Post updates by email:
Giant 3-Way Plug - Artworks - Philadelphia Art Museum

Back in 2007 when I first started this blog, I had a completely different job with no set work schedule. I had the luxury of being given a certain amount of hours to work each week and the freedom to choose what days and what time of the day I wanted to apply them. I only worked 5 hours per shift and got paid a very good hourly salary. I had this job for 10 years and loved it because it gave me lots of free time to do other things, such as blog. And back then I was a very dedicated and somewhat obsessive blogger. I posted on a set schedule (three times per week: Monday, Wednesday, Friday), I responded to comments quickly and frequently throughout the day, and I also visited and commented on other blogs quickly and frequently throughout the day. Yes, I spent a great deal of time and energy blogging, but it was time and energy that I thoroughly enjoyed putting forth and never regretted.

Then, a year and a half ago, things changed. I began looking for other employment because my hours were slowly being cut and needed to find a job that was more stable and offered more hours – which I did find and was extremely grateful. However, I went from working a 25-hour flexible work week to a 40-hour set schedule work week. And with that, I lost a lot of the free time I used to spend blogging. But rather than change my blogging routine by cutting back, I stressed myself out by trying to blog like I used to. Slowly, blogging became something that I angsted and fretted over instead of looked forward to. I could feel myself losing a sense enjoyment. Yet, I kept on doing it because I didn’t want to disappoint my readers or want to believe that I couldn’t work a full-time job and blog the way I used to when I worked only part-time.

And that’s when ‘burnout’ started to set in. It happened during last summer.

And that’s what I believe led to my recent long hiatus from blogging. I pushed myself to the point of losing all inspiration. And there were times when I even resented it and would avoid going online and even looking at my blog because I felt completely dry; unable to think of anything to post about. I felt as if I had lost my voice and had nothing else to say.

I also believe that back in August when I got sick with the flu, it had to do with getting rundown from stress and running myself ragged. In fact, the whole time I was sick, all I kept hearing over and over again in my head was, “Slow down, Ron. You’re doing too much.Take a break. And stop moving so fast.”

So that’s what I finally did. I completely surrendered by unplugging from the self-imposed blogging pressure I had placed on myself and actually started to enjoy not blogging because it felt like a heavy weight had been lifted off my shoulders. I even said to myself, "If I go back to blogging, fine. But if I don't, that's fine too. I mean, I've been blogging for 8 years, so if I quit now...I can walk away knowing that I gave it a good go."

But that's not what happened. No.

Because it was during that break, I got some much needed clarity about what I was doing wrong.

You see, rather than change and adjust with my change in jobs, I kept trying to blog the same way I had been doing all along and it didn't work.

I also could see that I was taking this blog much too seriously and thinking of it more of a strict obligation, rather than a place of enjoyment.

This blog is and always has been intended for my enjoyment. It’s a place where I can express my thoughts and opinions, as well as share my interests and passions. It’s a space where I can also socialize, share, and discuss topics with you guys.

Therefore, I decided not to take this blog so seriously anymore and remember why I started it to begin with - to have fun. I also decided to make some changes. I will no longer be posting on a set schedule, but rather whenever I feel like it. I may post once a week, twice a week, or even once every two weeks. I also decided to no longer stress myself out by compulsively checking my emails so that I can responded to your comments immediately, or checking my feed reader five times a day so that I can immediately read and comment on your posts, but rather take my time and do both of these things it when time allows. In other words, I want to be more laid back and relaxed about this blog and blogging.

And since making a conscious effort to remove the blogging stress I placed on myself, my creative muse seems to have returned, and I feel more like blogging.

But...

It was not only my recent blogging hiatus that gave me a clearer perspective and restored my creativity, it was also a sudden and scary experience that happened last month that altered my perception.

Which I will be sharing on my next post.

So stay tuned!

