Hi friends,
You may have noticed I haven’t been as present on my blog and online. I’ve decided to take some time for a work break, or to make some work changes.
Our middle girl finds hearts everywhere – in food, rocks – and just yesterday during a park visit, in this puddle.
The last two years I’ve been going full force. First with the release of LTEV, then starting another cookbook, working online, and of course everything that goes with being a mom of three. Life has been particularly busy since September, and it’s time to regroup.
Sadly, and ironically, what I love to do most – creating in the kitchen every day – isn’t materializing on this blog right now. I have stacks of recipes that I would love to share with you, things I’m excited about developing in the moment and passionate to share. Yet, those recipes remain scribbled on sheets in my kitchen or office, never reaching you. I’m one person, and right now that’s not enough womanpower to keep up with life as a blogger, recipe developer, author, and mother. While my creative fire still burns, life is telling me to pause and be more present with myself and our children, and to assess my work and passions.
I don’t know if this as simple as taking a break in the short-term, or changing my work focus longer-term. Perhaps I’m still on the right path, but just need to walk – not run. What I do know is I need time to reflect, organize, and find clarity. This will be hard for me, as I love to create and share, and I’ve become very accustomed to “doing” all the time. Hopefully, I will receive some guidance or signs to help me with this decision.
I trust you all understand. I have deep appreciation for the encouragement and support you’ve offered as friends and readers, especially as I finished this latest book. My plant-powered gratitude and love…
♥
Dreena
Sophia Zergiotis says
Dreena, it’s my first time reading this post after discovering your return to blogging with that amazing thai stew! I can really relate, and had a bit of a meltdown last night as well. As a working mom, I really think taking a step back and reflecting on it all is a very healthy thing to do. You are courageous for doing it, and have tremendous support from your readers. Glad you shared your story, and it’s nice to hear I’m not alone. 🙂
Sophia
Shayna says
I just came over to see what was new on your blog as I’m always recommending you as a resource to my friends interested in making a transition into eating vegan and now I know why I haven’t seen anything lately. GOOD FOR YOU! It is SO hard when you have so much going on to take that moment to a) realize you have to pause and regroup and b) choose to put that pause on the work you love so much. You’ve been an inspiration (and really, a life saver) to me and so many others I can see. (I still get absolutely rave reviews of my adaptation of your Apple Hemp muffins ad Monsta Cookies) I can’t wait to see what you do next, WHATEVER you choose to do (although I have this funny feeling you’re not the type who can sit still” for long!)<3
Jen @Virtually Vegan Mama says
Keep creating those wonderful recipes Mama =) breaks are great…enjoy it =)
xoxoxo
Jen
Zoe says
Thank you for all that you have done for all of us out here. You have been a massive influence on my life and my health and well being has improved massively. It’s a joy to read your recipes and you insight into living kindly. I love hearing about how you manage with your kiddos – and as a mum of 4 myself I totally understand how manic it is and how much taking a break makes a difference.
Susan Robinson says
You have blessed us with your amazing recipes. Thank you!
janae @ bring joy says
All I can say, is GOOD FOR YOU. You are amazing, even more amazing for realizing that you need to change the tempo of your life. Your fans, your readers, we will be here when you come back, whenever that is. Enjoy your kids, you are supermom & they are so lucky to have you.
Thanks for all the work you’ve done & you don’t need to explain to me the juggling act of motherhood/blog/life balance!
ox
Marissa says
It’s so essential to press pause and reassess from time to time. Good on you for recognizing this. I’ll be wishing for you to gain clarity and for you to make space for what will fulfill you in your life as it is right now. Thanks for always keeping it real, Dreena!
Julie says
You will find your path, Dreena. Taking a pause from being so busy will let you listen to yourself and find what is right for you. 🙂 No matter what you decide, you will be making the world a better place. 🙂 Thank you!
LIsa says
You’ve more than earned a break, Dreena! Relax and enjoy!
LeeAnn says
Where’s that “like” button when you need it? Enjoy your pause!
Gwen says
You’ve made a wise choice. Everyone needs to pause, regroup, and refresh now and then. I hope you’ll be back when you’re ready, but if you get led in a different direction, I’m happy knowing I have your wonderful cookbooks to keep my family happy! Thanks for sharing your special recipes with us. 🙂
Beth says
Totally get it, and you totally deserve it. Just wanted to tell you I finally made the Mac-Oh-Geez last night, and it was incredible! My husband said, “this even tastes like real macaroni and cheese!” I didn’t tell him there wasn’t ANY cheese in it!
Connie Fletcher says
Good for you, girl!!! Good for you to know that you need a break, and more than that…YOU ARE TAKING ACTION!!!! It’s all well and good to know, but it’s very important to take action!!! Not all of us do that, so thank you for demonstrating that…..we could all improve in that area!!!
WELL DONE!!!!
Liz says
I used to have a friend who always used to tell me, “You just do you, Liz. Do you.” MEANING you just need to take care of you and yours, Dreena. You don’t owe anything to anyone but yourself. I surmise in this transition, you’ll adapt to the changes much more quickly than you anticipate, AND, may I be so bold as to suggest that you’ll LOVE the way you and your life feel. Slowing down, taking the time to BE in the moment and ENJOY life is the ONLY way to GO through life. Otherwise, what’s the point? I think with the new effort you’re making, D, you’re going to find much more of a happy balance and have the energy to be better at everything else in your life. Whatever is going to KEEP the passion and creative fire burning, as you say, is what you need to do. (I think most of us know that without some kind of outlet, some activity that feeds our soul, we’re pretty miserable and useless, and that isn’t good for ANYONE.)
