Everyone who writes a blog has been there. The point of decision. Clicking the “Create a Blog” button, working through the template options and creating a header, buttons, adding gadgets, widgets, counters and rankings. Some do it to keep in touch with their family, record their lives, record a journey, struggle or loss. Others do it to promote a business, share a talent, inspire, encourage, maybe make some money along the way. I’m not sure how many of us who clicked that button knew what we were in for.
I have found this blog has developed a life of its own. It’s like my third child. I have to nurture it, spend time on it, plan for it, sometimes plan around it, and I can’t neglect it. There are days, like this one, when I am busy and it’s rainy and the light stinks and my tripod is broken and I have no idea what I’m going to write about and no pretty pictures to share. I have an entire list of post ideas on my iPhone, but I don’t feel prepared or inspired to write about any of them.
So, while I was decorating my Christmas tree, cleaning and sorting my holiday decor, humming to myself, I realized what a wild ride my blog has taken me on. I thought it would be a nice enhancement to my business. I had no idea it would drive my business and become a very important part of my business. It’s provided advertising, opportunity, recognition, and community. It’s even provided friendships.
I think I’ll take all of that in exchange for an occasional day when I’m scratching my head, figuring out what to write about that would be worth reading.
Are you thinking about clicking that “create a blog” button? If so, beware, it just might change your life.
41 Responses
You are so right! It has changed my life and my blog hasn't taken near the turn yours has. Although, mine has turned into much more than I thought it would. Keep up the good work with your blog! 🙂
I have let my blog take on its own life. Nothing is off limits, it is a journal, a comedy, a tribute, a political blast…..but it is mine. Every year I get it made into a book and it is amazing to look back at the year and remember the things I would have let slide……. The beauty of the everyday.
I truly understand this, sweetpea. After a fall injuring my hamstring/groin muscles 3 months ago I almost decided to give it up. (And what's a 70 yr. old lady doing 180° flips for in the park anyway?!) But I realized how much I missed it. It's become a creative outlet for writing, my photography and my humor. I adore it and doubt I'll ever give it up. It keeps me young and out of trouble as th' hubs, Love Bunny, would say. He's very indulgent, chick…
xoxo,
Connie
Hello, I hear what you say and agree. Blogging is a great thing but it does take up precious time.
I'm doing quite a bit of thinking on it right now as to what to do with mine. I'm getting bombared with spam and unusual emails daily and it's starting to take a toll.
I enjoy your blog. Thank you for inspiring me along the way. ~Melissa
Well said! I was a blog lurker long before I ever became a blogger. I've only been blogging for six months and the blog has become a major part of my life (of my family's life). Mostly it has been a huge blessing and inspiration. I've found a great outlet to ramble and met amazing people while I was at it. Who knew "create a blog" could be life-changing? I really liked this post even if there weren't any fancy photos or new ideas. Thanks!
I spent the better part of the afternoon helping my best friend start a blog of her own today. I'm not sure if she'll thank me one day or curse me. It does take on a life of its own.
It certainly is a life changer. Many hours spent at this, but lots of new friends are all worth it.
All very true, really like your new picture on the sidebar. Looking forward to what lies ahead for each of us!
Take care,
Laura
You are so right!! I originally just thought my blog would be for us, my in-laws in Dallas and my side of the family in Shiner and Yoakum. But then I started to really look forward to my time writing my blog…and you do nuture it and watch it grow. And you meet so many sweet friends along the way! I love blogging…and feel guilty if I don't post at least three or four times a week. One thing I love to do is go through my archives and see where I was and what we were doing a year ago. My girls already tell me this would be a great photo or I should go visit here and blog about it. Blogging seems to plant itself in everyone's mind. It doesn't just become something to do..it becomes a way of life!
I recently hit that create a blog button,for me it is a way of staying connected and being inspired by others.I have a chronic illness and had to give up a job that I loved,when I discovered this community of talented people it inspired me to keep creating. Thank you all for sharing your talents and keeping me inspired,even on the days when I feel like poop.
So, Very, Very True! You are MORE than entitled to "small" post! You inspire everytime you post! Thanks for all that inspiration! BTW Love the new picture!
Truer words were never spoken! I so agree with this and even though there are times I feel a little bit of self-imposed pressure, the benefit from it all is so worth it! I forgot I could actually string words together into a sentence. 🙂 And for those of us with young kiddos at home it is such a great outlet for connecting with the rest of the world. I never knew I would enjoy learning about photography and lighting and getting the chance to meet all of these kindred spirits has been a huge blessing. I'm still not crafty but some things you can't change! 🙂
Vanessa
What a great post! And oh the lack of sun today was terrible, so dark and gloomy. I took pictures of my mantel anyway but they could be so much better. Loving the new picture too!
I really like this post and I agree with you 100%. I started my blog over 2 years ago and I really didn't know what I was doing. I didn't even like computers. I was intimidated by them. One day, I decided I needed a laptop for playing games, etc. I didn't even know what 'google' was. lol I started playing on here and came across a blog…don't even know how that happened. Didn't know what a blog was either! Everything just grew from there and I love it! I decided to make one of my own as a journal. I've met so many new friends on here too. I love your blog and all of your ideas. I read it all of the time but hardly ever comment. I'll do better from now on.:)Thanks for the inspiration. Keep it up.
Lee Laurie @ A Southern Rose
Happy Decorating, Marian!
: )
Julie M.