Have a grrrrrrreat weekend everyone!
X


55 comments:

  1. OMG! Ron!!! Now, here I sit wondering what it is that happened?? What was so scary?? Well...I will be very happy if you don't disappear and just blog whenever you feel like it! I love your perspective on life and it isn't healthy for you to get all stressed out about the blog. I do, however, know exactly how you feel! Sometimes, I am on a deadline...and THAT stresses me out big time. But, I rely on my blog for a little bit of $$ so it comes with the territory. I do hope that you are feeling better and stronger...and loving your job more and more each day. I feel so sad for those folks in Paris tonight. Watching 20/20 was heart-wrenching. I found myself thinking...what is happening in this world of ours. My prayers sure go out to everyone involved in that tragedy.

    I am glad to have you back blogging AT ALL!! xo Jeanne and the girlz

    ReplyDelete
  2. Gee, Ron, what a way to end... I'm eaten with curiosity. However, I can wait.


    Switching to me for a minute, because it is so like how you have been feeling. I dried up. I could no longer think of things to write about and I was worried. How wrong that was. So now I try to put something on the blog once a week instead of daily, but if not .... well, tough. Who is going to chastise me if I lay off for a while? Nobody.


    Your health and well-being is important so your decision to back off is excellent. The best thing you can do is look after yourself and enjoy life with maybe an occasional wave in our direction xx

    ReplyDelete
  3. Oh Ron, I totally understand. I went from blogging twice a week years ago to twice a month now. That seems to be a good amount for me. You will find your sweet spot in terms of how much time you can spend here. No pressure!

    Having said that, I do find it hard when someone leaves the blogging community after following them for years. I often wonder what happened to them and if they are doing well. I'm the type of person who is still friends with people from my elementary school days, so I have trouble letting go, to say the least. I'm super happy you decided to come back, even if it's just sporadically. XO

    ReplyDelete
  4. There comes a time when things change, priorities too. So its okay, I've been there before too. Greetings!

    ReplyDelete
  5. Ron, I completely understand!! There have been so many times that I've thought of people here in the blogging community when I'm away from mine for awhile, and then feel guilty that I'm not posting or commenting. Then it becomes stressful. It's a weird love/hate thing. I love the friends that come by to see what I'm up to but hate having to try and get on some schedule and come up with something to say and how to say it. So I absolutely love your thoughts on all this. That you are going to have fun again and post when you're feeling inspired. I'm glad your creative muse has returned, mine has as well, so we should just go with the flow of it and chill when needed. Looking forward to hearing about the other experience…. whenever you're ready to share it! xo
    Cool photo!
    Have a wonderful weekend!!! :)

    ReplyDelete
  6. I'm happy to see you whenever you show up, my friend. I, too, have not been blogging as much as I used to. Although, I did another Sunday Recap last week, which was fun. Hadn't done one of those in months. I'm down to about once a month now and focusing my writing chops on other endeavors, but I still love and miss my blogging pals. Like you! :)

    ReplyDelete
  7. Ron, what you are saying is so true, blogging CAN take up a LOT of time.


    I've had up to 4 blogs at times, along with work etc...and at times I also got to the point of actually quitting blogging entirely for months at a time. But I always missed it and I always came back. Now, I don't stress at all about posting. When i have the time and muse to do so, I write a post or two. I have lost a lot of readers over the years due to breaks, bloggers quitting their own blog etc...but I also have gained new followers along the way too. It's all good and yes, a balanced perspective about what blogging should mean is so important.


    I hope you continue to post here but if you can't, that's a decision for you to make. Whatever happens, I wish you all the best.


    I THINK I know what happened to you recently, I'm guessing...will see if it was right when you write about it. Take good care of yourself OK! Have a wonderful weekend, G

    ReplyDelete
  8. Hi, Ron. I think we've all gone through peaks and lulls when it comes to blogging. I know personally, I've had trouble with inspiration lately myself. It definitely helps not to hold yourself to a strict schedule. FWIW - I think most of us are pretty happy to see you back, and looking forward to reading about this other incident you've hinted at. Hope all is well, and have yourself a great weekend!

