“Today is the last day that I will be blogging.”
That is the first line of the post which was supposed to
appear today. I was calling it quits.
The one thing which had brought me so much joy – blogging –
had become something which was literally sucking the life
out of me, and making me question my purpose and my worth.
This past Christmas- I went “blogless” for several weeks.
And that’s when I realized something…
it was nice not to blog.
It was nice not to worry about deadlines and timelines
and scheduled posts and editing pics and well…
being a blogger.
After the holidays…I knew it was time to get back into the swing
of things. But, I also had a new “job” along with my job of being
a full-time blogger.
Being the full-time babysitter to my sweet 4-yr old grandson
and 19-month old granddaughter.
Five days a week.
So, I jumped back in. Creating and designing and writing
and photography and editing and…
blogging.
Five days a week.
And in between there were diapers and snacks and bottles
and nap time (yay nap time!) and breaking up fights over
Legos and in general…
trying to be everything to everyone but myself.
Blogging was the ultimate creative outlet after
being on a creativity-starved diet (aka real estate) for 10 years.
But…I had lost myself.
Somewhere along the way blogging had became more about the numbers
and not about the passion of creating and sharing.
When I looked back at my blog when writing my
2013 Year-End Round-Up post – there were posts and projects
I wasn’t very proud of.
So, this past weekend – I made the decision that I would
blog no more.
Then – I had some heart wrenching talks with some dear friends.
All bloggers.
And I realized it was okay to feel like quitting.
Several even said I had to do what was best for me.
Me? Who was that?
And in that one question…I knew I had to find my center
once again.
I had to fit blogging into my life and not the other way around.
Less deadlines.
Less projects because I had to blog.
Less all nighters trying to get a post up by 6am.
Less.
More quiet time.
More being healthy.
More enjoying my surroundings instead of being behind
a computer screen.
More being happy with where I am in life.
More happy.
More.
So I will still be blogging.
Not five days a week.
Maybe just once or twice a week.
But, less.
And I hope I will be a better blogger.
I hope by doing less…
I can offer more.
That said… I want to say thanks to everyone who takes the
time out of their busy lives to spend a little bit of time
here with me.
Not only do I blog for me, I blog for YOU.
I recently did a mini survey on
The Everyday Home Facebook page,
and I heard you.
So…I look forward to 2014 with a renewed sense of purpose
and peace. I have remembered my blogging center.
I hope you will stay around with me a little while longer on
this remarkable, crazy, creative journey.
laura@top this top that says
Good for you! I love….I hope by doing less… I can offer more. So true. So right. It will all work itself out.
View CommentBarb says
I hope so Laura. Even though I felt what I was doing was right, come to find out – I was ignoring it was all wrong. Thanks for your kind words. xxoo
View CommentBarbara F. says
I will never forget the time you did a post from the ER…….I was a little floored. Blogging lately has seemed to have spiraled out of control, with groups and cliques, and linkys of only a select few, and the bloggers having house tours……..I kind of threw in the towel. No wonder folks get burned out and quit. Blogging should be about speaking from your heart, sharing a little piece of your soul, your creative side, not the almighty Dollar and being the next Martha Stewart. If it happens that money and fame come along, that is great. But really, things need to come down! Enjoy your grandchildren, Barb, they are what is important in your life. xo. That should be calm down!
View CommentBarb says
Yes, the ole’ dreaded ER post. LOL I would love to say that was determination but I think it was borderline obsession and some neurosis I haven’t quite figured out yet. I’m sure a therapist would have a name for it. Besides…no one is gonna bring down Martha. 🙂 Thanks for your friendship and support, my friend. xxoo
View CommentShannon says
Good for you for knowing to give yourself a break. Hope you find that less is more!
