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Cats,  Reviews & interviews

Cat Blog Hiatus or Farewell Is In The Stars

March 6, 2019 / 117 Comments
If you love cats, sharing makes us purrrr :-)

Cat Blog Hiatus or Farewell Is In The Stars aka expert cat blogger calls it quits by Layla Morgan Wilde.

After 8 years, 2000+ posts, numerous accolades and milestones, I’ve reached a blogging crossroads. It’s not the first time but this time feels different. It reminds of the time I stopped being a vegetarian after 7 years.

Fair warning. This is a long and unusual post for me. It’s my hope that it illuminates a tiny sliver of the blogging world and my role in it.

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I’d spent most of my twenties vegan, then vegetarian. After seven years, it no longer felt right. One day without any deliberation, I wanted of things, a hot dog. Not a tofu dog but an all beef, all dressed hot dog from Harvey’s, a Canadian burger chain. There was no debate with my inner foodie. Logic would have dictated a more luxurious choice like a juicy steak grilled to perfection. No, I only wanted that hot dog. But what about that poor cow and mystery meat bits? What about my commitment to animal welfare and planetary ecology?

Perhaps a compromise could be reached but then a more powerful voice spoke. Listen to your body. You’re done. Without a moment’s notice, I high-tailed to my nearest Harvey’s and without an ounce of guilt I chomped down on my hot dog. It was good and I’ve never regretted it. In fact, I’d love one right now.

  • (Blogging lesson # 398: Don’t blog when starving.) Since then, I indulge in the occasional meat or fish meal and I continue to listen to my body. Usually.

It may have been a humble hot dog but it was a defining moment in my life. I could no longer call myself vegan or vegetarian. By the same token, if I stopped blogging, I could no longer call myself a blogger. Life is full of cycles, of defining moments. Sometimes the line in drawn in the sand forever while sometimes we fall off our path but can return.

Dreams, Stars and the Great Void.

 

astrology_mercury_catwisdom101
Possibly Clyde’s last appearance may evolve into a book cover or ?

If I’m to believe my astrology transits, a it’s pivotal point of no return. Btw, many of us may feel out of sorts this month. Mercury turned retrograde today and lasts until the end of the month signaling communication, travel and tech confusion. The new moon tomorrow is a key point of new beginnings with Uranus, the planet of sudden changes moves into Taurus when it’ll sit for the next seven years. In my case, it’s in my 10th house of career and social status.

I highly recommend learning more about your astro transits to help prepare for and navigate the inevitable change. If you enjoy astrology, podcasts and some free advice, I suggest The Leo King or Astro Shaman. They also have helpful YouTube videos.

I had a dream on the weekend with a clear directive to quit Cat Wisdom 101, just like that.

As the dream faded and reality set in, so did doubt. Could I just stop after all these years. Wasn’t that career suicide? Perhaps but if an infected leg needs amputation, a band-aid won’t do. I thought if I blogged less often and spend less time on social media I’d be saved. You know keep my foot in the door. My blogging dwindled over the years from 7 days a week to once a week but there was more social media, SEO and algorithms to worry about.

It would be utter folly to throw away my 24/7 cat life but like they say, “You can’t cross a chasm in two small steps.” Unlike a cat, I don’t have nine lives. Wait, neither do they but I feel like I’ve lived through least 19.

A compromise might be to pare back and just do my monthly calendar in one big blog post. And what about the gazillion photo quotes and unedited posts waiting in the wings to be published? Oh, those cute graphics I can’t wait to share for St. Patrick’s Day and Mother’s Day. See, this is why blogging is addictive. I could take another blogging break but I need more than a break. A hiatus feels bogus. I know lots of bloggers who go on hiatus and never return.

What’s the worst that can happen? I lose everything I’ve worked years non-stop for but find my sanity?

No matter what happens, I will keep creating in multiple modalities. It’s still a joy when I find an old photo to use in a blog post like today’s featured image. I’d taken it at the Rubin Museum in New York three years ago. Visitors were asked to write on a piece of paper what sacred space meant to them before tossing it into a collective bowl. While paper is analog, the concept to use it for this post fit. Curious to find out what happened to the interactive exhibit, I Googled it and found a video about it. Wow, it made me remember why I loved blogging. Who knew 8,000 people felt compelled to write on those little pieces of paper.

I don’t know what the sacred space of the blogosphere is. It’s not all peace, love and purrs.The underbelly truth about blogging in a niche like cats or dogs, is dog eat dog. Yeah, there a few kind bloggers who care but just because someone loves cats, doesn’t mean they’re warm and fuzzy. They’re still human with human foibles and a wild variety of agendas. Sorry for kicking the sacred cow. To the uninitiated, it’s a mix of fun and doing good. It’s more like a catty mix of high school and the Housewives TV show of whatever city you prefer. Funny in retrospect and frankly unbelievable.

