After 17 Years, I Have Some Big News to Share
Seventeen years ago, I sat down at my computer and started a blog called In My Own Style.
At the time, I had no idea where it would lead me. I simply wanted a place where I could share my love of decorating, DIY projects, making things, organizing, and finding creative ways to make a home look and feel good without spending a fortune.
I certainly never imagined that 17 years later I would still be here, writing posts, taking photos, working on projects and sharing my home and ideas with all of you.
But after much thought over the last year, I have decided that the time has come for me to retire from blogging.
And even as I type those words, they feel a little surreal. This wasn’t an easy decision, but one that feels right and you might have seen coming as I have not been posting very much.
A New Chapter for In My Own Style
While I am retiring, In My Own Style is not going away.
I am very happy to tell you that a lovely couple will be taking it over with new ideas and energy. All the decorating ideas, DIY projects, organizing tips, seasonal inspiration, printables and everything else I have shared over the years will remain here for you to find, use and enjoy.
Knowing that the site would continue was very important to me.
There are 17 years of my life within these pages. There are projects from the two homes I have lived in, decorating experiments that worked beautifully and probably a few that didn’t. Holiday ideas, furniture makeovers, organizing solutions and hundreds of little ways I found to make my homes feel more like the way Ed and I wanted to live.
I love knowing that those ideas aren’t disappearing just because I am ready to move on to the next chapter of my life.
What Started as a Blog Became So Much More
When I started In My Own Style, blogging was still new and the internet was like the wild, wild west. We learned as we went and bloggers all helped each other make the blogging world what it became.
I never could have predicted all the bloggers and people I have met and the places having a blog would take me or the opportunities that would come my way simply because I decided to share the things I loved doing.
And some of those opportunities were things I never could have dreamed up!
Because of this blog, I once got to dance with the Radio City Rockettes along with a group of other bloggers who were part of the Swiffer blogger team wth me.
I got to ride around a high-speed test track at Ford Headquarters in Detroit in a Ford race car with a professional driver behind the wheel, definitely not something I ever expected to be doing when I started writing about decorating and DIY projects. I was chosen to go to the event because the wife of one of the Ford event organizers liked my blog and recommending inviting me.
I also had the opportunity to meet Martha Stewart more than once. As someone who has always loved decorating, creating and making things, that alone was pretty exciting. On one visit to her New York City office, I even got to sit at Martha’s desk. That was certainly a pinch-me moment.
Another opportunity that became a big part of my blogging career came from Glidden Paints. Early on in my blogging journey, they selected me as one of seven decorating and painting bloggers to write for their My Colortopia website. I was paid to create and write a new post for them every month. What started as an opportunity turned into a relationship that lasted seven years.
And another event I will never forget was when I won the Better Homes & Garden’s Makeover Madness contest that was all about making over an IKEA dresser.
There were many other brand collaborations, trips, events and experiences along the way, but these are a few that still make me smile when I think about them.
Who would have thought that sitting down at my computer and starting a decorating blog would one day would have me dancing with the Rockettes, speeding around a racetrack, sitting at Martha Stewart’s desk and writing about color and decorating for a major paint company for seven years?
Certainly not me. :-)
I also learned more than I ever expected to know about photography, writing, websites, social media, technology and running a business. When I started, I certainly didn’t know I was signing up to learn all of that!
And through it all, I kept doing what I had always done, looking around my house and thinking…
How can I make this better?
Could I paint it?
Could I use it in a different way?
Can I figure out how to make it myself?
Those simple questions ended up taking me places I never could have imagined when I sat down at my computer 17 years ago to start In My Own Style.
But as wonderful as all those opportunities and experiences have been, when I look back now, they aren’t what stand out the most.
You do!
To Everyone Who Has Read In My Own Style
Some of you have been reading this blog almost from the beginning.
You’ve followed along through different houses, room makeovers, furniture transformations, paint colors, organizing projects, holidays, family milestones and all the little bits of everyday life that found their way into my posts.
You’ve left comments, sent emails, shared my projects, pinned my photos, asked questions and told me when something I shared inspired you to try an idea in your own home.
I cannot adequately tell you how much that has meant to me.
Blogging can look like a one-person job, and for all of these years, I have been the person behind the computer doing all of it, but it never felt as though I was creating in a vacuum because I knew you were on the other side of the screen.
You gave me a reason to keep looking at ordinary things and thinking, What could I do with this?
You encouraged my creativity simply by showing up to see what I was working on next.
For that, I owe you the biggest THANK YOU.
17 Years of Making a Home In My Own Style
If there is one thing I hope you take away from all the years you’ve spent here and I hope will continue to do so is the idea behind the name of this blog.
Your home doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s.
It doesn’t have to follow every decorating trend. It doesn’t have to be filled with expensive things. And it certainly doesn’t have to be perfect.
Sometimes all it takes is paint, fabric, a thrift-store find, something you already own used in a completely different way or simply the willingness to try an idea and see what happens.
Make your home a reflection of you.
That was what In My Own Style meant to me when I chose the name 17 years ago, and it still does today.