    ReplyDelete
  9. "And there were times when I even resented it and would avoid going online and even looking at my blog because I felt completely dry; unable to think of anything to post about. I felt as if I had lost my voice and had nothing else to say."



    i totally understand this, ron. it's difficult or can be to stick to a blog schedule when you have a life schedule that requires your immediate attention. i was happy to see your post today on a day i didn't expect it. i like that. blog when you can my friend. whenever you do your people will be here. :) take it easy.

    ReplyDelete
  10. Ron, I don't have a blog myself but can imagine how much time it must take to prepare posts each week, respond to comments, work, and just tend to everyday life. I'm glad to hear that you decided to reevaluate your priorities and do what's best for YOU so that you feel less stressed about blogging. Just know that no matter whenever you feel like posting, I will be here. I'm just glad that you decided to come back and not leave blogging for good because I would so miss you!


    Have a wonderful weekend, Ron x

    ReplyDelete
  11. Hellooooo there Jeanne!

    You're so right, it isn't healthy for me to get all stressed out about the blog when my whole reason for having it is for enjoyment.

    "Sometimes, I am on a deadline...and THAT stresses me out big time. But, I rely on my blog for a little bit of $$ so it comes with the territory."

    Yes, and I totally understand that because it does come with the territory if a blog is a source of income because you have deadlines and responsibilities.

    " I feel so sad for those folks in Paris tonight. Watching 20/20 was heart-wrenching. I found myself thinking...what is happening in this world of ours. My prayers sure go out to everyone involved in that tragedy."

    My feelings exactly. In fact, we were all talking about it today at work. What a tragedy and how sad. And yes, what is happening in this world of ours? And it seems to be happening everywhere.

    Thanks so much for stopping by, my friend. Wishing you and the girlz a faaaabulous weekend!
    X

    ReplyDelete
  12. Hey there Valerie!

    "So now I try to put something on the blog once a week instead of daily, but if not .... well, tough. Who is going to chastise me if I lay off for a while? Nobody."

    Exactly, and you're absolutely right...if I lay off for a while, who is going to chastise me? Nobody. It seems that "I" was the one who was chastising me, not my readers. I mean, if our blogs are intended for our enjoyment, then it should be enjoyment, not stress.

    "Your health and well-being is important so your decision to back off is excellent."



    Thank you, and I think so too. And since making that decision, I feel more creative and feel more like blogging again.


    Thanks so much for stopping by, dear lady. Hope you're enjoying a smashingly fabulous weekend!


    X to you and Joe

    ReplyDelete
  13. "There comes a time when things change, priorities too."


    Yes, you are spot on about that. Wise words and advice. And thank you! :)


    Thanks so much for stopping by and have a terrific weekend!
    X

    ReplyDelete
  14. Hello there Mary!

    " so we should just go with the flow of it and chill when needed."


    You absolutely right!

    Ever since deciding to chill out and more relaxed and laid back about blogging, I feel more creative and inspired to blog again. It feels more like fun and enjoyment.



    Thanks :) I took that photograph during the summer, when one afternoon I wandered over to the Philadelphia Art Museum and discovered the outdoor showcase called, "Artworks." They had some VERY cool and interesting pieces of art.


    Thanks a so much for stopping by, neighbor. Hope you're having a terrific weekend and enjoying this cooler weather.

    X

    ReplyDelete
  15. Aw...thank you. Jayne :) I needed this break over the summer to chill out and find my creative muse again. I was putting WAY too much pressure on myself to blog when I didn't feel like it.

    "I'm down to about once a month now and focusing my writing chops on other endeavors, but I still love and miss my blogging pals. Like you! :)"



    Good for you! And I'm glad to hear that you're focusing your very talented writing on other endeavors. And yes, I too miss my blogging pals (like you) and the days when we were all blogging together.


    Thanks so much for stopping by, my friend. Have a faaaaaabulous weekend!

    X

    ReplyDelete
  16. Thank you for your understanding, my friend :)


    And you're right, we eventually find our sweet spot in terms of how much time we can spend here. It's all about finding a balance with life outside of blogging so that it's enjoyable. I have been putting way to much pressure on myself to blog as I used to and have finally come to a place of balance.


    LOVED your last paragraph because you and I are sooooooooooo much a like when it comes to that. I get very attached to people (online and off) and find it hard to let go.


