6th blogiversary reckoning – and a giveaway

Woman in the road studying a map with a globe and a suitcase next to her.

Six years ago on October 2, 2015, with great enthusiasm and more than a little fear, I pressed the publish button on the first So What? Now What? blog post. How time flies. Since then, there have been numerous highs and lows…technical difficulties conquered, friends made, inspiration gained, discouragement overcome…all resulting in 473 additional posts, generating more than 7,800 comments.

I was all set to write my traditional blogiversary post…the numbers, favorite posts, lessons learned…and of course a giveaway.

But what’s really on my mind is the state of this blog…and my life as a blogger. Interest has been waning of late…my own…and possibly yours as well. Engagement has definitely dropped. Fewer comments. Fewer shares.

As for my interest, I’m not saying I have writer’s block…I have ideas for posts…but it’s been a while since I’ve been struck with inspiration, that ”Ooh I need to write about this!” feeling. And I don’t catch myself thinking, “I should take a picture of this for my blog” nearly as often.

So the question is, do I look for a way to inject new life into my blog, take a step back and treat it a bit more casually, or bid it a fond adieu?

Reasons to carry on

  • This could be a phase I’m going through. Renewed enthusiasm for blogging could be just around the corner.
  • I may really need this engagement once I retire…and I’ll have more time to devote to a blog.
  • I’ve made some good friends. (Virtual friends are real friends.) Without the blogging connection, those could be challenging to maintain.
  • Blogging encourages me to use my brain…think and be creative.
  • What if I actually publish that novel? I imagine a website would come in handy in getting the word out.

Reasons to let it go

  • I’m not feeling the enthusiasm right now, and I’m sure that shows in the writing.
  • I don’t love the technical aspects of blogging, and it’s constantly evolving. You have to stay on top of it.
  • I could stop paying the expenses associated with maintaining a blog.
  • I could use the money and the brain cells currently devoted to blogging on a new hobby.

Should I stay or should I go?

I’m not ready to make that decision yet. So for this week at least…in the words of my father…I’m still here! And since it is my blogiversary, the only thing left to do is give out the gifts. 

Getting to know you…and prizes

Instead of a random drawing, this year I have a gift for the first six people that comment with at least one thing I do not know about you already. Even if you are not one of the first six, I hope you will share. I’ll start…did you know that I’ve never been to Disney Land? People (in the United States at least) always find that shocking. Now it’s your turn…

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Globe trotter: Image by Lorri Lang from Pixabay

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24 Comments

  1. Hi Christie – congrats on another blogaversary and I know exactly what you mean about those questions and leaving the ultimate answer for another day (my Monday post finished in exactly the same place!) I still love blogging – but in a reduced and more manageable format than how I started (one post a week now instead of three!) I’ve noticed the drop in engagement in blogging in general and miss it, but I still have things to write about and I’d hate to start from scratch again. One bonus for me is that I don’t pay any fees for my blog – so it costs me nothing each month – and earns me a little bit of pocket money occasionally as an added bonus.

    I won’t answer you question because I won last year’s prize and will leave this year’s to other worthy recipients. I love your generosity though xx

    1. Hello Leanne. I read your post comparing blog years to dog years. It’s so true! I miss the more lively engagement as well. Like you, one thing that keeps me going is I would hate to start from scratch, if I decided I wasn’t truly done. So I won’t turn it off until I am sure. I don’t spend a lot on blogging, so that’s not a deciding factor, but it is more than I want to spend to let the blog sit idle. So for now, I will carry on.

      That was kind of you to leave the prizes for someone else, though others certainly have won more than once. I only have about six followers! 🙂

  2. I love that you quoted your dad in this blog. He’s been in the forefront of my mind this week, and it’s been fun to share some stories about him with Elsie.

    Oh, to run a blog seems so tricky! I do think it would be hard to come up with constant content. I’m sorry you’re dealing with that turmoil, but I’m sure whatever you choose will be the right thing for you. As for me, I have very much enjoyed reading your blog over the years. It’s been a fun way for me to feel like I’m getting to know you in a way that maybe wouldn’t have been possible without it.

    Never been to Disneyland?! That is shocking! We went all the time when we lived in California, but I haven’t been for well over a decade. Not sure how it holds up as an adult.

    Something you might not know about me is that I love coffee, but I hated it until I was pregnant with Elsie, and forced myself to develop a taste for it, because I knew I’d need the caffeine source after she was born. Most people cut back when they’re pregnant. Not me! I actually just had my first coffee again in about 6 weeks, because it didn’t sound good to be the beginning of this pregnancy, but it was fun to have a “normal” breakfast finally at 11 weeks.

    Love you so!

    1. Hello Liz. I love that story about Dad/Grandpa. I’ve been thinking about him…and Mom…and Margie…and Bryan a lot this past month. What is it about this time of year? Anyway, I’m glad you share those stories with Elsie.

      Blogging is fun and challenging. I have certainly enjoyed it over the years. I’m glad you have enjoyed reading it as well. And now you’ve learned my deep, dark Disneyland secret too. I’ve sometimes thought I should go just to see what all the fuss is about, but I’ve never been huge on rides…or standing in line.