View CommentBarb says
Yes, I hope less is more, too… because the whole more is more thing didn’t work at all. 🙂 xxoo
View CommentTami says
My heart goes out to you and I can only imagine all of the juggling that is required! But please don’t stop blogging. Take time off, blog less often, don’t worry about “the numbers”. Get back to the part of blogging that you enjoyed from the beginning…the creative part and the sharing with others. I have to tell you that you have been a great inspiration for me. My home is built off of the same floor plan as yours! Reading your blogs and seeing some of the projects you have done in your home has given me new and renewed energy to freshen up and to be more creative. I am an empty nester and was in quite a slump regarding things around the house. Why did it matter… No one was here. Your blogs and beautiful photos awakened a new excitement in me. Do it because I enjoy it and I live here and I can do it for me.
All I can say is thank you!
View CommentBarb says
All I can say is thank YOU. Your post touched me and made me cry. I blog for me but I blog because I have a passion for sharing, and hearing your words touched my heart. Thank you so much for sharing this with me. xxoo
View CommentNana Diana says
GREAT post, Barb. Good for you. I know you were doing a lot and trying to blog on top of that gets to be overwhelming sometimes. AND taking care of those precious grandbabies is worth more than anything else you could do. I will be here visiting when, and as, I can as you move into your new blogging “schedule”…or UN-schedule!;>) xo Diana
View CommentBarb says
I like that – the UN-schedule. That is perfect. Thanks for your faithful friendship and support of me. xxoo
View CommentKATHYSUE says
It sounds as if you have made just the right choice for where you are in your life right now. I am very proud of you for coming to terms with what will work for you. xoxo
View CommentBarb says
Thanks my dear friend. Your wise wisdom is always so valued to me. Love you. xxoo
View CommentDebra @ MsMoozys Open House says
I am glad to see you are not leaving for good, I am really a new blogger in the sense of seeing others have years behind them. I for one know the feeling of “having” to get things up and stressing over new posts but I also have found peace with it and let it work as it does, no more worrying about the numbers, keeping it something I enjoy. That is hard work to keep it balanced I am finding but I know I will get it all worked out. Glad you are still around, I have enjoyed reading your blog and learning. THANK YOU. 🙂
View CommentBarb says
Yep – those dreaded numbers. I have enough to worry and stress about, I don;t need to be a number watcher and stress as they go up and down. When in the end, I have no control of them really. Balance!!! 🙂 Thanks for your kind words. xxoo
View Commentsuzyq says
Barb, I know how you feel. Not that I have deadlines to meet, projects to complete etc but I have felt that I no longer have the need to ‘post something’!! I am still very much enjoying blog hopping but have decided that if I don’t have anything to share then the world will not stop. I have only had one post since Christmas and I am happy with that. I will post when I feel like it….if my followers drop off, so be it. I really do wonder how some blogger are able to post every. single. day!!! It makes me tired thinking about it and I do ask myself how do they have time for themselves and their family. I know I just can’t balance it all. I look forward to your posts, when they are there, and I hope you enjoy some time just for living.
View CommentSuzyq
Barb says
Suzy – I could not agree more. I figure if its something I am excited about, everyone else (or mostly everyone) will be too. So. hopefully this excitement will rub off in my posts. Thx for your kind words. xxoo
View CommentMarty@A Stroll Thru Life says
We can all only do so much and trying to do it all is just way out of reach. Good for you. Just take care of yourself and do what makes you happy. Hugs, Marty
View CommentBarb says
Marty – I agree. I was simply trying to be all to to many things and too many people. The ones I love and care for paid the price. 🙁 Thx always for your love and support of me. xxoo
View CommentConfessions of a Plate Addict says
I am so happy that you have found some peace and balance in your life, Barb! 🙂 It’s NOT about the numbers, but sometimes that gets lost in the shuffle. And I am glad that you decided to continue blogging…on your own terms! We would miss you! Enjoy yourself…and be good to yourself, too! Hugs…Debbie
View CommentBarb says
I’m happy too and thanks with all my heart for letting me bounce my woes on your shoulders. Love you dearly. xxoo
View CommentConfessions of a Plate Addict says
PS…I forgot to say that I love your new header! 🙂
View CommentBarb says
Thx I love it too. xxoo
View CommentShelia says
Barb! Oh, dear one, I feel you’re pain. I remember when you stopped for a while because of you being a realtor and missed you and was so glad when you came back. I love your blog and don’t always comment as I should but I’m glad you’ll still be with us. I know you’ve noticed it but blogging these days is not the same as it was when I started in 2008. I see so many of our bloggers are trying so hard to be ‘discovered’ that they’ve become the no reply bloggers. Some are only interested in hanging with the big blogs and I’m sure that brings pressure. That makes me sad. I’m certainly not a big blog but I really do try to reply to all of my commentors. Well, I don’t post everyday any more and I just post about what’s going on in my life. I don’t look at my stats or worry if I don’t get new followers. I just enjoy blogging. You just be you…show us your pretty house and those grands…and don’t put yourself under pressure. Don’t try to prove anything…just be Barb!