Some bloggers and readers vanish but many who used to comment no longer do. Did I do something to diss them? Who knows but the main reason is likely tit for tat. Once I stopped commenting as often, other bloggers stopped visiting. None of it matters. Every blogging niche has their own cliques and hierarchy.

Blogging lesson #22. Behind every blog is a human even if the blogger is a cat. Humans aren’t purrfect so don’t take anything another blogger says personally. That goes for compliments and critiques. Take it all with a grain of salt. Blogging is not for the thin-skinned. I used to get angsty why some bloggers seemed to be better or luckier until I found out the backstory. There is always a backstory. There is always a price for every success. It’s easy to hide online. To hide pain behind smiles or cute cat videos. It’s not worth being jealous of any blogger, person or cat. That includes me.

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So, here I am standing at a precipice about to jump into the void. There is no turning back. I may stand wavering for a bit at the edge but I will have to take that next leap into the unknown soon. The decision will determine and define my identity. If I’m not in the cat blogging world any more, who or what am I? Ironically, I never wanted to be a blogger. I wanted to be a writer, an author and blogging helped bridge the two. I’m a published author now but so what? Blogging snatched precious time away from book writing and drove a wedge into my creativity. I have a dozen incomplete writing projects collecting dust to show for it.

  • Blogging lesson #99. If you want to be an author: WRITE don’t blog. And if you’re already a writer don’t get bamboozled into writing a blog because someone said it’s a good way to grow your platform. You’d be better off guest posting at another blog. Stick to one social media platform and master it.
  • Blogging lesson #188. If you’re sitting on the fence about blogging for the hell of it, don’t bother. The world doesn’t need another blog unless you’re Seth Godin’s clone. If so, please do. If you have an interesting pet, hobby or lifestyle do Instagram instead. Curate things you love to write about on Pinterest.
  • Blogging lesson #57. Blogging is addictive. Don’t be fooled by the dopamine reward hits. Wow, I hit my first 10,000 blog views or wow, 100,000 monthly views bing, bing, bing. Aw, aren’t I loved getting 50 comments. I must really be loved if the comments aren’t from fellow bloggers. Bing, bing, bing. Maybe you are a rockstar/guru after all. Maybe not. Eventually, none of it matters. There will always be someone with bigger numbers.
  • Blogging lesson #8. The Internet is limitless but contrary to motivational quotes, you are not. Know your limits. Set healthy boundaries and goals. I’ve waved dreams of really making a difference to cats good-bye. I know I’ve made a difference and every life counts but my passion cost me my health and almost my life. Yes, really. Now, that’s a book.
  • Blogging lesson # 29. Blogging is about creating content online which is virtual reality and often fake. It may have aspects of reality like your words or photos being be printed and held in your hand, for real. Don’t automatically believe anything you see or read online. Chances are it’s smoke and mirrors or Photo-shopped at best.
  • Blogging Lesson #171. Don’t expect your fellow bloggers or readers to be real friends. In my book, real friends still require a face-to-face, let’s have dinner, talk on the phone to gradually build a level of trust. I’ve said had to say good-bye to many blogger “friends” over broken trust. That said: there are some bloggers who click and become genuine friends. Count yourself very fortunate to have even one blogger in your niche to call a friend.

I could go on and on but it would lapse into an e-book diatribe about the dark side of blogging and I have enough unfinished projects. Besides, Clyde needs his insulin shot and I need some sleep.

I’m not asking for your support, commiseration or suggestions or God forbid, pity, but I am *waving wildly* with thanks to all my constant readers. I especially want to acknowledge all the long time subscribers who have rode the ups and downs of this long journey. You are the best. Thank you! Without you I would have quit years ago.

If you’d like to know what happens next in my blogging/writing/life adventure, please be or stay a subscriber. Any updates will only happen via email. I’m guarding my energy and will not be able to respond to comments, messages or emails. Thanks in advance. See you (I hope) on the other side of the leap.

With much love and gratitude,

Layla

P.S. I’ve been wading through the blog archives, updating SEO, editing posts plus uploading new images. It’s painstaking, time consuming but weirdly satisfying. It’s a useful exercise whether I end up selling the domain (unlikely), re-purposing content or whatever. While digging through individual posts, I forgotten how massive and all-encompassing the body of work is. There is enough content to edit and create more than one book or something entirely new. It’s a lot of housekeeping regardless. There are tons of spam comments to manually pick through and remove (ugh, before we implemented more rigorous anti-spam filters) and then there is the question of what to do with all my social media accounts.

I’ve been virtually a ghost online, tardy returning email, but grateful for my Instagram volunteer admin who keeps things at least @blackcatsofig afloat. A giveaway on Instagram ends this week. It may be the last one ever and it will be a very nice surprise for the winner.