    Thanks so much for stopping by and for being such a loyal friend over these years. I truly appreciate and value that :)


    Have a fantabulous weekend!


    X

    ReplyDelete
  17. Hello there Geraldine!

    Isn't something about blogging? Even when we take breaks and sometimes feel like we're over it, we always find ourselves missing it and coming back.

    "but I also have gained new followers along the way too. It's all good and yes, a balanced perspective about what blogging should mean is so important."



    LOVE how you expressed that. And it's so true! I too have lost and gain readers over the years. And that's part of blogging.


    Yes, I will continue to post here (at least until I decide to call it quits). But since taking the pressure off myself to do so out of obligation and too much structure, I feel more inspired and creative to post again.


    Thanks so much for stopping by and for your supportive words, my friend. Have a fantabulous weekend!


    X


    P.S. I'll be posting about my recent happening sometime next week :)

    ReplyDelete
  18. Hiya Mark!

    "I know personally, I've had trouble with inspiration lately myself. It definitely helps not to hold yourself to a strict schedule."



    Yes, and that's what I've learned. And ever since letting go of that pressure, I feel more inspired and creative to post again. I was cutting myself off from creativity by taking this blog too seriously and putting pressure on myself to blog in a certain way.


    Thanks so much for stopping by, buddy. I will posting about the incident next week sometime, I promise.


    Have a faaaaaaaaaaabulous weekend!


    X to you and Tara

    ReplyDelete
  19. Hiya Val!

    " it's difficult or can be to stick to a blog schedule when you have a life schedule that requires your immediate attention."



    You are so right, it is. And when my work schedule and life changed last year, I realized that. Since letting go of the pressure, I feel much more inspired and creative to post again :)


    Thanks so much for stopping by and for your sweet and supportive words, girl. Have a fantabulous weekend!


    X

    ReplyDelete
  20. Hola Denise!

    " I'm glad to hear you decided to reevaluate your priorities and do what's best for YOU so that you feel less stressed about blogging."



    Thank you, and me too. Even since letting go of the pressure to blog in certain way, I actually feel more inspired and creative to blog again. And not just with blogging, but I also feel more creative in other ways as well.


    Thanks so much for stopping by and for your sweet and kind words. Thank you.


    Have a fantabulous weekend!!!!!


    X

    ReplyDelete
  21. Ron, whether you post once a week, twice a week, or once every two weeks, I (and I'm sure your other readers also) will be here. So no worries, dude. Blog the way it feels comfortable for YOU. And besides, you always post quality, so it doesn't matter to me how many times you post.


    Looking forward to your next post!

    ReplyDelete
  22. Hiya Matt!

    Thanks so much for your kind and supportive words, buddy. Thank you!

    I will be sharing my next post sometime next week, so stay tuned!

    Have a super-duper weekend!

    X

    ReplyDelete
  23. Ron, I have to say that I understand what you are saying 100% with everything going on in our personal lives it is easy to get burned out, it has been since April that I have posted and with everything going on I feel the need to get back online but like you I will as time allows, stay true to yourself because this is the most important person you need to keep happy.

    ReplyDelete
  24. Very enlightening, Ron. Whenever I start to obsess over my blog, I take a deep breath, step back a few paces, remind myself blogging is supposed to be FUN, and consciously pull back a day or so.


    Those of us who are conscientious tend to overextend ourselves. About everything. And that leads to burnout and eventually illness. You, of all people, should know that, since you're so attuned to the world around you!


    I'm glad, my friend, that you're feeling better. The Muse will return. Something tells me she doesn't like being forced to appear any more than we like being forced to create! Take care of yourself -- you're the only YOU out there, and the world is a better place because you're in it!


    xoxo

    ReplyDelete
  25. Hellooooooo there Jimmy! Great to see ya!

    Yes, I know that you completely understand what I mean because you too have taken blogging breaks at certain times to tend to things going on in your life. In the past, I've put way too much pressure on myself to keep going in the way I always have. But doing that eventually took the enjoyment out of blogging. It also drained me of creativity.

