Why I’m quitting blogging… and don’t feel bad about it!

Dec 31, 2016 | About Jordan

Why I'm quitting blogging. Big changes in 2017!

I'm not going to lie, I'm nervous as I write this.

The funny thing is, I'm not sure why. You Freebs have been nothing but supportive and incredible toward me (and my family!) on my little blogging journey. What started as a whim hobby in 2011 has snowballed into an incredible experience, blessing, and GIFT that I never would have ever thought possible.

But…

I'm about to declare some bold things, and once you put thoughts out to cyberspace, it's hard to take it back. (Trust me, I've learned the hard way.)

I've had this post stewing in my head for a few months now. I've sat down to try to write it several times, and the words just haven't come. I don't know how to explain what I'm feeling, or what the end solution is. But I have some things on my mind, and some major changes that need to be made in my life, and with this being the last day of 2016 I figure this is as good a time as any to get it off my chest and put a plan into action.

Here goes…

I'm quitting blogging. Or, rather, I'm quitting “blogging“. And yes, there is a difference.

Buckle up, this could be a long one…

When I first started blogging in 2010, the internet – the blogging world, namely – was the wild wild west. Everyone and their dog (literally) had their own blog; “family blogs” as they were referred to back then. Free for the taking, easy to start, fun to do. A creative outlet that anyone could enjoy, and it was a fun new hobby for the rest of us to be able to peek inside the lives of people we were curious about.

I started FunCheapOrFree as a way to share all the fun, cheap, or free things I was finding in and around Salt Lake City, UT, to help struggling families like mine find things to do that don't cost much (or anything at all). I did it outside of my family blog to keep our family protected and retain a little privacy. I mean, who wants to come looking for free things to do in Utah and happen upon Priya's birth story instead?

After a few months of posting coupons, deals, and fun/cheap/free things to do in Utah I realized…

I hated it.

Like, REALLY hated it.

I was expressing my hatred to Bubba one night in bed, telling him how much I loathed the “rat race” I had found myself in. Scraping to be the first to post a coupon, or free tickets to this or that, comparing myself to other coupon and deal bloggers (that's all that existed pretty much back then), and feeling bad that after a few months of blogging, I still only had about 5 readers…3 of them were my mom on her phone, iPad, and computer.

Blogging is NOT for me, I declared.

As Bubba leaned over to turn out the lamp he said, “then stop ‘blogging', and just go back to doing what you love.

Why did you start it in the first place? Forget everyone else and just do what you want to do. If you don't plan to make millions from this, then it's a hobby. Do it your own way and make it yours. There's not even a picture of you on your site anywhere. You need to put your stamp and personality on it, and maybe people will stick around.”

He rolled over and went to bed, and my mind raced the rest of the night.

I woke up early the next morning, ran to my computer, and The Fun Cheap or Free Queen was born.

That was in 2011. I took exactly what I had been doing, “blogging” just like everyone else, and decided to throw it out the window and do it MY WAY.

I vowed to stop looking at numbers. I promised to quit the rat race. I decided that I was in charge of my own real estate. I was going to blog about what I wanted to blog about, because who gives a flip what everyone else does! I wasn't making money from it, it was my hobby, my way. (I'm a bit of a control freak, no?)

I became inspired, and a flame lit in me that I hadn't experienced before. I loved blogging. LOVED it. It was my way, my rules, my readers which quickly became my best friends.

About a year and a half later I was sweating at my computer, with Hutch and baby Priya in high chairs in front of the TV, watching their 3rd episode of Sesame Street. Bubba came into the kitchen and saw me stressed out of my mind, rushing to get my blog post out for the day.

I'll spare you the details but he basically had what we lovingly call a Come To Jesus meeting.

He sat me down and talked me through my “blogging.” I was killing myself, letting my house go, and neglecting my children, in order to get 5-7 blog posts out per week. I felt self-imposed pressure to post certain things, at certain times. I kept committing to things online that ended up being huge amounts of work. I had no other hobbies, barely any spare time, and didn't have much life balance. 

BUT…

I loved it. I couldn't put my finger on it exactly, but I loved it.

Sure, I was working for free – hadn't made a dime. But I loved my readers. Loved the recognition. Loved that I was helping people. I loved the creative outlet, and felt like the “brain break” from motherhood was making me a better person somehow.

While all of that was true, Bubba helped me see that I didn't have a good balance, and was falling back into my old “blogging” ways. The deadlines, the pressure, the rat race…it had crept back up and got hold of me again. I kept insisting it was a hobby, and he said if I was spending so much time on it, that I should at least be making money from it. I told him I didn't want to make money because then it turns from a hobby, into a job…and the last thing I wanted was a job. (Probably said with a melodramatic barfing face…since I'm quite melodramatic.)

He logged into my Google Analytics (which I didn't even really knew I had) and saw that I had 350K people reading my blog each month. After a few “Holy crap, Jordan, did you know your traffic was so high??” exclamations,

…he decided it was time to talk some sense into me.

He Bubba-ized me (as you might have heard me call it before). Basically, he got all Sensei-practical, loving, and analytical on me and helped me work it through. He sat me down, had me write a list of the pros and cons of blogging. He had me write a list of everything I loved about it and everything I hated about it. He helped me see that 1) with as much traffic as I had, and 2) the amount of time (and money, at this point) that I was investing in it, I either needed to quit or make some money to make it make sense.

Quitting wasn't an option, so we decided it was time for the blog to make money.

He helped me make a list of every possible way to make money either blogging or using my blog as a springboard. The list was quite long, and it was fun to see all the creative revenue possibilities. Then came the easy part…he had me go through the list and cross off everything I hated. I quickly crossed off things like sponsored posts, anything craft-related or making and selling physical products (I really suck at crafts), and writing for other people's blogs (I'd rather write for my own!).

He had me go through again, and cross off things that maybe I didn't hate, but that weren't as important to me…giveaways, sponsored social media posts, and product reviews.

He then had me circle a few things that I LOVED. That, in my dream world, I would totally do for free, but would just die and go to heaven if I could get paid for it. Those things were:

1) Being paid to be on TV, having my own TV show being the ultimate dream,

2) Getting a book deal,

3) Having my own conference,

4) Public speaking, teaching, and in-person events,

5) Starting my own budgeting program and app someday.

As many eye rolls as I slung in Bubba's direction during that conversation, there was no denying that his Bubba-izing had worked.

I had new direction, new zest, and was back to “blogging” my OWN way.

Since then I've worked my tail off, and have achieved every goal (except the book deal – I had a contract and ended up canceling it, realizing it's not for me, and I haven't gotten my own TV show yet but I'm still trying! Oh and I don't have an app yet. But someday, you just wait and see!).

From that point on, the blog started making money, and good thing it did. I had more kids, back to back (I have 5 kids 6 and under right now for anyone who doesn't know…), and with that, had growing family responsibilities. The money that came in allowed me to not only hire some help on the side but also helped me simply keep the blog afloat!

One thing that bloggers don't talk about is how expensive blogging can be. My email list alone costs me $500/month to send emails out. FIVE. HUNDRED. DOLLARS. It's $50/month just for my blog to be in existence. I have to pay a tax guy $175/month, payroll is a few thousand each month, not to mention the web development and design, taxes, rentals and overhead costs for my conferences and events, travel expenses for blog conferences and speaking engagements, technical support, graphic design, babysitting for doing TV segments and speaking engagements, building programs like Budget Boot Camp that cost over $10K to build…the list goes on and on. I would say my blog costs about $5-$6k per month on average…

…and I still don't take a paycheck.

Full disclosure – for tax reasons, I will be forced to take a paycheck in 2017. But that will be the first time since I've started blogging that I will technically pay myself. Sure, I use “blog money” when I get my hair cut or get my nails done, I can even use it to buy a new outfit for a TV segment since it's all technically a business expense. But it hasn't been about the money for me and still isn't. A perk? For sure. But I chose to put the money back into my blog/business(es) rather than take it for myself…which most likely would have been blown at Target, anyway.

My blog has to make money, and honestly, I wouldn't work so hard at it if it didn't. It's not only a passion project, but it's a working, functioning, lucrative business now. That I can do from home. While being a stay-at-home mom! What a blessing! I don't have a nanny, I don't have a regular babysitter. I drive carpool, do my kids' homework with them, volunteer in their classes. I do my own dishes and grocery shopping, and I even date my husband still (as we all should). It's been a blessing that I still can't believe I've been gifted with.

…and frankly, I'm not really sure why anyone still reads it!

(Literally? Why is anyone reading this? If you're still with me I fully apologize for the heavy word vomiting, and think you deserve a cookie and a DDP for staying with it for this long! I swear I'll wrap up soon.)

My point of all that is…

Sure. My blog makes money. It needs to make money at this point. If it stops making money, it would cease to exist.

BUT…I don't want to “blog” any more…so I'm going to quit.

When someone asks me “do you love blogging?” I never really know how to answer. It changes each time, but I usually fumble something out to the effect of “I love what my blog leads to…but I actually hate blogging.”

Back in 2010, I blogged for me. For my soul, and for any other person who happened to stumble upon my little corner of the internet and somehow, found some tiny form of inspiration from it.

Over the last few years, this blessing has become a curse at times. The deadlines. The rules. The analytics. The “pay to play” game that every. single. social media channel is forcing us to play. The emails. Oooooooh the emails. The (surprisingly occasional but still there) snarky comments online. The try-as-hard-as-I-might-its-hard-not-to-compare-yourself-to-others game.

I'm done. It's enough.

Over the last year, I gave it one last giant College Try. I decided I was going to give it one year where I “blog” like the big dogs do. I decided to follow all the “rules”. Play all the “games”. I decided to focus, and treat my blog like a “blog”, according to the professionals, articles, and conferences, and do it…”right”.

Guess what?

I hated it. And so did you.

My traffic dropped. It plummeted, actually. My workload increased. My stress level went up. I took on sponsorships that paid well but made me want to dig a hole and bury myself in it. I played by all the rules, and

It. Didn't. Work.

So…what now?

Don't worry, I'm not going anywhere. I'm just committing to change things; redirect the path of FCF. So yes, I'll tell you “what now”. It's pretty simple, really.

I'm taking my site back.

I'm done “blogging”. I'm over it. I've done this long enough, my Budget Boot Camp is paid off and is bringing in side income. I've got some money in the bank to make sure my team members don't have to worry about job security or payroll. I'm finally at a place that I'm going to light my torch, throw some war paint on my face, and

take. my. site. BACK.

No,

I won't do sponsored posts anymore. I have some contracts left to fulfill, then my answer is NO if I want it to be NO.

No,

I won't do things just because an algorithm, or blog conference, or class, or person tells me to.

No,

I won't hover over my phone to see how many likes and comments something gets.

No,

I won't pretend to love your product because I can get paid $500-$2500 to do it (yes, you read that right. Now you see why it's so tempting!).

