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Friday Flotsam

By on July 10, 2026 in Friday Flotsam

Frrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr!- we need to talk.

I don’t think I’m feeling this anymore. It’s not you, it’s me! (why do I feel like I’m in a Seinfeld episode all of a sudden.)

This is the thing: Instagram and blogging and content creating has been my job for a long, long time. And if I’m honest, I’m struggling to find the joy in it anymore. It’s not working for me any longer. I’ve had huge highs and big lows, and it’s been quite the ride. This job has granted me opportunities that I never could have imagined in my life. Shows with the Food Network, travel all over the world, meeting other bloggers and forming friendships and a community that I could never dreamed of! This has a been beyond incredible. But the platform has changed so much. The algorithm has shifted drastically over the last couple of years, that I no longer can afford to be a food blogger. I just can’t.

This is the thing: I really do adore creating certain kind of content. But when the algorithm knows you’ve worked super hard on a project and shows it to half a toenail, it gets you nowhere. Partnerships fade, the ambition lessens, the frustration sets in and the joy sours and starts to stink. That’s where I am. Stinking. Or maybe I just need a shower.

This is the thing: (I’m trying to see how many times I can say that before you punch your screen.) I turn 50 next month, and I’m feeling a colossal pivot. As in, I’m ready to get a job! At a place! With people! I’m ready for a chapter with stability, connection, a financial forecast I can count on, and that doesn’t involve checking stupid Instagram to see how many people liked that sponsored post so maybe oh maybe I can get more work because of it. No, I can’t do that anymore.

This is the thing: there’s sadness here, too. I’ve structured a lifestyle and a rhythm that works for me. Early mornings with books, getting the kids out the door, 8am runs twice a week, laundry by 10am, estate sales carved in, yard work duties on Tuesday mornings, shooting a weekly recipe by noon and a Book Tasting episode every Friday. I have it very dialed. Home is poetry and I’m in my own sonnet. Le sigh.

But I need more. I need a change. My site is clunky and bloated and loaded with bots and I have no idea how to fix that, nor the money to have it all cleaned up. I just don’t care enough. And that makes me sad and mad. Instagram has become lifeless and unfulfilling.

WATCH, as soon as I vocalize all this, I’ll find the joy again. Hahahahahaa. Hah ahha. Ha. Ha?

This is the thing: I’d love to look for work and I want you to tell me what that looks like! Do I work at a bookstore? In mortgage lending? At Trader Joe’s? Dead serious about all three. Something face-forward and administrative? What is my next chapter and also KC or Overland Park, will you hire me??? I’m intensely disciplined, fantastic at keeping a flow and outrageously friendly. Let me come work for you!!

I just got excited.

Tell me what my next job is. What does this next wild and precious chapter look like for me? (Mary Oliver sold separately.)

This is the thing: (have you punched your screen yet?) I have a recipe coming next week, and obviously more books to discuss, and I’ll definitely keep linking recipes to IG. And life moments. Of course. It all exists. But I’m just ready to make a big change and I’d love to know what’s out there. What’s out there, world?! Casting my net . . . now.

(Also, if you missed it, I did post an insanely delicious street corn queso that you’ll need in your face all weekend.)

This is the thi- just kidding! Love you all. This is not goodbye. But really, what’s next for me and can I work for you? Just don’t ask me to freeze peanut butter.

