2021 Mid-Year Update

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*UPDATED TO ADD*
I wanted to create a quick addition to the start of this post to say that I am beyond humbled and so appreciative of all your amazingly kind, supporting, encouraging, and loving comments below. You’ve touched my heart in ways that words cannot explain. When I wrote this post, I didn’t expect such a response or outpouring of love. In fact, I was feeling bad about not being as active with my postings lately and just wanted to explain and apologize. You have overwhelmed, encouraged, and inspired me. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. Here’s to many more years of Inspired by Charm and this beautiful community.

Friends, how is 2021 treating you? I can’t believe we are almost halfway through the year. As I grow older, time seems to just go faster and faster. Does anyone else feel this way?

Given that we are at this point in the year, I thought it would be a good time to check in with you, share a little update, talk about the year, and chat about what’s on the horizon.

While there is nothing major happening, I’m always a bit hesitant to share these more “personal” posts. So much has changed in blogging over the past five years or so that posts like this seem almost taboo. However, I’ve felt the tug to write a little update, so here I go.

2021 Mid-Year Update #update #2021 #michaelwurmjr #art #life #story

A QUIET 2021:

If you follow the blog closely you may have noticed that things have slowed down somewhat dramatically after a very busy holiday season. This year’s gas felt really different. I assume it’s the combination of the dumpster fire that was 2020 and just feeling what I’ve determined to be a need to pivot.

“The need to pivot.”

I came across the following thought in a meme and it just hit a nerve of truth for me: “I want you to stop confusing exhaustion with unfulfillment. You aren’t tired, you’re unfulfilled. Give yourself permission to pivot.”

I have been blogging since 2009 and it has been my full-time job since 2013. While lots of changes have happened in that time period, twelve years is still a long time to be doing relatively the “same thing.” Don’t get me wrong, I am beyond thankful for my job and still generally love what I do. I can’t imagine doing anything else, nor do I want to do anything else. I suppose the blogging just feels a bit mundane on occasion.

2021 has just brought on this feeling of being tired/exhausted. This feeling has left me uninspired and unmotivated. At first, I just assumed that my creativity well had just dried up, or that maybe I had lost my talents, or that maybe I was just plain old lost. But what I’m learning is that maybe I’m not tired. Maybe I just need to pivot. I need something to be overly passionate about again.

The behind-the-scenes of blogging has become A LOT. It’s simply not enough to create a project/recipe, photograph it, and then share it. There are dozens of algorithms to keep up with just to be seen. There are dozens of “requirements” that Google puts into place that constantly change. These requirements need to be met, maintained, and constantly adjusted in order to be seen. And don’t get me started on social media. If you’re not outperforming yourself or putting on a grand show with every post, you basically don’t exist. Plus, you also “need to” create an Instagram Story, Timelapse, Pinterest Story, Google Story, IG Reel, and YouTube video about it. Say what!?

I love what I do, but because of all of these external “requirements,” a simple blog post seems like a heavy task rather than a simple joy.

I’m also trying to avoid comparison. As I mentioned above, blogging has changed so much. Many bloggers now have teams of people working for them. They have teams of people … assistants, people that write their posts, photographers, content managers, SEO experts, social media managers, videographers, and the list goes on. (And there’s nothing wrong with that approach. These folks are killing it and I love watching their businesses grow.)

Here at Inspired by Charm, it’s just me for the most part. I do have someone that edits my posts for grammar and spelling, and I have an amazing couple that has been filming videos for my recipe posts. (I’ve been adding those to my blog posts, YouTube Channel, and IGTV.) These people have been such a blessing to my business.

Some days I welcome the excitement and drive to keep moving forward and to become better than I was the day before, but other times I’m just annoyed and frustrated as I didn’t sign up for all of the “extras” that I just mentioned. I don’t want to be the CEO of some online media empire. I don’t want to be a manager of a team of people. I just want to live in my own space while creating, sharing, and inspiring.