No,

I won't follow a schedule that everyone tells me to follow, or blog how everyone tells me to blog, and

No,

I'm not going to follow the damn rules! (Pardon my french.)

2017 is the year I take my site back, and stop “BLOGGING” for everyone else.

Let me get one thing clear – I deeply respect and admire professional bloggers who make money from their blog. There's nothing wrong with it! I'm simply talking about my personal situation, and how I've let “blogging rules” cloud what my heart is telling (and wanting) me to do.

Even now as I write this, I have this little bit of anxiety. “It's 2pm! I'm about to publish a blog post at 2pm? No one's going to see it! It's not following the Pinterest rules. I should wait and do it on a high-traffic day. I should have a better Google search term in the title. I should…”

SHUT YOUR BRAIN, J!

I'm clearly going to need to re-train myself, and I'm excited to get started.

For the last few months, I've been wracking my brain, trying to come up with a new name for it. I wanted to completely detach myself from the terms “blog” or “blogger”, but unfortunately, I'm not sure a term exists.

Advice giver?

Life coach?

Columnist?

Online influencer?

Meh. Nothing sounds right and nothing seems to fit. So sure, call me a blogger. I don't blame you, there's no other term (…yet! But one of my bucket list goals is to get a word in the dictionary, so maybe we can be the first to pioneer a new phrase…so be thinking and share your ideas below, mmmmkay?).

Whatever you call me, I'm going back to focusing on ME, YOU, and nothing else.

I'm going to write about what I feel like when I feel like it. MY words, not theirs. I'm going to have ugly pictures on Instagram because it's REAL LIFE FOR GOSH DARNS SAKE! I don't really care if I never make it to 100K followers as a result.

It just. doesn't. MATTER.

I'm going to get back to that conversation in 2010, where Bubba encouraged me to go back to doing what I love. I love helping people live a better life. I love reading your comments (and in case you are wondering, I read 100% of blog and social media comments, and I read every email that comes in) and I love knowing we are part of this crazy little online community that has somehow survived my whiplash and the ever-changing internet trends.

So, what do I love?

  • I love writing. I really do. …as long as it's my words, my way.
  • I love video. Recording, editing, I love it.
  • I love teaching and public speaking.
  • I love doing getting to meet you Freebs in person at events.
  • I love doing TV segments.
  • I love building programs that help people succeed. (Yes, plural! Hoping to do more very soon!)
  • I love having a corner of the internet that is my own creative space!

From this point on I promise to go back to how it should be…

A girl, her computer, and her heart, being poured out to anyone who wants to read it.

So, here's how it's going to go from here on out…

I need you to understand and trust that yes, my blog still needs to make money. That's why I'm choosing not to remove ads. It's easy revenue that the blog needs to stay afloat, that doesn't take any money out of your pocket (as annoying as they are). I'll never hide the fact that there is revenue in blogging.

BUT…here's my commitment for 2017:

  • I commit to stop looking over my shoulder at what “all the other bloggers” are doing, and stay true to myself and MY personal goals and mission.
  • I commit to not doing any more sponsored posts, UNLESS it's something I am planning to blog about anyway, and I reach out to them to ask if they will throw money behind it, to help keep the blog afloat. It will always be in my words, my way, and if I don't love it, it won't touch the blog. Don't get me wrong, there are brands and products that I love and adore, and I'd be a fool not to collaborate with them in some way or another. But it will be true to what FCF is all about.
  • I commit to stop worrying about analytics. In fact, I've decided I don't care about blog traffic any more. I don't need it. I don't want it. I believe that if I focus on keeping this platform PURE and about YOU, it will all work out.
  • I commit to focusing on what YOU want me to talk about, and not worrying about the Pinterest trends, social media hype, and the “rules” that everyone else is following.
  • I commit to getting back to blogging about things that I truly believe will help myself and others.

QUICK PSA – be sure to come back tomorrow for a new FREE 2017 year program that I'm launching to help us ALL get focused and have the best year ever. This will be my perfect segway to get back to blogging about what's important to me.

BUT…in order for that to work, I need your help.

Will you do these little things for me?

  • 1- Never forget that I love you, and YOU are the reason I do what I do. Just tossing that out there.
  • 2- Leave me comments! If I don't know what YOU want me to talk about, I'll just get all caught up in my head again! If you want me to cover a topic, let me know. Though I physically can't reply to them all, I read every single comment that ever comes in – so don't be afraid to say hi!
  • 3- Click. Comment. Subscribe. Share. All those things that don't cost you any time, energy, or money, really will help keep this blog going. I'm going to do this MY WAY, without all the gimmicks, but I can't do it on my own. So if you genuinely like what you see, I just ask that you engage in your own way. It helps more than you'll ever know!
  • 4- Lastly…Never forget how amazing you are.

I'm not going to lie, I'm a little afraid. Sticking my big middle finger to the “blogging monster” is never an easy thing to do. But I believe that the world needs a few more rule-breakers, and a little less conforming.

So, I guess at the end of the day, if this all crashes and burns, at least we will go down in flames together. Most likely wearing sparkles, of course.

Here's to big changes!

255 Comments

  1. Rhian

    Well done you brave girl. You have to follow your hearts desire and gut feeling. I look forward to your future ‘spouting’ and wish you and the family a Happy and Peace-filled New Year.

    Reply
  2. Chrissy Castina

    No other words, than “you rock”.!!What a great example you have just set. Not just in the blogging world, but reminding us all that we need to do life our way!

    Reply
  3. Michelle Benson

    Thank you for this post. I read every.single.word.

    As a frugal blogger myself, with 5 kids under 9yo. I felt like it was me in the post. With tears running down my face. I stand with you as a fellow mom, blogger, mompreneuer.

    2017 is going to rock, the way we know how to make it rock. In a pure simple way.

    Thank you J!!! Much love from Nor cal, Ca.

    Love, Mama Bee

    Reply
  4. Crystal Gahr

    Love it, Jordan! So proud of you. I’m glad you’re getting back on target with what YOU’RE passionate about. That’s the only way to do it.

    Reply
  5. Kara

    I love your honesty. Folow your heart. I know I will continue to follow you and your family on your journey.

    Reply
  6. Jennifer

    Hi! I’m a new “follower” and
    Honestly this is the first time I’ve read your blog. I live for your Instagram posts. I’ve had health issues that have basically kept me jobless and practically bed ridden for going on a year now. You and your attitude remind me of my “healthy” self. So you’re like my best friend, only you don’t know it. How do I know? When I start telling my hubby things like Jordan said this or Jordan said that. He was like who the heck is Jordan?? I think he secretly was afraid I was hallucinating people. He was relieved when I showed him your videos!!! Money here is really tight right now, but I SQUEEZED out $ for your VIRTUAL conference on the 14 and I can’t wait. We need all the help we can get!! So much for three or four sentence comment!! Ha! Just please know, you keep doing you because it inspires me to keep doing me (even if I never get to leave the house or bed again)!! GOD bless!!!

    Reply
  7. Rachel

    You go girl! You be you!!

    Reply
  8. ASHLEY

    You go girl! One loyal fan here!

    Reply
  9. Lindsey

    Hi Jordan! I just wanted to tell you that you are amazing and inspiring! I’m in a different phase of life (single 20-something in PA), but I love following you on Instagram and seeing every part of your life that you share. Keep doing you and Happy 2017!

    Reply
  10. Dana Arnold

    Amazing!!! Love love love this ????????????

    Reply
  11. Jenny

    Yay! So proud of you. I’ve been a reader since 2013 and can’t wait to see what’s in store for you in 2017!

    Reply
  12. Alicia

    Hi Jordan! I saw your post at 2 pm because it’s naptime! Haha You do you, boo! ? More power to you! We love you for who you are!!

    Reply
  13. Rochelle

    Can I just say how much I love this?? Like, so, so, sooooo much. I have gotten so weary of almost every blogger I follow falling into the trap of sponsorship. And while I understand why they do it, it has become so very unpleasant to follow. I’m guessing that recipe they made with Country Crock fake butter wasn’t really that tasty. Or that their bought-and-paid-for trip to Disney World/Hawaii/the Caribbean may just leave a bad taste in the mouths of readers who would love to take a family vacation there, just once. I’m kinda over it. I appreciate your transparency and look forward to your new ‘blog’. 🙂 Thanks, Jordan!

    Reply
  14. Cayley

    I agree! We need more rule breakers and less conformers. I would love to see some posts about how women and mothers make it through their various trials: infertility, finanaces, chaos of motherhood, death, health issues, etc. How can we help them, what do they do to stay strong and keep their head up, etc.

    Reply
  15. Kristen Andersen

    Yay for you!! I love love love you and everything that you do! You’re simply awesome!

    Reply
  16. Stephanie

    This is why I follow you! You aren’t afraid to break out of the box. This was also the reminder that I needed to hear today. Do what you love your way and for yourself. Be true to who you are. Thank you!

    Reply
  17. Gretchen

    Way to go! Takes courage for sure!

    Reply
  18. Lindsay

    Good for you Jordon! I’ve followed you for years now and have enjoyed watching you create and live your life in a true and honorable way. Keep doing what makes you happiest – analytics be damned! : )

    Reply
  19. Olivia

    My fave is when you just write about your kids or family. And yes, I didn’t really read much this year! I missed the old Jordan too!

    Reply
  20. Tara

    Just started following you a few days ago, and was very disappointed to read this headline, but so looking forward to the new format!

    I find you very inspiring and a lot of your ideas are great! I am most interested in tips for saving money.

    Reply
  21. Krista G

    WOOHOO to you Jordan!! Happy New Year to you and your family!!

    Reply
  22. Erin Lucki

    I absolutely LOVE this! I’m going to read you more often now! Happy New Year!

    Reply
  23. Allison Warnke

    Good for you Jordan! I have been reading your blog for over 3 years and love it when you really show you! Maybe that’s why I love the vlogs!

    Reply
  24. Robin

    Standing ovation from me! Honestly, the bloggers that push and push to be successful eventually have me clicking ‘unfollow’. It’s boring and self serving and that doesn’t interest me at all. If I see the hashtag #liketoknowit once more, I just might scream.
    Your blog NEVER struck me that way though. I love your honesty, sincerity and seeing your family grow. You are a REAL person and that is so refreshing in blogland.
    You keep being you, Jordan and you won’t need to worry about your readership at all. If you’re having fun, then your readers likely will be too!

    Reply
  25. Kim Heaton

    I think this is fantastic. I started reading your blog in 2011 or 12. I loved it. I’ve dropped off lately though. I want real life. Not prefect make up, so many ads and popups on the site that I can’t even read through a post without my lap top freezing up, and every picture perfectly edited. I don’t want more unrealistic social standards to feel badabout not living up to. I want to be inspired by real people living their passion, inspiring me to live mine. So, good for you! I hope this makes you even more successful. God luck Jordan!

