanted to let you know I follow your blog religiously - it's one of the top three must reads of my day, and right after my commute with coffee and NPR! I'm a video producer who dreams of being a designer and lives vicariously through you. Thanks for your constant inspiration. I know what it feels like to want a change, and the desire to keep thriving in a career. I wish we could team up and make web videos :) I used to do work for DIY and HGTV- you need your own show. Good luck!

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  71. First of all, congrats on the most exciting news, another girl on the way! Second, I truly love your blog...it brings me so much inspiration. You are a true talent!

    But, most importantly do what is best for YOU and your family...and don't feel guilty about it. Life is short, so live it to its fullest :)

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  72. First, congratulations on the new baby on the way! If you need to put the blog on the back burner when she comes, I totally get that family comes first.

    That said, yours is far and away my favorite blog! I seldom comment, but it never fails to lift my spirits seeing all the wonderful things you dream up.

    I have a hard time imagining how it could be better, but I feel that way about your home too, and you just keep making it more amazing, so I'm sure you could do that with your blog too.

    Sending thoughts and prayers to you and your family.

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  73. Jenny, I've read every single blog entry you wrote (and that's quite a number). I understand things change, you have to think about your career and soon, the new baby, but pleeezee, don't change too much! You are such an inspiration!

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  74. Firstly, congratulations on the new bambino! Your girls are adorable...and Linus too!

    Secondly, your blog is SO fabulous and inspiring - I would be devastated if you decided to leave us! That said, I'm excited to see what you'll be doing next, no matter what it may be. :)

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  75. Oh, Jenny, please don't leave me! Your blog is my #1 favorite blog; every time I see a new post, I fistbump myself, and every time you do something amazing (like that fabric covered ikea chair?) I think, "Jenny, you GENIUS." So, while I understand your need to, you know, live your own life and whatnot, please don't go! Your blog is always a joy to read, and your projects inspire me so much.

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  76. I'm a long-time reader, first time poster, to say thanks for what you do for us, the loyal readers who get an unbelievably awesome free design service and regular DIY inspiration. I can appreciate how much work goes into each and every post and know that it is time spent away from competing demands on your time. Please know that your "good enough" is so much better than the pursuit of perfection that has consumed and eventually ruined so many great bloggers. What is happening in blog land lately?!? I hope that the table tells you to stay the course on the blog/site...please table, please say it.

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  77. I'm so happy for you and all your changes. But please don't lose the blog. It's one of my favorite parts of the day. You touch people in ways you'll never know.

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  78. A new baby?! That's the best job in the world! Congrats!

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  79. 1) You are going to be great at whatever you set your mind to! Of course I would love to keep reading your blog - in any way shape or form! (and or book!) I love your blog because its so authentic, and comes from such a personal perspective. thank you for that. Its been a great inspiration for me.

    2) I must be living under a rock - which bloggers are dropping like flies?

    3) congrats on your new addition!!!!

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  80. I so relate to your post! Although I've never really made money from my blog, and I haven't blogged in a year (due to many personal reasons) I still plan on keeping it around and blogging in the (very near) future! I think it's worth it to keep, if only just to chronicle your work and life, which is what it is really supposed to do, right?! I've also been working on my redesign and switching domains for like ever. ~.^ One thing we added to the redesign is an interactive layout of our whole apartment in the house tour section. Check it out if you'd like!
    http://visualvocabularie.com/home-tour/
    When you hover over a room, it goes into full color, and when you click, it takes you to all the posts related to said room. I personally love to see the layouts of homes, I feel like it helps to complete the visual when looking at photos and seeing how one organizes and deals with the flow of each room. Can't wait to see the new site! :)

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  81. 1) Congrats on the baby news!

    2) Holy cow that table is amazing. I got really excited that something like that even exists. Good grab, man.

    3) My vote (that you totally didn't ask for?) Expand. Get structured help. Use the little time you have before baby #3 to start ushering in some changes and developing where you want to take this. I say this because even though everything you produce isn't necessarily my style, I have been coming back to read here for a long time now. Your brain comes up with the most interesting stuff...

