Can you believe 2011 is coming to a close?
For me, 2010 was a very hard and challenging year. I remember approaching 2011 with prayers pleading for answers and direction and wisdom for 2011. And now that 2011 is coming to a close, I look forward to reflecting on this past year and thinking about specific ways I've been blessed through answered prayers.
As I've begun reflecting on this past year, I took time to review my blog and evaluate what posts were viewed the most and what posts received the most feedback. It was kind of fun, actually, to review some stats and see what garnered attention or response. Hands down, those of you reading my blog are most interested in viewing, commenting, and suggesting to others, the posts that talk about, well, anything other than my kids!
Which, if I'm being honest, is really amusing. I started blogging simply because I wanted to journal the mundane day-to-day things my kids do so that I can capture phrases and pictures and memories. And, since all of my family members are several states away, blogging was also a way to help keep them in the loop with daily life.
Now that I've seen the stats and reviewed the evidence, I'm in a quasi-quandary. I really am! Several have suggested a blog that discusses Christian parenting - principles, discipline, organization, and how-to's. But there are also some that have asked me to consider facilitating a forum for discussion on women's various roles from a Christian perspective - in the home, at work, in the church, and in the community.
Friends, I'm motivated and overwhelmed. I'd love nothing more than to write and facilitate, but if I'm being honest, write and facilitate about... about... what? I feel so inadequate and would spend time groping for what to say and when to say it and how to say it. I lack tact and gentleness; I'm not a naturally funny person; I exaggerate when making a point.
So for now, I'm keeping my simple little blog, random as it is, an outlet to talk about my family, along with occasional spits of off-the-top-of-my-head thoughts about anything and everything else. But, but, I'm going to give some deep-down thought about beginning a blog with specific purpose that fosters intentional discussion. Sound okay to you? I hope so.
With that out of the way, here are the Top 11 Posts of 2011. (Drum roll please.)
1. How Dare We
2. Ten Years Today
3. Comparison Game
4. Intentional
5. Soap.com
6. About Me
7. Translations
8. Because I Love You
9. Step Up and Step In
10. How Dare We
11. 12 Months! (Look at that... one of the top 11 posts was actually about one of my kids!)
I think your blog is just great the way it is! I also think it is perfectly fine to write posts as the Spirit leads, and mix it up with deeper posts along with the everyday. It is the everyday kids and life stuff that makes you so real and relate-able!
ReplyDeleteI could not imagine trying to keep up with writing TWO blogs.... that sounds more like work, to me. Maybe you could just add some tabs to the top of your blog, and those that want to bypass the kid stuff can click on the tab and go to the meatier stuff.
I agree that you have GREAT things to say! The Lord IS using you and will continue to do so! This is a wonderful outlet. I am glad you are here!!! Blessings!
I agree with Mrs. Cendejas, I love your blog just the way it is! And, since I don't get to see and hug on your kids every week like I used to, reading your blog makes me feel like I'm back at home! I love that feeling! I love your kids, just as though they were my own, and I HATE not being there every week to see their bright, beaming faces! The posts that aren't about your kids, are just as good! They cause me to reflect on myself, and think about what I need to be doing in my life to be a better light here on campus!
ReplyDelete<3 you and wouldn't change a thing about you or your blog!! See you soon! :D
At the risk of sounding like a broken record here, I love your blog just the way it is, too! I love that you can share wonderful insights along with cute pics of your kids! God has given you a wonderful writing talent & I believe that you are using it for His glory! I love the posts that challenge me as a Christian, wife, mother, friend, church member, but I also love your posts on what life is like everyday, in the trenches. It is encouraging to read how other people overcome the same struggles that I am facing. I know that you will continue to seek God's direction & He will lead you & your blog just where He wants you to be!
ReplyDeleteOh, I do think that Terri's idea about adding a tab at the top is excellent! Perhaps with a weekly/monthly/as the Spirit moves you question for discussion...
Keep up the good work!!
I have to agree with everyone so far...your blog is perfect just the way it is! Like I was telling you yesterday, the Lord has truly given you a gift! You are an extremely talented writer! Your blog is a great ministry! I love that you write about your family, you home life, and your church! You have an amazing heart and can put your thoughts into words which convict , bless and encourage'! Keep it up girl!!! Hugs!!
ReplyDelete