Hey, friends. 
Just up front, I don’t know why I feel the need to explain this, but I do. It’s not me defending myself…I promise. Just a this-is-why explanation. With a cute picture at the end. 😉
So, it’s October…and I have to admit that I’ve been waiting for this month for a loooooong time. Not only do I love fall and pretty much all things pumpkin spice (who doesn’t?!), but it’s also the month when I finally get to wrap my arms around the necks of so many amazing women who have walked this dreaming and writing journey with me in the last year.
I almost want to actually get up and do a cartwheel in the living room, but it’s early, and I’m tired, so I’ll refrain from that…but I will let out a virtual
Squeeeeeeeee!
Thanks for letting me do that. 😉
This is also the month when a lot of my blogging community is participating in the Nester’s 31 Day’s series.
I love the idea…blogging for 31 days (the entire month) about a specific topic. (I actually did my own version of it a couple years ago.) And I’ve gotta be honest here…I’m dying to participate.
But I know me…and I know my current season. I’m very aware of a certain book proposal and chapter edits that are hanging over my head. (Good stuff but time consuming, to say the least.) I’ve gotta keep my head on straight (haha…does that ever happen?! ;)) and focus on the dream and taking the opportunities that are there…I might not have them again.
And?
I’ve also got this great little girl…and the days are slipping by.
Too quickly.
To the point where I want to run upstairs and interrupt her beautiful sleep at 6 a.m. just so I can hold her in my arms before she gets any bigger.
This season, God is also calling me to something great beyond writing: He’s calling me to embrace being a mommy completely.
I don’t say no well.
But I said no to blogging 31 days…not because I think it’s a bad idea. (In fact, I think it’s an awesome one!) But because, this season, He’s got greater things for me.
Things like…
...stepping away from the computer and going to the park.
...leaving my phone in the house and going outside to swing with my girl.
…putting down my Kindle and picking up a story to read with her.
…Pounding out a book proposal and editing like crazy when she’s sleeping. (Had to throw that in…it’s my reality. :))
All of those things.
Plus…taking the time to skip down sidewalks while holding a handful of flowers.
Ok, ok, maybe I’ll leave that to her…but I might grab her hand and join her one of these days! 😉
**************************
Happy Tuesday, friends! Today is the day when I join some sweet friends at Crystal’s space for Behind the Scenes.
Social media and online relationships can make us feel like everyone else has it all together. We’re edited, proof-read, Pinterest-perfect versions of ourselves (or so some might think!) when – in reality? There is an unfinished pile of laundry around the corner. That cute toddler smiling for the camera just had a massive meltdown seconds ago. That yummy breakfast-for-dinner you just showed us on Instagram? It’s because the cat licked the chicken that was supposed to be for dinner.
“Behind the Scenes” is a fun link up where we show those photos – but tell the real story behind them. The sneak peek behind the scenes, a look past the edges of the photo to the real life behind it.
Take some time today and stop by if you can…the hearts of these beautiful women who share their stories will encourage you as you read what’s happening behind the camera lens.
I said no as well…but mostly because I don’t feel inspired to write about one topic for 31 days and I am lazy! 😉 Can you believe we are 22 days away from Allume?! I am almost overwhelmed by it all!! Have a wonderful day!
Oh, I know. I JUST ordered my business cards on Sunday night. (Yep, I’m a total procrastinator.) 😉 And you know, we could always do a 31 Days series another month…like December or January or March…if the inspiration strikes. 😉 Counting down with you friend…SO soon! Love to you!
Sounds like you have a lot on the go. Good for you for saying no! I won’t be joining the 31 day thing – I have very little time to devote to it and I blog when I feel like it. Mostly. Speaking of which, I actually blogged my own behind the scenes picture just this once for today.
http://supremehighmongoose.blogspot.com/2013/10/behind-scenes-story-behind-picture.html
I love that you joined Behind the Scenes this week…and it was an awesome post! Blessings and happy week to you, friend!
I also said no to the 31 days mainly because it just felt to overwhelming. Although my little ones are grown and mostly on their own I have been feeling the tug to step away some and begain to reach out to my in(RL) community. This wonderful group of ladies online that so openly invited me to sit on the bench with them has stirred my heart to want the same in(RL) for those around me. Not sure yet what that will look like but ….. we’ll see.
I think that’s a great reminder for me to find that balance of online vs. (in)RL, too. I love your heart, friend. Praying that God will fling the doors open…or build that bench. However He chooses to do it, I know He’ll bless. Love and hugs!
I wanted to the the 31 Days so badly, but I knew I wouldn’t be faithful to write everyday if I didn’t have a a topic and 31 ideas in advance….enter real life where I don’t even have time to come up with a few ideas a month, and I’m out helping this person or that person and when I get home I don’t have a brain cell left for anything but little boy’s bath, bedtime story, and a few household chores. A season, yes. 😉 Have fun at Allume; I’ve wanted to go for a few years, but it isn’t my reality now with the season we’re in…someday! 😉
I love how you are saying to be intentional. You really inspire me Mel!
Thank you, Ashley.
Wishing you a wonderful week! Blessings!
Your heart, it resonates with mine. Although I am just starting another blogging journey. I am saying no, to so many other things, so I can. I understand the choices. Skipping down the sidewalks is so much more than your phone or your Kindle. Good for you! My baby is a senior in high school this year and time is slipping away fast. Savor the moments! So although I am intentional, it’s His voice I heed. Thankful you are listening. Peace.
You are such an encouragement, Shell…thank you for this and the reminder to soak up the days that are already flying by. Blessings to you, friend!
Hello my sweet friend!! Hope your week was fabulous! So happy to see your face this morning
Thank you, friend! Have a wonderful week…love to you!