    Your blog is well written and edited, and the overall tone is friendly but not bubbly (more on the professional side, I think) and that leads me to think that a transition to a wider environment might be easier for you than say, your average family blogger. You produce some amazing content, but with three kids I really don't think you should have to rely on just yourself to keep putting things out there. Not to mention that you seem to have a knack for finding both inspiration and talent.

    Joanna Goddard and Lauren Liess are both bloggers I follow who have help in some capacity, and I have so much respect for that because not only are they doing great things but they are providing amazing opportunities for others.

    Well, sorry for all the words. It's just that you're right: the blog-world is changing. And my impression of you is that you have the instincts, the ambition, and the talent to take it to the next level. That said, I would totally support and keep following if you did decide to scale back and take on less here.

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  82. It will be nice to have a more organized site, but I hope you don't change how intimate your voice is and how doable your projects seem! I feel like so many other blogs, once they get successful, become glossy and impersonal, almost like online magazines. I love that yours still feels like a blog in spite of occasional sponsored posts and whatnot. And although you have big deal gigs like Domino features, you still post stuff about the beat-up table you found at Goodwill. Can't wait to see what you do next!

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  83. Your site constantly inspires me to take my own projects further, and b take more risks. Thanks for the night shot of Tilda!

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  84. Focus on the things that bring you the most joy! That's my vote.

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  85. just a quick note to tell you how amazing I think you are for all you do! the inspiration you give, helps me through crazy afternoons with kids :) you are one talented GF! way to always work on having a balance in life. thanks for sharing the beauty in your life :)

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  86. Don't forget, you're expecting. My experience has been that important decisions shouldn't be made while your hormones are whacked. Congrats on the new baby girl!

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  87. I never comment but I do want you to know that your blog is the only one I have consistently read for a long time. It is currently the only one I check on a regular basis. I love your ideas and your can-do attitude. You are very inspiring!

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  88. Dear Jenny, I have only been following LGN for a year and what a joy. Congratulations on the baby news, I wish the best for your lovely family. I am amazed and truly inspired on how much you contribute to us all. I hope you find balance in work and life, and I hope you will listen to your inner voice on whats best for you. Thank you for sharing all your fabulous ideas. Light and love from Charlotte, Denmark (pls excuse my grammar errors -my english is rusty :-))

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  89. Jenny, I have followed you since you were in Pennsylavania, and you feel like an old friend to me. :) I know you'll do what's best for you and your family, as you should(!) but I will miss your blog if you decide to phase out. My fingers are crossed that your blog content will remain online for decades to come, whatever your decision will be. All the best to you with #4 and your impending decisions. XOXO

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  90. I love your blog!! You're so amazing. Congrats on the new baby girl :)

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  91. You are a tough critic of yourself! I think that the quantity and quality of your work is stupefying. And your forward vision is amazing.... You are always ahead of the pack. Site redo or no, your content is just incredible. If you are exhausted, maybe you could post much less frequently?
    I'm wishing you balance and peace, and I really (selfishly) hope that keeping this blog will be part of that.

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  92. Hi Jenny, I am from Argentina, and I have been following your blog silently for a very long time. I even travelled to the US in September for my anniversary, and had my husband follow me in a magazine hunt so that I could return home with the Domino mag that had your feature. This is the first time I write though, and it is because I can´t miss this opportunity to tell you how much I LOOOOOVE your blog!! And whatever you decide to do please, please, please, don´t leave us without a final house tour to see how all the rooms turned out, everything you do is inspiring. The Domino spread showed very little and left me wanting more.
    Congratulations on your 4th baby!

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  93. Jenny, your blog was the first design blog I ever read. And still the first I turn to for inspiration and instruction. Your ideas are truly original and always so, so classy. I appreciate your love for beauty, your amazing diy skills and your willingness to share. Your little corner of the web is my favorite corner of the web.

    Thanks for sharing so many good things.

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  94. Yours is my absolute favorite design blog - I would be heartbroken if you gave it up completely! I wish you all the best with the latest addition to your family, and I totally understand wanting to re-balance your various endeavors, but, selfishly, I really hope you do keep the blog going, in any capacity. It's so inspiring, yet accessible - and that's a rare find in blogland. xo, Kira

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  95. You account for 1/3 of all the blogs I read and 100% of the design blogs I read. Please don't leave! I mean, please do what is best for your family and career, but throw us a bone every once in a while at least. :)

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  96. Congrats on the baby!! I understand wanting to re-evaluate but hope you will keep blogging. Your blog is my favorite!!