It’s interesting too because I’ve noticed that a lot of my favorite bloggers and Instagrammers have talked about the same thing in one way or another. Some have stepped away completely. Others are taking the summer off. Others have made shifts in how or what type of content they are producing. Being aware of these situations has been so comforting. It makes me feel a little less crazy knowing that others are feeling the same way.

And I don’t say all of this to complain. I feel happy. I feel blessed. I feel a sense of purpose in that this is what I should be doing with my life. I suppose it’s just a reminder to be a little kinder to myself, do what I can, and not compare what one person can do to that of what a team of 6 can do.

While I’m generally pretty hard on myself, I’m trying to remind myself that this is just one of those ebbs in life that we all have. Thankfully ebbs don’t last forever. I’ll be chugging along on my flow in no time!

So how do I pivot? That’s my challenge because I haven’t figured that out yet! Ha! To be honest, I think a big part of it is just changing how I see and respond to things. It’s simply about showing up, doing my best every day. meeting the requirements I can, forgetting the rest, and then being at peace with it all. “We can do anything, but we can’t do everything.”

In a nutshell, that’s the long and short of where I’ve been at these days … physically and mentally. I think 2021 is just a year to be a bit quieter. A year to pause and reflect… and that’s okay.

2021 Mid-Year Update #update #2021 #michaelwurmjr #art #life #story

OTHER THINGS I’VE BEEN DOING:

Phew! With that chunk of information out of the way, I thought I would share some of the other things I’ve been up to for the first half of the year.

While this isn’t everything, these are some of the most notable things:

Crate and Barrel Collaboration: If you missed it at the end of last month, I shared a post about my side porch and fire pit area in collaboration with Crate and Barrel. (You can find that HERE if you did miss it.) This has honestly been the highlight of my year. As mentioned above, I’ve been blogging for 12 years and Crate and Barrel has been the one brand I’ve dreamed of working with. I feel so blessed to have had this opportunity.

There’s even a dedicated page to my design and product selections on their website. I didn’t even know that this was going to happen. I was filled with so much excitement and gratitude when they shared the link on their Facebook page.

Firepit Landscaping Makeover: The aforementioned collaboration motivated me to tackle another project on my list … a makeover of my backyard fire pit area. I’ve been sharing the progress on my Instagram feed. (There is a saved IG Highlights if you missed it.) The project turned out better than I expected. I love having this little oasis in my own backyard.

I will be sharing more about this on the blog VERY soon. I’m just waiting for a few more plants. Once they arrive and I get them into the ground, I will do a full post about the update.

2021 Mid-Year Update #update #2021 #michaelwurmjr #art #life #story

Gardening: This spring I was really busy outside. I planted over 60 perennials plus a few new trees and shrubs. And that’s in addition to the 70+ plants I added to the landscaping around my fire pit.

Gardening is a labor of love. And while the fruits of this labor will take a couple of years to fill out and unfold, I was so happy to make such great progress.

My Art Practice: I’ve shared a couple of posts about this on the blog (here and here), but 2021 has been a year where I dove headfirst back into my art practice. It couldn’t have come at a better time as this has been a nice mini pivot for me and something I’ve really been enjoying.

I signed up for three local in-person art courses. One was an introduction to painting which has been completed. Currently, I’m in an oil painting class where the students work on whatever project they choose and the instructor provides guidance. I LOVE the instructor and students, so this has been wonderful. This particular course will end this week and then the following week I will start a new course focusing on painting Pittsburgh landscapes en plein air. Plein air essentially means painting outside. The class will meet every week at a new outdoor location and we’ll paint outside from life. I’m especially excited about this class!

Art has brought me so much joy and peace this year; I really want to dive deeper into it. I have been trying to make art a daily habit. And while I’m not quite there, I have been painting or drawing as much as possible.