    Reply
  26. Nicole S

    Love how totally honest you are! I can’t wait to see all the genuine posts from you.

    Reply
  27. Cindy Park

    This is AWESOME. Thanks so much for your HONESTY.

    Reply
  28. Tanae

    I love this! ! Excited to see what’s in store for 2017!!

    Reply
  29. Adrienne Gleason

    You are a badass!! Way to be honest and true to yourself. I can’t wait to see what you have for all of us in 2017.
    Cheers,
    Adrienne G. , Baltimore, MD

    Reply
  30. Mia

    Good for you!!!! I love all the amazing financial advice you give, and following you and your adorable family. Best of luck!

    Reply
  31. Danielle

    You go girl! Take back your blog!!

    Reply
  32. Becki

    As someone that just had to decide between my job and maintaining my volunteer position with the same organization, I can relate to this. It’s a new beginning! I look forward to seeing YOUR posts and what YOU have to say! Best wishes and congratulations!

    Reply
  33. Christy

    Love your raw honesty. It’s comforting to read and makes me happy. I love what you do. I throughly enjoy following you on social media and I absolutely appreciate all the advice you’ve put out there. It’s been so helpful for me. Thanks so much for all of it.

    Reply
  34. Sharon

    Hang in there, Sweetie! This is going to all work out because you know exactly WHAT you want….you may not know how yet….but it will come to you…and it will be spectacular!

    Reply
  35. Katie

    I couldn’t be more excited for you. I’ve had a few blogs myself that I let get away from me. I just started a new one a few weeks ago to get my head back in order since I became a mom after Christmas 2015. I’ve felt like a headless chicken all 2016. Here’s to new adventures!

    Reply
  36. lisa powell

    Thank you! I’ve loved that you are doing this for you. I haven’t minded “clicking” because you explained why you needed me to do that. But I do hate the sponsored posts and I’m glad you are going back to being you.

    Reply
  37. Gina

    ?????? I admire you! I love what you’re doing.
    My honest wish is that your boot camp was cheaper. I need help but can’t afford $150 help.. Now if it were $25, I’d be lacing my boots and ready to go..

    Reply
  38. Ashton

    You do great work Jordan! Keep your positive attitude and wise words…we need them!

    Reply
  39. Keisha

    I love this so much! Way to do it your way!

    Reply
  40. Leslie Miller

    I ❤️ this so much! You are so inspiring to me. I feel like, even though you don’t know me at all, i pretend we are friends. I know that sounds so lame! Anyway, I think this such a great thing you are doing. You’ve inspired me to want to “Blog”, but I work full time outside of the home and don’t have the time (or energy) for the “rat race”, but want to help people. Any advice? Thanks for all the advice and awesome tips you’ve given me!

    Reply
  41. Jessica

    Go girl! For real. Do you. I like you 🙂 I don’t always agree with you, but I can see us each as moms trying to do what works for our families. I appreciate the advice you give. My story is very different from yours, but I appreciate you sharing your story and trying to help others.

    Reply
  42. Kristy

    New follower- and that just told me on how amazing and great you must be! I’m hooked so keep at it! And thank you for being YOU and doing it YOUR way!

    Reply
    • Grace Wood

      Jordan, you are my favorite “blogger” and “YouTuber.” Thank you for doing what you do! I’ve read lots of blogs and watch a lot of videos, but your blog and videos are the only ones that I continuously come back too. Love this post 🙂

      Reply
  43. Annette

    I have to admit, until this post I had almost stopped coming to the blog, I still follow you on instagram and YouTube and love the vlogs. But the blog had changed, I couldn’t quite put my finger on it but it didn’t have the same spark or joy it used to have. So I am so happy to read this post and look forward to seeing what we 2017 brings. Thankyou for being you, me and my finances are a work in progress but I have paid off 2 credit cards since I started following you 3 years ago, your insta stories and posts keep reminding me to just keep going bit by bit and it is working – slow but steady. OMG I just realized this sounds so stalkerish lol, it’s not I promise. I’m just a grateful reader/subscriber ?

    Reply
  44. Debbie

    Oh thank goodness Jordan!! I love the you that I found years ago! The one that I actually asked questions to and you answered me 🙂 And, YES!! to blogging “old school” as “they” say! I literally just walked away from a blog I’ve had since 2008 and hundreds of thousands of views and started a new site where I currently have 376 views and I’m pretty sure most of them are me going back and forth as I tweak the site!! 🙂 Who cares anymore?

    If I (and you) can’t write from our hearts to inspire other women, then why are we even trying?

    Be your amazing self and we will all still be here for every post!

    Much love and many blessings!
    Debbie

    Reply
  45. Ashley

    Exciting news! I still live reading and following along with your family, but very much miss the blog that I stumbled upon in 2012ish. I love how real and practical you are, and often find myself going back to your old posts (dinner ideas for those that don’t like to cook is a huge one for me!). I’ve definitely felt a change and assumed that you would be closing down the blog in favor of vlogs as I first started reading, but am excited to hear that you’re going back to your roots.

    Wishing you and your family all the best in 2017!

    Reply
  46. Sharon

    I am new to your blog and often don’t post comments but this post inspired me to. I gotta say I really admire your honesty and that you are kept things in perspective for me. I had no idea it cost that much to keep a blog and it takes a lot of work to maintain it. It made me realized that there is a real person behind the blogs. It inspired me to be be engage – share, comment or reply to emails. I dont usually. It just make me appreciate your blog. Thank you for this.

    Reply
  47. Stacy

    Jordan, I love you just the way you are and I will always read your content! You are amazing! Thank you for being you!

    Reply
  48. Whitney Jensen

    I have to say this really hit home for me. I’m where you were 6 years ago. Just starting out but really struggling to implement blogging tactics I don’t love. Most of which burry the true purpose of my “blog” and confuse my mind and my writing.
    I love the idea of taking charge and making a new title/industry. I’m totally on board with that. Maybe this could be your next training program… how to make money as a influencer” or whatever you call it.
    This definitely makes me look at this differently and approach it from a different perspective. I need to be able to have the freedom to be home with my kids and do what I love make a difference and make money doing it. Thanks for inspiring me!

    Reply
  49. J H Mount

    Jordan,
    I am not your typical follower. I am almost 75 years old, retired for 12 years, and I have 4 grandchildren under the age of 8. I have enjoyed your blog especially the saving money with different shopping, freezing food, etc. There are some things we all need to know,

    You should make money for your work! You do an awesome job and I feel you can educate many people on how to raise a family and save money, too. Curious people will always be interested in what you share. You have a wonderful writing style. Some days I say I’m not going to read all that! and then I end up reading it all and wishing there was more.

    I hope this new change will give you much happiness.

    Reply
  50. Cathy Jeppsen

    LOVE this, you are AMAZING! Can’t wait to see where 2017 takes you.

    Reply
  51. tylie

    YES YES YES! You said what every blogger/human feels! Do it for yourself always!

    Reply
  52. Jessica

    Have been loving your posts for years now, hope 2017 is great & satisfying for you. Thanks for making budgeting more fun!

    Reply
  53. Julie

    I am impressed! Will continue to ck in now & then when I have time!

    Reply
  54. Norma Rose

    YEAH for YOU! If each of us did what we really wanted to do that was something that helped others, this world would be a better place. I love reading about your family and the things that matter to you and others. Thank you for your honesty. Each one of us need to take stock of our lives and do what we need to do for ourselves–especially as women getting caught up in taking care of others. I applaud you and your efforts. Having 5 small children is enough to make anyone need an outlet. You have my vote on this change. I don’t know what goes on doing a blog (and I’m can see that it could be very hard to keep up with). YOU GO GIRL! I bet most every woman that reads you will agree!

    Reply
  55. K

    Good for you!! I’ll be behind you all the way!!

    Reply
  56. Marissa LeRoux

    I’ll continue to read your blog no matter how you do it! It is such a support to me as a young mom who dreams of a big family! And who loves budgeting and frugal living!

    Reply
  57. Laura

    Good for you! Do what’s best for you and your family. The rest will fall into place.

    Reply
  58. Holly

    Woo Hoo!

    Reply
  59. Sara McChesney

    I’m with you girl! I love your honesty and I’m super excited to find out about tomorrow’s post. 🙂

    Reply
  60. Leilani

    Hi Jordan, I was obsessed with your blog last year and somewhere along the way I stopped following your blog so closely and I didn’t know what it was but it sounds like you figured it out for me. I am so happy to know that you’re taking. Your blog back. Thrilled and excited. Thank you for being so candid. I hope you have. Wonderful new year!

    Reply
  61. Jessica

    I love this! To be honest I never “listen” to promo segments on blogs, because I’ve often wondered if the blogger actually liked the product or liked the money they were paid? (But I agree, no harm in being paid for a product you actually like!! More power to you!) So, this is refreshing!! I love following you and your sweet family.

    Reply
  62. Sunnie

    You have done an awesome job in spite of all your responsibilities!! Now just enjoy yourself & those precious little ones & listen to your supporting hubby! He sounds awesome as well! You are Blessed. Follow the Lord’s leading & you will continue to be Blessed. Thank you!

    Reply
  63. Kristin Giefer

    I want schedules pleeeeeease. I have. 2 year old…sample routines, daily chores, everything that makes the day – I’m constantly stuck do I get up begore her? Do I make breakfast as soon as she is up? How do I balance screen time and play time. Ugh. Help.

    Reply
  64. Kenzie

    I read every single word, and I am proud of you! You have made a difference in countless lives, and continue to. I absolutely love your Instagram stories – you are a REAL person! I love seeing ways that you have saved a dollar here or there – your little “hacks” (like freezing fruit instead of tossing it out). My husband and I currently have no debt besides our house payment, and plan to keep it that way, but with my husband earning his doctorate degree at the U, money is tight! Tuition is expensive, and children are expensive. It’s fun for me to get some good ideas from you, and even read about some that I’m already doing (feels like a pat on the back!).
    THANK YOU for sticking to who you want to be. There is nothing more admirable than that!

    Reply
  65. Cari Wozniak

    I. Love. Everything. About. This. Post. It is everything that has me reading everything you write and post. I love your honesty. I saw the change. I get it. I’d still follow you; however, I love that you took a step back and looked at the big picture for yourself. When we look at what we are doing, that is the only way we can help others. You are amazing, Jordan! Really!! You touch more lives than you’ll ever truly know.
    😉 Cari

    Reply
  66. Susan

    Your title scared me at first, then i realized You are going to be a.. t2m blogger…True 2 myself blogger I breathed a sigh of relief. Im excited to see this new adenture!

    Reply
  67. Kelsey D.

    I have loved following you the last year! You are such an inspiration! Excited to continue to follow you into the new year!