View CommentYou are the sweetie,
Shelia 😉
Barb says
Sheila I agree. I think its so easy to get caught up in the competition of it all, and I am so competitive by nature. But in the end, its my family and me that counts. Thanks for your support and kind words. xxoo
View CommentDebbi Saunders says
Barb,
View CommentI am so glad you decided to keep blogging!!! I really enjoy your posts. And I think it is great that you decided to take the pressure off yourself and blog what you want when you want on your own terms and time table! I will look forward to and enjoy each and every post you write no matter how many times a week it is; I will certainly be along for your journey. Thank you for sharing….you touch so many of us…
Debbi
Barb says
Thanks Debbi – I appreciate the support and kind words. More than you know. xxoo
View CommentSue in Atlanta says
Perfect solution…..I was hoping you were going to say that…..I blog when I have something to say…I blog for my own personal enjoyment…I like to tell a story….share my crazy life with complete strangers….who have become life long friends….No advertising…no deadlines…no sitting at the computer all day….If only one person reads a post well that’s okay too….I have stopped in the past….but you really do miss it….you miss knowing that there are people out there that like what you have to say and I like to make people happy…..very glad you have decided to continue blogging….have fun with it….don’t make it a job! enjoy those grandkids….:)
View CommentBarb says
Yes, in the end, I knew I would miss it. I would miss the interaction with other bloggers and miss the visits from everyone like you. So, balance is the new word in my life right now. 🙂 Thanks for your kind words. xxoo
View CommentJane Dawson says
I just ran across a link to this post on FB, and it was meant for me! I don’t blog much, but I do run an active FB page. I’ve taken a hobby that I love (my passion really) and turned it into a side business. And parts of running that business have drained the life out of me. I’ve been evaluating the last few days on how to go back to doing what I love for me, and not for everyone else. This post has helped me realize I don’t have to quit, I just have to learn from some of the growing pains and learn to say no. Thank you.
View CommentKerryanne @ Shabby Art Boutique says
I’m glad you’ve made this decision Barb. A decision that is right for you… and then ultimately your followers. I made the same decision and have been a part time blogger since Christmas and funny, I have a similar post scheduled for next week. I’d hate to see you leave blogging altogether so I’m pleased that you had a re-think. Less is better for us than not at all 🙂
View CommentHugs,
Kerryanne
Cindy says
I so understand what you are saying. I have often felt like quitting and although I haven’t done that, I have cut back. It is hard to keep up with everything. I don’t know how women have time to post everyday or have things to talk about. I think we could all use a good “step back” and examine why we blog and the content of our posts. When my parents were in a car accident two years ago and my father passed away, I suddenly realized how unimportant blogging is. My heart hasn’t been in it as much every since then. I am seriously praying about continuing myself and finally ready to let God have his say in it all. He may ask me to part ways with blogging or he may not, but either way, if I continue, I want it to be me blogging from my heart and not from pressure to keep up. I think less is definitely more. I applaud you for your decision.
View CommentCindy
Atta Girl Amy says
I knew you were struggling with this, but I didn’t realize how close you came to calling it quits. I am so happy that you didn’t, my friend, because you are so entertaining and creative and inspiring.