So true! 🙂
I started my blog after being encouraged to do so by my daughters. I am by no means a famous blogger, but I do cherish the wonderful friendships I have made via my blog. Some I have even met in person and I hope to meet many more. I have learned so much from reading blogs and I am so thankful for all that I have learned. Thanks for sharing all your inspiration! Love & blessings from NC!
So true! I did not expect having a blog to be so impactful but it is…in a good way! Somedays I have something interesting to say, somedays I don't. Feeling like I've made new friends and being part of a community of like-minded women (mostly)has been my unexpected suprise. love it! and loved your post!
This is so true. I kicked around the idea for quite some time before taking the plunge (by accident, really) but I'm so glad I did. I have been so encouraged by the kind comments from others. It's exciting to share something I have done and enjoyed with others and see how much they enjoy it too. I've only been at this a few weeks now and can see how it can become a time eater. I have to make a conscious effort to not be at the computer every spare moment. That's not what I want my boys to remember about me. How do you do it? I guess I'll get better as I go. I love your blog and have learned so much from reading it. Thank you and many blessings on you and your work.
Amen to that! Balance is what I shoot for, to remain true to who I am, and not let it take over. But I love it, and it is really an extension of me.
You have "exploaded" dear, and I'm so glad to see all your success!
This is just another avenue to express your amazing talent!
xo,
Debra
It must be the rain…and the after effects of Thanksgiving. I don't feel like blogging tonight either, but feel I should.
You are an encouragement. That's enough reason to write, and so I'll get to mine now. 🙂
I love how now everything "could be a blog post" I document my entire life. Some make it. Some don't!
My husband is even starting to say "Is that going on your blog?" And on Thanksgiving I'm setting up the table and taking pictures. My moms like what are you doing?! I said taking pictures of my centerpiece for the blog!! haha =) I love my little blog! And yours too of course!
So so true!! This world of blogging has been so amazing!! I feel so blessed!
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xoxo
Karena
Art by Karena
Hahaha you are soo right.I have said to friends sometimes " this blog has become a monster" – it does take a life of it's own, like mmmmm well- a bit like the monster of Frankenstein..hahaha..yes, you have no idea when you start!!!
I couldn't agree more..it is fun, addicting and a truly supportive caring place….this bloggy world. I'm so glad I found y'all.
So true sweetie…so true!! The blogs do take on a life of their own. And I love it! I too nurture mine and care for it like a child. Sometimes a teenager, but always a need there to be tended too!
And the people I have met have been so wonderful and have enriched my life so much! So, yes, it did change my life. In a good way!!
Hugs my friend,
SueAnn
Well said! My computer has been down for 3 days. It hurts! I miss it so much(my blog). I'm on a borrowed laptop for a few minutes to get me thru this.
Enjoy your day!
It is so wonderful to hear that you too have bloggers block! I admire your blog so much – it never seems like you feel that way. Every now and then I have the same exact feelings as you!! No worries- a few days off and you will be back inspired!! You have such a talented eye its only a matter of time before we see more fabulous things from you!!
Enjoy your day!!
xx-Gina
I totally agree! Great post. liz @ designing domesticity
My baby named blog is only 2 weeks old and I am super excited for this journey. Thank you for your constant inspiration with your posts!
Yes, how true this is. I have made so many nice blogging friends. It lets us use our creative talents. It is our world within our world. Great post!
I'm a fairly new follower, and have to say I LOVE your blog, ;). You and your blog provide so much inspiration that I must say "thank you" for. I love that you were in Raleigh recently and shared Suzanna's and the Flea Market with your followers. (I am from NC, and just recently visited both of these spots, and had very similar experiences.)
As for blogging, what a "trip!" I began blogging solely for my own purposes, more as a "diary" that I could reflect on to see my own growth, and it's turned into so much more ~~ friends, fun, the ideal source of inspiration and encouragement from others, and a large part of my life today that I wouldn't trade for anything in this world. Happy Blogging, and Happy Holidays!
I've often wondered, "do I blog to make projects" or "do I make projects so I can blog"
chicken and egg question!
My blog has definitely changed my life.
gail
So true! But I'm so glad you chose to click that "create a blog" button! My blog roll wouldn't be the same without you!
Oh my! I'm beginning to understand what you mean. It's crazy, no? But fun, and I'm meeting some wonderful people.
True dat! Gosh, I only wish I had more time and inspiration to write more on my blog than once a week. Of course, there is my child who is in kinder for only 4 hours a day and the business which take up most of my time. Maybe one day I can nurture my blog the way you do yours. I am encouraged by your success 🙂
I'm ready for change and have been for some time. I hit the "create a blog" button Saturday. Guess we'll see what happens now. =o) Love the snowflakes, but have been unable to find any chipboard. Is there an online source? Happy blogging.
oh my gosh, YEAH! Changed my life JUST A TAD!!!
I feel like a crazy, recluse, cluttered, scatter brain, with day dreams and night sweats about what to create, when to do it, where to put it, for the love of Pete, over the top nut job – who proudly carries a paint brush around with me now. Thanks to you and some other blog nuts!!!
I think you've earned the right to write whatever you do!
~Kolein
and that's only with 52 followers. Goodness gracious. You must be on meds by now! Kidding!!!!
Very interested to hear how it goes. Kind of bummed about the truncated view of posts when I read in Google reader. I don’t have a ton of time to read blogs so clicking over to the full blog for every blog is not something I can do all the time!
I switched to WordPress and hated it! I spent so much time trying to get everything to work . Without a designer it was too difficult . So, I am the only person in the world, who switched back to Blogger.