    Reply
  68. Jen

    You go girl!

    Reply
  69. Madison

    Bring it on! We totally support you and will continue on with you!

    Reply
  70. Tanya

    You go mama bear!!! Life is all about finding your true passion and running with it! You inspire me everyday to be a better mom and to “just keep swimming”! I will still follow your instagram religiously! Heres to new, happy beginnings!!

    Reply
  71. Ashley

    You are truly an inspiration! Way to go Jordan- I look forward to see what comes your way in 2017! Thanks for being REAL!

    Reply
  72. D

    Hello,

    Wow.. I didn’t realize how much work is involved from “blogging”. I had no idea sponsors paid so much. I usually do quit following a blogger if they are always writing sponsored posts. I understand why, but it just seems like the blog become ungenuine.

    So I say good for you! I love your honesty

    ( I just recently stumbled upon your instagram and found your blog after watching your nightly beauty routine. You just seemed so friendly and detailed when discussing the products you personally use that I decided to follow)

    Reply
  73. Angie

    I’d love to know how life is for you with 5 kids 6 and under. I had my first three back to back with the first born one week after our first anniversary. I believe I have left myself traumatized because it was so hard and so much at once. My the kids are now 6, 5, and 4, and I’m unexpectedly expecting again and frankly I’m desperate for friends who know how I’m feeling right now. I never brought this up to you before because your blog was more focused on saving money, but you asked what I want to read from you, and well there it is. Good luck in the new year!
    -your long-time reader

    Reply
  74. Ruth

    Woo hoo! You go girl ❤

    Reply
  75. Meta

    Thank you for your inspirations. There have been many times when I needed to take a break from the life grind. And your messages would appear, and take me on a much needed journey different from my own. It is these times, where I can look at a different view from you. And just relax and read and open your attachments, without any extra stress on my part. Thank you, and I look forward to the new you in 2017.

    Reply
  76. Nikki

    Perfect! I’m reading this on the first day of 2017 (I’m in Australia), and it’s the perfect start to the year. To be honest, I’m one of those readers who didn’t follow along quite as much in 2016 as previous years. To hear about the changes you have planned is exciting and I’m looking forward to reading along more this year. Always be yourself, it’s why most of us started reading in the first place xxx

    Reply
  77. Molly

    I’ve never left a comment before , but I want you to know how awesome I think you are! I love watching you enjoy your family and work at things you love – it’s very inspiring! Can’t wait to see what you come up with this year!

    Reply
  78. Michelle

    This is the first time I ever read a whole blog or an article. Jordan I’ve been a fan/follower just this year and I’ve seen some of your Instagram post and have given me ideas to keep our little ones excited for church conference (games,etc) or simply how to clean with a timer (since when I start to clean,I start to deep clean every time.. ?) … I’m excited to see changes and not the norm! Simplicity is always more! We love you and thank you for sharing your life with us and helping us and sometimes inspire us to become better mothers, wife’s, etc. Thanks for being a great role model. God Bless you!

    Reply
  79. Stephanie Fillmore

    Glad you’re getting back to your roots (not the hair ones, I like what you’ve got going on there)!

    Reply
  80. Molly

    Yay!! I love it! This is wonderful news and I’m really happy for you. One of the things I always liked best about your site was that it showed you as a regular person just like me. Accessible, real. There is something beautiful and extraordinary about regular people reaching out to help other regular people, without a bunch of stress and over-analyzing and trying too hard along the way. Good luck and Happy 2017! I’ll be right here!

    Reply
  81. Leissa

    You go girl!

    Reply
  82. Dianna

    I’ve loved every blog sponsored or not. I think you always put you in it somehow. I love your humor, your realness, your happiness and drive. You inspire me on a daily! I’m grateful for your blog and for your hard work and dedication. You deserve everything life offers you, because you work hard for it!! Xoxo

    Reply
  83. Elena

    I’m new around these parts. I follow you mostly on Instagram so honestly I only read post that you highlight there. Not sure if this is a good suggestion but I’d love you see you highlight old post that were popular. Could help us newbies. ? Your personality is why I follow you! Truly entertaining and I feel like we are bbf! Ha!

    Reply
  84. Dora

    Good for you! It’s so good to have you remind me what I know…figure out what you want, then do it. Because it is yours to do. Way to go! Happy 2017!

    Reply
  85. Kelsey

    You are such an inspiration thanks for being you!

    Reply
  86. Betsy

    Looking forward to the changes!!! I fell in love with your blog a few years ago and you seemed so REAL, but it has changed and I haven’t connected as well this past year–makes sense now. I’m excited to see your passion come through again— Great post, great brainstorming. You are certainly blessed too to have a wise supportive husband to stand with you!!

    Reply
  87. Dana

    Good for you! I’m happy you’ve made this decision. We will all come with you on this new adventure. I love how you make me laugh and smile. You go girl!

    Reply
  88. Crystal

    Good for you. As long as you keep making silly videos of you and your family, I’ll be happy!

    Reply
  89. Kirstyn

    Happy for you!!! Still following since 2013! Love the real honesty you put out today! Keep it real!!!

    Reply
  90. Shannon McKinney

    I’m glad you’re not really quitting because I really love reading your stuff. But I’m glad you’re going to do it your way. Way to go!

    Reply
  91. Shelley

    I really liked when you did the “focus” on finances,relationships Etc. I still use those Calendars (just fill in different dates) That really resonated with me.
    I get a kick out of your posts. You do out the FUN in fun cheep or free.
    Happy New Year!

    Reply
  92. Erin

    I admire this post! Way to bring it back to what works for you! Thanks for continuing on with the journey and letting us all be a part of it. 🙂
    `

    Reply
  93. Delia

    great post…those are all the reasons I’ve never wanted to start a blog lol! Too much temptation to be self-centered, lose yourself, or sell out. I’ve seen enough mommy bloggers strive for “success” at the cost of their families #notworthit. I’m taking steps in 2017 to unplug a bit & enjoy my real life a little more. Blessings…

    Reply
  94. Alicia

    I love you, Jordan! I’ve been a loyal reader for almost 4 years, and I’m so happy you’re going to do what you love most! I’ll be here no matter what! 🙂

    Reply
  95. Courtney C

    I couldn’t be more excited for you! My sister in law and I follow you together and talk about you as if you were a mutual friend. If anything, it’s fun to see someone who is real and right in the trenches of motherhood and LDS living with us. You do you, love. Happy to support you until you get bored of it altogether!

    Reply
  96. Melissa

    You go girl!!!

    Reply
  97. Michelle M

    ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️ I stumbled on your blog pregnant with twins in 2012, I have watched from your early videos with short (cute) hair and one teeny babe, and every time your blog changes it is for the better. It has felt machine-y at times, but that is just the game. It is always most fun when you let go and just do you! Sticking with you always! You’re such a good inspiration and I always look up to you. Although we are the same age, you are my senior in marriage and motherhood and I look to you for advice!! You are the best and I hope you enjoy being yourself in the new year. Happy new year to your family and I look forward to seeing what you have going on around the corner! Much love from Iowa!

    Reply
  98. Cynthia Crosby

    Inspired! You go girl!!! I’ve been reading your blog since Priya was a baby and I keep coming back for you! #teamjordan

    Reply
  99. Mel

    I love you and you’re blog! You’re my favorite and can’t wait to see what 2017 brings! Wishing you and your family a Happy New Year! Much love! xoxo

    Mel | http://www.thegossipdarling.com

    Reply
  100. Jen Thorne

    Heck yes! I love this so much! Way to be bold and do what YOU want to do the way you want to do it and throw the rest out the window! I know I’ve said it a a million times times to multiple people but this is why I love you, because you strive for authenticity and you’re not afraid to be YOU. You’re one of the most inspiring people I know and this has post has inspired to forget all the rules surrounding me and my ideas and just do what I love and want to do! (All good things, all good things.) I hope your family has the best New Years Eve and I am so looking forward to what you have in store!

    Reply
  101. Maria

    Rock on Jordan! We’re behind you! Happy New Year! It will be fabulous!

    Reply
  102. Paula

    Love this post and mindset. Way to go! I heard you speak at the BYBC 2016 and sensed this may be brewing even then.
    As a beginning “blogger” trying too hard to “figure it out” , find direction and be true to what the calling for my blog is, reading this has given me a renewed vigor. Vigor that daily threatens to get sucked out with the clamour to try to get followers etc. You are inspiring!

    Reply
  103. Angela M

    I am super excited for the new changes! I am not a big fan of the typical picture perfect blogs anyway. (Admittedly I’m one of the readers who was less loyal this year.) I’d much rather read your blog when you are doing it your way. Keep it real! I love it when you come through. And I’m a big fan of your YouTube channel, so keep that up too!

    Reply
  104. Stacy

    Rule-breaking, life coach, social butterfly….. AKA super special Jordon! There I gave this wonderful new focus a title! I love that you are going back to what you love and allowing us this view of the “keeping in real” aspect of it. Keep it up and we will do our part!

    Reply
  105. Stacy

    Rule-breaking, life coach, social butterfly….. AKA super special Jordon! There I gave this wonderful new focus a title! I love that you are going back to what you love and allowing us this view of the “keeping in real” aspect of it. Keep it up and we will do our part!

    Reply
  106. Trisha

    Good for you! I’m in your friend Julie B’s ward and live hearing from you two and your adventures. Stay positive and have fun!

    Reply
  107. Leah

    I love your blog even more now! Your keeping it real and doing what everyone really wants to do anyway; so what they love because they love it! Thanks for showing us how to be courageous and take control of our own lives. Happy 2017 to you! Our will all work out ?

    Reply
  108. Melissa

    Jordan, 1st, we love you back! You bring such honesty and truth to everything you do! 2nd, I love your tips on budgeting, working on saving up for BBC, beauty, ok all of your tips! Keep on being fabulously you <3

    Reply
  109. Linsey

    I LOVE this! I am so happy for you!

    I am a new mom and a new stay at home mom. We are struggling to make ends meet but for me it’s worth it to able to be home with my little man. I would love posts about making it work on one income with lots of bills, how to blog suvcessfully.. ur way!!, and how to balance being a mom, wife and having part time work from home jobs.

    Thank you! I look forward to hearing from YOU! Happy new year!!

    Reply
  110. Jordana

    I love it!! Just be you!!

    Reply
  111. Becky

    I don’t like this at all…..I love it!!!!!
    Please come to the uk (you can stay in my spare room it’s free) and do tv / teaching here!
    I love your honesty and as a mum to three children I can relate to a lot of things you write about, I love your tips on make up, fashion etc and I love your advice on parenting. Ok I’m sounding a bit like a weird stalker!!!! Seriously stay honest to you and well done for being so strong and brace. Happy new year love Becky x

    Reply
  112. Rachel

    I call you “my favorite savings lady” whenever I talk about you to my hubby. Not as short as blogger but he knows who I am talking about at least. Way to go needing a change, I have also felt like the last year has been a bit off, and will be glad to see more of your get real posts!