I think many of us are coming to the same realization — that quality posts (and quality of life) are more important than quantity. I, too, have been cutting back — maybe not as deliberately as you. But I haven’t really been worrying about posting — and it’s felt good. Instead, I’ve spent the time creating. Yesterday, I spent the day painting, and I created several things that I’m really proud of. And it felt so good! And those are things I can share on the blog, proudly — so win-win!
You are a workaholic, my dear friend, so I hope you will remember to revisit this post weekly to keep yourself balanced and unstressed and most importantly — happy!
Now, let’s schedule a play date!
View CommentZenda says
Barb, I’m a relatively new blogger and I’ve really learned a lot about it from your struggles. After retiring from teaching, I wanted something that would help keep up my computer skills and document my new life for family, friends and myself. The advertising part was not something I was interested in…just too much to learn about. My blog isn’t professional-looking but it still takes time. That’s why I can only get something out 2-4 times a month. That’s been my goal and I’ve been able to stick to that fairly well. I have lots of things now in my life, since retiring and that’s how I like it. I’ve REALLY enjoyed reading your blog and think your photos and posts are absolutely fantastic! I LOVE reading what you post but not at the expense of your health and happiness!! You are lucky to have your grands so close and can help with their care. You do what makes you happy and post when you can. We’ll all be so happy to read The Everyday Home when you can!! HUGS!! Zenda
View Commentsonny says
Being in a bit of a burnout myself, I hear every word you said and was shaken my head in agreement the whole time.
I have a manic nature- just born that way:) I can do something 20 hours a day everyday for a month and then, bam, nothing for a month..
Post when it brings a “smile to your soul” and do the other things you love the rest of the time…
big southern hugs to ya.
View CommentSonny
Barb says
Oh I’m sorry you are going thru Bloggy Burnout too. It does eventually wear you down just like any situation where you are stressed. Me and you are very similar with our manic personalities. I am hot one week and cold the next. Its just how I am.
View CommentThanks for your kind words and always for your faithful support. xxoo
Kathy says
Hi Barb. I may have a different viewpoint for you. I don’t have a blog. I am blog junkie, a lover of blogs. I begin my day in solitude with coffee, my iPad, and my blogs. It’s a great routine. But many days I delete right through the blogs and read only a third or so. Why? Because I love them, but my complaint is that you guys blog TOO MUCH. I have recently unsubscribed to a bunch because it was too much in my inbox. I have also recently subscribed to more and most have been bloggers who don’t blog every day. I now search it out to see if I have to live with this person in my inbox every morning. That’s a big commitment. Now maybe I’m unusual, but I prefer an occasional blog. Once or twice a week, or less, and I’m EXCITED when I receive an update. I look forward to it. Every day is a lot when you subscribe to numerous blogs, like I do. I have considered having a blog myself, but have not done so, as I feel the expectation is every day, and I wouldn’t want to do that. I love your blog and am glad you’ve decided to stay around. Who came up with this “blog every day rule” anyway ? It’s ok to disagree and do what works for you.
View CommentBarb says
LOL Kathy – that is a good question. I think we all felt the need to outdo each other, and felt “well if she blogs five days a week then I guess I do too if I wanna be a big blogger.” Silly when you hear it put that way. I agree, I have unsubscribed to bloggers who post way too much too. I have also started following more FB pages rather than thru my email. Thank you so much for your perspective. I will put it to good use. xxoo
View CommentJane B says
I am not a blogger, simply a follower of your blog and a few others too. I subscribed through the email notifications. I say this just so you know that those of us who are simply “followers” will not leave because you stop blogging 5 or 7 times a week! We will always be there! There are quite a few bloggers out there who have voiced the same feelings and have backed off the everyday blog. Good for them and you! There is certainly life beyond blogging especially when you have grand kids.