      I did not realize that you only started drinking coffee when you were pregnant with Elsie. How unusual. Somehow in my mind, you’ve always had a Starbucks cup in hand. I did actually teach myself to like coffee as well, as a young adult (late teens). I wanted something hot to drink in the winter that wasn’t as sweet as hot chocolate. Now I love it. I am happy to hear that you are feeling well enough to have a “normal” breakfast. I love you. And congratulations on being the first one to earn this year’s prize. I’ll be in touch. XOXO

  3. Oh, Christie, I could have written much of this post. I haven’t been posting as much as I used to and I’m finding it harder and harder to get inspired. I can’t tell you how many partial posts I’ve written and then said… “but, what’s the point?” There are so many other things I want to do and I’m realizing more and more that – even in retirement – there is limited time to do them. I will keep my blog going but just write when I’m inspired. I hope you keep at it too. Don’t feel that you need to keep to a schedule… just write when you feel like it.

    Something you don’t know about me… there are probably a lot of things. OK, how about: I won a hula hoop contest on an Alaskan cruise (and my husband took a video so I have proof).

    1. Thank you, Janis. It is comforting to hear that other bloggers have had experiences similar to mine. I’ve definitely trashed many a half-written post. I have a hard time not publishing on a schedule. I’ve always been a more regimented, planning person. However, before I throw in the towel altogether, I think it would be worth trying the “wait for inspiration to strike” approach.

      I love that you won a hula hoop contest! I definitely want to see that video. In the meantime, you are the second participant in my little challenge, so watch your email for a gift from me. Congratulations and thanks for helping me celebrate six years of blogging!

  4. I hope you know I love reading your blog and if I haven’t commented as much it’s about me, not you. Since I’ve been struggling a lot it’s easy to get down and even the simplest things (typing a response) sometimes feel like they take too much energy to do. But I always read it and will definitely miss it if you stop. That being said, I understand if you want to try something else. It surprised me how many other bloggers have been feeling the exact same way as you.

    It’s hard to think of something you don’t know about me-you know me so we’ll! One time in High school I faked an ankle injury to get out of an ice skating test in PE. I even rubbed newspaper on it to look bruised. I never talk about it because I’m so embarrassed! (Did you know that?) I love you!

    1. Thank you for your support, Cindy, over these past six years of blogging. You are my most consistent and enthusiastic supporter. Please do not feel like you have to comment on every post. I know you’re reading. And I understand that feeling of being in survival mode–only having energy for the necessities. Take care of yourself.

      It’s true we know each other well, but I had not heard this story. That’s evil genius to use newspaper to simulate bruising. I was never a big fan of PE either. True confession: I faked “severe cramps” to get out of a diving test. I’m not sure the teacher believe me, but it was easier to just give me a C and move on.

      Congratulations on being #3 in my little challenge! I will be in touch with your prize. I love you. XOXO

  5. Hi, Christie –
    First, and most importantly, I hope that you continue blogging. I love your posts and always find them very inspiring (especially your ‘Thank you notes.’)

    Secondly, I think that it’s cool that you’ve never been to Disney Land (unless you really want to go). To me it says that you don’t do mainstream just because other do.

    Thirdly, something you don’t know about me. Hmmmm. I absolutely LOVE creamed spinach…but try as I may can never make it as well as my mom does! 😀

    1. 1) Thank you, Donna. You were one of the first blogs I started reading, and I’ve always appreciated our interactions. 2) I have no burning desire to go to Disneyland. Sometimes I think of going just to see what the fuss is about, then I think of all the other things I’d rather do with my time and money. 3) I did not know you love creamed spinach. I love spinach, but have never tried to make creamed spinach. I have had it in restaurants. Our mothers (and grandmothers) had a special touch that often cannot be replicated. Thank you for participating in my little challenge. Watch your email for a gift from me.

    2. Hi, Christie – I’m honoured that I was one of the first bloggers that you followed. I only began blogging a few months before you, so we have learned together.
      I do hope that you continue blogging — but at a pace that works best for you.
      I now primarily post ‘What’s On Your Plate’ and ‘What’s on Your Bookshelf,’ which I host with blogging friends. To me, the camaraderie of blogging makes it all worthwhile.
      I will definitely watch my email. Thank you soooo much!

      1. I did not realize that you were a newbie when I first found you, Donna. I was so intrigued by your Camino adventure. It keeps percolating in the back of my mind as something I would like to try some day. And for now, I love the food and book ideas I’m currently seeing on your blog. The nice thing about a personal blog is that it can grow and change with you.

  6. Hi Christie, I think what you are feeling is just part of the ebb and flow of blogging. I agree with what others have said – don’t worry about a schedule and write when you want to write. I am motivated by engagement and connections also, but in the end, it has to be satisfying for you.

    Janis, if you read this, I would like to hear about the ‘other things’ that you might be doing instead of blogging. Maybe you could blog about that – curious minds want to know!