    Thanks so much for taking the time to stop by and leaving a comment. Hope you're enjoying the fall season and that you and your family have a Happy and Blessed Thanksgiving!

    X to you and Cindy!

    ReplyDelete
  26. Thank you, Jean! :)


    And thank you for stopping by, my friend. Hope all is well with you and your family. If we don't speak before then, have a Happy Thanksgiving!


    X

    ReplyDelete
  27. Hiya Debbie!

    "Whenever I start to obsess over my blog, I take a deep breath, step back a few paces, remind myself blogging is supposed to be FUN, and consciously pull back a day or so."

    Very wise advice, my friend. And thank you for sharing it.

    "Those of us who are conscientious tend to overextend ourselves. About everything. And that leads to burnout and eventually illness. You, of all people, should know that, since you're so attuned to the world around you!"



    Yes, you are so spot on about that. I do tend to over extend myself at times, which leads to burnout. And you're also right about the muse not being forced to appear, which I learned over the summer. Because when we force it, it only eludes us even more.


    MUCH thanks for stopping by and for your kind, wise and supportive words. Thank you!


    Hope you're having a fabu weekend!


    X

    ReplyDelete
  28. Ron, I forgot to mention in my previous comment that I really like the photograph. Very cool!

    ReplyDelete
  29. Thanks, Matt :) I took that photograph over the summer and had no idea how I would use it until I wrote this post and thought it was perfect.

    ReplyDelete
  30. I understand where you're coming from as I had lost my perspective. I now only do it when I feel I have something to say....which I usually have lots to say, ha, but that doesn't mean I need to be heard or it needs to be shared. So, now I'm quite infrequent but stretching my creative efforts in other venues. I'm glad you made it through whatever scary situation that happened.

    ReplyDelete
  31. Hey, Ron, brilliant post! I think you made the right decision to unplug.


    When something you love turns into a chore, that's a sign from above that you need to take a step back and assess your life.


    I, too, know the pressure of blogging--and I only blog once a week! (Maybe twice on special occasions) I love blogging and I've met a lot of great people--like you, for instance--but I never want it to become a trap or a burden.


    It has to be liberating or why bother?


    That being said, I'm overjoyed to see you back online and I look forward to future posts whenever you're ready to share them.


    Take care, buddy!

    ReplyDelete
  32. http://ladyfi.wordpress.comMonday, November 16, 2015

    YES! Well done you for remembering that blogging should be fun -and only do it when YOU want to. We'll still be here...

    ReplyDelete
  33. You and I are two peas in a pod in this - I also used to blog in a much more intense way and felt some obligation. For a while (I started my blog in 2006), I was posting daily! It suited me at first, since it helped me through my divorce, but I finally realized that it had to be on my own time and in a way that made sense for my much busier life.


    I am eager to hear what it was that brought you up short. I hope all is well now.

    ReplyDelete
  34. Hey there Fiona!


    Isn't something how sometimes we need to be reminded of something we always knew, but somehow forgot? It feels so good to be back blogging again - and for FUN!


    Thanks so much for stopping by, my friend. Have a terrific week!

    X

    ReplyDelete
  35. "You and I are two peas in a pod in this.."

    Ha! And I'm not surprised. Perhaps it's a "Libra" thing :)

    "It suited me at first, since it helped me through my divorce, but I finally realized that it had to be on my own time and in a way that made sense for my much busier life."



    Yes, exactly. A blog should just change as our life changes.


    I will be posting about what happened later this week. And yes, all is well now :)


    Thanks so much for stopping by and have a fantastic week!
    X

    ReplyDelete
  36. Hellooooooo there Rob!

    Thank you. And yes, I think I made the right decision as well. I feel refreshed and more creative.

    I LOVE how you expressed this...

    "When something you love turns into a chore, that's a sign from above that you need to take a step back and assess your life. It has to be liberating or why bother?"

    You are soooooooooo right about that.



    Thanks a bunch for stopping by and for your kind and supportive words, buddy. Much thank. You're such a loyal pal!


    Have a fabuloso week!