Do what you love, every single day. If that means putting out a blog then do it; if that means playing on the floor with those grand kids then do it. If that means reading a magazine with a good cup of coffee while they nap, then do it. We’ll be there when you decide to post the next blog!
View CommentBarb says
Jane – thank you. You made a good point – how can anything be special if it is part of the everyday norm. Thanks for sharing with me your feelings and also the advise. I will take it to heart. xxoo
View CommentBetsy@coastal-colors says
Barb, you are so right; “do what makes your soul happy!” I think the very nature of blogging can cause stress. We attend conferences and join groups that share what we should be doing to achieve more followers, attract sponsors and achieve higher views. It can be overwhelming! In my humble opinion, God wants us to have balance and peace. He didn’t intend for us to live in worry and stress. I think you have made a great decision! Sending hugs and love your way!
View CommentBetsy
Barb says
Thanks Betsy. Yes, we pour so much of ourselves into these blogs don’t we? Somewhere along the way I kinda got lost. So now its time to come back home again. 🙂 Thanks for the hugs and support. xxoo
View CommentWendi @ H2OBungalow says
You’re words were beautiful and heartfelt. It’s touching to see how many friends you have who’ve shared words of encouragement. Blogging is clearly an important part of who you are…along with all of the other parts that make you whole. I can so relate to how blogging filled a void after being in real estate for a long time. I was depleted also after selling a RE Co I owned for several years. Blogging was my way of finding the creative spirit inside of me…again. You’ve done a wonderful job of that already, your blog is lovely and you have so much talent. Enjoy those wonderful grand babies as much as possible. You’ll find the balance you need to keep your life and heart filled with all of the things in life that bring you joy.
View CommentBarb says
You know, I did not think there was ever anything as stressful as RE, but I learned that you can make any job and any situation stressful if you let it. So now, I will concentrate on having fun again. I appreciate your sweet words and your support, too.
View CommentAndrea D. says
Good for you. As a many blog reader, I rarely stop and think how demanding writing/creating/keeping a blog truly is. Your post made me stop and realize that and be so grateful for all bloggers out there that take the time to share their stories and ideas. I look forward to reading your blog in 2014 whenever you post. Enjoy the days with your grandkids.
View CommentBarb says
Andrea, maybe I made it more stressful than I needed to. It really is a lot of effort and time is spent behind the scenes that readers don’t see. But, I am learning to say no and not be involved in as many projects. I’m gonna give that a chance. 🙂 Thanks for your kind words. xxoo
View CommentPat@Back Porch Musings says
Good for you Barb. I’ve been at that crossroads a few times in my little “career”. I have even been to the point of feeling like my blog is not as important because it is a hobby blog, with no purpose other than my sheer pleasure and hopefully the pleasure of my good and loyal readers who have been with me through thick and thin, sad times and good times for the past 7 years.
Three times a week and a rare weekend post has worked for me. We are a busy couple of oldsters, so more than that really cuts into the “Our Time”.
I have thousands and thousands of visitors and wonderful supportive family and friends. Blogging in moderation is a good thing.:-) It also keeps this senior’s brain active and her body in fairly decent physical shape! I hope I can continue for a long time…in moderation. That’s the key.
View CommentBarb says
Pat you are a perfect example to me of a blogger who has happily balanced being happy in life and sharing your passion for your home. I love my blog, but I love having a life even more. 🙂 Thanks for your sweet words, my friend. xxoo
View CommentShirley@Housepitality Designs says
When we come to the end of our life, we think back on what made us happy…and spending time with family and making those memories are what we think of … not our careers, not the other stuff…our family…I love blogging .. however, I do not blog every day as I cannot maintain my balance that way…I remember when you took that break years ago..and I hope this break for you will find you some peace.
View CommentBarb says
Thanks Shirley. I just have to get back to the reasons I began blogging and let the other stuff work itself out. Life is stressful enough without putting a ton of undue pressure on yourself. And you are right..in the end – this blog will be one of the least important things in my life. Thanks for your kind words. xxoo
View Commentcbower says
Im glad you decided to keep blogging! You just do whatever feels comfortable to you!