    Reply
  113. Anna

    Thank you, Jordan!
    You have helped me get out of a mommy slump and start taking care of myself again. Dressing well and looking good cannot be understated, and you have given me inspiration. Keep it up.

    Reply
  114. Kristin

    One of if not your best posts! Be YOU, that’s what it’s ALL about and you are right, it just doesn’t matter! I am going to get back to blogging regularly, but it’s truly for me and my family! I print my blog at the end of the year and love to look back on it with my kids. I’ve written one sponsored post in my whole blogging existence, don’t do paid ads and have very few (if any right now since it’s been a couple of months) followers except maybe my mom! Ha! And guess what? Love it if there are any readers, but will continue if there aren’t! Because it’s mine. 🙂 Keep writing, I’ll keep reading and go 2017!

    Reply
  115. Sharon

    Just want to wish you well on your big decision. Will continue to follow and see where you take us on the new journey.

    Reply
  116. Eloise

    Hi! That was well done! I must admit, I stopped reading your blog right about the time it seemed to get flashy… I am really excited to read your post… I am really looking forward to the 2017 posts!

    Reply
  117. AndreaW

    I think this is fantastic! I LOVE your blog and although I don’t get to read it often enough, has really helped put my spending in perspective!

    I think as long as you are true to yourself, you can’t fail. Keep on, ,keepin’ on.

    Reply
  118. Bonny

    WOOHOO for being you and doing it your way! I hope your 2017 is as fantastically magical as I’m planning mine to be! Can’t wait to see what you have in store for us. Hugs!

    Reply
  119. Suzanne

    You go girl! I’d squeeze you….if I knew you. 🙂

    Reply
  120. Cheri

    Good for you! Here’s to the New Year! Wishing you all the best.

    Reply
  121. Barbel

    Yes! Great choice that you’ve made. I haven’t read any of your posts in a year. It seemed not fun anymore. This is the first one I’ve read in a looong time and I love it. Looking forward to your posts in 2017.

    Reply
  122. Becky

    Wow, great post! I love reading your “blog” and I absolutely love the little mini vlogs about your everyday life. I have 4 kids, under 7, and I like seeing how you tackle everyday life with kids, school, housework and everything else. My husband is self employed and parts of the year (most of the year) I feel like a single momma, I would love to know any tips from you since Bubba is self employed too (I think) How do you split kid work, house work and dates nights, when do you find time to do it? Keep doing what you love, cause I love reading it!

    Reply
  123. Amy

    I’ve followed you for years and loved it. I love seeing your instagram posts but recently realized that I hadn’t gone to your website much to read any of your blog posts and I think it is because they were just different than when you started. So I think this is a great decision and sounds like a great decision for you! I love reading about real life tips and tricks of other moms! Can’t wait to see what you do!

    Reply
  124. Melissa

    You go girl!!! Don’t stop sharing, I find you inspiring no matter what you share!!

    Reply
  125. Carla

    You are awesome. I like your posts about saving money and family ideas. You follow what you think is best for your blog and we will still be here cheering you on. Hope you and your family have a wonderful New Year and see ya in 2017.

    Reply
  126. Callie Hall

    Jordan,

    I love this so much. Your posts, videos, blogs, vlogs…everything. I love it. You are so likeable and so relatable. I’m the mom of 2 and hopefully more coming. Your posts make motherhood seem so commical, so hilarious, so funny. It’s so great to read insights from another mother and the way she survives day to day. I wish all my mommy-friends would read your words because I think you make us all feel so normal. You are amazing. I get so giddy when you are live, or have just posted. It’s creepy, probably. My husband looks at my face as I stare at my phone and says “fun/cheap/free just posted, huh?” Ha. I love you! Keep doing what you do. ?

    Reply
  127. Andrea

    I’m on board with you 100%. I’ve found lots of inspiration from your blog. It’s pretty much the only one I read on a regular basis and I follow you on instagram like a hawk, not to be creepy. I think 2017 will be a great year for you and your blog and I can’t wait to see what you do with it. Congratulations girl!!

    Reply
  128. Tori DiVIncenzo

    Absolutely LOVE THIS! I have a YouTube channel and have been daily vlogging and felt super run down. Just like you! So thanks for the inspiration and help to realize that it’s okay not to do what the big dogs do. Just be you and people love that! So thanks!

    I would love to read some posts on more business stuff. Any advice or information you or Bubba have that you would tell your self if you could go back.

    Also something really important that I would LOVE to read about and am very CURIOUS about is… My husband and I are thinking about having children soon. My biggest concern about having a baby is our relationship changing. We have a great relaxation ship now with great communication and a great sex life (sorry tmi) but I’m so worried about having kids and that all just going down the drain. Maybe doing a post on how to help with those fears… I’m not sure. I saw your post on IG a couple weeks ago about this. Since then I have been thinking about it. Hope you can help becaus it’s a big deciding factor for me with being ready to have kids or not.
    Tori ??

    Reply
  129. Leslie

    You go!! This is wonderful!

    Reply
  130. Becky

    Phew! You scared me then. I thought there was going to be no more FCF.
    Wishing you all the best for 2017
    Xx

    Reply
  131. Jennifer

    I am so happy for you Jordan. Good for you. I am behind you one hundred percent. I will help you in what ever way I can. Seriously!! I would like to see tips on clothing a family,growing teen, cheap. Cleaning the house cheap but healthy. Lots of healthy post. Not only are we cleaning up our budget but our health too.

    Reply
  132. Meg

    Happy for you! I was just reading today in psalm 12 about how God hates flattery. Lately I think “flattery” encompasses a lot of what we see in social media, esp. Instagram. it sounds like you are freeing yourself from being bound by what others think, so I applaud you b/c it’s not the easy thing to do!

    Reply
  133. Lori

    I love you and I’m not going anywhere! Excited to see new things and I’ll still be re-reading the old stuff too.

    Reply
  134. Paula

    Just read your post from start to finish. Go for it! Really glad you’re returning to your roots; just be true to yourself and you can’t go wrong. Your fans will stay with you.

    Reply
  135. Kasha

    You seriously took the words out of my mouth!!! I started YouTube vlogging in July of 2016 and have LOVED it, but I HATE all the rules that go into it. This coming year I’ve decided to do what you are doing, being creative in your own way without the rules by anybody else! If the content you are creating is from your heart and is true people WILL see that what you have to offer is REAL and will stick around. Good for you for taking your blog back!!

    Reply
  136. Chantel

    I am so excited!!! Love reading everything you post!! I was on your site today looking for the envelope printables, I love those they just look cuter than me writing it myself.
    Love all your ideas that you come up with. My little girl loves making fluffy eggs in the morning. Seriously any little thing you come up with is helpful!!

    Reply
  137. Jennifer

    I love you!

    Reply
  138. Tana

    I love this! I’ll probably read your blog more often. If I read or watch anything sponsored, my interest dies and I find something else to read. I like when people are real and genuine. Thanks for being you. I found your YouTube channel months ago and love your personality! We became debt free before our first child was born and it has been the greatest blessing. We have 3 kids now and the only debt we have is our house. I love hearing great ways to make money stretch further. It’s hard living on one income with a growing family.

    Reply
  139. Carol

    You are hero. I’m going to be starting a blog to share low sodium recipes. My hubby was just diagnosed with chronic kidney disease and low sodium recipes are hard to find. But I’m like you. Will people see it? Will it even make a difference? It doesn’t matter just as long as we love it. Thank you sharing your moxie! ❤

    Reply
  140. Katie

    I think, like most, I took a sigh of relief after reading through…your title was a little scary! But I enjoyed reading the whole thing. Looking forward to 2017!

    Reply
  141. Jenny

    I stinkin’ L❤VE this!!!! I’ve always loved your passion and this kind of raw honesty is one of the reasons I love your “blogging” so much! You’re real and relatable and we can tell how much you care by posts like this ??? Do you the way no one else can! And we will be here every step of the way!! I’ve been trying to find a word for how I want 2017 to be and this post helped me narrow it down…..PASSION! If we do what we love and “do us,” the Lord will help the right things fall into place!

    Reply
  142. Alishia

    Good for you Jordan!! You are such an inspiration! I am rooting for you!! Doing what you love is a lesson we can all learn.

    Reply
  143. Rebecca

    Happy New year Jordan. I was super excited to read your post and can’t wait to see what 2017 brings for your site and family…. from a total freeb in New Zealand.

    Reply
  144. SJ

    I’m SO excited! I have always loved your blog and used to check it at least every other day, but I almost never visited the site over this past year. What made your blog special was the unique personal touch YOU provided. Can’t wait to see what 2017 will bring!

    Reply
  145. Ingrid Harris

    Good for you! I’ve been following you on insta for a while now, but I don’t usually subscribe to blogs because I too am a busy woman having my 5th baby in the next 2 months:) my oldest is 5! I just can’t justify reading blogs for hours when my scriptures don’t get that much action……but I totally just subscribed. Follow your heart! Look forward to this new “direction” you’re taking.

    *as far as content I’d love bits on juggling so many kids and what helps you stick to routine and maintaining sanity:)

    Reply
  146. Michelle

    Hi Jordan, michelle dawson williams from college. I find that when I listen to my gut and do what I want and need to do, I never regret it. You’ve got this girl. You’ve worked hard where you are and stepping in a different direction isn’t a bad thing. We’re all behind ya. Happy new year. Fun to watch your family grow, wish we lived closer.

    Reply
    • FunCheapOrFree

      MICHELLE!! LOVE YOU! Thanks for saying hi!

      Reply
  147. Marina

    I am so happy to read this. I used to LOVE blogs back when people were genuine and did it for fun. I miss those days. Can’t wait to see the new posts.

    Reply
  148. Lauren

    I’ve never posted a comment before but gotta say I’ve always loved your site and am now even more excited to read it. I think what you’re doing is inspiring.

    Reply
  149. Tyler G

    You are amazing!!! You have helped my family and I get somewhat organized – especially financially. Stay true to you. I look forward to seeing the new changes to come… and the new 2017 program.

    Reply
  150. Sarah King

    You go girl! I do have to say that you are super inspiring. I love following you on YouTube and your BBC program is amazing! Thank you so much for all you have done 🙂 <3

    Reply
  151. Chantelle

    I second what has been said and sprinkle glitter (and sprinkles) over it too.
    I am excited to hear your voice again. It is what made me a follower these past 4 years.
    Hooray for the new blog and your courage to do what you need to do.

