If you follow this blog at all, then you know I haven't written in some time. Most of that is due to the book that I needed to finish.
However, once it was finished, it required triple the amount of hours in editing I didn't anticipate. After that, it needed artwork, layout, printing, promotion, posters, website, business cards, the list was endless.
You see, I didn't just write a book, I am publishing it. And my husband designed it, which kept me intimately connected through the whole thing. I knew it was going to be work, but no one can prepare you for exactly what that means until, like most things, you do it yourself.
After I was done writing the book, I wanted nothing to do with writing anything. I love writing and want to keep doing it, but I have multiple creative outlets and for the last six months the only thing I have had time for was the book.
I was done writing.
I was really done looking at my computer.
I really didn't want to take any more time away from my kids and husband.
My kitchen desperately needed my attention, and I needed to do something with my hands, other than type.
So I took a nap.
Then I watched a movie in the middle of the day while my daughter napped. I felt like I was breaking the rules with that one.
Then I cleaned my kitchen, which truthfully never lasts long.
With a deep breath, I pulled out my embroidery and project book and started making Christmas presents. I have been sewing and crafting and cooking again like I used to. (All while in the midst of sending emails, posters, and making phone calls to promote the book.)
And now here I am.
Ready to write again.
For the last six weeks, I have wanted to share my heart with you and what is going on with the book and our life, but it has felt like pressure. Thoughts that roll through my head are,
"People are waiting to hear from me."
"I have neglected my readers."
"People will forget that I am here if I am not putting my voice out there."
All of a sudden, my blogging became about other people instead of what I felt compelled to write. It started to feel as if I needed to please "Them" instead of be true to my core life values. These values include putting my faith, family and personal well being first.
When I started to feel the pressure to write, because I didn't want to be forgotten or I felt like I needed to promote the book, I would ask myself,
"Is this a good time to write? What would be better for you and the family right now?" Most often the answer was, playing cards with the kids, pay the bills, get some rest, refuel my spirit so that I can love on the people around me."
So dear sweet reader, who has supported me so much in this venture, I won't apologize for putting you at the bottom of my priority list.
My dry and desperate soul needed time in the word and meditation.
My family needed to see that they came first.
My body needed rest. Well, it still needs rest, but we are working on it.
I don't ever want the faceless "Them" to dictate what I do. I want to write here because I feel inspired and encouraged and want to share with you those things.
Thank you for being with me on this journey.
It is so wonderful to share with you our little lives in North Minneapolis.
With that being said...
I'm back and have so much to share!
Get ready.