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  97. I too, haven't ever commented on your posts before. But I look at your blog everyday. Your work and stories of your home and family are truly inspiring. I recently met you at the Home Depot lighting course and couldn't have been more excited to pick your brain.

    I hope that whatever direction you decide to go in, your readers will be able to take a peak into your creative mind and wonderful spirit.

    xo

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  98. First time commenter, long time reader...
    Your blog is THE PLACE that I go for inspiration. Specifically the genius ideas that you have, and the encouragement that I can do these things too. Your homes have all been gorgeous, yet PRACTICAL. I love seeing your ideas and instructions here on LGN. I understand that you might need to focus your time elsewhere but maybe you can post less often here? Don't totally go away, this blog is such an amazing resource (even posts that are years old are still relevant and useful). You have brought so many of us great ideas and blessed us with your creativity. Hope you can continue to share it with us. Best wishes, and congratulations on your newest family member.

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  99. I've been a reader for years and yours is one of the few blogs that I still check almost daily! I love your work! Good luck in figuring out what to do next - I hope it still allows me a way to see your creativity!

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  100. Don't make me cry Jenny! (I know it's partly my pregnancy hormones!) but I can't lose another favorite blogger! I really like your simplicity and I feel like my draw to your blog is the doable day's. I've never bought furniture from goodwill but now I am constantly checking it out! I hope you find what you are meant to do with your site but know that we all love and admire your work!

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  101. Jenny, I'm one of your silent followers. I've only commented a handful of times in the nearly 5 years I've enjoyed your blog. It is one I read and look forward to daily. I just wanted to tell you, like all the others, what a true inspiration you and your work are. I am a diy'er, and the ideas you come up with are like gold. I refer back to your previous posts often. I would be so saddened if your blogging ceased, but after having my first child this year, I truly understand how nothing else in life is as important than your children/family. Just know, wherever you go, there are a million of us cheering you on :)

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  102. Your too dang talented not to share this with us, but I understand the work involved and the stress and exhaustion it can bring. Go with your gut, but I think you're doing just the right thing now: waiting.

    I look forward to seeing the new site!

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  103. Can't wait to see the table. I've passed up awesome pieces because of problems with the wood veneer. Excited to see your genius solution!

    And just to echo everyone else, your blog would be the one I would miss the most if it went away! Seriously, it really is the best one out there! But I'm sure a big part of the reason it is so good is because of all the time and effort you put into it, so do what you gotta do, and thanks for all the awesome inspiration over the years!

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  104. Jenny, just popping in to say that I will miss your posts terribly if you decide to go in another direction! Though my husband and I are still renting a tiny apartment that we can't change much in, I can't wait for the day I can put some of your amazing advice to use! I am so inspired by your DIY projects-- you tackle things that I would never have the courage to take on, and the results are always jaw-dropping, not sloppy and "handmade" looking like some of the other DIYers out there.
    I'm also expecting a baby (my first!) so I understand how one has to let go or scale back on the things one loves in order to raise a little one. Congrats again!

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  105. Jenny,

    I have followed your blog every single day for more than six years. It is hard for me to put in to words how much your blog has influenced me--you not only inspire and teach but also encourage. Somehow you make me feel that anything is possible and that beauty is attainable for those who are willing to focus on the possibilities and work hard. Thank you! You truly have a gift, and I appreciate so much your willingness to share your talent with the world through this blog. I wish you and yours all of God's blessings in whatever direction you choose.

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  106. Jenny, I didn't know your blog wasn't perfect! It sure is to me. Your style is so fresh, your confidence so strong yet not braggadocios or intimidating. Your style + personality combo is unmatched in design blogs. You have inspired me and blessed me over the years! I am grateful for your influence, hard work and transparency. May the Lord lead you and guide you in your next steps! xoxo

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  107. Oh, please don't go. My life would be incomplete without you. I don't care how "imperfect" you think your blog is; I love your style and I devour all of your DIY tips. Reading LGN is one of the highlights of my week.

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I so appreciate hearing from you. Nice comments make my day! Thanks for keeping things light here, friends! :)