    X

    ReplyDelete
  37. Hiya Suzi!


    Yes, I know that you too have been through the same thing and found your own pace and reason for blogging. And good for you :) It took me all summer to finally come to my own pace and be content with it instead of stressing myself out over trying to blog the way I used to. I can honestly say that I feel more refreshed and creative, now that I took a break and reflected.


    Thank you. I will be sharing about that situation later this week.


    Thanks so much for stopping by, my friend. Have a super week!
    X

    ReplyDelete
  38. Ron, I love the way you express yourself. I agree with Jeanne, you have a great perspective on life because you reflect on things that might not be working; examine them, and then you learn from them. You're honest with yourself.


    I'm happy that you found your creative muse again because I've missed reading you. Just know that no matter when you post, I will be here to read.


    What a great photograph, Ron!

    ReplyDelete
  39. Hey ho Robert!

    Quite often when certain things are not working in my life, I can be very stubborn and resist changing. However, I eventually get to a point (such as during this blogging hiatus) when I have no other choice but to reflect, examine, and then learn something from it.

    Me too, I'm glad I found my creative muse again because it feels great to be back blogging again - writing, taking photographs, and socializing with you guys. I
    don't think I realized how much I missed it until I came back.

    Thanks so much for stopping by, buddy. Hope you having a faaaaabulous week!

    X

    ReplyDelete
  40. I used to be much more consistent with my posts and try to blog at least 3-4 times a week. I participated in link-ups and online photo challenges. But all that has changed about this time last year and it became stressful....stressful when you feel obligated. I also felt that way. The more I was away from writing/photography, the more depressed and stressed I became because of my misplaced priorities. Yes, I love blogging. No, it's not my entire life. Working from home while taking care of grandbabykins is more than a full-time job! My muse comes and goes at will and I've learned not to push her too hard. Usually, when she comes, she leaves me with lovely inspiration. I just have to be patient. I do miss not being able to just sit and write, but I figure there may be a time in the future when I need to fill a void. And blogging more often will probably be the answer.


    Take time to take care of yourself. Mind, body and spirit. That is vitally important to living a high quality life. When one is off, the rest follow. So, rest and rejuvenate yourself!

    ReplyDelete
  41. Hellooooooo there Lisa!

    So much of what you shared struck a cord in me because I could so relate. And yes, I remember last year about this time when you went through a change with your husband's health and things suddenly changed for you.

    How wise and inspiring is this...

    "Take time to take care of yourself. Mind, body and spirit. That is vitally important to living a high quality life. When one is off, the rest follow. So, rest and rejuvenate yourself!"

    Thank you. And you are absolutely right!

    Thanks a bunch for stopping by and for your supportive words, my friend! Hope you're having a fabulous week!

    X

    ReplyDelete
  42. YOU ARE BACK YOU ARE BACK YOU ARE BACK YOU ARE BACKKKKKKK!!!!!!! MY LIFE IS COMPLETE AGAIN!!!!! WOOOO HOOOOOOOO!!!!!!! HOLLLLLAAHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!1

    ReplyDelete
  43. Aw...thank you, Katherine :) You're a sweetheart. And it feels so great to BE back blogging again. I'll be updating again soon.

    Thanks a bunch for stopping by, my friend. Hope you're having a FABU week!

    X

    ReplyDelete
  44. I know the feelings you had and I also wish you peace. The peace of mind that comes from doing what you are doing from love and not by a driving force to be something or someone you think you need to be. I was happy to see you up on the blog again that I peed myself. My friend you deserve to have the joy and the fun of putting your words down on the big wide world web when you feel the need and perhaps this will enable your soul to rejuvenate. I have had that time and at times I still do where you beat yourself up spiritually and psychologically trying to put 40 hours in a 24 hr day. We are here for you and we welcome your return and when you can put something down. The special part of this whole blogging thing is sharing and caring. Be well my Philly Pal.

    ReplyDelete
  45. Have a great weekend Ron! Thanks for your comment re: my magic post. So true. :-)

    ReplyDelete
  46. Hello there again, Geraldine! You are so welcome, my friend. I really enjoyed your post about magic!