35 Responses to Friday Flotsam

  1. Caitlin July 10, 2026 at 9:03 am #
    Bev, this makes me sad but I also totally get it! I hope we’ll still get to enjoy your presence on the internet/instagram even when you step into a new chapter, even if it’s less of it! I could totally see you working at a winery or wine shop. You make wine approachable and fun! I could also see you do something on the admin side for a museum or something like that. Definitely needs to be something that lets your personality and people skills shine! Wherever you go next, I’ll be rooting for you!
    Reply
    • Laura Lee July 10, 2026 at 4:06 pm #
      I don't even know what I want to be for my 2nd Act so I'm not sure about you Bev. I did start an Etsy shop for needle felted items but that's not a living. Maybe you coud do something in catering or event planning? I hope you find something you enjoy! Good luck!
      Reply
  2. Nan July 10, 2026 at 9:05 am #
    I made a huge change in my 40s, and I can’t tell you how liberating and healing it was to verbalize my most sacred, quiet dreams out loud and have the world just listen and nod. So I say monetize the thing you love the most and don’t be afraid of the plunge. I think your writing is so good and since book tasting is a new drift, I vote for working in a bookstore to get a sense of the writing and publishing industry and identify a long-term fit in that world! Food styling, copy editing, promoting Elin’s work? Something like that. I hope you keep us posted over here on Instagram, it’ll be so inspiring!
    Reply
  3. Flwrpwr chick July 10, 2026 at 9:11 am #
    I think it’s an exceptional idea ! As long as we get life updates! lol. I’m invested. I remember the kids in the glass maze. You will blossom and I think it’s fantastic! I totally see you working at Trader Joe’s ! Stay out of administrative type work ! I did that for decades! Retail is your calling. A book store for sure ! I see you working at a non profit too ! Good luck ! You will shine !!
    Reply
  4. Abby July 10, 2026 at 9:44 am #
    Bev I have been following you and your blog since before your kids were born. You are such a joy on the internet and I'll miss you. That being said, I think you would be a fabulous server at a local winery, trader Joe's worker,or book store worker. Any place you can connect with people and be your fun, silly self would be lucky to have you. Hugs, Abby.
    Reply
  5. Emily July 10, 2026 at 10:20 am #
    You're not the only one who has changed things up after blogging for a long time. I know of other bloggers who have done the same thing and went and got a regular job. The hiring market sucks right now, honestly. So be prepared for it to take a while. It might not if you get a job at a bookstore or that kind of thing. But if it's an office type job, it might take a while. It is an adjustment but the steady paycheck is nice, and you'll develop a new schedule. Think abt your family's schedule since you have youngerish kids still and figure out how to work around it. It can be tricky. You might like doing something with a school? Idk. But I think it's a good idea to make a change. Go for it. It might take a while to find your spot but I think you'll like it. Be patient tho and start putting out feelers now bc it could take a little while.
    Reply
  6. Shannon July 10, 2026 at 10:27 am #
    Bev! I will miss your Friday Flotsoms and book tasting that I really look forward to every Friday! You are a complete joy! Your writing is so witty and relatable . You have so many talents. Wherever you go- they will be lucky to have you!
    Reply
    • Bev Weidner July 10, 2026 at 10:56 am #
      Oh, Book Tasting will not go away!! that's a passion. That's fun and enjoyable. I'll be around! :) thank you so much for the kind words!
      Reply
  7. Jenn P July 10, 2026 at 12:48 pm #
    You do you, Bev. It seems like you always have, for all of the many, many years I've been following you. I agree with many folks here - front facing, people forward work is for you. I'd agree wth the people - wine/books something. Maybe a wine shop with a tasting room where you incorporate your Book Tastings in real life. Or a bookshop with a cafe where you can do a Book Club wine tasting situation. I love your recipes, but honestly, I come here more for the books and the chats and the bangs and the runs than the food at this point. Oh! Also the yearly song with your siblings, and your playlists. Your playlists are my fav. Anyway. We'll be here for whatever you choose. On to the next!
    Reply
  8. Nancy July 10, 2026 at 1:19 pm #
    i totally get wanting a change. IG really does suck these days. I think you will do well with a job involving other people for sure. What that is i don’t know. From experience, i can say I worked an administrative job for 31 years and I probably wouldn’t have stayed that long if I hadn’t had a great boss for the first 20 years. That’s a round about way of saying that desk jobs can be real soul sucking without the right people & conditions. As far as Trader Joe’s, i had a friend that worked there. She was probably 60 so older than you and she did not like being told what to do by 20 & 30 year olds with attitude. Seems i heard someone else say the same on IG or somewhere online. So there’s that. I’m sure you’ll find what’s right for you. Hopefully you can make some money doing something you love. Or maybe you’ll find something that allows you to earn and learn something new at the same time. OK, enough from me. You got this!
    Reply
  9. Lauren July 10, 2026 at 2:06 pm #
