Some have taken sabbaticals of different lengths but usually always return...this speaks to the strength of Steemit.

I agree. In fact I can remember a handful of people who've done that I'm always happy to see them come back and try to support them again.

I’ve seen my own active following shrink significantly

Not only this. Active curation has dropped significantly with drop in price. It seems to be a trend. Hopefully this will change with time.

Hoping to meet you again at SF3 if you are coming.