I’m sure I’ll still decorate, rearrange furniture, paint things, organize closets and look at perfectly good objects and wonder what else I could turn them into. I don’t think that part of me knows how to retire. :-)
I’ll just be doing it for myself now, without stopping halfway through to take photos and write a tutorial for it.
One Last, Very Big Thank You
So rather than ending this post with goodbye, I want to end it the same way I feel when I look back over these 17 years… with an enormous amount of gratitude!
Thank you for reading.
Thank you for commenting.
Thank you for sharing my ideas with your friends and family.
Thank you for pinning my projects and coming back years later to make them.
Thank you for trusting me enough to bring some of my ideas into your own homes.
Thank you to those of you who discovered In My Own Style only recently.
And an especially heartfelt thank you to those of you who have been coming back for years and years to see what I was up to and will continue to as the new owners of the blog begin to share more inspiration, ideas and projects with you.
You helped turn a little blog I started 17 years ago into a career, a creative outlet on the internet and an experience I never could have imagined when I began.
It has been one of the best things I have done with my life.
And I will always be grateful that I got to share it with you.
With much love… my very best to each and everyone of you.
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A beautiful farewell. I just found your site. May your next venture bring you joy, contentment and a quiet spirit.
No!!! I am so sad!
You will be missed…I have loved the past 17 years with your blog!
Enjoy your retirement!
Thanks for the Memories!
Diane, first off I am so happy for you! I wish you, Ed, and your family the very best! I have to thank you for all you have taught me over the years. The biggest one was a desk makeover that I struggled to find the confidence to take it on. I reached out to you through email and you walked me through the steps and gave me the courage to tackle it. It turned out great, and even better after the addition of pretty glass knobs. I’m truly going to miss you and cherish all I have learned from you. I hope you know what a difference you have made in so many of our lives. What a gift you have given us all. You are one-of-a-kind….a GEM! Thank you from the bottom of my heart for everything!
Thank you for all of the years that you have given us with your spirit of creativity! I actually have your first book which I seemed to have before I got on the computer! I have been inspired by your use of color which I love to have in my home! I hope that you have a wonderful, new direction for all your energy you put in sharing your life with us all. Take care! Carolyn
Good Luck and God Bless Diane and Ed in whatever you plan on doing together. Keep in touch. ❤️
I have loved reading your blog for the last ten years. Your creativity and ‘can do’ spirit was so inspiring. I appreciate your great ideas, thrifty approach, and honest comments about life and house projects. Thank you! Wishing you all the best in your next chapter!
Congrats Diane on a wonderful career! Enjoy your retirement! I will miss reading your posts but I know how many fun times you have ahead of you. All the best!!
I can’t believe it’s been 17 years! As I think back on all the times I’ve read the blog, so much in my own life has changed as well. Thank you for all you’ve shared and wishing you a blissful retirement and much health and happiness.
Thanks so much, Diane, for 17 years of inspirational and heartfelt content. You will be sorely missed. Whomever the new creators are, they certainly have the most wonderful shoes to fill. Take care and enjoy your new adventures.
I started looking at your posts years ago. I didn’t know much for myself but I wanted to make my house a nice home without spending alot of money. I wanted a home not a museum and you helped me do that. I will miss your Sunday posts but I wish you all the best with your home and family. Go with God!
Congratulations – job well done! You took this little blog and gussied it up with paint, wax, varnish and love. I came for the chalk paint recipes and stayed for the slice of Americana you provided. Thank you so much, Diane. Enjoy your new adventures, the people you adore and the view of the lake.
Thank you for your energy, creativity, spunk, and positivity. You have inspired me many times and I’m glad I discovered you sooooooo long ago. There were times after the death of my daughter in 2012 (at age 25) when your cheery pinks and whites lifted my spirit and encouraged me to find beauty in my home, to change the atmosphere and get on with life. Your attitude about working to make the homes we live in reflect that special something about who we are and doing it without breaking the bank – that’s fabulous. Self-esteem, go-get-it, and create what you desire. That is you Diane! Best wishes for you and Ed and all the beautiful tomorrows you create within your own home for yourself to enjoy.
Hello, I am thrilled for you as you begin a well-earned retirement. I’ll miss watching how you decorate your home and make changes seasonally.
However, I’ve also really enjoyed your book recommendations and just caught up on The Lincoln Lawyer as a result of your comments (we loved it!).
The very best of luck to you!
Deb
This makes me sad…I look forward to reading your Style Scouting posts on Sundays. You always share fun things!
Enjoy yourself! Will miss your posts!
Noooo! My favorite thing to look forward to on Sunday mornings is your Style Scouting post!!! I will miss this and you so very much! I do, however, wish you the very best in retirement! You have provided so much inspiration and entertainment over these many years of following you and for that I am so very grateful!