WHAT! Are you still reading? The details of wrapping up blogging life is like the prep work required before taking a long vacation or a organizing a funeral — exhausting. As tempting as it is to drop everything and vanish, it’s not in my Nordic DNA is shirk responsibility. I feel bad enough for not returning many emails.

P.P.S.

Layla-Morgan-Wilde-cat-grave_catwisdom101

I’ve changed the blog header to include a photo of Merlin who was there at the beginning of Cat Wisdom 101 and in my life for 21 years. It looks better on mobile that desktop but I got tired of fiddling. The photo above is one of my favorites and a harbinger of change. When I originally posted it, Merlin was still kicking as was the author of the poem, Mary Oliver. Both are now dead and lovely patch of green by Gris Gris’s cat grave is Merlin’s mossy memorial garden.

The mossy wheel of life keeps rolling with or without us.

The cats are all getting old and require 24/7 care which has hampered my health and ability to work. Plus it looks like we will be moving house after 18 years. Where and when exactly is up in the air. My plate is and has been way too full for far too long. Hello, Universe, a miracle would be welcome right about now 🙂

Hang in there, spring is on the way!

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117 Comments

  • psychichealer sharma

    September 13, 2024 at 8:03 AM Reply

    This post beautifully reflects the emotional journey of Cat Wisdom 101 and the bond it has built with its readers over the years. Your dedication to feline welfare and storytelling has made a significant impact, and your thoughtful reflections in this piece are deeply touching. Thank you for all the years of insight and care.

  • Erin & Mark

    April 7, 2019 at 4:12 AM Reply

    Hi, Layla. You have been here on the internet far longer than I and must have seen many changes both good and bad, as you say. I for one will miss seeing your articles out there, but pray you do not give up completely and have a presence for us all to enjoy.
    I have and continue to have increasing problems commenting on folks posts, and sometimes your own too. It seems the world doesn’t want us any longer to share our cat lives with even our pals. It is horrid and drives us to not communicate, which I guess is what the powers that be really want?
    I hope whatever happens next for you will bring you as much joy and wellbeing as your blogging has given us.
    Love and purrs to you from Erin and I
    PS I hope we will be able to contact you through site if the need arises as it is great to have friends to say hello to and visit.

  • Brenda Quint Gaebel

    April 5, 2019 at 1:40 AM Reply

    Layla, I just found this while doing an online search for information o n fostering cats. What a wonderful treasure of information you have here. I see that you are needing to move on to other things, but I am so thankful for the information, experience and wisdom you have shared here. It is ageless and priceless.
    Best Wishes,
    Brenda
    Cats Meow Cat Rescue
    Oregon

  • Holly

    April 1, 2019 at 12:42 PM Reply

    From one cat mama to another, I wish you all the very best in the days ahead for your life. It is sad how petty and conniving some people in this life can be. I’m sorry you had to face that. We’d all be better off if we wished each other well and encouraged one another’s success. *sigh*

    Blessings!

  • VickyC

    March 18, 2019 at 9:00 AM Reply

    Best of luck to you on the next chapter. I loved hearing from Merlin and then Clyde on Mondays. Sending you warm thoughts, and many purrs.
    Hugs
    VickyC, Inky & Toots

  • Chirpy Cats

    March 17, 2019 at 4:58 PM Reply

    I wish you well with whatever you decide to do and I do agree that your health and that of your kitties comes first. For myself, after taking a long 5-week break visiting my parents in South Africa, I’ve returned with a renewed sense of the things that are important to me: my cats, family, health and getting more darn sleep! I’ve realized I can’t do everything unless I clone myself 10 times over!

    I hope our paths cross someday, who knows we might meet up right here in your hometown of Montreal!
    P.S I thank you for allowing me to guest post on your blog!

  • Layla Morgan Wilde

    March 13, 2019 at 12:18 AM Reply

    Hi Bill, thanks for your good wishes and understanding. I’m not responsible if you didn’t bookmark the e-book I sent you. There is a special 99 cent e-book version at Gumroad as an alternative. The formatting for the Kindle version proved too complicated.

  • The Swiss Cats

    March 10, 2019 at 12:50 PM Reply

    Whatever you decide, we wish you all the best ; we know that you do what you think is the best for you right now, and it’s ok. We love you, and we love your blog : good luck for the next step ! Purrs and hugs

  • Angel Ms. Phoebe’s Family

    March 9, 2019 at 8:12 PM Reply

    MEWOH say it isn’t so!! We do follow you and have since day one, how will we know what’s going on in the world completely if you leave? I understand everything you say and feel, you must do what you feel is best for you. Please do not throw in the towel all at once- give yourself a break and slow down if you need to. You have so many who love you and your fur kids that would be open to you taking on a lighter schedule rather than disappearing entirely. Pearl and I being two of them.
    I especially need your advice with this tortimese terror and her curtain ruining behavior! NOTHING deters this one and her determination/stubbornness.
    Please keep us updated as to your decision and know you are appreciated.