    Reply
  152. Sarah

    Well done, Jordan! Thank you for being so candid. It’s absolutely refreshing. Happy New Year!! I look forward to reading more from you in 2017. XO

    Reply
  153. Jen

    Bravo, girl. Blogging every day is tough. One child, seven children, twenty-two children… it’s tough. And when you’ve let the ‘Others’ tell you how to be instead of how you really are it gets worse, uncomfortable, unfulfilling. And then yo have no motivation to keep going. I think that by following your heart in this it will all work out it it’s supposed to. YOU are the person that brought your site/blog to the place we come to for advice, not the sponsors.
    So yeah. Rock it, girl. It’s gonna be awesome!

    So, idea for possible future FCF topic…. I haven’t been reading your site for years so forgive me if I just haven’t searched far back enough…. I’d like to start doing some Review and How To videos for my own blog. So I need some advice from you on where to begin. I have zero budget. Which gives me little wiggle room, but I have a little Christmas money burning a hole in my pocket. Recommendations please for video camera? tripod or camera stand? Video editing software? If you have covered this topic already please just point me in the right direction. I would SO appreciate it.
    Thanks a million. For all you do!

    Reply
  154. Rachel

    I’ve been with you since the beginning… well… nearly the beginning. You’re a friend of a friend and I saw her post your blog and folllwed ever since. I remember you hesitatingly switching to making money on your blog and explaining the need, I remember you hiring your first team, I remember seeing you on ksl and feeling like my friend was on tv! That’s the thing, Jordan, is you do make us feel like you’re our friend. Bubba must be a pretty smart guy to help redirect you do doing YOU because that’s what has made you successful!
    Love this. Love you. You’re my best friend celebrity … you wouldn’t know me from Adam but I sure will talk to you like we’re best buds should we ever meet.

    Reply
  155. Larissa

    This is so inspiring ! I have been following you in both your blog and social media platforms for a few years now and LOVE how genuine you are with everything. I truly feel you are just letting us all be a part of your life no matter how “crazy and imperfect” it may seem. Guess what? That’s what we love to see because it’s exactly how we all live!
    I’ve had my own blog – that is more of a lifestyle blog – for the last few years, and have tried “hitting the books” hard and dedicating myself to it so often, but seem to feel more and more frustrated with it. It seems I’m not where I need to be because of everything you just mentioned. There are just too many “rules” to it lately and it makes it so much less enjoyable.
    Thanks for helping me have a little more faith that if I just do what I do best, others will appreciate and connect.
    Keep things up. We all love what you do!

    Reply
  156. Laura

    Loooove this!!! My favorite is when you share how you mom so hard on a day to day basis. Your practical tips! Your fun tips!! I mean, I cut pancakes with a pizza cutter because of you!

    I’m so excited!!

    Reply
  157. Erin S

    Way to go Jordan! Way to stick it to the man! ??????

    Reply
  158. Mandi

    Way to go Jordan. Very proud of you for putting your foot down and taking a stand on doing what you believe in.

    Reply
  159. Carol

    Thank you! I love reading blogs about people, not the products they’re paid to endorse. Everytime I see “sponsored by….But all opinions are my own”, I move along. Sadly there are very few blogs I follow anymore because they’ve all become a series of ads and that’s it. I don’t even buy magazines anymore because there are so many ads. Thank you for trying something different, for having a true voice. I would much rather see your yard sale and thrift store outfits than that hideous like it hashtag. Be true to your heart and you’ll never go wrong.

    Reply
  160. Ashley

    This is very interesting! As I was reading it I realized I hadn’t read many blog posts for awhile from you. No hate, I guess things just weren’t catching my eye. If your heart is not in it, I’m a big believer that things come across differently and my subconscious must have noticed. Good for you for following your heart! You’re very inspiring, so keep doing your thing!

    Reply
  161. Jill

    J-
    I’m just impressed with you…have been ever since I found you! I love that you aren’t afraid to try new things, always! You are an inspiration for all of us!!!
    Thank you and keep on keeping on because then we want to too!?
    Excited to see what’s next for you!
    Happy New Year!?
    -Jill
    (PS…I still can’t wait to meet you in Portland someday!?)

    Reply
  162. Marinda

    Good for you! I always love popping in and reading your words!2017 is going to ROCK!!

    Reply
  163. Clarissa

    Awesome! You should do what you need to do and I’m excited for what you’ll write. I started following your blog when I saw the recipes you had posted and about the budgeting. Thanks for all your hard work!

    Reply
  164. Lauren

    So eye opening. You are brave. You are kind. Thank you for being you.

    Reply
  165. Kellylee_p

    Wow Jordan,. Holy cow wow! I am so excited to get YOU back!?? Not gonna lie, I have been drifting away from your site for awhile now, can’t put my finger on it, don’t know what it was, but maybe I was picking up on the feeling that it just didn’t seem like the old Jordan that I first came across years ago (when you were just about to have priya)! Seems like so long ago now! I love your honesty so so much. 2017 is looking good so far!! Thank you for caring not only about your Freebs but more importantly, caring about YOU and your real underlying happiness and fulfilment! When you are happy and content, it will shine through for all of us to see and enjoy. Big hugs and kisses ???

    Reply
    • FunCheapOrFree

      I missed you! Welcome back!

      Reply
  166. Barb

    Good for you! And I suspect you will have your most joyful AND successful year yet!

    Reply
  167. Diane

    I actually like “online influencer” 🙂 Love following, and love moments of “real life”

    Reply
  168. Maleeha Ismail

    So much of direction and honesty! <3 Best time to start afresh 😀
    However, don't stop uploading those insta-vlogs. I always check Instagram to see if you uploaded any because I LOVE THEM 😀 <3

    Reply
  169. Ashkey

    Woohoo!!!
    Getting real…I love it!!
    I love the stuff that is so naturally you!

    Reply
  170. Teresa

    Do YOU Jordan! Your posts will be more authentic and enjoyable for us if you are doing it how you want, the way you want. I have been following you for a couple years now and am finally having my first baby in a couple weeks so I have binged on all of your videos as of late and absolutely love your personality, advise, and real-life portrayal of motherhood. Happy New Year! I look forward to your blog/vlogs in 2017!

    Reply
  171. Sereta Jenkins

    I wish we didn’t live in a world where the Internet didn’t behave like one gigantic judges collective hive mind.

    And it judges you into the ground without mercy!

    The truth should always be that as long as you do you it should always be a decision that makes you feel better.

    And I think you’ve done that.

    I can only apologize for the occasional troll that has nothing better to do but put down a hard-working entrepreneur’s dream fulfillment because they had a minute to log on and talk about hating the changes that would benefit you and YOUR family! Ugh.

    Gimme a break Internet.

    Anyway, you literally replied to one of my comments on your YouTube channel and I was so flippin’ excited! I don’t care what you do or how you do it! My daughter laughed with joy watching your new Christmas traditions video when your daughter did all the gymnastics moves. My 1.5 yr old has never seen another kid do that! I had to replay that part like 5 times!

    I first became a fan from Pinterest because your tips on storing freezer meals to prepare for all the NOT COOKING you’ll be doing once you’ve had a baby were soo helpful that I hooked up to every outlet that led to you, girl.

    So don’t worry about us. Your real fans aren’t going anywhere. This is why Indontneven have cable. I found a more wholesome source of entertainment for my daughter (and future invoking other daughter. 31 weeks! Woot! Woot!)

    Reply
    • Sereta Jenkins

      Judgey* not judges.

      And incoming* not invoking lol!

      Reply
  172. Kay

    Here’s to 2017 – I admit I stopped reading a but back, and I’ve missed you during that time! I’m glad to hear you’re back. You got this girl!

    Reply
  173. Kelsey Gillard

    This is an amazingly inspiring post – perfect to end one, spectacularly down year for me! I started a blog a while ago (a long while), did a couple of posts that I enjoyed, but couldn’t keep up with what I was “supposed to do” for it to become “successful”. I feel so empowered to get back to doing what I started out intending to do – write and create because I wanted to! Thank you for your wise words and constant inspiration to live my best life, for me, because I want to. Xo

    Reply
  174. Amy

    Well said. You are very brave and strong. Thanks for being so honest. Your blog will do great. Looking forward to reading.

    Reply
  175. Theresia

    Thank you Jordan! I’ve been following you for a few years now and I always like that you are REAL. Don’t get me wrong….sometimes you make it all look so easy and then you post something like this and it puts what you do in perspective. I follow you for both entertainment and advice, you taught me how to budget and I’m still not great at it but I learned something from you. What I would like to work on in 2017 is breaking my up and down spending addiction….ugh, why do new things make me feel good when they mostly make me feel bad? Continuing to teach my children gratitude and humbleness which some days seems impossible in this world we live in today. Finally, to let life roll on so I can stop and smell the roses a bit verse trying to control my universe at all times. Happy New Year!

    Reply
  176. Betsy Carroll

    Congratulations! Innovators do not follow the crowd, they see the sinking ship and get in the lifeboat…then they make a sail to go faster from old sheets…lol. Sail away to a wonderful year!

    Reply
  177. Becky

    This is refreshing.

    Reply
  178. Cindy

    Bravo Jordan! I was reading that with my jaw on the floor. I hate writing and kept thinking I had to do a blog for my wedding business but was too afraid of it due to my lack of writing skills and passion for it. You just gave me a ton of ideas! So thank you!
    And as for finding a different verbage for “blog”, I’m with ya. The word “Blog” has always bugged me. But sadly I have stressed my brain trying to come up with another word for you. I’m just not that creative…haha.
    I wish you so much luck with your new “format” and hope it brings you so much success! You’ve earned it!

    Reply
  179. Becky

    Good for you! Can’t wait to see what you do!

    Reply
  180. Rita

    I love you, what you are about and seeing your family. I think you have great ideas. I will continue following you and I follow very few. I enjoy what you have to say and how you say it. Thanks for continuing to share with us. Happy 2017 and Your New Journey!!!

    Reply
  181. Taanya P

    You are awesome! So very proud of you and all you have accomplished! Very, very happy that you are choosing to return to what made your FCF posts so wonderful and inspiring!
    Big, big kudos to you… and to Bubba for keeping you grounded and so supportive of your “hobby”!
    I really don’t know how you manage it all!
    I look forward to seeing what 2017 holds for you!
    I only wish I didn’t live so far away! Would love to attend your amazing events and to get to meet you in person!!!
    Good luck, God bless, and Happy New Year!

    Reply
  182. Chris Faina

    Love it! Do you! I’ve been a follower of your blog for years now, Bubba probably doesn’t remember me but we went to school together as kids! Tell him I said hi! You guys are an inspiration.

    Reply
    • FunCheapOrFree

      He said he totally remembers you! Bubba says “I miss your mom’s amazing cakes!”

      Reply
  183. Mikka

    You are amazing and funny! I love your blog and I’m so glad that you’re doing what works for you! I’ll keep on reading 🙂 Happy New Year! Bring on 2017!!