Hi Diane, Here it is, Sunday morning & I just realized there won’t be a post from you today. 😩 Just had to let you know that I’ve learned soooo much from you in all the years you’ve been blogging!! I decorate with all of Ina Garten’s cookbooks because of you, we painted our home Alabaster White thanks to your great advice & we’re the same age! 😊 Thank you, thank you for all of the great ideas & I hope you have an amazing time ahead of you!! You’re the best!! 🩷
Oh dear. Happy and sad to see this. I’m close to your age and understand sometimes things just need to change. I’m happy to know we can still access all your valuable tips and ideas!! You’re my go-to for all things painting and finishing. You’ll keep designing and creating I’m sure so we’re looking forward to seeing your ideas as a “guest” in the In My Own Style emails. Take care, thank you, and enjoy those beautiful grandchildren.
Diane—-how sad I am for me but I’m so happy for you! I’ve loved following you over the years and I’m glad you’re embracing your next chapter!! All the very best!
Selfishly sad, but happy for you! You sharing your creativity and ideas has been SO appreciated over the years. My personal favorite that I still use is the “It’s Fall Y’All” “chalk” paintings in frames. I use it in my home and in the office!
BTW, are you still doing a plant forward way of eating? You look fantastic!
I am so excited for you though selfishly I will miss your blogs. I have unsubscribed from so many but yours was a constant I always looked forward to. You will be sorely missed. And, now a new chapter is opening up with sooooo many possibilities. What to do first????? Kudos to you.
I have really enjoyed this blog over the years, and wish you the best of health and happiness with your beautiful family as you retire! You will be missed.
Well, I will be sad to see you go! I hope you enjoy your free time and I know you will be creative and engaged as always!
Diane — Congratulations on taking the next step in your life’s journey. We will so miss your creativity and positive attitude! But we trust you have chosen people who will maintain all you have created. Your blog is the only one I never miss reading. Know that you have inspired many of us in multiple ways! Wishing you a fulfilling and adventuresome retirement.
Diane! You are an OG blogger and should be so proud of yourself! I’ve been at this for 15 years and am so grateful to have met you when I first started blogging. You were so welcoming and a great source of info. I loved that our little decorating and diy community was so tight knit. Things have certainly changed, but I like to think that the early days of blogging set the tone for everything that’s come after. Who could have ever imagined when you sat down to write that first post that blogging would become AI driven and our individual voices would be drowned out by corporations. Oh well! It was good while it lasted! Wishing you every happiness in your retirement. Enjoy your home, your friends and your beautiful daughters and grandkids!
How sad for us, but how wonderful for you! I hope you are a visitor every now and again with the new owners of In My Own Style.
Enjoy your next chapter, Diane!
I have enjoyed your blog and wishing you the best as you seek to enjoy a wonderful, relaxed life. You have been the blogging queen for many of us for these 17 years. What JOY you have given to so many. Blessings to you!
Beautifully stated, Diane. Your impact lives on. Joy-filled adventures await you, Ed and family!
Oh Diane! I am so happy for you. I have only followed you for about 8 years. I looked forward to your Sunday wrap ups and common sense ideas. Although there are others, you have been closest to age, family developments and styling ideas.
I will indeed miss having you at the helm. However, I will ‘stay tuned’ to read on with the new couple at the helm.
Wishing you all the best!
I can’t possibly imagine the hours spent over 17 years of such creative blogging. I looked forward to your posts and am in awe of your imaginative projects and ideas. Best of luck and good health as you dig even deeper into your grandparenting adventures.
🤗 Sue Verbaan
Not what I was expecting when I opened up your post this morning. You will really be missed. I have been so inspired by you over the years. Live well, be healthy and happy. Enjoy your beautiful family and lake home. Have many fun adventures with your sister living nearby. How about a yearly check in/update with the new couple who will be continuing your blog?
Thank you for sharing all these years! You will be missed.
Oh, I have enjoyed your writing and creativity for more years than I remember. Thank you for sharing your beautiful ideas and stories, and best wishes to you in this new season. ❤️
Will miss you. Enjoy your retirement.
Cheers from Tasmania Aust
Diane,
I have so enjoyed reading your blog for years now. I loved living vicariously through the adventures, the move and living on the lake. I truly loved watching you become a grandmother and wish you years watching them grow up. Enjoy without regret, you’ve been amazing. I will miss your touches but will give the new owners a chance and I’m sure they will pick up the mantle of your years of blood, sweat and tears and continue the success you’ve started. Happy life to you and Ed!
I’m very happy for you on your retirement. Though I am sad for myself because I will miss your blog. I started following a few years before your first daughter married. You were still living in your other home. Your blog is the only diy/decorating site I follow. Your style reflects my style. I just love it! Take Care of yourself, hubby and family, especially your adorable grandchildren. Aloha from Hawaii, Michele H.
Congratulations on your retirement! I have been a follower for several years. Painted my ceiling fan from directions on your post when you painted your ceiling fan white. That was many years ago, and it still looks great. Wish I knew how long I have been following you, and how I found you. Enjoy your place on the lake and your family.
Thank you so, so much for being a light in my life. I have only been following your blog for a few months, and I have enjoyed every post. You will be much missed.
My reason for only finding and following your blog recently is that I retired not too long ago. I very much hope you enjoy your retirement as much as I am enjoying mine!