    1. Thank you for the encouragement, Suzanne. That seems to be the general consensus–forget the schedule and go with the flow. I will try that. One of the things I love most about blogging is the connections I have made and the way everyone supports each other. Thank you for being a part of that experience.

  7. I’ve had that same questions multiple times, and each time decided to stay with it. I find the support in this community so helpful when I’m struggling with things, I am inspired by those I’ve met here in the blog world, and I hope that every once in awhile I inspire someone else. I don’t beat myself up if I don’t post every week (didn’t this past weekend!) but the “need to blog” does encourage me to think about things in my life and reflect/contemplate. That said, I’ve also seen many folks I followed early on leave the blogging world. I’ll be sorry to see you leave (if you do).

    Something you might not know about me is tough! I’m pretty open about myself on the blog. Maybe…. I’ve visited all 50 states. And my favorite state trip/visit was Utah! Second favorite trip ever in fact (first was African Safari). So, yeah, I’m a bit jealous of you being so close to all that amazing hiking land.

    1. Hello Pat. It would appear that questioning one’s commitment to, or purpose for, blogging is simply part of the process. I agree the support of the community is the biggest draw, and of course the inspiration I get from them. You are one of those who has inspired and encouraged me on a number of occasions, so thank you for that. I knew you had been to Utah and loved it, but didn’t realize it ranked second on your world travels. That’s pretty good! I do love our beautiful state, and even after having lived here most of my life, I am still often struck by the site of the mountains from a certain angle or the red rock as we pull into Southern Utah. I am envious of you that you have visited all 50 states…that is on my bucket list…and an African Safari sounds amazing. Thanks for playing along with my challenge. Watch your email for a gift from me.

  8. It seems many of us are sharing the same feelings you have expressed here. In fact, I woke up in the middle of the night last night, sat straight up in bed and silently declared myself done with blogging. And not only that, but done with buying things…clothes, stuff, clothes, shoes, and stuff. I went into my closet, careful not to wake PC, and began purging my clothes. Took all of my jeans and dress pants off the rack ready to give most of them away. Then asked myself what it would hurt if I kept what I already have (much too much) and just promised not to buy anything more. Unless it is an item of clothing or some new appliance or a piece of stuff that is trendy and cute and on sale.
    Arranged the pants and jeans by size and style in color order and returned every blessed one of them to the rack. Climbed back in bed and went to sleep. Have been working on a blog post all night tonight.
    Blogging is time consuming, it is a thief of time because I sit down to write a quick post and I am on the laptop for hours. Then comes reading the posts of the bloggers I follow. Commenting on the comments on my posts. Chasing around on Facebook and Instagram. Trying to decide if that is the best use of my time and always deciding it isn’t. But coming back to it anyway.
    Like you, I want to write. Not even sure if I am writing in hopes that someone will read what I have written. But I want to write that book. If I can find time between blog posts. Ha!!
    Love your posts, your warm, sweet heart, following along as you navigate through this chapter of life. Maybe we should both do more posts about writing? Really writing? And encourage each other in that way?
    Happy anniversary! Mine is in August and I always think I am not going to celebrate because I am going to quit blogging so what’s the point. Here I am 7 years later.
    Big love to you!!

    1. Yes, Leslie. I am surprised by how many of us are in the same boat. I’m glad you decided to hang on to at least some of your clothes. You are always so fashionable! I am especially glad you didn’t give up on your blog. Perhaps moderation is the key for both of us. Congratulations on seven years of blogging. That’s quite an accomplishment. I think you should celebrate what you have achieved, even if you aren’t sure where you are taking it in the future. Do you have an idea for the book you want to write? I’ve written a first draft, but have been putting off the final (or next) edit and figuring out the publishing piece. Maybe when I’m not working a day job. Though I don’t know if you intended to, you told me something new about yourself, so you are officially #6 to participate in the challenge! Watch your email for a gift from me. Big love back to you!

      1. OH MY GOSH!! Just received your sweet gift card. Big, big hugs to you!! Thank you so much!!

        I have started several children’s books. But when I read them over, I think…who cares? Why is this a story? What’s the point? Is your book a piece of adult fiction? Tell me a little about it!! Maybe we can email about our books and encourage each other??

        Thank you so much for the gift card. But most of all, for the friendship and the heartfelt, beautifully written blog posts that always touch my heart. XO

        1. You are so welcome, Leslie. And thank you for the friendship, the kind words, and the encouragement when I’ve needed it most.

          I wrote (or tried to) some children’s books with a dear friend years ago. We never did anything with them, and I wonder where the manuscripts ended up. I would love to find them, as she was an artist and did the illustrations. She passed away three years ago. The book I wrote more recently is a novel based on my mother’s life. She married young and went to homestead in Fairbanks, Alaska in the 1950s. It’s actually a great story, but I’ve never written a novel before, and I’m sure it needs some help. I want to do her story justice, so that’s an added layer of pressure. Probably why I keep starting and stopping. I will email you more!

  9. It’s been so lovely to read your blog over the years and I’m so happy for your 6 year blogiversary! Something that you might not know about me is that I LOVE waffles – like I could eat them all day every day!

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