    Reply
  184. Mel

    YAY!! I’m so glad you’ll be going back to doing things your way and being true to yourself. Hooray for you! Thanks for setting an example of authenticity. As you embrace who you are & what works for you, it inspires others to do so as well! 🙂

    Reply
  185. Deb

    LOVE!!!! I have been Sharing my views, crafts and mommy experiences for the past year. I have done reviews and am also backing off them for 2017. They are too demanding for what little they want to pay. takes too much time from the posts I really want to share.

    Reply
  186. Olivia Snyder

    Jordan,
    I really feel ya. 2016 I set out to monetize my blog and do what the “blog experts” do to make it happen. I realized there was absolutely no way for me to do everything I needed to do AND do my first, and most important job, which is being a mom. I can’t do sponsored posts either, they make me feel so fake. I think people are drawn to authentic bloggers. Anyway, good luck with everything!

    Reply
  187. Evette

    I love your blog. I’ve been a long time reader but this is my first time commenting. I think that you are the bomb.com!!! Keep doing YOU d continue to be blessed. Thank you for all of the incredible advice that you share. It’s helped me tremendously. I’ve left a lot of my favorite blogs because of the constant product pushing and giveaways that required the readers to do “20” different things in order to enter to win the prize. I hate that!! Looking forward to following you in 2017. Thank you!

    Reply
  188. Camden

    You inspire me to the core. I love how genuine you are. I love that you post stuff where you aren’t wearing make up or your kids are crying, cuz heck that is real! It is so refreshing to see someone make it “big” that is real, that you can tell your hubby supports you and you still put him first before your “blogging” world. I just love reading about you. You have an awesome writing style and and it makes me so happy. All my little boys (I have 5) gather around me when you post videos because we all love watching them. Thank you for being you, we all love you.

    Reply
  189. Kristen

    Jordan-
    My heart sank when I saw this title in my email yesterday! I clicked and did a speed read and was so relieved to see that you’re going to keep writing. I love your posts, your energy and your family! I enjoy posts about being a mom, wife and money saving tips a lot more than the sponsored posts, so good for you keeping it real. I also love your vlogs and millennial mom posts too! Excited for the changes, I’ll still be here!

    Reply
  190. Lindsay

    LOVE THIS!!! I am so turned off by allllllll the in your face sponsor d posts etc- it’s causing the blogging world to lose its appralnit once had! You are rUgh this on! This is what people want!! Way to go!!! ??????

    Reply
  191. Heather

    way to go…you being real has captured me. Thanks for your love and bubbliness and I loved meeting you at our freebs night night out and playing your games and I watched your jammie reindeer video too cute.

    I work with Deanna Lambson with Whiteribbonweek.org it feels good to do something we all care about …
    Keep up the great work!

    Reply
  192. Deborah

    Just wanted to say how much I appreciated thit post AND the fact that you’ll still be blogging/coaching/inspirating – call it what you want. You have been a huge inspiration to me and I wish you much success!

    Reply
  193. Melissa

    Thank you for this post!! It’s obvious you are someone who is genuine and real, and I think most everyone is rooting for you to do what’s best for YOU! I honestly have no clue how you do all that you do (coming from a mother of 4, 7 and under) and still maintain any sanity. I was worried that you were going to disappear from a more public forum, but read this post (yes the whole thing ?) and was so happy that you’ll still be blessing complete strangers with your tips, and just overall happy, energetic, positive outlook on life. Good luck on this endeavor!!!

    Reply
  194. Karen

    KUDDOS!!! WAY TO TALK YOUR LIFE BACK.

    Reply
  195. Lisa

    My first time reading your blog and I read this! Ha, it was a kick in the pants! Loved it. Very sassy. Whatever it was before it sounds like something spectacular forthcoming.

    Reply
  196. Courtney Sharp

    Jordan, holy freaking crap!!! I needed this. I am determined to have a blog and I have so much passion about it until I have to decide WHEN to post, WHAT will make it catchy enough for someone to repin on pinterest, HOW to make sure people know about my post, and then I get discouraged and put away my laptop and wonder WHY the heck only 100 people clicked on my site. It is discouraging and absolutely not why I started blogging, but it took reading this post for it to click in my head. You are my reality check that I need to do this my way and I don’t want to be stopped! In fact I am going to remove myself from most of the 35+ blogging facebook groups that I joined (simply to ensure I wouldn’t miss out on a single new blogging trend) that causes me ample frustration because I never know what all of the advanced bloggers are talking about! Thank you, thank you, thank you!! I am so pumped!

    Reply
  197. Andi

    Hi Jordan, I read your blog and I have to be honest I was bummed when you said thats why we all sell out (when talking about how much one can make just mentioning a product) so that makes me question how real are you? With budget boot camp? and any other products you talk about.. are you just putting on an act to further your career goals? I’ve been following you for a a year or more but after reading that I’m not sure anymore.

    Reply
  198. Kim

    Good for you! Best of luck!!

    Reply
  199. Emily

    Jordan! I have been reading your blog since 2011 and when I saw this post I got a pit in my stomach (until I actually read the post, then I breathed a sigh of relief). It’s funny, I had no idea that you “did” anything different this year on the blog, I just noticed that something had changed and that I was enjoying your IG/FB posts more than the blog posts. I’m totally with you, Girl. The “rules” suck and really, if you are putting as much time into something as you do, it shouldn’t feel like a stressful chore! I’m excited to see what’s in store for 2017 🙂
    Also, I’m preparing a weekly TV show and I would LOVE to have you on sometime as a guest! Picture The View, only smaller. Much, much smaller…. aaannnd on Cable access. We’re called The Glimpse (small town WI) and it’s going to be Big Fun!

    Reply
  200. Haley

    I wanna give you a big fat chest pump! I love you – and gain inspiration from your way at approaching life, not waiting for the “when this happens, I’ll be happy…” you make it now and you make it for you and your family – that’s why i follow you (mostly on insta) so THANK YOU!

    Reply
  201. Shannon Watson

    You are amazing! The world needs more women like you out there helping other moms and families. Being a positive influence in the lives of others is awesome. I love seeing how supportive Bubba is, and how he helps and encourages you. “Light the World” Jordan!

    Reply
  202. Lisa

    Jordan you rock. I only read the emails that catch my eye or interest me and yours is usually one of them. I have older kids – almost college so many things don’t apply, but I can wish I did them right!!? I have some very fond memories of watching you on Periscope – I haven’t been on there in forever, but you and Chalene Johnson were the only ones I watched – you are in good company – you are both so real and fun!! Thanks for all you do – I have done a few of your conferences online and bootcamps and I loved them. Looking forward to joining the 2017 Best Year Ever – because it’s going to be mine too and I can’t wait to see what you have in store!!

    Reply
  203. Cristan

    Great Idea and keep up the honest work! I cannot wait to see what comes next!

    Reply
  204. Yvonne

    Yay!!! I’m so happy read this. I love following your Instagram because you’re just “you”. Looking forward to seeing what 2017 looks like on your blog!

    Reply
  205. darlene hernandez

    Wow Jordon I was so sad when I read the title but now am so happy. Courage is the willingness to act in spite of your fear and your courage to not walk the line and do what you feel inspires me!! Thank you for being so real and for always being so positive and for spreading your joy!!!!!

    Reply
  206. Natalie

    And just like that you are awesome! Good for you! I will continue to support you and read your blog, sorry I haven’t ever commented before I’ll try and do better!!

    Reply
  207. Annie Ruden

    I love your honesty in this post Jordyn. It’s what readers crave.
    I think you’re right on to get back to what you love. I think you’ll be surprised at how well you do personally and professionally when you stop looking side to side but inside and up. You’re amazing!

    Reply
  208. Kelsey

    YASSSS! I am so excited! I used to visit daily, but then I felt like a lot of the posts weren’t helping me anymore. Just being honest, I still loved ya! Can’t wait to see all the amazing stuff you have coming this year!! ??

    Reply
  209. Emily

    SOOOOOOOO thankful your not going anywhere. I love you all you do, talk about and post. Simple is sometimes the best! I have been racking my brain for a yearly work to focus on and thanks to you I now have 3 days into the new year. My focus word this year “FREE”. Free from all the complicated things we get caught up in, in life. Free to choose the simple paths and ways of life. Free in 2017!!

    Reply
  210. Melanie

    Jordan, you are amazing! I am so proud of and inspired by you for sticking to your goals and doing what you love!
    I love your real life posts and honestly feel like we should be friends.
    I have no doubt that everything you do takes an immense amount of time and effort and don’t blame you at all for cutting back.
    Thanks for letting us all into your life and helping us through!

    Reply
  211. Cheryl

    The term is Jordan. You are going to be Jordan and I am glad! I wondered how you could do everything with 5 kids. My daughter with 2 cannot do what you do! I love just reading about family life and how you do it all! Good Luck Jordan. The kids come first. You will turn around and they will be grown up. Not even kidding!

    Reply
  212. Heather

    Congrats! Love your site. You’re doing a great thing. Keep it up.

    Reply
  213. Lori Pulliam

    Hi Jordan 🙂

    I’ve been following you for a couple years now…I’ve only replied probably once or twice though. Not cause I don’t enjoy EVERYTHING about you and your family, but because this whole “technology thing” is kinda overwhelming for me. I’m much better then I used to be, but still struggle 🙁 (LOL it took me a while to find where I leave a comment at…once I scrolled to the bottom I figured it out LOL)

    I will try and reply more often since you mentioned it helps you, and I would hate to lose you!. And actually, it will probably help me too in the long run. I now need a lot of help in the finance department since I am now single again after 14 yrs of marriage 🙁

    I just LOVE everything about you & your family! You’re a wonderful mom, wife and friend, and you just are a complete joy to watch and listen to! Now I know everyone has their “not so joyous” times, which you are entitled to 🙂 and I would be so upset if you didn’t have them lol!

    So, keep on keeping on, YOUR way!!

    Thank you for being SO REAL LIFE with all of your fans. We really appreciate that!!

    Hope to meet you in person one day. Might take a while though, I am in Maryland.

    I wish you and your family, the best of the best, in the New 2017 Year!

    Much love and admiration,

    Lori

    Reply
  214. Amber K.

    Yeahhhhhh, Jordan! Yeahhhh! I’ll always support you.
    Question: Do you have v2.0 of the Baby Bomb Shelter? I am pregnant with twins & I’m researching nursing cover options. Thank you!

    Reply
  215. Kendra

    I’m really excited about this because you have such a great personality that I like reading/watching your stuff because it’s you. I don’t want to look at paid stuff (that turns me off from blogs). I like watching how far you’ve come financially and that even with money, you still shop cheap (yard sales, deals, etc.). It helps me with working towards my future!

    Reply
  216. k

    thanks for the insight into the life of a blogger…and the costs!