    • Layla Morgan Wilde

      March 12, 2019 at 3:56 AM Reply

      Aw, thanks dears but we tried blogging less every year and it wasn’t helping. You’ll be the first to know any news and thanks for being there from the beginning! You know a tortimese must rule so just accept it 🙂 xoxox

  • Cindy

    March 9, 2019 at 1:52 PM Reply

    I wish you all the best with whatever you decide to do going forward. I love your blog and all the things that went along with it. If you decide to come back, I think you will find a whole lot of fans cheering the day! At this point, you have freed yourself to do what is best for you, and sometimes we get to that point. In my case, I had a major health issue just two years ago, and I said goodbye to my career so I could take care of myself. Fortunately, I am well again, and I have learned a lot since my diagnosis, especially how to do the things you love to do. You will be missed, but you can always come back to where you left off.

    • Layla Morgan Wilde

      March 12, 2019 at 3:38 AM Reply

      Cindy, thanks for sharing. It mean a lot to know life can bounce back. I don’t believe after great transitions we can ever return to where we left off but we can return transformed. I’m curious if you found a new career? xox

  • Chase Holiday

    March 9, 2019 at 12:56 PM Reply

    You will be greatly missed! Reading this post made me so sad. Thank you so much for all your support for Furball Fables and Crafty Kitty Cats. You are one of the few bloggers who have supported us. (Also RIP Life with Cats which also shut down with no announcement.) I totally understand what you mean by the cat world not being all warm and fuzzy and somewhat Catty. Why others do not support each other in this field has always baffled me. Your post made me so sad because I am also at a crossroads and not sure what direction I will go. It must be so hard and incredibly brave of you to take this step. I wish I could have a dream that made it so clear! However, you my dear YOU should be writing books. Black Cats Tell All was so great and such a pawsitive influence for black cats everywhere. You learned so much from that process and could now move forward with other books easily. You have been a major force in the Cat world. Look up almost any subject on cats and one of your blog posts is sure to appear near the top of any google search. But to be totally honest my intuition tells me you will be back. This is just a break. In order to resurrect you need to bury the old first and see what the rebirth with be. You will have something that will excite you so much that you will need to come back! I do hope it’s cats but I am not sure. Now about the move. California is very nice! Perhaps the desert? Please always count me as one of your friends regardless if you are blogging or not. And THANK YOU so much for all that you have contributed to the cat world! And Buddha wants to purrsonally thank you for all you have done to help and support black cats! (hi Clyde) Big Hugs! Chase, Merlin, Fairy, Elfin, Buddha and Yogi! xoxox

  • meowmeowmans

    March 9, 2019 at 12:39 PM Reply

    Layla, we are sorry to read this, but we understand. We will miss you, your insightful musings, and knowing on a regular basis how you and the cats (especially our buddy Clydie) are doing. But you must take care of you. I hope this is not goodbye, but know that no matter what, we will think of you with love, and gratitude for your friendship.

  • Cindy Jones

    March 7, 2019 at 9:36 AM Reply

    Oh yea….I also use your memes on Teddy’s FB page. I used one this morning that read “Don’t judge a cat by it’s color” ♥

  • Cindy Jones

    March 7, 2019 at 9:12 AM Reply

    Layla ~ I hope you don’t disappear all together. I have enjoyed reading your blog and seeing your photos & memes. It’s hard to keep up on IG, but receiving your emails and updates are great!

    Your friend ~
    Cindy
    Mollie, Teddy, Charli, & Timmy
    @jones_fids

  • speedyrabbit

    March 7, 2019 at 8:26 AM Reply

    I get itI have been out of sorts too with blogging and social media too and I know why to much emotional stuff going on at home with My mother in-law but she is in a nursing home now and her house is ready to rent out so it’s all starting to settle down at home,I’ve just been doing some jobs in the garden which are nearly done too so I’m now just basically thinking what’s next and letting Speedy’s blog tick along and I’ve realized that there are some friends I need to take a step back from because they are draining the life out of me with their mental health problems and I am just tired of it all dealing with their problems and not looking after me….selfish it is?Yes but I need to do it to get back to being me.Sometimes we need to step back and take stock of our lives and just get back to being ourselves so that we can carry on doing what we love and make time for that so that we just enjoy it all rather than it all becoming a chore to do,xx Rachel and Speedy

      • speedyrabbit

        March 12, 2019 at 2:54 PM

        We got your comment. I thought you would like to know. Bless you. I think the last year or two has been hard for everyone. Go live your life and enjoy it… You deserve it, just stay in touch from time to time, I know I would like to see how you are doing from time to time and how all the Kitties are doing and you don’t need to blog to do that I will try the cbd oil I just need to check with someone I know on the use in bunnies, xx

  • Bev Green

    March 7, 2019 at 3:16 AM Reply

    Layla run straight to your new life..do not stop just go..change at our stage of life is indeed life…social media is an anathema..i also am defunct as far as blogs go..i could care less..so many aspects of my life have been trashed and the veneer of blogging holds little joy..i wish you health peace and inner harmony..be kind to YOU..