View CommentBarb says
Thanks. I am going to try this blogging thing a little longer – but on my terms now. 🙂
View CommentTammy Goodman says
When thing stop being fun, it’s time to re-evaluate. Hope things go well for you.
View CommentBarb says
Thanks Tammy. You’re exactly right. My downtime at Christmas made me do just that. Thanks for your kind words. xxoo
View CommentDeb says
I am glad you are not quitting. I just found you. 🙂
View CommentBarb says
Awww glad you just found me. 🙂 Thanks for wanting to be a part of The Everyday Home. Blessings, barb
View CommentPatty says
Barb, you always end your post with “Be Blessed” and your blog has blessed me. The fabric I used for some new window treatments came from something I saw in your home. When I contacted you for the source, you got right back with me and I thank you. But if this blog is not bringing you abundant blessings, take a break or at the least cut way back. Not every post needs to be so long and involved. In fact I get lost in some of them with all the link parties, house tours, someone introducing someone else and what I consider a bunch of cliques among bloggers that I just do a quick scan of the material and move on to something else. Simplify lady. Life is too short. Grandbabies grow up too fast. Time with your husband can never be replaced. No fame or fortune is worth it. I work in the funeral industry and help people all the time design cemetery monuments. I’ve never put what a great blogger someone was on a headstone. It’s always, beloved wife, precious grandma, loving friend. That’s how you want to be remembered so evaluate your priorities and see who comes out on top. I bet it will be God and family but don’t forget to make Barb a priority too. Isaiah 55:12 tells us to go out in joy and be led forth in peace. Be blessed!
View CommentBarb says
Patty these are the wisest words I have read about this whole situation. You are absolutely right, I will NEVER be remembered as a Blogger. BUT I will be remembered as a wife, mother, daughter and grandmother. Thank you for such sage advice and also for your mind words. Blessings to you as well. xxoo
View CommentMarty Walden says
I completely understand, my friend! I’m so glad you made the decision to slow down. You have precious grandkids that you are influence, RIGHT NOW, and making a difference in their lives. There’s nothing more important, IMHO. I didn’t work for almost 20 years (except for occasional singing jobs) and my kids were all important. We’re living the blessings of those years where we sacrificed and invested with no apparent return and it’s amazing! Now I’m in a different season where I’ve discovered a passion that combines my love of creating with writing and encouraging women. I think if we get back to the core of our purpose it’s easier to refocus, but sometimes that requires a lot of soul searching. So go play!
View CommentBarb says
Yes my friend. Sometimes I get tired of being so tired to my calendar when I am supposed to be retired. 🙂 I know to a degree there will be deadlines if I want to post on a regular schedule, but I don’t want to lose sleep and worry myself to death if I can’t make a post. I appreciate your friendship. xxoo
View CommentJan says
Good for you! Blogging should be a passionate pleasure, not a chore. Do it when you have something to say or show, and don’t feel guilty about not doing it in-between times. In the end, blogging really is all about YOU. Some bloggers have a hard time dealing with that — think it’s selfish or something. Geez!
View Commentkaren@somewhatquirky says
Barb, Funny, I just came across your facebook post and thought I would find out what was going on with you. Although I have never dedicated myself to blogging in the ways you have, Ive I’ve been around long enough to know exactly where you are coming from. Every time I write a post about my mantle I find myself deeply doubting the value of all this. And then I decide it’s fun. When I do it my way. I say your heart has to do what your heart has to do! And there is NO BLOG in the world that is worth missing a moment of a grandchild’s love. Hang loose and be happy!
View CommentYvonne @ StoneGable says
Barb, You are a very very talented and giving person! I certainly understand how you are feeling! I’ve stopped blogging twice to regain perspective and it did a world of good for me. You will only have those darling little ones for a very short time so that is where your priorities should be. Blogging less sounds like it will be very good for you. I really can’t imagine you just quitting. You have so much to share and say…now it can by on your terms! Love you lots! I’ll be reading every post and waiting for them as usual!