2021 Mid-Year Update #update #2021 #michaelwurmjr #art #life #story

WHAT’S AHEAD:

While 2021 has brought a more relaxed blogging and working schedule, I’m not just sitting around in my PJs. I do have some fun projects in the works. I’ll be sharing more about each of these as they come to life, but here’s a little sneak peek.

Retaining Wall: When it fits into my budget, my goal is to tackle one large project each year. Two years ago it was my kitchen makeover, last year it was custom cabinetry for my entryway and living room, and this year it’s a 100 ft. two-tiered retaining wall in my backyard.

This project will happen in September, but I spent a lot of time figuring out the plan and finding the best contractors. Once this project is complete, it will open the doors to allow me to add even more to my backyard including a shed, garden, outdoor oven, etc. I can’t wait!

Bedroom Updates: I have two bedrooms in my house that have mostly gone untouched since I moved in. While they don’t require major renovations, I want to give them some sort of style direction. One room will get painted, the other room will receive wallpaper, and both will get new light fixtures and furnishings.

The goal is just to have these spaces feel more complete and intentional.

Basement Studio: This might be the project I’m most excited about. I’ve never shared my basement online before. It’s not that it’s all that bad, it’s just an awkward space with bad lighting.

For a while now, I’ve been wanting to turn my basement into a little creative studio. (I’ve been doing my art out of a small section of a bedroom and it just isn’t cutting it.) Well, I’m finally going to do it! I will obviously take you along on the journey (before photos coming soon!) and share my plans and process.

In a nutshell, here’s what needs to be done:
– update lighting
– repair and paint paneling (walls)
– new flooring
– furnish and style
– update doors and windows

While this isn’t a major renovation, there is still a lot to be done. I’m hoping to tackle some of the projects myself, I’m also bringing in some folks to do the projects that are beyond my skill/knowledge level. Thankfully I have some great folks lined up so the project should be underway soon.

With all of these design projects, my current plan is to take my time with them. While I’m anxious to get them completed (especially the basement studio), I’m in no rush.

2021 Mid-Year Update #update #2021 #michaelwurmjr #art #life #story

Art Practice: As I mentioned above, my art practice is currently a big focus for me. My goal is to be able to do one painting each day. As I’ve watched and listened to other artists talk about their evolution and practice. the one thing I heard, again and again, is how important and helpful it was for them to paint every day.

I’m still working on developing my style and trying to figure out what medium and subjects I like best. Once I feel more confident and have a clear direction, I would love to be able to create a collection and offer some work for sale. I’ve been so surprised at how many folks have asked about purchasing some of my art. I would love to make this a reality.

More of What You Love About IBC: I also plan to bring you more of what you love. While I’m not going anywhere and updates will continue to be here on the blog and on Instagram, I suspect that things will be slow and quiet for the rest of the summer and things will ramp up around August. But who knows, that could change! I’m trying to let 2021 unfold as it would like. No pressure. I hope you’ll stick with me.

… I think that’s enough for the year, right?

2021 Mid-Year Update #update #2021 #michaelwurmjr #art #life #story

THAT’S A WRAP:

So that was a lot. Haha. I think I should wrap things up here.

While I knew this post would be informative, I didn’t realize how long it would be until my fingers hit the keyboard. I hope that this was insightful, informative, and gave you a little look at how I’ve been spending my days.

If you’ve gotten this far in this post, congratulations, and thank you for sticking with me. Now, this is the point where I’ll ask you what you’d like to see here. And while I always appreciate the typical responses of “more of the same, recipes, keep doing what you’re doing,” etc., I’d really love to know what your soul is craving more of when you come online. What brings you here? Also, when you leave this space, what left you feeling happy and inspired. What improved your day, your home, your life. Let me know in the comments below. Thank you!

Until next time, my friends!