No reason you shouldn’t retire. However, I will miss your DIY adventures! Enjoy life with one less responsibility hanging over your head.
Congratulations on your retirement. I always look forward to your emails and will miss your voice. Hoping for lovely times in retirement.
Oh Diane. I wish you and Ed nothing but happiness! You deserve to enjoy your retirement. I sure will miss you. I’ve been with you from the beginning and you have inspired me to look at everything with fresh eyes and ask myself “is this in my style?” before committing to decor that was trending.
The old blogosphere won’t be the same without you. Blessings to you and yours! xoxo
It’s hard to make a big change like this. I did it in December by closing my shop. I miss it, but it has been the right decision. Go enjoy those grandbabies, travel, and have lots of family fun. Thank you for such an amazing blog. I have loved every post! Happy retirement, Diane!
I’ll definitely miss your creative ideas and advice. With your encouragement, I painted my horrible pine kitchen cabinets over a decade ago. They’re a beautiful sage green and I’ve got touches of rose throughout the room (and throughout my house. That’s My Own Style. Everyone comments on the pretty kitchen. Nobody can believe they were once dark pine with lots of knots. Thank you for helping me achieve my beautiful home and removing my fear of getting rid of dark trim, painting my multicolored brick fireplace and releasing my fear of not being ”trendy” in my current home. Funny thing is, my home is what they now call “ Grand-millennial,” which seems to be that dreaded word, TRENDY. As I’m the same age as you, you’ll remember this style was popular several decades ago. I just never let go of it!
Enjoy retirement. I hope you and Ed now have the freedom to travel and LIVE LIFE in your own style.
Can’t tell you how much I will miss you! Congratulations and good luck in your future endeavors!
Congratulations! I am so happy for you – get out and enjoy life in your own style. I along with many others will miss your wisdom. My love was your Sunday post that I got to relax and enjoy every word! Much love and appreciation.
From across the lake.
I know you will enjoy your retirement and will have no problem staying busy! I’ll miss my morning emails and all the great advice you have shared. Thank you!
I wish you all the best in your retirement. I have been retired for 12 years and have loved every minute of it as I’m sure you will. I’ve enjoyed your blog all these years. You’ve inspired many of my decorating projects.
I think I recently realized this change was in the offing. Best wishes to you and your growing family and I will stick around to see what the new duo are sharing. Thank you for the many years of your helpful tutorials and advice!
Wishing you all the very best. I have always enjoyed your blog and reading about your wonderful family. Enjoy retirement.
Wishing you all the best! Thank you for enriching my life and sharing your joy and talent for decorating and so much more.
Diane,
I, too, have been a longtime reader, and I have loved your blog and its approachability. You have shared so much with all of us, and I really appreciate all you have done for this community. Enjoy your retirement, and thanks for a great ride!
I will sincerely miss you, Diane. Your blog has entertained and inspired me for many years. I think of you when we use our table extension, made straight from one of your posts years ago. Best wishes on your retirement; I hope you find it wonderful, as I do.
Thank you!
Enjoy your time with those you love and doing the things you have been putting off. Prayers for healthy and long future doing it “YOUR OWN WAY”. I will miss your life updates, my fellow South Carolinian!
I am so happy for you with your blog retirement. You will be missed. I have been following you for almost the entire time, however, I am not a big commenter. I have always loved your style, tips and how-to’s. I hope you continue to live life to it’s fullest and do things that bring you and your hubby joy. Thank you for sharing all of your talents and wisdom with this community.
Oh Diane, I am going to miss you, my friend. I cycle through bloggers, following new ones and discontinuing some I’ve gotten bored with. I’ve stuck with you the entire time, since I started reading your blog. But I can well understand that you are ready to move on. You’ve got your retirement home on the lake, and it’s time to enjoy it. I live in Summerville, so if you ever need a guide for what to do in Charleston, let me know.
Happy Retirement Diane!!! You will love it and probably be busier & happier than ever!
I’ve been looking forward & reading your Sunday & other days’ post for years & so looked forward to them every week!
YOU WILL BE MISSED BUT NEVER FORGOTTEN!!!
Have a happy life, my friend!!!
I’ve been a reader for several years and selfishly am a bit sad at your news, but happy for you! “In my own style” was such an inspired name–my own style is quite different from yours but I still enjoyed and learned a ton from the blog. Good luck in your next chapter. Thanks again!
I have read every post, learned so much that I took from your talent. Enjoy your retirement you have certainly earned every minute. I will remember you each time to see a project I have
used because you were a great influencer.
Enjoy that lake every minute with family and friends.
And thank you Diane for being such a bright light on the internet for us all!
Congratulations Diane on your retirement…from the blog! You have given your followers so much inspiration and I look forward to seeing new ideas from the newest owners of In My Own Style! (Mandy and her husband?)
God’s blessings to you and Ed as y’all embark on a new chapter.
Congratulations on your retirement, Diane! I have been reading your blog all along and will miss you so much. I’m a few years ahead of you in retirement and can understand your need to have more time to yourself now. It has been fun to see your many projects and try some of them myself. I have most loved your Sunday posts, especially on cold winter mornings in my cozy living room with a cup of coffee! Enjoy your new beginning!
