Hello, reader!
How are you?
I realize this post is a bit overdue, and my apologies for keeping you in the dark. And even though you didn’t ask for it, I feel like there should be an explanation.
You might have noticed a significant downturn in reviews and posts in general on A to Za’atar. Yes, it’s been on purpose. Why? As much as I love this blog, and how I’ve been able to explore my writing and opinions, the reality is that it doesn’t pay, and I have other demands on my time. Could I have spent more time and energy developing this site to make money? Of course. Am I glad I didn’t? Also yes. As it stands, I’m currently writing for Forbes Middle East, Dining and Nightlife Middle East, Umami Comms, and MenuPages.ae. All of these are paid roles, something that I’m very proud of.
I’ve also been stepping up my author game a bit. I published the third book of my young adult trilogy, and am actively editing an adult novel which I hope to release in the next month (never mind my Louvre project). In addition to the above, there has been some other paid work (a cookbook or two), as well as some presentations, my continued spot on the radio, weekly volunteering at K9 Friends, trying to (always!) pitch new publications, and people seem to want to pay me for access to my Instagram account (which I don’t understand, but fine). I also have completely neglected my podcast, and am trying to get back into scheduling for that as well (inshallah).
I’m certainly not giving A to Za’atar up, in fact, with any international travel, unplaced reviews, or general thoughts on F&B, favorite dishes, etc., this still remains my favorite platform for those subjects. When appropriate, I’m also happy to have and include guest bloggers. So, this isn’t a goodbye, more of an explanation — and I hope it makes sense. Blogs are always meant to evolve, and A to Za’atar is no different. I still plan on sharing my favorite dishes, as well as my round-up of weekend links (even if they are amusing to no one but myself).
Until then, thank you for reading and being part of my journey.
~C