  • Dalton/Benji/Angel-MrJackFreckles/Pipo & Angel-Minko

    March 7, 2019 at 1:20 AM Reply

    I get your email ntices for posts you put up, and I look at them even if I do not coment. For me, too, blogging has tried to take over my life…so I put up a post once a week…but with my work and other things a mom, wife and pet owner has to do, well, I find it very hard to visit/comment anywhre of late.And I spend way to much time making ‘cards’ for others, all the more since I am on a borrowed computer, my own having been stolen…I can’t wait to get a new Mac!

    But I find in my heart that I have gotten fond of my fellow bloggers, and If I would stop, I feel like I would be abandnng them all. So I try to keep up,a bit each day…today was your turn! How timely:)

    I still have that unfinished draft about my feelings and such after Minko left the earth…sorry, but I just didn’t have the time to do it proper justice! Oops, I should have let you know…sigh…

    If you leave, you will be missed, but never forgotten.
    ((((( ♥ )))))

    • Layla Morgan Wilde

      March 12, 2019 at 3:10 AM Reply

      Thanks so much and I sure do understand. I used to feel the pressure to keep up until it became too much. Whenever you feel like finishing the draft,I’ll still be around 🙂 Thanks so much xox

  • ellen beck

    March 6, 2019 at 11:40 PM Reply

    I will miss you of course if you go, but times and things change . Sometimes slowly, others in the blink of an eye.
    You have always been special to me. I will never ever forget you because of so many things. My most loving nod to Clyde, but my Mondays either started or ended with Merlin.

    You made Punchy who was a stray cat famous……. and David and I hold it in our hearts and always will. You made so many days better.

    I will stay a subscriber, I want to hear from you, but I understand change……………… we either grow or shrivel without it.

    Whatever you do, wherever life takes you, I wish you only the very best, I know we have never met, but I hope you do not go away totally (selfish isn’t it?) I wish I could have met you. I wish so many things these days.

  • Mark's Mews

    March 6, 2019 at 10:07 PM Reply

    We read your farewell post several different times today.

    We can’t seem to read anny of the previous comments (we don’t do anny social media other than blogger). And we were only occasional visitors.

    But we understand that ending things can be difficult and often involves some harsh thoughts.

    We agree with some of what you said, but not all of it. That being said, we do agree that when you tire of one way of communicating, it is time to change to another (or none depending on why you stop one).

    Wishing you happiness in the future…

  • Danielle

    March 6, 2019 at 9:27 PM Reply

    I’ve enjoyed reading your blog for all this time. Sorry that I didn’t comment more, but it’s always been a wonderful read. You have to do what’s best for you, and if the feeling is that it’s time to move on, then I completely understand! Best wishes and positive vibes to you and all of your future endeavors <3

  • jansfunnyfarm

    March 6, 2019 at 6:26 PM Reply

    I am sorry to read this, that you have been going through so much and are hanging up your blogging “pen”. But I understand. I have been blogging since 2005, been reduced to posting twice a week, can’t even begin to keep up with visiting and commenting for such a long time … My furries have been dying off, my health has been going downhill, and I haven’t posted in a couple of months. My blogging days are most likely over. 🙁 But our health and the health of our furries is more important. I’m sorry I haven’t visited or left comments in a while. I wish you the best at whatever you do and have enjoyed Cat Wisdom 101 over the years. Things/circumstances change for all of us. Be happy and healthy.

  • Mickey's Musings

    March 6, 2019 at 6:23 PM Reply

    Totally understand your desire to quit blogging. It is time consuming.
    I blog for myself as a kind of online diary.
    After 11 years, I blog 2 days a week. Getting around to all the bloggers is time consuming and time is precious as you know.
    It is important to do what is good for you and health and happiness come first.I hope you find both.
    I wish you all the best in your future endeavors.Wishing you happiness,health and peace.
    Purrs Georgia,Julie and JJ
    and Nancy(the human)

  • Lola The Rescued Cat

    March 6, 2019 at 6:01 PM Reply

    I’ve been remiss in visiting many blogs over the past year. Between two jobs I barely find the time to write a post, let alone visit others, which I really miss doing. I hope you find happiness and peace of mind in your next venture and blog hiatus.

  • Andrea

    March 6, 2019 at 4:47 PM Reply

    Well, I hate to see you disappear into the blogosphere so to speak but I certainly wish you well. When I decided to quit it was because Mewdy Blue died and I just couldn’t face a blog without him, nor relating to anyone. I only recently got back into reading blogs again but I cannot go back to my own blog. I’m sorry to hear also that you might be moving. That is very hard as well. Please do what you must to care for yourself.

