Melissa Babasin Photography
Like a river, life carries me around bends and curves and to inevitable forks of decision. At the six-year anniversary of What About This?, I find myself at one of those forks. Sharing bits of joy with you these past six years has brought me great pleasure, but blogs take on a life of their own. They require attention and constant feeding, which translate into time. It is always difficult to put an end to something one enjoys, but at this point in my life, my hands are blessedly full. Today’s post, the 647th, will be my final one.
How do I go about saying goodbye to What About This? and to all who took the journey with me? Looking back on my days as a blogger, I know I have many people to thank for being my “river guides.” First, I’d like to thank my husband for believing in me when I didn’t dare, for knowing me better than I know myself, and for allowing me to be decidedly and indisputably me. He served as my IT guy, my stalwart editor, and my taste tester. Rousing debates over grammar, syntax, punctuation, and blog-worthy recipes became part of our everyday lives. Second, I would like to thank my family for allowing me to share them with the world. Last, but not least, I would like to thank each and every one of you who visited, commented on, or subscribed to What About This? You kept me company along the way and gave me the encouragement to continue. Every word typed, every minute spent, and every connection made during the life of this blog brought me joy. I sincerely hope it brought you some in return, as you were my inspiration.
I believe the end of one thing gives way to the beginning of something else. What will I do with my time, when I no longer write this blog? Clean my house, for one thing. I’m serious. But there are also photography skills to be honed, ukulele songs to be played, food to be shared, exercises to be performed, hours to be volunteered, and a little granddaughter to be cherished.
Thanks for coming along for the ride. It’s been an honor.
“The world is round and the place which may seem like the end may also be only the beginning.” Ivy Baker Priest
Now go and spread joy!
What about this? 
Awww! Linnell… That made my eyes misty!! I have thoroughly enjoyed every blog that you have put all those many hours into!! It was kinda like still living down the street from you!! I will miss your blog as I miss you but hope you will still keep in touch! I have to watch that precious child grow up and all the future grandchildren who are still just a spark in their parents eyes!! Go forth young lady and see what’s around the next bend, but don’t forget to look back to all your followers now and then!! We love you!!
Hi Debbie! Thanks for following What About This? all these years. It meant a lot to me. We can still keep in touch with each other via FB. I don’t want to miss seeing you with your adorable grandkids! I don’t know what’s around the “bend,” but you can be sure that I’ll never forget the joy that What About This? brought to me and to others.
ohhhhh Linnell!!!!! I read this with such mixed emotion but will share only this….thank you sooooo much for letting all of us float down this river with you. By far, this is my favorite blog! I wish you so much joy with all your newly reclaimed time. Enjoy yourself. And thank you for such an exquisite gift. -Kelly
Hi Kelly! Thanks you so much for your kind words and for being such a loyal supporter of What About This? It was undeniably difficult for me to lay my blog to rest and to say goodbye to my blog-friends, but in my heart I knew it was time to move on and discover new ways to help others. Always remember to spread joy! It makes a difference.
I always looked forward to your Fresh Five on Friday. So much insight so many great websites. It was truly a blessing. Thank you for all your hard work and dedication it was truly wonderful. You will be missed.
David
Your Fedex Man
Hello David! I can’t tell you how much your comment means to me. My goal for What About This? was to share joy and inspiration and I think I succeeded. In the process of crafting the blog, I learned so much about the world and, surprisingly, I learned a lot about myself, too. Thanks for following What About This? all these years. Taken any more great photos lately?
Linnell, I will miss reading all your words of wisdom, sharing of joy, fabulous recipes, and beautiful photos! Thanks for allowing me a glimpse of your full life!
Peggy
Thanks Peggy! I guess I will have more time to learn how to knit!
Will so miss it. Congratulations on six years of wonderful content, and for the opportunity to move on to the next great thing.
Hi Eileen! Thanks for supporting all of my endeavors (blog and Desideri Designs). After a little R & R, I’d like to teach more craft classes at Wellspring Women’s Center. I enjoy the interaction with the women there.
This has been one of my favorite blogs! I will miss you but know you are on to a whole new phase of your life-may you be blessed!
Hi Jenny! Many thanks! I appreciate your kind words and your support through the years. It was hard for me to terminate What About This?, but it was time for me to move onto other things.
Hi Linnell, So sad, I was just getting to really enjoy all your lovely ideas, etc., but many wonderful hours and days are waiting for that precious Charlotte and you to spend together!! Enjoy your new adventures that are waiting around the corner. Hugs…
Thanks Nancy! I have mixed emotions about putting an end to this blog (maybe it’s just a hiatus?). I look forward, though, to all the new adventures that lie ahead and to watching Charlotte grow up.