    Bev, I have been following you for a long time. Even before the frozen peanut butter, and loved you even more because of it! You had this corner of the internet community for a long season and I love to see what is next for you. I must say, you always gave me a sense of absolute joy and zen from your content. I’ve grown in my music and was in complete bliss watching you create your dinners with your brass salt and pepper grinders and your beautiful dim lighting with plants all around. You created whimsy and ease to life, and shared your neighborhood community with all of us. Gosh, I want to move from Noblesville, IN to KC and hang with your gang. Please keep us updated on your next chapter. And thank you for letting us get a peek into your beautiful world.
    Reply
  10. Jess July 10, 2026 at 2:08 pm #
    Good luck, Bev!!! I have been reading your blog for more than a decade and will miss your sense of humor and amazing recipes. You will find something wonderful that compliments your life perfectly. Take care!
    Reply
  11. Bridget July 10, 2026 at 2:17 pm #
    Bev! Looking back at you from 56 and cheering you on!!! I absolutely get this. Every word. I love that you’re seeing it so clearly and I’m super excited to see whats next for you…if you decide to share. Maybe…RUN FOR OFFICE???
    Reply
  12. Stephanie July 10, 2026 at 2:44 pm #
    I see you working in the non-profit event space. Do I know what that space is? No, but it just seems right up your alley. Although a bookstore job would be mighty charming I don't think it will help in the financial department all that much but I could be super wrong. Love your work and your recipes. I hope the blog sticks around. So many of them have become staples for our fam! Best of luck!
    Reply
  13. Cheryl July 10, 2026 at 2:54 pm #
    You might consider substitute teaching! You can pick your days, your grade, your schools and the pay is pretty good especially in the SMSD….
    Reply
  14. Stephanie P July 10, 2026 at 3:57 pm #
    Hi, long time follower here. I’m glad to hear that we’ll see you on IG and get glimpses of your life. I always enjoyed your stories; you really reminded me of Kristen Wiig. I think you’re being brave for recognizing this shift and acting on it. I changed my career completely when I turned 40 because something fell in my lap that totally lined up with my family’s needs. It is no way what I aspired to be or do but it’s been working and benefits us in many ways. Trust that the right thing will come along! Good luck.
    Reply
  15. Laura Jensen July 10, 2026 at 6:29 pm #
    Oh man…. this is exciting! What about a local magazine or some kind of local shop that needs a social media manager? You have so much experience and know how the game works. If you want to totally cut ties with social media, I would understand. I could totally see you in a really great kitchen shop that sells wine and some prepared foods. Could you open that yourself if it doesn’t already exist? If so, I’ll relocate from Portland and work for you! 😉
    Reply
  16. Mara July 10, 2026 at 10:47 pm #
    Bev, You’re the best. You add so much joy to whatever you do. You’ll find the job that celebrates you and all your talents.
    Reply
  17. Jessica July 11, 2026 at 5:24 am #
    I’m excited for you but also sad because I’ve been following along for a long time!! I was an art teacher for almost a decade then shifted to being home with my girls. And now in 4 years I’ll be preparing for another shift. I’m nervous but excited at the possibilities. You will find a flow and that joy again. 💫 Who knows maybe that new space will lead you back here but in inspiring and exciting ways. We will all be here cheering you on!
    Reply
  18. Kristin July 11, 2026 at 8:54 am #
    I just started working part time at Midcontinent Public Library in April, and I LOVE it. Not much $ in part time, but my co-workers are amazing, my branch is beautiful, and the job is super fulfilling, but I get to leave it there when I go home. I hope you find something you love.
    Reply
  19. Beth July 12, 2026 at 12:52 pm #
    Like many mothers, you could do JUST ABOUT ANYTHING!!! You have the mad skills many jobs would require - dedication, motivation, interest, curiosity, organization - you name it! I think what makes me a little sad is how lovely the old world of blogging was - when young moms connected across the internet and watched each other's kids and families grow and develop and they realized they weren't alone. These days the internet is just TOO MUCH! All the best as you figure out what's next!
    Reply
  20. Kindy July 13, 2026 at 6:55 pm #
    I get it! Since Meta took over Insta, they have managed to suck every last ounce of joy out of it. I would buy books from you! I also love Jenn’s comment about working at a wine shop. 100% agree with her! Also, what about getting into real estate? There is definitely money to be made there, and you have the friendliness & enthusiasm to sell alllll the houses :)
    Reply
  21. Amanda July 14, 2026 at 3:47 pm #
    This made me a little sad because I’ve been reading/following for years and love to you pieces. I totally get that the landscape has changed. But I want you to be happy and find what you love and brings you all the joy. Best of wishes! Don’t forget about us!
    Reply
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    Reply
  23. Liz July 17, 2026 at 1:43 pm #
    You are one of the few bright spots left on Insta! But I get it. I'm sorry you're not feeling it, you have alluded to this in the past so it's not a total surprise. BTW I am just seeing this today (July 17th) even though you posted it last week, because I am not getting the email link to it anymore. I wonder how many other people that is true for. I used to get an email each and every Friday, but I haven't in a while and decided to go investigate. I agree with everyone who said you would be great in a wine shop or book shop! What about a waitress job in a cute wine bar or cafe? You would be everyone's favorite waitress and brings home some good $$ in tips! VERY glad book tasting is not going anywhere : ) Hope you find a job you love! Thanks for all the great recipes and good laughs! Wishing you tons of success with whatever is next!!!
