I’ve always known that this day would one day come. I never knew when or why or how, but goodbyes/TTYLs are sometimes inevitable as bittersweet as they tend to be. As one chapter ends, another begins.

This past chapter of my life has most definitely been one for the books, and I want to start off by saying that I will never be able to fully express my gratitude in words. Blogging has been a huge part of my life these past few years, and it has taught me more than I could have ever imagined. When I created this WordPress blog in college, I never in my wildest dreams imagined that it would receive close to 1,000,000 unique views. It has been such a humbling and life changing experience; and for that, I will always be indebted to each and every one of you that supported me, encouraged me, and cheered me on every step of the way. I could have absolutely never made it without you.

Though the world of blogging can have its ups and downs, my experience brought me more joy and confidence than I could even begin to tell you. I was always so thankful to have this incredible creative outlet along with such an inspiring and kind community. Blogging challenged me to the fullest extent, but the lessons learned were truly invaluable.

I am beyond thankful to have had this opportunity and this place of positivity in my life. My years in college were not always the most seamless, predictable periods of my life, and it was so comforting to have a place where I could go and create and be myself, unapologetically. Thank you for letting me be me. Now, I know the big elephant in the room: why are you taking a break from blogging? To be candid, there are a few reasons. This was not an overnight, rash decision nor was it one that I planned for months. It was sort of a transition and realization that this chapter was coming to an end, and the timing finally felt right (though again, goodbyes are bittersweet and almost NEVER easy. Especially for me.). However, the main reason I have decided to put a pause on blogging is because I am now pursing a career in the fashion industry. It feels so surreal to say/write out-loud. My past two “big girl” jobs have both been in the tech industry- interning for Oracle along with working on a digital marketing team for an adtech company in San Francisco. While tech will always be one of my passions and interests, fashion has always been a huge, huge part of my life as well. One reason I started my blog in the beginning was to have a place where I could go to rave about my latest fashion finds, share my go-to outfits, and gush about my favorite things. I never thought I would have the opportunity to work in the industry as a career, but when I was offered a Digital Marketing role at one of the largest retailers in the United States, I realized my dreams had finally come true. I am beyond grateful that I have this opportunity, and I am elated to announce that I have accepted a full time position at Macy’s.com.

Now that style will be a part of my daily life and I will get to do what I love full-time, I’ve realized that it’s time for one door to close and another to open. Running this blog has been an amazing adventure, and it has completely transformed me as a person, as dramatic as that may sound. Though I still have a lot of growing to do and much more to learn in this life, I am proud of the person I have become these past few years. Blogging taught me perseverance, patience, dedication, and passion. When I think of who I was day one of blogging compared to the person I am today, I feel so humbled and grateful for the inner transformation that has entered my life.

Thank you again for all of your encouragement and support over the years. I really just can’t express my appreciation in words. I want to thank each and everyone of you- whether you mailed me a letter back in college, sent me emails, asked me Tumblr questions, or even just silently read one of my posts. I am grateful for you. And as a last big thank you, I want to express my utmost gratitude to my amazing, supportive family. My family was so encouraging of my blog over the years. My mom, sister, and even my dad all took my blog photos; they were my biggest cheerleaders. But most importantly, I am so thankful to be surrounded by people that love me unconditionally, push me to be my best, and constantly remind me that no dream is too big.

Will I ever blog again some day? Maybe. I can’t give a concrete, tangible answer. However, for the future ahead, I plan on continuing to pursue my passions outside of blogging, putting 110% into my career, spending more time with my friends and family, and following my lifelong dreams. I might share travel posts or something along those lines in 2018 and beyond, but I have decided that I just personally need to take a little break from blogging and focus on other aspects of my life right now. Though this hasn’t been the easiest post to write, I felt like transparency was necessary as I take on this exciting adventure and cherish this new chapter of my life. Though this is something of a goodbye for now, you can still follow my journey on Instagram (@mackenziekmiller). I will also still be on Pinterest & Poshmark.

Thank you again for your support! Lots of love.

xoxo,

Mackenzie

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