Congratulations! You will be missed.
I never did tell you that I completed my staircase renovation with the help of your posts.
https://knittinginflashes.com/2024/09/26/april-2024-update/
Thank you for sharing your life and style with us.
Best wishes.
Patti
I wish you blessings, love and a wonderful retirement filled with laughter and love! You are a person greatly admired and informative to so many women, and we will carry your ideas with grateful hearts!
I’ve been reading your blog almost from the beginning. Your style, insight and creative instincts have been so inspiring. Your posts have been a bright spot in my in-box that I looked forward to every week. While I will miss you and your talents, I wish you all the best in this next chapter. With kind regards.
Congratulations! We will miss you and your brilliant blog, but you deserve retirement. Enjoy!
I’ll sure miss your blog! I’ve been reading it for over a decade and have formed so many good memories with it. I’m glad you won’t be taking the website down, though – I can always reread the archives. :) Enjoy your retirement! Thank you for all the inspiration over the years!
Congratulations on your retirement! Thank you for all the inspiration and ideas you’ve shared over the years. I’ve enjoyed that you have always been authentic and shared things that real homes feel like. So many “creators” today just feel like salespeople. Enjoy everyday, have fun doing all the creative things you do. God bless you!
Thank you for all you’ve shared with us. I think I’ve been with you since the beginning. I’m now nearing 80 and wish I could retire!! Retire from worrying about this world we now live in! Best wishes for your new adventures. And I’m sure there will be “new adventures”.
NOOOOOOOOO, say it isn’t so :( I have learned so much from you Ms. Diane! I’m one that has been with you almost from your beginning. I love how you decorate. I have loved both of your homes. Your style is that of my own. I’m crying as I’m writing this. I feel as if I’m losing a friend. I look forward everyday to reading your posts and looking at pictures of your home. I never imagined that’s what this post was going to be about. Your style has been such an inpiration to me. I loved your post on the empty frames you did in your other home and I, to this day decorate with empty painted frames :) Thank you for all the years you were here. I will miss you beyond measure.
RuthAnne (One of your many fans)
Las Vegas, Nevada
Diane, I wish you all the best. I always looked forward to reading your blog.
I loved everything about it. Your posts were uplifting and inspiring. I liked the various subjects you covered. Thanks for being here. You will be missed!
Well, this is certainly no surprise, I did in fact see this coming, I want to thank you for a beautiful blog. I have been following you for years and have gotten so many wonderful ideas from you. Our life is a constant evolution and I hope you enjoy this next turn in your life.
You will be missed so much!
When I saw the beginning of the post which said I have some BIG news to share, my first thought was I hope she isn’t stopping this blog. And then I read. I’m thankful it will continue. It won’t be the same. I don’t know how to say thank you for the many hours of enjoyment from reading all these years – and the encouragement to try things. That’s the greatest! Enjoy life. I love that your sister now lives nearby and you have grandbabies to enjoy. You deserve it all.
Diane,
I’m so sad to hear you’re leaving the blog as I feel as though I’ve gotten to know you over the years and will miss having that little peek into your life. I am
VERY happy that you’re moving on to enjoy yourself after all the work you’ve put in!! Thank you for sharing yourself, your family and your home. You will be greatly missed!!
Congratulations! And well deserved … I have so enjoyed your posts over the years and I’m sure you leave us all in good hands. Best of luck to you and your family 💕
Boy, will I miss you! I am sending my best wishes to you. Have a lovely retirement!
Congratulations on your retirement!!! Retirement brings a new chapter to your life. So excited for you!! Have been following and sharing your blog since your sister told me about it years ago. Thank you for all the inspiration and knowledge and for giving me courage to try new things. I also appreciate the recipes, fashion ideas(I used a lot of your ideas this summer and loved them!) and books to read.
Will miss you but most of all wishing you wonderful family time, travel and joy in all you do!
Take care and enjoy your new adventure!
An even bigger THANK YOU to you!
I’ve never commented, just totally enjoyed.
God bless you and your family.
Congrats on a well deserved retirement! Enjoy!
I have so enjoyed your blog! I wish you well in this journey.
Congratulations on your retirement! Even though I only know the public side of you, I suspect you’re going to be busier than ever. Thank you for all the great content, entertainment and inspiration over the years. It’s been a fun journey with you.
Thank you for so many years of ideas and enjoyment!
Vaya con Dios
Good Luck and Happy Retirement!
What a Life! ENJOY whatever is ahead!
Best of luck to you! I will have go back to the early posts, since I only found your blog a couple of years ago, to get my fix! All the best to you. You will be missed!
Oh wow…. You’ll be missed but congrats on your retirement!
Happy Retirement. I have really enjoyed your blog. I wish you well and enjoy retirement.
Will miss you but totally understand! I love your style and your ideas and hints are always helpful. Enjoy your retirement and know that you have helped inspire so many of us!
Best of luck to the new folks. Looking forward to seeing their ideas soon.
Well we knew it wouldn’t last forever but I will always be grateful for the time and energy you poured into helping us on the journey of life through beauty!