    Reply
  24. Sarah Flamion July 18, 2026 at 10:58 am #
    Ahhhh! But yes, things change and it's totally valid for you to want to change too. Thanks for bringing so many smiles and laughs over the years, and I hope you're next journey is filled with all the good things.
    Reply
  25. Rachele July 19, 2026 at 12:31 pm #
    God Bev, Selfish much?? I KID. Seriously this breaks my heart, though. You have been a beacon of authenticity, and you have brought nothing but good into the world, frozen peanut butter and all. I hope you are proud of the joy you spread and the delicious recipes you’ve shared. F the algorithm. <— can that be the name of our new band? I don’t do instagram because i have a hard time with moderation, but if that’s the way I stay in your world, i might have to figure it out. Now if you and your sister could please give us a beautiful harmonized version of Climb Every Mountain to close this on a high note….. Love you girl. You’ll shine on like the top of the Chrysler building ;-)
    Reply
  26. Rachele July 19, 2026 at 12:31 pm #
    God Bev, Selfish much?? I KID. Seriously this breaks my heart, though. You have been a beacon of authenticity, and you have brought nothing but good into the world, frozen peanut butter and all. I hope you are proud of the joy you spread and the delicious recipes you’ve shared. F the algorithm. <— can that be the name of our new band? I don’t do instagram because i have a hard time with moderation, but if that’s the way I stay in your world, i might have to figure it out. Now if you and your sister could please give us a beautiful harmonized version of Climb Every Mountain to close this on a high note….. Love you girl. You’ll shine on like the top of the Chrysler building ;-)
    Reply
  27. anime expeditions wiki July 24, 2026 at 6:34 am #
    'I just got excited' made me smile. Bev's enthusiasm is contagious-imagine finding joy in a second act! Working at a wine shop sounds perfect for her vibe. I can easily picture her chatting with customers, sharing tips, and creating a fun atmosphere. What's next for her? Can't wait to see.
    Reply
  28. Mary July 25, 2026 at 11:10 am #
    I’m in total denial about this, didn’t comment earlier because that would make it real! FF is one of my favorite things on the web and gives me life. Change is gonna come. You have been hinting for a long time. Whatever you choose will be infused with your creativity, gumption (now there’s a word!) and authenticity. Keep us posted!
    Reply
  29. HC July 26, 2026 at 7:20 pm #
    You are amazing and it is a joy to read your posts, make your recipes, listen to the playlists and enjoy stories about your family. Whatever you choose, I wish you the all the best…
    Reply
  30. MDConverter July 28, 2026 at 3:41 am #
    When Instagram, blogging, and content creation have been a job for years, “I’m not feeling this anymore” can signal more than a temporary lack of ideas. It may reflect tension between the person who originally enjoyed creating and the workflow required to keep feeding multiple platforms. The Seinfeld-like self-awareness makes that tension especially clear: even questioning the work can start to feel like another piece of content. A useful distinction might be whether the fatigue comes from creating itself, from constant publication, or from the expectation to turn ordinary life into material. Each answer points toward a different kind of change.
    Reply
  31. Mateo July 30, 2026 at 9:17 pm #
    When content creation has been a job for years, losing enthusiasm is not simply a scheduling problem; it can signal that the relationship between creativity, audience expectations, and platform demands has changed. Separating those parts may make the decision clearer: which activities still feel meaningful, which exist mainly because an algorithm rewards them, and which could be paused without abandoning the whole body of work. A smaller workflow built around one sustainable format may reveal whether the fatigue comes from creating itself or from the machinery surrounding it.
    Reply
  32. Javier July 30, 2026 at 9:45 pm #
    When content creation has been a job for a long time, “not feeling it anymore” can signal more than a temporary lack of ideas. It may reflect exhaustion with the platform, the publishing cadence, or the expectation to turn ordinary life into material. Separating those pressures can make the next decision clearer. One practical step is to audit the current workflow: identify which formats still feel meaningful, which obligations generate most of the strain, and whether a pause or narrower schedule would create useful breathing room.
    Reply
  33. Henry July 30, 2026 at 11:31 pm #
    The line about no longer feeling it carries extra weight because content creation has been a long-term job, not merely a passing hobby. When a public creative identity and paid work have been intertwined for years, losing enthusiasm can raise questions about income, routine, audience expectations, and personal identity at the same time. It may help to separate dissatisfaction with the platforms from dissatisfaction with the creative workflow itself. That distinction leaves room for several possibilities: changing the publishing rhythm, narrowing the subject matter, moving toward a less performative format, or deciding that an intentional ending is the healthiest choice.
    Reply

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