Thursday, January 4, 2018

If We Were Having Coffee: My Word For The Year and Blogging

Casa Golondrina Christmas

Casa Gondrina at Christmas 2017

If we were having coffee, and after we discussed whether or not our Christmas decorations were boxed away, I would tell you about something I learned recently,

how it impacts my ‘word’ for the year, and a few thoughts on blogging.



For a few months, I have been following the Blogging Over Breakfast Facebook live posts of Gina Luker (of her famously successful blog The Shabby Creek Cottage).
   

Gina is smart, self deprecating in the right way, honest, and generous- all of the qualities I love in a person.



After listening to her emphasize how bloggers must know who is reading their blog in terms of interest- as well as suggestions and strategies for how to do that- I realized something.

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Casa Golondrina Entry



So right about now would be a good time to insert a disclaimer .

 

I know I wrote very few posts in 2017. I know what the struggle and lack of willingness to do so looked like on my end.  I was living life on life’s terms (aren’t we all?), and

blogging about it was not at the top of my list. All of the opposites in life were fast at work in me in 2017.  (happy/sad…carefree/worried…laughing/crying).



I also know, however, that I need this blog as a voice for my creativity, the new changes in our lives due to a move, my quirky way of looking at things, and I need you.




So the paradigm shift in my thinking happened as I began to read, read, read.

I think it is also important to say that it was not planned reading.  It began in that serendipitous way that all great things do in today’s world.

I was simply clicking from one thing to the next on my computer.

I began to read about blogging, and I was blessed to stumble on people whose message I liked.



And so Gina’s message (to me) resonated.

So what did I determine following a little research of my blog?

I believe anyone who visits White Spray Paint and stays doesn’t mind reading.

I want to thank you for that .

I don’t always make it easy:)  One post may be like this one, the next may be on my husband’s delicious black-eyed pea recipe, and the next may be about my favorite finds at the flea market.

So… my word for the year- in honor of YOU is READ.

14 comments:

Preppy Empty Nester said...

Laura.. I'm glad you're back to the blogging world. Enjoy your week.

Creations By Cindy said...

Happy New Year sweet lady. Hugs and blessings, Cindy

Stacey said...

Laura, you are magical with words and you need to write! You write and we'll read. ♥

Simply LKJ said...

Laura, I love this. After another year of following, reading and commenting on probably far too many blogs than I should, I came to the realization that if I am going to do so it is because I find the person behind the blog to be authentic. Someone I would find myself friends with if we lived in the same home town. Not because they have 1000s of followers, tout the latest trends in fashion and home decor, or are published in glitzy magazines. I long for a connection at this stage in my life. I also appreciate those who are comfortable in their own skin, sharing the pretty, the not so pretty, the good, the bad, the happy, the sad. Life! When all I see is "perfection" I tend to question it...those I live with and around are far from it, but I still love them. I think as women we need to be "real", embrace our flaws, our imperfections and know it's okay! I will continue reading no matter what you post.

Debra She Who Seeks said...

That's a GREAT word for 2018! I think bloggers generally are all good readers. And writers too. We like the written word and perhaps delving beneath the surface a bit. Otherwise we'd all just be on twitter, FB and instagram with everyone else who USED to be in the blogosphere, lol!

Jojo said...

Great word and interesting thoughts on blogging. I took a long break from blogging but I have continued to go through my reading list periodically just to read some of the blogs that I really enjoy. Happy New Year and I hope your word for the year adds a new perspective for the year.

Theresa said...

I will read:) I love keeping up with my blog friends and you are right there at the top:) My blog is my journal and I am thankful to have it to look back on my days! Enjoy your day dear friend, HUGS!

JB said...

You keep writing and I will keep reading. I love your blog because it gives me a piece of you in my day. From Zinnias to recipes to your girls.... est blog ever!

Deanna Rabe - Creekside Cottage Blog said...

I e been thinking about my blog and recognizing I need to return to my core focus. I’m happy your blogging again.

Read is a great word for the New Year.

Cecilia said...

As I love to read, this hits all the right notes with me. I don't mind if your posts look different each time - they come from your heart and are therefore interesting and fresh!
Life happened in a big way for me too and blogging kind of fell by the wayside. Like you, blogging allows me creative expression. Here's to the new year and enjoying blogging!

Donnamae said...

I’m happy you started blogging again...I’ve missed your outlook on things. I will continue to read...and hopefully comment more! ;)

Susan Nowell @ My Place to Yours said...

Glad you’re back, Laura. I enjoy READING your blog.

Lea @ CiCis Corner said...

Yes, I'm glad you are back as well as I always enjoy stopping by. Happy weekend!

Connie said...

I have always looked forward to reading your blog....Always! I've missed seeing new excerpts as you were transitioning in your big move. Your style of writing has always brought a smile to my face & I'm really happy that I will have the opportunity to read more from you!

 

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