I wish you a happy retirement and please know you will be missed as my “go to” blogger for answers to decorating questions.
Enjoy those grandbabies and traveling, I know you love both! Thanks for all the years together and I hope we see you again!
Thank you for sharing your talents with us! You are truly an inspiration. Your blog has been such a joy to read and incorporate into my decorating journey. Happy retirement!!
I will definitely miss you! I’ve enjoyed your blog and projects, your homes and family for many years. Thank you for sharing. Enjoy retirement!
Oh my, those are certainly big news, Diane! I certainly understand it and have been contemplating for myself what to do next since everything is changing so quickly right now. I wish you well and hope we can stay in touch. Best of luck to you and I will miss reading your voice on this blog.
I’ve enjoyed your blog immensely. I am newly retired and loving it! I wish you the best. It’s difficult to post ideas for blogs. I give bloggers high praise for doing it. I know I would never lol. Happy retirement and best health. Enjoy your vacations, life, family, friends and home. Now you can relax!
So sorry to read that you are retiring. I have enjoyed your blog for many years. I wish you happiness and joy in your retirement. You have earned it!
Wishing you well. Thanks for all the delightful Sunday mornings spent scrolling thru your posts. It was definitely something I looked forward to. I will miss that. Kate
Diane, I’m very happy for you. I’ve enjoyed following along with you through the years. Enjoy your grandchildren and enjoy your life!
Diane…I have loved reading your blog and it feels like we all are losing a treasured friend 💜
Congratulations on a remarkable journey and know that you will be missed!
Enjoy your time with your family and no more deadlines :)
I am so happy for you 🥳
OH my GD!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I am one of your 1st reader/followers………..how can it be 17 years???
My Sunday mornings will not be the same…….but wishing YOU all the best as you ease into your next chapter ! As we say : “strength to strength”
warmly,
patti
Congratulations to you! Thank you for all the love & ideas you’ve given us throughout the years. Time to focus on YOU!! ❤️
Diane, you were the first (and still my favorite) blogger I followed. I found your blog when I googled how to make a vinyl floorcloth, and I’ve read your blog ever since! I’ve loved spending Sunday mornings enjoying all the things you discovered that week and all the special projects you’ve shared throughout the years, from the days of your Pennsylvania house to your lovely lake home. We’re in similar life stages, and I understand the pull of fewer obligations and more time for grandchildren and family fun time. I will so miss my relaxing Sunday mornings enjoying my first cup of coffee while scrolling your weekly post, which I did every Sunday since you started them. Wishing you all the very best in your retirement, and as I receive an email reminder each week, I assume the couple taking over the blog will continue to do the same, and I will follow them as well, but there is definitely only one YOU, and you have been a lovely part of my internet. Thank you!! Debbie
No! What will I do on Sunday mornings without you! I have enjoyed your posts so much and learned a great deal. Wishing you the best, but you will very much be missed.
Congratulations on your retirement Diane. You will be missed. But retirement brings opportunities of it’s own. Looking forward to the couple who are taking over your blog.
Congratulations and thank you for all of your great material all these years. It was always refreshing to know that if I needed something, I could come here and search and nine times out of ten, I could always find it. Bravo! Enjoy your next chapter!!
Diane
We will miss you. Thank you for all that you do. When I walk up my stairs that used to be upholstered and are now stained because of your tutorial I’ll think of you.
Linda from Macungie 🤗
I’ve followed you for years (your blog was the first one I ever followed!)
and will miss all your creative ideas! Enjoy your retirement and all the best to you and your family!
Big News. I suspect this might be a bit sad (for all us) and you, but a well deserved transition Diane. You have blessed so many and answered questions I have had about South Carolina. Enjoy your family, friends. Thanks doesn’t quite say it all.
I found your blog early on when my boys were very young. My older one is heading off to college this weekend for the first time. I confess I’m feeling pretty emotional to send him off and feeling an odd amount of emotion reading your post for the transition. I have enjoyed your approach and attitude about making a house truly feel like home. Wishing you all the best in whatever is next for you, Ed and your precious family.
Best of luck in all that you do. Your encouraging words will be missed. ♥️
Diane, you will be missed…your warmth, your candor, your sincerity! Reading your blog is like connecting with a friend. Thank you for your generosity in sharing yourself( and Ed) with your readers. Handing off the blog to a couple who will continue your vision “in their own style” is a gift to all of us. I hope you share some retirement updates. Best wishes!!!
Congratulations on your retirement! I’ve enjoyed following you and your projects for many years and hope you enjoy the next chapter. I’ll miss keeping up with what you’re working on but I know how demanding it is to run a blog. Happy retirement!
You are a singular voice in style. Posts that inspired, that charmed and that demonstrated the creative spirit. I will miss reading your thoughts but knowing your work is still available is a great comfort. Wishing you all the best as you move on.
This wasn’t what I expected to see this morning! I do wish you well and I know you will go about your retirement in your own style……but I will surely miss all of you your wonderful inspiration. Best of luck to you in your retirement.