  • Cathrine

    March 6, 2019 at 3:38 PM Reply

    I thought I was in a parallel universe while reading your post, as that is exactly how I have been feeling for the last few months, and searching for way to continue, retreat, stop or something whatever that may be with Basil’s Blog. I wish you much happiness, health, luck and joy on your new path and journey and I admire decision, I know it wasn’t easy. Cathrine x

    • Layla Morgan Wilde

      March 12, 2019 at 2:28 AM Reply

      Cathrine, I just tried leaving a comment at your blog but not sure it showed up. We are indeed birds of a feather and hope we cross paths perhaps across the pond. Extra smoochies to Parsley for being a lovely addition in my book xoxox

  • Marjorie and Dash's Spirit

    March 6, 2019 at 3:30 PM Reply

    Everything you say is true. There were some really rude and unresponsive bloggers at BlogPaws when I was trying to ensure my friend from England was encouraged and inspired by the trip. He did meet some friendly souls for which I am deeply grateful. Sadly, no many of them will not share, they are too busy monetising. I can’t imagine NOT sharing, what’s the point of life if you can’t share and love what you do.

    For all that I have a couple of fast friends who I do best to keep up with and I aim to focus on real life too. I am doing more craft now and caring for Harvey our sweet senior and ignoring FB. It’s amazing how good it is not to have the app on my phone!

    Whatever you do, take care of yourself, enjoy life and love Clyde. I miss Merlin’s spirit, he was such an inspirational voice and such a power for good. Hug Odin for me.

    Get writing, get some of those unfinished projects up and running. DO IT NOW. I will miss coming to visit and seeing Clyde (and Merlin and Odin and you and…..)

  • Karen F Lucas

    March 6, 2019 at 3:27 PM Reply

    You will be missed. Many of us do not comment very often because we just don’t have the time but it doesn’t mean that we don’t love to hear from you. Wishing you great good luck.

  • Skeeter and Izzy

    March 6, 2019 at 3:06 PM Reply

    God bless and keep you and yours Layla.Some of the reasons that you cite are the reasons why yours is the only blog that we visit.
    Time is precious and passes far too quickly and we must learn to spend it wisely. The real world is where we vest our time for the most part. The Internet is a powerful tool and can help educate and drive change but not always for the better.
    I learned early in life that true friends are indeed a rarity and to be treasured. I can count mine on one hand and I care not that others deem that to be wrong.
    I would like to think that we could indeed become friends in real life, you are my kind of realist peep!
    We do very sincerely appreciate each post of yours that we have ever had the honor and privilege of reading. You have helped us learn and appreciate many new things, thoughts and ideas.
    I could go on and on but I will close now.
    We do truly send our love and heartfelt thank yous to you and wish you the peace and healing that you need now. We understand completely.
    We will miss this very much but we do understand.
    Luvs and Hugs and Prayers and many many Kitty kisses from the Gang to you and yours. As the truckers say “keep it between the ditches”
    You have our email if you ever want to shoot us a line.
    We will never “unsubscribe”!
    Luvs
    Skeeter and Izzy and the Feral Gang + Twig & Peanut & the Angels >^..^^..^<~

    • Layla Morgan Wilde

      March 12, 2019 at 1:59 AM Reply

      Oh dearest of the dearest. I think I could write a book just about your brilliant comments over the years. Truly, they and you are a treasure. Thank you. You are one of a handful I consider a friend. Much love. I look forward to sharing my next news xoxox

  • Dorothy

    March 6, 2019 at 2:15 PM Reply

    Dear Layla,
    Thanks for all the lovely work you’ve done and I look forward to seeing what you decide to do next. But, if you decide to leave public life altogether, well, that’s okay too. The important things is that you are content, at least sometimes, with how things are. Thanks for all you’ve taught us. Take care of yourself. Your light has brightened the blogosphere.

  • Ellen Pilch

    March 6, 2019 at 1:51 PM Reply

    I am very sad to see you go. I hope you will still give us updates sometime. I certainly understand how you feel especially with sick kitties and a move. I am sure you will do well with your writing and I certainly would buy any book you write. Sending you love and hugs.

  • Cats Herd You

    March 6, 2019 at 1:47 PM Reply

    Oh, Layla, Cat Wisdom 101 is one of the fixtures of the cat internet and so are you. I’m sorry to see you stepping away, but I understand you need to do what’s right for you in the here and now. Take care of yourself.