    Reply
  217. Amber

    You will succeed if your heart is in it and all your fans will love your blog even more. I love reading your writing and watching your videos, you guys are entertaining and silly and real. Good luck in everything you want to do in 2017!!!!

    Reply
  218. Amy

    So glad that you are doing you! I have enjoyed your blog and will continue to follow. Btw, that is a great picture of you! Happy New Year!

    Reply
  219. Erica Cruz

    W H E W!!! Excellent news?
    I was delaying the actual reading of the post since the title made my heart plunge clear down into my toes!!!
    Seriously though…

    Thank you for not being a lemming. And NOT caving to the pressure of the numbers.

    THANK YOU! For being true to you. That’s why we all follow your blog, to feel close to the real Jordan. I have missed your “real” spunky self.
    God bless you and yours!

    Reply
  220. JENNIE

    Jordan, I’ve followed your blog on-and-off for a couple of years now, and finally got up the nerve to sign up for BBC on the 14th! Living paycheck to paycheck is killing me- I’m SO sick of it! I know it’s only because we (my BFF hubby & I) just get in our own way. I’m excited to get down to the nitty gritty and finally stick to a budget. We’ve tried so many times, but I feel like if you guys did it, then so can we! I’m hoping this is the change we’ve been working towards. Also, I’m so proud of the way you have decided to be true to you & putting your priorities first. I’m a mom of four lovables (ages 8 to 17), and I feel like we should have made the hard sacrifices financially when they were a lot younger, but here we are years later and still haven’t got it all together! :0) So even though I’m past those baby years, and work from home while juggling everyone’s schedules- I still have a lot to learn from your financial & frugal Mom-savvy. I know a lot of ladies from some super well-known blogs, and I am always amazed by how much they get done in a day. However, truthfully, I’m just plain sick of seeing every “picture perfect post” on IG & their blogs because that’s totally NOT ME. Life’s messy and hard (and full of middle-school homework- ugh!), but I really appreciate you showing your true self with a completely positive attitude. Your posts really do brighten my own attitude, and help me to tell myself I can do it too! Way to take on 2017! See you at BBC- I really look forward to meeting you both!

    Reply
  221. Vicky Rodoni

    First time commenter… Thank you Jordan, I’ve followed you for quite a while. Glad you’ve decided to relax and just be yourself – unfettered by convention. You are perfect just the way you are <3

    Reply
  222. Traci

    Jordan, this is awesome. I’m an amateur blogger, and reading this post has been so encouraging and validating to me, that it really is OK to follow your heart when it comes to what you say and how you say it on your blog. Thanks for posting this. I look forward to seeing YOUR content, done YOUR way in the new year!! 🙂

    Reply
  223. JOKJ

    I almost panicked when I saw the title of this post. 🙂 Glad you’ll still be around. You rock!! You’re my favorite blog!

    Reply
  224. JessB

    Awesome to hear!

    Reply
  225. Katie

    I finally came back and read this Jordan! I knew you didn’t quit exactly but didn’t know what the post was about, so I saved your ($500!) email and just got back to it! And read every word. And would definitely like a cookie but have no idea what a DDP is??!? haha – Anyway! I hope you’re having fun and happy in the New Year so far.
    Hugs,
    Katie

    Reply
  226. A

    We read cuz we love what you write, the way you write – open, honest, heartfelt, funny :)! Keep on doing what you love!

    Reply
  227. Steph

    Wow! A LOT of people responded to that! Thew, Hi Jordan, I’m newly introduced to you and I’m obsessed! A little overwhelmed by all your knowledge but I’ll get there. I feel you have so much passion and I love that you are keeping it REAL! You will do just fine! Intact you will do even better because you are doing the right thing. Wonderful.! You have a brand new obsessed mom here that will be following you and looking forward to it!!

    Reply
  228. Donna

    Good for you! Way to stand up for yourself and do what YOU want to do!! I would love to get into blogging. I have so much to say and share. I just have no idea where to start. Thank you for your site. It’s helping give me a little push.

    Reply
  229. Lacey

    Jordan I LOVE LOVE LOVE this post!! When I went to a blog conference last year (where I met you) I went through a few weeks of sadness after. I couldn’t believe all the gimmicks and hoops and I started realizing none of it was real! Some Bloggers I admired looked completely different in real life, the tricks they shared felt like something I didn’t want to participate in. And I realized even I was making beautiful posts that take hours and hours to edit and create a post/tutorial so beautiful that people would click over to look at it. But in real life the projects aren’t always as glamorous, the room is only pretty in view of the camera, and I edited the heck out of the pictures! How is that right? To try to convince people to create something unattainable, what was I doing?!! So I have taken long breaks but I miss the creative elements. I feel like I either have to sell my soul and do things that feel fake but beautiful or not blog at all. I literally thought something was wrong with me!! I’m the only one who feels this way!! But now you share your thoughts and I’m not alone! Maybe I can blog for fun and talk about whatever I want to. Maybe I am allowed to talk about subjects outside of my “blog type”. Maybe I can stop feeling guilty I didn’t make sure to pin the right size perfect Pinterest photo or create reoccurring Facebook posts every hour of the day to gain another FB follower. Maybe I’m not an idiot to continue turning down money and sponsored posts because I LOATHE doing them! i admire your honesty and you are right I miss driving my friends in their “real life” blogs, before filters, editing, and creating a perception was a thing in blog land!

    Reply
    • FunCheapOrFree

      Love you Lacey!! Thanks for such a sweet, heartfelt comment!! YOUARE THE BEST!!

      Reply
  230. Lauren

    You do you, Boo ? love it ?

    Reply
  231. April

    Wow! You are fearless and awesome!! I LOVE reading and watching your content. You give awesome advice and are so entertaining. You definitely have an amazing gift of sharing, teaching, and connecting to people. I love your honesty, and realness, and kindness!! Keep up the amazing work!!

    Reply
  232. Rozalin Sutcliffe

    You go girl,be yourself,do your thing. Don’t let anyone tell you what to do well apart from your mom (she’s aloud) lol. It’s your life live it how you want to only you can make the choices be free be fun be Jordan. The readers will wait your kids are more important,my baby is my world time with him is so precious. Remember time is more important than money or strangers. Your an amazing person god has truly blessed you I wish you all the best ? ??☘️??

    Reply
  233. Angela @ Witty Aspirations

    Awesome perspective on this challenge of blogging! Best of luck on this year of getting your blog back. It’ll be exciting to read your journey. 🙂

    Reply
  234. Kathleen Youell

    I’m new in the last week, found you on YouTube (probably somehow via a wander from Clutterbug). I’ve been binging on your playlists and in a Beauty video you mentioned this post so I had to come find it. So now dinner is late because I had to read this and comment. Eek!

    I’m very much into what you’re putting out. My own blog has suffered greatly from my perfectionism/procrastination + anxiety. You might have just kicked my butt into gear with this. I love your make-up tutorials, am excited to convert my husband to your budgeting techniques, and can’t get enough of speed cleaning videos (maybe that’s how I found you). Anyway, looking forward to reading and watching more!

    Reply
    • FunCheapOrFree

      Aw thanks for watching and commenting! So appreciated!

      Reply
  235. Naomi

    I didn’t know anything about you until a month or two ago, oh I think it was from the millennial Mom’s YouTube channel. So even though you’re not doing the typical blogging stuff, your still gaining viewers…well at least me lol. I enjoy your site and all your topics, even though I’m not a mom.

    Reply
    • FunCheapOrFree

      Aw well thanks for following!

      Reply
  236. Lindsay

    I freaking LOVE you! You’ve really helped me get my sh*t together! I’m a mom of 2: a 3-year-old boy and a 9-month-old girl and recently quit my job to stay at home with my littles. I’m working hard to get our finances and house in order and with your help am making great progress in having systems and processes in place to make everyone run more smoothly around here.

    Did I mention I love you? ??

    Reply
  237. Cheryl Izatt

    Jordan, I just found you on “Wanderandscout’s” Instagram that I follow. She referred your website. I am also in the trenches with 4 kids 0-5 years in range with one of them having special needs. I am older and the kids are now 13-18, but I quit my career job of 10 years, that I loved, to be their SAH madre in South Jordan. We continue to eek by on my husbands salary, which is such a blessing, but I am really enjoying your website as I see the stack of perpetual medical bills along with keeping the 4 kids and familys needs met. I have been busy as a caregiver that I dont have alot of time to waste reading blogs or Pinterest, but I have found your info so funny, refreshing and helpful. I have only read a few of your posts, and will let myself read one a day. Thanks for being so helpful, honest and positive-it is very inspiring and I def see you have a gift to help so many in todays world. I dont know you in person, but I appreciate that you can be a virtual friend to all of us, FREEBS!

    Reply
    • FunCheapOrFree

      Such a sweet comment, thank you so much! And welcome to the Freebs family!

      Reply
  238. Ashley Z.

    I totally feel this way about my blog now!!! When I first started “blogging,” everyone followed because I was sharing my life adventures. Then blogging kind of died and it became this full-time business world that everyone was taking on but I just didn’t feel right about it. Now when I visit my blog, all I want to do is post meaningful posts about what I’m passionate about, and know that some of my followers who see my more personal posts are probably coming into the middle of the game but have never played the sport before. Ya know? I’m never fully made the jump to just stick to personal blogging or professional because I LOVE BLOGGING.

    Reply
  239. Heather B

    I really appreciate you always being so genuine! Do what you love!

    Reply
  240. Katie Topley

    I’m new to your world but wow! You truly are amazing and inspirational.
    You and your family make me smile. It’s fantastic to know that there really are other ‘normal’ individuals out there with the same struggles and it gives me hope that my current situation CAN change!
    I work long hours in ED at the local hospital and devote my life to helping people better themselves- I have recently realised though that I don’t follow my own advice!
    So sorry for the long post but I just wanted to say thank you for being you and being there (via this site, Instagram and YouTube) to support and push me to change my circumstances because this in the long run will enable me to be stronger and support others better.
    Much love x

    Reply
  241. Teresa

    I absolutely love this. Yes. Rule breaker!!! I have been watching your YouTube videos for about a week now – I came across them from another person I follow online – and totally love your energy, enthusiasm and humor. Thanks for what you do and share 🙂

    Reply
  242. Rachel Beasley

    I really do love how supportive you and your husband are of each other. So encouraging. And thank you for stepping outside the box!

    Reply
  243. Jamie

    I love dairy Queen ice cream cakes, at a select few locations here in AZ they discount the old cakes sometime by half only on Tuesdays!! That is my birthday frugal secret!!

    Reply
  244. Jamie

    I love to see if restaurants r having or giving away free meals on birthdays!!

    Reply
  245. Dee

    I’m so proud of you!

    Reply
  246. Carly

    I’m loving all that you are and do Jordan! Keep it up or keep all the balls in the air. That’s life. You’re family is amazing too! A great example of living life to the fullest!

    Reply

Submit a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *