Monday, February 7, 2011

The harsh reality is...

...I can't do it all.

I've picked up two pretty time-intensive hobbies in the last 16 months--running and crocheting. One of those is costing me money (running gear, race fees, etc.); the other is making me a bit of money. I'm enjoying both.

The Engineer and I have also decided that 2011 is the year in which it would be nice for me to focus more on my real estate career again. My kids are still my full-time job, but I'm ready for real estate to be a solid, part-time profession, instead of just an occasional one. I was a full-time agent for three years before Chickie was born. I've continued to keep my license and to sell houses here and there for the last five years. This year I'm putting more energy into marketing myself again, to remind people that I'm still here, ready to give jaw-droppingly good service if they need to buy or sell in this neck of the woods.

Of course, I have this wonderful husband and these two awesome kiddos, and somehow they take up quite a bit of my time. (And I wouldn't have it any other way.)

Then there's this blog I've got here. So where in the world does it fit in?

Back in November, I had my own little LoBloPoMo (Low Blog Posting Month.) And since then, while I've picked up the pace on my posts, I haven't gotten back to my previous frequency (which was usually six days a week.) I've hesitated to post about it; honestly, I didn't want to look like a burned-out, unmotivated blogger. Especially considering that whole "Blogging with discipline" thing.

And it's important to me to keep posting, because writing is something I enjoy, and I love the connections I have with those of you who read my blog. But back to the first sentence of the post: I can't do it all. So in this season of my life, "blogging with discipline" consists of writing a couple of blog posts a week, and keeping up with my other blog. It means my brain won't be in "writer mode" as often, and I'll miss out on some of the inspiration I'd get if I was writing here every day.

But I'm busy doing other things, things that are also important. Designing hats is such a fun artistic outlet for me. Selling homes makes me feel like a thinking adult, and it brings in an income. Running keeps me healthy and (relatively) sane. And all of those things help me be more well-rounded as a wife and mom. (Or at least I hope they do!)

So...you'll still C. Beth Blog. You just won't "C" me as often. But I'm still here...running and stitching and selling and mommying. And a couple of times a week...writing about it!

7 comments:

Unknown said...

I'm glad you are putting your priorities in order and making some space for your "thinking adult" time but not giving up what makes you happy. You know your loyal readers will be here if you blog once a month or every day.

Jessica said...

I'm having a rough go of finding a balance in my life with all I want/need to do. It sounds like you're finding your balance and I'm so proud of you! Glad you'll still be around in some form or the other :)

Call Me Cate said...

The truth is that it's just hard to juggle all we want to do. But realizing your limitations (aka "only so many hours in the day") is wise. Plus, the more we prioritize and make wise use of our time, the more we seem to be able to sneak in.

LEstes65 said...

Understand that your real friends love you no matter what you do or cut out. I've learned to say no over this last year. It was hard at first. I'm the queen of No now. And much less stressed.

Sandra said...

Beth -- I've cut back on how often I post too. And isn't it wonderful that there is no REQUIREMENT for how often we post? So, don't let cutting back here make you feel bad. You're still a blogger and I'll still enjoy reading what you have to say, even if it isn't as often. Take care of your family and yourself -- and then tell us about how that is all going once in a while. That's enough! :)

Tami said...

It's nice to know that I'm not the only who tries to "burn the candle from both ends" (what my Mom always told me).

And what a breath of fresh air when we take the moment to prioritize what's important to us and our families. You're a fantastic blogger but more importantly, a wife, a mom, and a woman.

Unknown said...

We'll be here...still reading...whether you post once a week...or not. {Hugs} Enjoy your life, you only live it once!