Wednesday, July 9, 2008

Blogging

I've been writing this blog for over a year now. Hard to believe that much time has passed and that I have had that many original thoughts to record. Blogging in many respects has brought out of me a part that has been screaming to be released. Like all moms, the daily responsibilities and relationships with family, though rewarding, leave little time for reflection. This blog has given me a safe place to come late at night or in the early hours of the morning and think through my days and God's goodness in my little corner of the world.

As many have said before me, possibly the best outcome of this blog have been the relationships. Several friends at my church and in my homeschool group write. There simply would not be enough hours in the day to hear all their wise words and great stories. Reading their blogs has opened up deeper relationships with many of them. And then there are those of you I have never met (yet) who continually inspire and bless me with your comments and own blogs. Thanks for sharing and allowing others into your life.

I continue to read many wonderful blogs by the "big bloggers". They may be inspirational, frugal, popular, crafty, funny.... Day after day they bring back more and more readers into their world with their words. I know that Shine Again will never be all that, which suits me fine. At times I've struggle with my focus in this blog. I'm not sure I've quite figured that one out yet. But I pray that those who read it and my children, in particular, as they grow, will see how God's goodness is reality in my life. It may not be a glamorous, funny or even extremely interesting life. But in the end, it is for Him.

Just a side note: While we were gone in June, my family had a get together and read back over their favorite posts for a good laugh. Too good for words, I hear was the winner. Thankfully, I haven't had a day quite like that since then.

13 comments:

Heather L. said...

I'm so glad you have a blog! it really has helped to be able to "visit" online when we don't have the chance in person.

Cindy-Still His Girl said...

I am so, so, so glad you started blogging! I didn't think it was possible to love you more, but I do. :)

And truly, Monica, yours is one of my all-time favorites. I think it would be if I didn't know you, too. You have the perfect variety of posts, you let us see your heart, you point us to the Father, you make us laugh. That, my friend, is the recipe for the PERFECT blog! I love it. And I love YOU!

Oh, and you were SO RIGHT on the Rotel! :)

Unknown said...

Oh my goodness...I went back and read that other post of yours that your crew voted on. What a day you had!!

I've enjoyed reading your blog for awhile now and look forward to continuing following your journey!

Catherine said...

Happy blogging anniversary!

Andrea said...

So well put! I really understand you here! WHen I started blogging it was because I was inspired by one of those "big" bloggers (Trivium Academy). I soon realized that I was NOT able to blog like that but that God was using it to allow me to journal, learn, review my days, and provide another source of preserving our kids' precious homeschool legacy! I am not worried about my focus and write for myself and my family now.

I love to read your blog and learn how you manage such a beautifully, blessed large family. Your posts are witty, encouraging, and beautiful. So glad to have found you in the bloggy world!
Blesings,
Andrea

Alaina said...

I love your blog and am so glad you started it!!! I really like the way you share your heart and life with sincerity. Keep up the great work!

Unknown said...

I've missed you, friend. I'm so glad you and the family had a great time!!!! I can't believe your family sat around and read your blog. That won't be happening to me. Oh well. Your blog is an inspiration to me, whether you think it has focus or not!

Love ya! Sniz

elaine@bloginmyeye said...

Happy Blogaversary! I very much relate to your feelings about blogging. And your blog is one of my new favorites. I can't relate so much to the biggies these days realizing there are so many other outlets I also want to put my time and energies into. Well blogged.

Mary@notbefore7 said...

SO glad you began blogging! I have enjoyed "knowing" you and your precious family this last year. I have learned so much about turning to God in all things - you have amazing perspective.

Your life, their lives...that is the focus and I love it!

K. R. Allman said...

A-men! Your writing is a blessing!

Monica said...

You are an encouragement to me! I love the way you share from the heart!

Saralyn said...

Monica--
I'm so glad your bloggin'! Your tenderness with your family and your heart for the Lord are such an encouragement to me and I find myself referring to you as "friend" even though we've never met. You are a gem!

mindi said...

I love your blog!! You inspire me with your faith and your family. One of these days I'm going to grow up to be just like you :D