I've decided to change how I blog. Instead of trying to keep up a regular record of happenings and reflections as I've been doing since January 1st, 2006, I'll be blogging just once a month, in the last week of the month. It will still be here at the same address but more like a monthly newsletter. The reason is mainly a matter of time and priorities. I've been a bit burned-out. It's great that my new novel has just been published but I'm finding that good things can take their toll on your adrenals and fatigue level as much as not-so-good. I'm presently working on a manuscript, homeschooling my family, trying to begin a small party-plan business and teaching Blake's Sunday School class in three week blocks. At the same time there's housework and exercise to contend with too. To be honest, it's all been getting on top of me so I decided something has to slide but couldn't decide what.
I didn't want it to be my blog. I love my blog. I love the friends I've made. I love blogging the way I've been doing it until now. But when I came up with the idea of doing a monthly newsletter, I figured out that it'll be a nice compromise. I expect it to be better in many ways.
1) Anyone who'd like to visit here and leave a comment will have a more definite idea of when I'll be saying something, so you don't need to keep coming over to check.
2) I'll definitely have much more to say. After storing up my thoughts in a journal all month, I'll never get blog-freeze again.
3) I'll be able to devote more time to reading the posts of others, because the time I devote to blogs will be freed up.
4) My thoughts will be less scattered. I'll be more focused.
5) I guess it means there'll be only twelve posts/year. That'll be weird but I'm expecting they'll be longer, newsier and more interesting.
I've convinced myself! Now I can hardly wait until the last week of October for my first newsletter. I'll be back then.
All the best with all your commitments. Sounds like you have your hands full. I will come back again at the end of Oct.
ReplyDeleteI think it's a wonderful compromise. I would rather hear from you once a month than have you give up blogging altogether! It's still more often than I hear from some relatives!
ReplyDeletePeace and Laughter,
Cristina
Dear Paula,
ReplyDeleteIt's been a long time since I connected with you over on the homeschoolblogger website. I was drawn into your article by your reasons for cutting the daily blogging out of your schedule. I've been doing some pruning in my own life because of fatigue and adrenal problems. While I'm sad that you're overwhelmed this way, I am glad to feel a sense of comradeship in our mutual journey. So few understand how I could be tired when most of my time is spent at home with the kids and on homeschooling.
I pray that you find ways to rest amongst your busy life.
Jan @ homeschoolblogger.com/joyismystrength/
I've spoken with many bloggers recently about the balance between online and offline life. Glad to hear you've made a call that's right for you and your family. Bless you heaps. Cath/SquiggleMum. xx
ReplyDeleteI've just made some tough decisions too. I'm sure the monthly newsletter will work really well for you.
ReplyDeleteWill email you soon, feels like forever since we chatted :)
Blessings
xoxox
Well, I totally understand and agree (NOT that you need my approval!) with your re-prioritizing. The Lord bless your endeavors, and I look forward to your next post. :)
ReplyDelete