    Hope you're having a wonderful weekend! I had off today, so I spent the whole day outside enjoying the gorgeous, cool, and sunny autumn weather

    X

    ReplyDelete
  47. Hellooooooooo there Dave!!! Omg...it is sooooooooooo great to see you! And thank you so much for your words of wisdom and kindness, my friend. You always say exactly the right thing to give me clarity. This summer and fall were a big learning a growing period for me. I will explain more in my next post.


    Hope all is well with you and that you're feeling better. Have a Happy Thanksgiving Day, buddy. And thank you for being in my life!


    X to you and your family!

    ReplyDelete
  48. Ron, wow, I totally get this. I just couldn't keep up with blogging anymore and it lost its luster for me. It's not dead yet, but maybe it will be this year. I just don't have my heart in it anymore. It's very time-consuming. I used to be just like you, writing 2-3x week and answering comments within hours. But I loved it! I'm in a different head space now and can't see getting back to that, but maybe here and there if it moves me.

    I'm glad you've taken steps to find a happy place with blogging. Yours is one I've stuck with for so long because you write so well, so creatively and so honestly. I love that about you. Was just thinking I would love to get together with you, Val and Meleah before spring. Think about it.

    Best,
    Kathy

    ReplyDelete
  49. Hey there Kathy!

    Thanks so much for your sweet, supportive and encouraging words :) So much of what you shared in your comment is kinda how I feel about blogging. I still enjoy it, however, (and like you) my life has changed over the past year and a half; therefore I don't have the same amount of time I used to dedicate to it.

    I'm glad I took this break from blogging because it gave me clarity to reevaluate my priorities and be happy with the amount of time I CAN give to blogging.

    And yes....I would love to get together with you, Val and Meleah! I know with the holidays coming up, we're all gonna be busy with work, family and festivities, so perhaps after Christmas we can make plans to meet up. That would be SO MUCH FUN!

    Thanks a bunch for stopping by, my friend. Have a great week and HAPPY THANKSGIVING DAY!

    X

    ReplyDelete
  50. Ron, blogging can be an obsession. I've been there. But when my work schedule got overloaded, I had to pull back. I just didn't have the time or energy to keep my blog going. And I would beat myself up about it. Now that's not a good way to look at something that gives you pleasure!
    I started blogging again, but not with any schedule in mind nor do I have any expectations.
    I love to write. That's why I started my blog in the first place. So now I write when I want and I'm not stressed.
    Glad you found your answers and aren't stressed anymore. Enjoy yourself. Do it when you want!
    ((HUGS))

    ReplyDelete
  51. Hi Pam!

    LOVED your comment!

    "And I would beat myself up about it. Now that's not a good way to look at something that gives you pleasure!"

    Yes, you're absolutely right and that's something I needed to remember because it was something I was beating myself up for.

    "That's why I started my blog in the first place. So now I write when I want and I'm not stressed."



    Good for you! And I've gotten to that same place.


    Thanks so much for stopping by and for your advice, my friend. I really appreciate it.


    Have a Happy Thanksgiving!


    X

    ReplyDelete
  52. Good job Ron! I still cannot get back to blogging, I feel wrung out & dry of all ideas. I have joined an online support group for people with COPD (partly because I miss Bill & Huntie so much) & I share my wisdom & humor there when I can. Am trying to get caught up with some of my reading since I am between online university courses over Christmas. But in case I don't get fully caught up, let me wish you a very Merry Christmas & the very best for 2016.

    ReplyDelete
  53. Thank you SO MUCH for stopping by, Benze. And please don't ever worry about keeping up with my blog posts because I totally understand. I too have not been spending as much time online and blogging as I used to. And I think having had a long break during the summer made me realize that I need to take small breaks more often throughout the year, as not to get burnout.


    Wishing a VERY Merry Christmas and a healthy and happy new year, my friend!


    Cheers and X

    ReplyDelete
  54. Did you know you can create short links with Shortest and get dollars from every click on your shortened links.

    ReplyDelete

I moderate all comments before publishing. Thank you for stopping by.