  • Summer

    March 6, 2019 at 1:36 PM Reply

    It’s so important to take care of yourself first, and I think you need that right now, very much. Take care, take care of your kitties, and all the best to you. Much love. <3

  • Pam Kimmell

    March 6, 2019 at 1:36 PM Reply

    Layla I do believe, my friend, you were one of the first blogs I ever followed when I started reading blogs, finding my OWN way. I remember Merlin and his sister and all of that sadness….I remember Merlin “predicting” Sammy had a couple of more years before departing and Merlin was right….I remember wonderful vintage postcards for occasions, and fabulous artwork from you – great stories, super photos – advice and guidance. You are such a talented lady. I know you feel like you’re trying out some new wings – I did that when I QUIT writing books and turned to blogging. It’s scary. But it’s freeing. My one wish for you would be that you do what you NEED to do for yourself. Whatever that is. Just know that I’m just one of many I’m sure who will never forget you if you DO decide to “fold your tent”. I’m always on email…and I’m staying subscribed to you should you come back. Either way though I’m sending you a HUG of strength to do whatever you must.

    Love, Pam

  • Scylla, Fenris, Tuiren, YinYang & Chimera (ATCAD)

    March 6, 2019 at 1:25 PM Reply

    We will miss you, Cat Wisdom 101 has always been one of our favorite blogs and we are very grateful for the chance you gave Yin (Alasandra) to be a published author.

    Mom has thought of stopping blogging. Typing hurts her wrist (one reason we fail to comment on blogs these days). We really appreciate the fact you did a farewell post. So many of the blogs we used to read just ended with no warning.

  • Maggie

    March 6, 2019 at 1:12 PM Reply

    I hope it’s just the time of the year, Winter cold continuing into March…
    I feel better about blogging now that I never check my stats or get notification of subscribers lost or found. I hope I’m helping cats find homes, and showing the joys of volunteering, but it’s bread cast upon the water, a air kiss in the dark.
    Very best wishes to you and your family, Layla.

    • Layla Morgan Wilde

      March 12, 2019 at 1:22 AM Reply

      Maggie, thanks so much. I know how hard you’ve worked on behalf of shelter cats. We share the same love of making a difference and it would be lovely to reach more but saving every single life matters xoxo

  • shelby alcorn

    March 6, 2019 at 1:01 PM Reply

    Please dont stop. I love your blog. I dont have internet at my house. Sometimes i cant read the blog. But i save them so when i go to town i can read them

    • Layla Morgan Wilde

      March 12, 2019 at 1:20 AM Reply

      Wow, Shelby thank you. It never occurred to me that any of my readers might not have internet at home. Please continue to enjoy the archives. There’s a ton of reading and look out for news via email xo

  • Renee and Miss Sootie

    March 6, 2019 at 12:49 PM Reply

    Miss Sootie will miss you and will not be unsubscribing. We look forward to hearing from you whenever or however it feels right for you. In the meantime we hope the site will still be accessable as it has been a joyful collection of images and soulful writing worth rereading at leisure. Should that result in more books (I died a little when the kickstarter didn’t bloom) even if initially ebooks, let your fans help, ok?

  • Karen Shinevar

    March 6, 2019 at 12:18 PM Reply

    Layla. Your wisdom and inspiration have been a guiding star for me…and so many others. You have helped more than you know. This post has so much life and vulnerability and truth. Paws up to you, paws crossed for you, and know you are held in the highest possible esteem. You gave us #compassionwithapurrpose. Karen at CPAW NJ

  • The Island Cats

    March 6, 2019 at 12:05 PM Reply

    You have put a lot of thought into this. You have to do what you think is right…and makes you happy. If that means no more blogging…then so be it. If you do stop, we’ll miss you.

    I am at a crossroads too having just lost one of the stars of our blog. I’m not ready to quit just yet…but may need to take a different focus. Still trying to sort things out.

    ~Island Cat Mom

  • Cathy Keisha

    March 6, 2019 at 11:56 AM Reply

    Dunno if this comment is going to appear since I can’t see the other comments but I’ll try. I’m glad you enjoyed the hot dog. I’ve heard from most veggies that if they eat meat after years it tastes terrible. I can say I understand but I’m not you so I can’t understand what you’re feeling or going through. I’ve more or less stopped visiting other blogs and know the tit for tat thing all too well. I also know that a good lot of other bloggers are back-stabbing. It’s like that in al workplaces. Have a great life although I’m almost sure you’ll be back. I’m calling your bluff.

  • JaneA

    March 6, 2019 at 11:55 AM Reply

    I’m right where you are, Layla. I put my blog on hiatus last fall, and I’m starting to come to terms with the fact that I may never write another post in that blog again. After 15 years. My blog became such a huge part of my identity, and my professional career, that it’s been really hard to think about leaving it. But at the same time, I’ve been struck by the inspiration to start a new business, and when I do, I’m sure I won’t have time for cat advice blogging.

    I actually cried when I wrote my “on hiatus” post, especially when I started getting supportive comments from my readers. I still get a little misty-eyed when I think about it.

    Enjoy the next step of your life, and enjoy becoming Layla 2.0 (or 3.0, or whatever). I know I’ll be enjoying the next step of my life, too. <3 Much love to you for all the wisdom you've shared over the eight years of your blog.

  • Lisa

    March 6, 2019 at 11:54 AM Reply

    I wish you well in your new journey. Don’t ever forget: “The Universe has your back”.