View CommentBarbara Bussey says
Most of us bloggers have walked in your footsteps. Instead of appreciating a moment in time, i worried about documenting it, for 427 of mankind, or womankind. Its intoxicating to attend a blog conference and hear the stories of fame and glory. But, in real life, there are only a handful or two, “living the dream”! So what’s more important? I think you’ve figured that out. I wish my mom had been as involved with her grands, as much as you are. No regrets. I know we havent heard the last from you!
View CommentBarb says
Hi Barbara – sometimes I think we just need a little wake-up call to help us remember that we women tend to get too wrapped up in things that in the end, don’t really matter. And you’re right – there are just a handful of Bloggers who have made it work. I may probably never get there and you know what – thats ok too. I have made some fabulous friendships (YOU!) along the way and that’s enough. Thanks for stopping by. Have a great weekend. xxoo, barb
View CommentDee says
Good for you! Blogging should be fun 🙂
View CommentBarb says
Thanks Dee – I am hoping it once again becomes fun. If not, then it is definitely time to quit, huh? 🙂 Thanks for stopping by. xxoo
View CommentJenna says
I read this yesterday and couldn’t stop thinking about what you said and had to come back and comment. I have been blogging for 1 1/2 years. When I first started, I was pretty naive and just did it for the pure joy of creating. As I became more experienced, I started feeling pressure, how many link ups should I do, what about comments, all the networking aspects were sapping the joy, and all the pressure to grow and advertise and social media. I finally remembered why I blog, which is to push myself creatively, and to let others know I appreciate theirs. Period. I have looked back over the accomplishments I have made since I started and realized I have done so much in the past 18 months because of blogging and I am proud. I intend to keep the joy and shed the pressures like toxic friends as I move forward at my own pace, enjoying my whole life to the fullest. Thank you for your incredibly sincere and personal post.
View CommentJenna
Barb says
Jenna – good for you. I have been blogging on and off for five years. And had to finally say “I am not a big blogger, probably never will be – and thats ok.” It was very freeing. Just get back to creating and sharing and if larger things are supposed to happen for you, they will. Glad you came back to comment. xxoo
View CommentMary in Idaho says
“SIMPLIFY” has been my favorite word for over a year. During that time I’ve learned to enjoy more of what is really important in my life and been much more relaxed and happy. I pray the same for you, Barb.
View CommentBarb says
Thanks Mary. That is an awesome word to make your mantra. Lord know I need more of it right now. I am working on it. 🙂
View CommentThanks for stopping by. Have a great weekend. xxoo, barb
Kathleen G says
I’ve been reading your blog for awhile and just read another blogger telling her readers why she wasn’t posting a lot. Everyone was understanding and apparently your readers too. Honestly I don’t know you or the other bloggers I follow. All I know, this past year is that women around the country have a supportive community. By the way, love your post today. Another blogger did that too. You give us inspiration and I thank you for that. Kathleen in Az
View CommentBarb says
It seems to be a theme with a lot of Bloggers right now. I think that many of us jumped in so fast and so deep that we got caught up in trying to be the best and one of the biggest, we lost track of what is important. The death of a good friend’s sister brought me some clarity. I am happy I have offered some inspiration to others. Thank you for your kind words. Blessings, Barb
View CommentJanet Blue says
Hi Barb, A friend forwarded me this excellent post. If I ever feel like I need a pep talk for myself because I feel burnt out from blogging, I will read this post. I have only been doing it for a year and a half and still feel passionate, but I know I basically have a short attention span, so could decide to move on at anytime, even if I haven’t said all I want. Anyway, I don’t know you or your blog but found this to be really quite inspiring. Sincerely, Janet (http://www.thecatonmyhead.com)
View CommentBarb says
Thanks Janet. I am glad you were able to read it. I know what you mean about the attention span. In many ways I struggle with that too. But, blogging and being creative is something I keep coming back too. I just needed to prioritize things a bit. Stay true to what really matters. Blessings, barb
View CommentKathy, Petticoat Junktion says
Barb, I can relate to every emotion you expressed in your post. I think it’s awesome that you are taking care of your grandchildren. We have our granddaughters on occasion each week but I can’t imagine having them everyday. It has to be overwhelming at times but also fulfilling. I’m glad you decided to keep blogging. There are so many positives to being a blogger but it is hard work and very time consuming. If people only knew, right! On another note…I love your Winter header. The photos and the colors are lovely!