Thank you for many years of fun, great ideas, and so many enjoyable Sunday morning shopping trips through your blog. Congratulations on your retirement. I’m looking forward to continuing to read the new version of your blog.
Happy Retirement! I will miss your blog, I have been reading since you were back in PA. I loved to grab a cup of coffee and then open your newest blog and get so many great ideas! You will truly be missed!
Best of luck to you and your family, Diane. I have received so much inspiration reading your blog which I found around the time you moved to South Carolina. I enjoy your creativity, clear instructions and especially your Sunday posts where you gathered inspiration from everywhere. Thank you for your years of dedication to your readers, and now go have fun in your creative pursuits whatever they may be! Xo. Desiree
Thank you for everything, Diane!
Congratulations on your retirement! I will miss you as you are one of my most trusted resources on decorating. I have followed your tutorials so many times. I am so glad they will not be going away! Thank you for all the work over the years and I wish you all the best.
I will certainly miss you
Wow, how exciting for you but so sad for all of your followers! I certainly will miss all of your great ideas and easy way of explaining your “how to” projects. I’ve been following you for many years and always looked forward to reading your blog. I especially enjoyed your Sunday roundup of your favorite things! I have pinned many of your ideas and will remember all you have thought me over the years. Best of luck in your retirement years, go have some different fun and best of all you have no deadlines!
Good luck and happy retirement to you! You deserve it!! I have enjoyed your blog for many years and I always looked forward to your posts on Sunday mornings. I have made many projects from your tutorials. I too am scaling back and enjoying quiet time without the busy-ness of projects. Enjoy your time and travels. Carol
I will miss you! Loved your blog!!
Best of luck to you. I have enjoyed your blog for many years & will miss you.
Thank you for inspiring us and sharing your many creative ideas. Your Pom Pom ottoman, the basket turned into a table, there are so many. It has been a pleasure to read your blog each week. Wishing you a wonderful, joyful retirement. You will be missed!
Congrats!!!!! Retirement takes a bit of getting used to but when you do I think you will love it. I will miss your column but appreciate you passing it along to someone else.
Congrats on your decision.
You will be missed!!
Diane, I’m currently purging old emails because if I don’t, I won’t be able to receive more. To do this, I switch the Sort from Descending to Ascending, I’m now up to 2024. The whole way from years prior to 2024, I’ve saved from the purge certain family emails as well as your blog. I’m going to miss you! My favorite post of yours was lining drawers with papers showing the alphabet in different fonts. It still sends me! In fact, right now on my fridge are strips of a handsome new font (free) showing all the characters in The quick brown fox jumps over the lazy dog. You validated my heart’s desire. Well, off with you, then! Enjoy the beauty! With love —
Diane, what a shocker! Your retirement is bittersweet. It feels like a long time friend is leaving. For many years your blog has been so uplifting, inspiring and creative. Thank for for sharing your projects, thoughts and personal stories. The very best in this next chapter of your life!
The best of luck Diane. I alway looked forward to your post. Thank you
Congratulations on your retirement! I’ve been following you for many years. I attempted to blog back in the early days and believe you commented on one of my 3 posts. Your are such an inspiration!
Thank you so much for all your lovely ideas and encouragement over these many years! I have thoroughly enjoyed every post and creative idea. Diane, you feel like a friend who is moving away and while I’m so happy for you, I will miss you and your style!
I’ve been following your blog for years, and I’ll truly miss your updates. Your lakeside home has been such a joy to watch evolve — every project, every glimpse of the water, every thoughtful detail. Thank you for sharing so much of your life and creativity. Wishing you all the very best in this next chapter.
Oh my word – well I certainly wasn’t expecting that. But I truly understand. I blogged for years, too. And 17 is a lot – you put your heart and soul into this blog. I am glad someone else will be continuing it. I found you late but I am glad I did. I have enjoyed your finds and your fun and getting to know you. I wish you ALL life’s best. Enjoy the time you will now have found again. Take care.
I have enjoyed your blog and projects for years. You have given me inspiration and the know how to improve my own home all the while not breaking the bank. I wish you a wonderful retirement, filled with family adventures and relaxing days to do whatever strikes you to do. How nice it will be to just do a project and not all the additional work of taking step by step photos and then writing and publishing about it. You will be missed by many but you’ve done your bit and now its your time.
I feel so very sad Diane. I know it’s something we call have to do but it won’t be the same. I have followed you for years and truly look forward to each and every week. I only hope you will show up every now and then. Enjoy your time now. Blessings. Xxxxx
It has been my pleasure to read your column all these years and you will be missed.
Enjoy your retirement!
Congratulations on your retirement. Thank you for many years of inspiration! Enjoy your new found time each day! 💙
Thank you for all the ideas and education. I have been a follower for those 17 years and looked forward to every post. Enjoyed each and every post. I wish you a wonderful retirement. I retired in 2022 and it has been filled with many happy adventures.
I have truly enjoyed your inspiring ideas and followed you for years.
Thank you for your posts. I will miss you but at 74 years myself, I understand when it’s time to slow down and just enjoy the rest of our journey!