Honestly, Dreena, I’ve always considered your blog, the cherry on a sundae, something that takes your work over the top, but, if missing, would not make the sundae ANY less delicious or enjoyable. I’ve been SPOILED by this blog, but, as I’ve said before, as long as you’re sharing your culinary creations somewhere, somehow, I’m a happy girl. 🙂 What I’m trying to say is that if you can’t be “around” as much, you will not be forgotten or revered any less. 🙂 You’ve already done and created SO much, for yourself AND your worshippers. 😉 And, I may be being presumptious when I say this, but, I think that we will all, of course, understand. 🙂 I hope you find what you’re seeking. Much love and luck to you, D. <3
Michelle Spring says
Kudos to you for recognizing your needs and prioritizing balance in your life. Been enjoying your posts and recipes. Look forward to your return. Now go and enjoy some much needed “Dreena down-time”! 🙂
Sara says
There is no shame in recognizing when you need to slow down. This is probably the best decision you’ll ever make. You’ve inspired so many. Take the time to nurture yourself and your family. Thanks for your honesty!
Alison says
I am a big believer in knowing where your wall is and slowing down before you hit it. I am immensely grateful for all of the knowledge and joy you have shared and am happy to wait to see what path you will take after a much deserved break. All the best to you and your family!
Natasha says
Hope you have a wonderful break!!!! Thanks for all your blogs!!! Can’t wait for your new book!!!!!
You truly are like superwoman but she even took a break sometime!!!
Hope you have a wonderful time of regrouping 🙂
Denise says
Take all the time you need – we aren’t going anywhere! 🙂
Sharon says
Just tonight, dinner was your chickpea tart. I’ve been at the same place, Dreena, of doing, doing, doing. It’s good to recognize that you need a break. That’s the first step to figuring out what to do next. We only get one life to live. Your friends are not going anywhere.
Annie says
Breathe. It’s a good thing. I have plenty of your recipes to keep me busy for as long as you need.
Vegyogini says
Dreena, I acknowledge you for taking care of yourself first! Please let me know if you have any requests for support. xoxo
Jill says
Your blog and Facebook postings have been an inspiration for me and were the starting point for my transition towards a whole foods plant based diet. Thank you so much for that! I always wondered how you had time to post so often so I’m not surprised that you’re a little tired. Take some time, we all need it. In the meantime, I am really looking forward to your new book and getting ideas to help my family eat more whole foods plant based – I will not be hesitating to buy the book when it comes. Your last two recipe books are staples in our kitchen and I love so many of your recipes. Have a well deserved break and enjoy your family! I will welcome you back whenever you are ready!
Jane says
You have given us more than enough to keep us going! Take good care, and will be thinking of you as I bake!
Oh – yesterday my daughter said ‘what’s for dinner?” up to my ears and very tired from a big day at work, couldn’t remember the name so answered “Dreena Burgers”
And that was enough for her as she exclaimed “YAY!” xx
Megan Powell says
Love your honesty. It’s so important to take care of yourself and be present for your family. You can’t get burned out and your fans wouldn’t want you to either. Good luck with your break and journey Dreena, I’m sure you will work out the best solution:)
Jennie says
It’s great to hear that you’re taking time for yourself! Everyone needs to recharge and regroup, especially when life gets too busy. Enjoy your family and a little time away!
Nicole N says
Can I just say: bravo! For recognizing that you need this break. It’s so hard to come to terms with that as a mom, and we too often try to mind all the burners at once. I hope you are able to refresh 🙂 best wishes, and hopefully, we will see you back sometime!
Veganopoulous says
Thanks for all you have done Dreena! You have worked so hard to bring information and assistance to others and it is very much appreciated!
Tami@NutmegNotebook says
I admire for you for taking time off to reflect and redirect. When you aren’t so tired and stretched so thin you will find clarity.
Wishing you all the best wherever life directs you next.
Maggie says
Good for you Dreena! Your passion and creativity will always be there, in fact they will shine more brightly if you take time to pause and take care of yourSELF! We will all still be here too. xo
Maureen says
You ROCK, girl! I admire that you recognize you need a break – that take sincere insight and bravery in today’s day. You’re setting a wonderful example for your family. Who knows what paths may open up, be open to them. thank you for all of the inspiration and creative, yummy recipes. Wishing you a joyful, relaxing time for as long as it may take.
Wendy says
I’m seeing bloggers doing the exact same thing these days! It’s a message from the deepest part of ourselves to go in, find who we are now and make new choices. Nothing has to be as it was, and isn’t anyway!
I am a bodyworker and have seen how much I have depleted myself, yet again, for others. I am making major changes now, listening to my soul as I evolve.
Live the life you want to, best you can. You always have choices. Honor yourself and your life. It is really all you have that is yours. May you love yourself and your life always.
Ana@Healthooray says
Dreena – thank you so much for everything you do for your readers and the vegan community as a whole. Sometimes it’s best to pause, reflect, recharge and decide what to do next, especially with such a big family. Take all the time you need – your faithfull readers will be there when you are ready 🙂
Sarah says
Take it easy on yourself! You have been very busy creating…that is draining! Give yourself credit for all the great work you’ve done (thank you!) and enjoy your family!
Emma says
Please take a proper break Dreena. You really have been working non-stop and I don’t want blogging to be stressful for you. No doubt you put a lot of pressure on yourself to keep up with everything. I so appreciate all you do and certainly hope you find a way to keep connecting with us and sharing your fantastic recipes. Sending big hugs xoxo
Beth says
We love you, Dreena! Glad to hear that you’re taking the time you need for yourself … and hoping to see you again soon!
Teresa says
Dreena, you have just finished another book – you are really entitled to a break. Take a little time to relax, enjoy your family, and things will sort themselves out.
michelle says
it’s hard to find balance! you take as much time as you need.. you’ve been working so hard, and your kids are only young once!! we will all be here waiting for when you return <3