View CommentBarb says
I love taking care of the grandbabies, and I love blogging. Its just that some aspect had to go – and it wasn’t going to be my time with them. 🙂 You’re right, most people do not know how time consuming blogging is. But thats ok, they don’t need to know that. 🙂 Thx for stopping by. xxoo, Barb
View CommentLisa@Nothingbutblueskies says
I have no idea how I missed this post 5 days ago! I am just reading it now, and honestly, you have hit the nail right on the head! I myself, have found that I just can’t seem to endure the pressure of a rigorous posting schedule, and the demands of the elusive (for me) perfect post! Many hours of photo editing and preparation that have, in turn, robbed me of my balance, have made me throw in the towel. I never know if I am truly “done”, and every now and then, I feel the need to share something I’ve created or accomplished at home on my blog, but I have really been concentrating on being INTENTIONAL in my life; like you have just said, slowing down, and just really being present, and enjoying the little moments in life. After all, it’s the little things, that one day turn out to be the big things! So, I say, just breathe and be present. Do what you can do. Everyone loves you, and your loyal readers will be thrilled to pour over any post you put out there, even if it’s only now and then. You are awesome!
Thank you for posting this, and giving a voice to what so many of us have thought at some point, or are currently thinking!
xo -Lisa
View CommentThe Tablescaper says
Awesome post!
Sometimes we all need to re-evaluate.
– Alma, The Tablescaper
View Commentsusie says
Barb please let me introduce myself.My name is Susie and you don’t know me but I feel I know you. I started blogging just three weeks ago (ONLY 5 posts) because I wanted to fit in and belong to the thousands of women out there who share their worlds, loves, homes, families.crafts. recipes with total strangers. who give support, encouragement, laughter ,and do much more like hope and inspirations to every other woman out there.I don’t know about deadlines and all the other stuff that is making you want to quit blogging, but I ask this of you please don’t quit. I need you and every other blogger out there who opens their hearts and homes to total strangers. these are the women I want be like and share with .you are the reason I wanted to blog in the first place.some come back even on your own terms. thank you .Susie
View CommentBarb says
Susie – thanks so much for your kind words and feedback. I won’t stop blogging for now, because it truly is a creative outlet for me. but I just have to remember everything has a purpose and I gotta do it in moderation also. I am glad you were inspired to start your own blog. It is fun and rewarding in many ways. lease feel free to contact me if you ever have any questions or need some help. I am not a techie genius, but I survive. 🙂 Have a blessed day, Barb
View CommentDixie says
A couple years ago, I quit blogging, cold turkey. What a relief! Blogging had become, not a joyous writers outlet, but an unwanted, self-imposed obligation. It felt great to just stop. Then, I missed having the outlet… So I began again. The second round, I decided to blog, only when I felt the urge to share… Sometimes, It’s just a blurb about a thought… Or a tease about an upcoming post (that May or may not actually happen). I don’t get many comments anymore… And not too many views without comments either. For me, initially, it wasn’t about followers and comments… But it became that… Now, I have come full circle… I’m back to enjoying blogging, and couldn’t care less about how many people read what I write. Good luck on your blogging journey. I’ll continue to read and pin what you write about.. And even occasionally, leave a comment. Blessings. Dixie
View Commentkalpesh says
Roses, chocolates , candle lit dinner and romantic short films!! What better way to enjoy 14th Feb than to watch our special Valentine’s Day compilation. http://bit.ly/1lEIw9I
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