My very best to you on your retirement, Diane! I will miss your creativity! Your blog was one of the first blogs I found when I retired, and I just loved what you’d make from your finds. I’ve had that creating bug ever since, so thank you, for the gifts you’ve given through your creations.
I am so sad to see you retire, but also so happy for you! You have done so much for so many of us, way beyond the sharing of your inspirational ideas. You’ve shared your life experiences and perspectives. When I was downsizing and moving from our family home, your blog helped. And when everything got difficult I recalled reading about your bout with shingles in the middle of your move. Thanks for everything Diane, and best wishes to you and your family.
You will be missed! I have counted your blog as one of my favorites. I always enjoyed that you were willing to tackle diy projects in your home. I used to do the same but now the years and limitations prevent me from actively getting as involved as I used to. Enjoy this new chapter in your life. I am sure that your retirement will still be full and gratifying. All the best!
I’ve followed you for years and will miss all your creative ideas! Enjoy your retirement and all the best to you and your family!
Congratulations on your retirement! I have been following along from your previous home to the lake house. I have gotten so much inspiration from your blog and will miss Style Scouting, I look forward to Sunday mornings having my coffee and reading Style Scouting! Enjoy your well deserved retirement! Thank you for all the inspiration!
Congratulations and warmest wishes to you for a happy, healthy, relaxing, fulfilling retirement, Diane! I’ve enjoyed your blog for many years and especially your natural, conversational way of writing and explaining things. It’s a rare gift and I always felt like you’d just had a friendly, chatty visit with us. Thanks so much for sharing your warmth, ideas, talent, knowledge, and yourself and your family with us. All the best to you!
Congrats to you for coming to what must have been a hard decision to stop blogging… I have enjoyed following you, reading your articles and scanning your pictures for even more ideas! You’ll be missed! Wishing you all the best, enjoy your family and have fun redesigning your life, I know you’ll quickly fill the hours once devoted to blogging with other adventures and activities! Hugs!
You were the one that taught me to look at things in a whole new way. Yes, I’ve used your same questions in my ‘training.’ How can I make this better? Could I paint it? Could I use it in a different way? Can I figure out how to make it myself? You’ve been my favorite teacher and I’ve faithfully ‘lurked’ in reading all your newsletters. Sometimes I didn’t comment, but I always remembered your great ideas with beautiful results. Soon, those projects were in my home too, because of you. You will be missed, but congratulations on your retirement and I hope you’ll enjoy every minute of it. You earned it.
Oh my, I feel like my best friend neighbor is moving away😢 I especially love Style Scouting on Sundays! I wish the best for you and hope you enjoy retirement! You’ll certainly be missed 💕
Wow. I will miss you and your posts. When you moved to SC I was excited because I live just north of you in NC. And I am also a northerner. Best wishes on your retirement and enjoy the grandkids. They grow fast. I’ll be interested to know who comes next to this website.
I have loved your blog for a long, long time. Thank you for creating such wonderful content for all of your audience. I have learned so much from you. I appreciate you and all that you’ve taught us. Happy retirement and enjoy the next chapter of your life.
With heartfelt gratitude. . .
Wow… Congratulations! I will really miss reading your articles. I will continue to visit In My Own Style but will miss seeing all your creative DIY projects. Enjoy retirement!
Diane,
Thank you for all your work in bringing this beautiful blog to all of us. I have learned so much from you most importantly the “ I can do that” attitude. You will love retirement and having more time to love on your family. Thank your hubby too for all his hard work in helping you and being part of some of your posts. Wishing you so much joy. I have to admit I am writing this with tears. I follow very few bloggers and you have always been one of my favorites.
❤️
Wow… Congratulations! I will really miss reading your articles. I will continue to visit In My Own Style but will miss seeing all your creative DIY projects. Enjoy retirement!
Hi Diane. What bittersweet news, happy for you but sad to see you go. You deserve this time to dedicate to yourself and your family. I learned a lot from you over the years and have made some pretty awesome things with your teachings and inspiration. One of my favorites, that you might remember, was the clock table I painted. It started out with an ugly deer picture on top and ended up with a gorgeous clock face in its place. You and I “talked” back and forth. You gave me tips and ideas along the way. As I sit here in my recliner that very table is right here beside me. I will always cherish it and you for the joy it has given me. I will think of you kindly and with enormous gratitude for all of your inspiration. Best wishes to you!
Well I feel like I’m losing a friend! But, I do understand your decision as well. Enjoy your retirements d hug that grandbaby every chance you get! 💕
I am happy for you as you embark on your new journey but know you will be greatly missed!! I have loved reading your blog and all your creative ideas! I wish you the best!! You have been a great teacher.
Congratulations on your retirement! I (and all your followers) will miss you terribly, but you need to be able to travel, spend time with your family, and just enjoy life without worrying about the blog. Take good care of yourself, and please have Ed give you an extra hug.
Oh dear, so happy for you and so sorry for me. I will miss you! I didn’t comment but I always read and I always both enjoyed and learned from your blog. Hope you will drop in now and then for a little update. All the best to you! Enjoy every moment!