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163 Comments

  1. I really enjoy these personal posts. I think it is courageous to open yourself up to all of us. I also feel like my life needs to “pivot” and by you sharing your thoughts it is an encouragement for me. I have especially enjoyed your landscaping/gardening posts. I would love to see more of those kinds of posts and Instagram stories. I would also like you to keep updating us on your painting journey. I’m excited to see where your creativity leads you. Thank you for letting all of us tag along!

  2. Michael, thank you for your honesty. The big “brand” bloggers are not to my taste, they can make anything look glitzy by throwing money at it. But authentic excellence — you — can never be faked. You are the real deal. Never change.
    Now, I want part of your pivot to include you hosting classes or weekends or something: we go antiquing, have an art class, make a meal together (or two or three), tour some local homes. Maybe there is a Pittsburgh home-and-garden center that would host a series of classes with you (the flower farm perhaps?). Just an idea to ruminate on.

  3. I love when you post about your recent vintage finds. I love the videos where you “ take us shopping with you”. Of course, recipes! I use yours all the time. And I am enjoying all the updates and projects to your home outside and in,

  4. Based on these comments from other followers your doing a fabulous job of entertaining us. You do you seems to be what we all desire. I’ve followed your for years and your personality, talent and charm keeps bringing us back. We trust you and that means a lot. Can’t wait for the studio.

  5. I CAN NOT WAIT FOR THE BASEMENT STUDIO! I am trying to make my guest bedroom into a studio without “looking” like a studio…so, I look forward to being inspired by you.

    It’s amazing to me, that after 13 years of blogging (I’ve only been following you for two of them), your blog is fresh, inspiring and relevant.

    What I would like to see: Last minute entertaining ideas, decorating on a budget, and MORE of your DIY table decor!

    Keep in mind, you still inspire with charm…and though it’s interesting to know the work and frustrations incurred behind the scenes (I read the entire blog and enjoyed it). What I took away from this blog is that even with all the frustrations and creative blocks…you make your readers feel like it’s easy…THAT is your gift.

  6. Michael, I sincerely say I enjoy EVERYTHING you do! You are REAL and your posts are genuine. You and Emily Henderson (who has a massive team) are the lone survivors in who I follow blog-wise. Thank you for feeling like my wildly creative friend; one I could call for a killer dip recipe or who shows me the best plants to combine for my hanging baskets. I will think on what I want more of… Frankly I one reason I stopped following so many others cause is because it feels like a business, and I am their “customer.” No thanks.

  7. I’m relatively new here but wanted to say hello and how much I enjoy your honesty and being real! I will also be following on IG. The huge, flashy accounts are all for show and numbers, IMHO. I appreciate the friendly, honest and real! Your crafts, decor, recipes and now art work is my pivot! 😁 I live in an apt so I don’t have a lot of space or a great outdoors so it’s my pleasure to see your creativity. You do you!

  8. You are truly loved here, no matter the content, ie; recipes, plants, kitties, art or THE AMAZING CRATE AND BARREL showcase, just show us YOU, at your own pace. We’ll be here. Pinky promise!🥰

  9. Wow. This post truly resonated with me. I have followed you for many years. I love your style, your recipes, your personal glimpses. I have stopped reading some blogs because of the push, push, push. You are on the right path. Stick to it. Your art is delightful and I look forward to seeing more! The past few years have been very hard for me personally. Seeing one of your posts in my inbox is a warm welcome. Thank you. Sheran

  10. Michael, hopefully all these comments will show you that we love what you do. I love it all – design, makeover, recipes, art, holidays, vintage – and honest sharing like you just did. As others have said, I have stopped following those who I feel have become a “machine”. I can go to a corporate website and see that. When I see your work on your blog or IG – it is real. Please be you, take care of you and just keep sharing what speaks to you. As someone said earlier – you are stuck with us! (PS: I think a new picture would be nice just to show the you that is evolving. Maybe a picture of you painting!)But – you be you!