    Thank you for all of your wonderful posts…they’ve helped me get through tough times. Your beautifully written posts reminding me that this little soul, my cat Hannah needs me, if nothing else in life.

    Layla, you have made a difference. Thank you.

    Please take care of yourself and those precious little souls that share a home with you!

    Bless You All!

  • Fay Kennedy

    March 6, 2019 at 11:50 AM Reply

    Fear Layla…..I totally understand how you feel……but also want you to know that I ? your blog and admire you and your values and talents…also….I’m an INFJ psychological type so it is like you are my soul sister and I share your need to be in solitude and in a contemplative state to ‘ponder’ and act on your doing meaningful heart-oriented activities…..enjoying every moment…..I hope we stay in touch in some special way…..Fay Kennedy. ?? 757-963-5403 inVaBeach

  • Beverly

    March 6, 2019 at 11:46 AM Reply

    Well. This makes me sad. Too many of my favorite things have entered the demesne of the 404: Page Not Found, and now Cat Wisdom 101 is pacing steadily that direction.

    Still, I understand where you are coming from. Like Baggins, who said of the burden of bearing the Ring, felt like “he was butter that had been scraped over too much bread”.

    I wish you joy in your new adventures; perhaps you will regroup and continue.

    I will miss you terribly.

  • Kathryn

    March 6, 2019 at 11:25 AM Reply

    Oh my, Cheddar just squeaked a whine.

    He echoes how I feel, Layla. How we wish that we can do in 7 days or 10,000 days what we can do in a few days. But we all need a break.

    Cheddar is rooting for you, Layla. He just squeaked and mewed a long one.

    I think you will be back from time to time. This is in your blood. We all love your cat posts. We love your cats, and I was saddened about Merlin and Coco and Gris Gris.

    I’ve known you since the beginning. 2010.

    When you return – whether it’s every other month or every six months – or whatever your great cat wisdom heart desires – you will feel it.

    You will be cat. You were our cat wisdom for the last several years, and you will be our cat wisdom again.

    I have to sleep so much these days. Fortunately, Ched sleeps with me.

    We wish you well and many hugs and kisses (cat hugs and kisses) on your journey to further catness.

    Love,

    From Cheddar Oleski 2002 –

    (Mao Oleski originally Magic Oleski)

    2002-2018)

    • Layla Morgan Wilde

      March 12, 2019 at 12:38 AM Reply

      Oh Kathryn and his royal orangeness Cheddy, you take the prize for being online friends since Gather days of 2008 or 2006?! Much love and gratitude for being through think and paper thin. Much love to you both. I can’t believe our paths have not crossed in purrson!!! xoxo

  • databbiesotrouttowne

    March 6, 2019 at 11:15 AM Reply

    Hiatus is better than good bye, and sounds less depressing. While I haven’t known you nearly as long as your other followers, I still consider you to be a friend; contrary to rule 171 ☺☺☺ have enjoyed your posts; and yet totally understand where you’re coming from. Whatever path you choose, I wish you much success and as da tabbies always say; happee nezz & healtheez now and all wayz ♥♥

  • Marie Verderame

    March 6, 2019 at 11:11 AM Reply

    What ever life brings you Layla, I hope it is full of whisker kisses! Will miss you but do what is best for you!

  • Sandee

    March 6, 2019 at 9:50 AM Reply

    You need to step back when you have so much on your plate. I hope you’re just taking a break, but you have to do what you have to do.

    Have a fabulous day. ♥

  • caren gittleman

    March 6, 2019 at 8:24 AM Reply

    I think your lessons are SUPERB and I couldn’t agree more. You know that I have been at a crossroads too, even more with the arrival of my new granddaughter (whom I have been busy with)………I am confident whatever you do will be golden, you always make things golden. Just as an FYI, true friendship to me isn’t contingent upon whether or not someone comments on my blog……even if we haven’t spoken in a while (mostly because of BOTH of us being busy with life in general) I still consider you my friend.

    • Layla Morgan Wilde

      March 12, 2019 at 3:46 AM Reply

      Thanks Caren, for your sweet comment. I agree true friends have nothing to do with leaving comments. Real friends may not speak on the phone or see each other as often but they show up if a friend is in crisis. xx

  • Brian Frum

    March 6, 2019 at 7:03 AM Reply

    I’m one who always reads but haven’t always been able to comment on your blog due to the comment bugs that just won’t let us comment on some blogs no matter what we try, sometimes we can, sometimes we can’t. It was a real thrill to meet you in NYC, a memory we’ll always treasure. All the best to you.

  • easyweimaraner

    March 6, 2019 at 3:21 AM Reply

    we sure will stay… and I love what you wrote… you have to be a writer not just a blogger, yes! I’m a pescetarian since 2003 and I think I will stick with it… so I better don’t watch finding Nemo lol

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