  11. Just keep being you! That in itself sets you apart from the others. I’ve followed you for a couple of years. I love the way you decorate seasonally, (especially when you share where to buy the cute things), the recipes and lately the gardening which is where my life has been heading lately. Forget the pressure of performing and go at your own algorithms because that’s the beauty of working for yourself…. and by God, people like it! 🙂

  12. I’ve been following IBC for several years, and some of my “go to” recipes have come from you! In what lately feels like a flooded social media/online space, IBC remains a joyful & bright spot, so THANK YOU for that! I have a spread the word and now several close family/friends also are loyal IBC followers too 🙂 Keep being you! My one wish, is that I believe at one point you mentioned doing “best of” Pittsburgh post, which I’d LOVE to see that! I know you did one about local antique stores, but maybe one as a more comprehensive “best of” Pitt? Keep shining – looking forward to where your next pivot leads!

  13. Michael, Ditto on all the posts I see here…
    I’m relatively new to your posts. And truly enjoy seeing them hit my email box. So inspiring and beautiful.
    Thank you for sharing. Funny I having been feeling the same way. And keep staying the word pivot over and over again. It’s hard but in order not to be overwhelmed by all the change this last “dumpster year of 2020” as you call it…perfect term, one must constantly assess.
    I think you’ve been on a beautiful path, that brings light and your lovely energy to all.
    Maria

  14. If I haven’t seen your blog in awhile I go and find you – your blog is fresh and yes inspiring – I’m suspicious of the influencers and don’t take them seriously – they just feel plastic to me – yours is authentic. I’ve followed blogs since the beginning and the real ones feel like my friends – each their own personality. Be yourself – it’s good – love your paintings~

  15. Hi Michael,
    I love your blog in fact I miss seeing all of your projects on the blog because I don’t subscribe to Facebook, Instagram, etc….its just too much overload. I must say that I’m about ready to unsubscribe to another person’s popular blog because I feel as if she is all about the marketing and pushing of product more than sharing ideas and stories.
    So I hope you continue and at the pace you are comfortable with because your blog is one of my favorites. Have a wonderful summer!

  16. Michael, Frank Sinatra sings a song entitled “I’ve Got to Be Me” and honey follow your heart not what your peers are doing. The painted pics shown – did you paint these? If so, they are GORGEOUS!!!!!!!!!!! love the coloring and realism on all of them. You just might have found another way of expressing yourself and how wonderful to be so multi-talented! God has a plan and looks like it could be slowly unfolding – embrace what is happening. Remember we are ALL ‘works in progress!’ ox

    1. You are so kind, Julie. Thank you. And yes, the paintings above are all mine. They were such a joy to create and I’m excited to do more.

      xo Michael

  17. Hi Michael, I found you several years ago with your Easter table design. You had a white pitcher filled with pink tulips, and Easter candy in a pink patterned tea cup. I had all of those things, and was able to replicate the design. Every Easter when I put that together, I always think of IBC!! I’ve used your recipes and your design/collection ideas. I’m thrilled to see you painting and pushing yourself in that arena; I would love to have some of those available for purchase. I think everyone (who is honest with him/herself) has felt a similar malaise. . .is this endeavor making me happy? What has become task-driven and not passion-driven. Keep reflecting and creating.

  18. Yep, I read all the way to the end. I’m feeling the same itch to pivot and can really relate with your thought of confusing exhaustion with feeling unfulfilled. I think it’s mixed with a big need for rest. Squeezing in time to paint everyday will hopefully help you with some of that for sure, it works wonders for me. I look forward to your basement studio make-over because that’s something I need to do! This was inspiring Sunday morning reading. Thank you Michael!

  19. Michael, I have been spending time with you for over a year and can’t tell you how much I have enjoyed your blog. I enjoy all the variety you have brought to us but especially enjoy your art work. OMG Michael, you must go forward with this talent! I have not seen one thing I would not be proud to hang in my home. So admire such God given talent. Also enjoy your playlists. Haven’t seen a new one lately? Have I missed one? Much Light & Blessings, Sharon