It was the most unexpected thing.
Keeping a journal is not a new thing for me. I've kept a personal diary since I was seven years old. I mostly turn to it when I am experiencing an emotion that is too self-pitying or myopic that I wouldn't want to burden anyone with holding my hand through. It also holds such treasures as an entire page with the words, "I HATE HER" written 103 times and an attempted anatomically correct drawing of my vulva. When the prospect of keeping a public-facing blog came up, I thought it would be sort of like that- except without drawings of my genitals (probably). What I wasn't expecting is that it would change the entire way I live my life.
I know this blog is a mess right now. I am grateful to the readers who stay with me as I blindly throw darts and see if something sticks. On repeat in the back of my mind is the refrain, "If your life were a book, would anyone want to read it?". I'm sure I heard that in an army recruiting video when I was 10 years old but it's oddly applicable to my current situation. With so many readers from so many different countries, I've been gifted with the opportunity to have thoughts that are bigger than myself- that hopefully are interesting and inspiring to people other than just me. I can attempt to document adventures that instead of being self-serving can now be a shared experience. I'm no longer thinking about what can I get out of my day? but rather, what can I give to my readers that might add some small bit of value to theirs? and how can I make that interesting?
And honestly, I love it. I feel like I've gotten my groove back. I haven't felt this inspired or creative in years. Possibly since I was in high school. I guess I just work better with an audience? (I'll have to explore that in my diary later). So thank you, dear readers, for helping this gal feel like her old self again. In return, I hope to keep entertaining and inspiring you. If you have any thoughts on the matter or want to let me know what works/ or doesn't work for you- feel free to let me know in the comments or drop me an email. I can't guarantee I'll make any changes but I enjoy the prospect of a collaborative effort.
Thanks again for sticking with me, everyone.
We are always interested in the daily life and mental musing of our beloved Juli. Although we don't always get a chance to talk about the daily grind. I feel that this blog has made me closer to you. Both emotionally and in a way closes the physical distance by keeping us informed of your daily doings.
ReplyDeleteThat has been another unexpected benefit from this blog. It used be when I reached out to people who live far away that the catch-up portion of our talks was the main focus of the conversation rather than the exploration of new ideas. It's been so helpful to be able to use this blog as a jumping off point. Speaking of which, I need to talk to you soon now that Simon is home and there is a possibility of not being an interruption during your already hectic day :D Let me know when!
DeleteSo glad you are blogging!
ReplyDelete:D !
DeleteI love how you've blasted off from your launch pad. It has been wonderful! One thing that I'd suggest if you want to not offend the academic reader is to limit swear words, most especially the f-word. In all the circles I've shared your work, no one swears in their writing, so I've put the occasional language warning. But if you don't care about that, just keep doing you. You did ask for tips. Here's my slice: http://iheartpurplestuff.blogspot.com/2017/03/chess.html
ReplyDeleteHaha I do have a terribly potty mouth. I'll keep that in mind on future posts to make sure I only use them when they are the absolute best way to express myself. :)
DeleteWelcome to the blogging world--got to you by way of The Purple Lady. :) I don't mind occasional swear words, or the threat of a vulva drawing. Be you!
ReplyDeleteThanks, Book Mama! Glad to meet you!
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ReplyDeleteI like that you swear. It makes you real, raw, and relatable.. Everyone swears - even if only in their minds. Don't be afraid to be vocal regardless of the word. As a writer, we are supposed to stir shit up, make others uncomfortable, and ask/tell the hard questions. We are "Word Artists," yes, I just 'coined' a phrase (or career - sign me up!), Goddammit! So, continue to be real, raw, and relatable. Those are my Rrr's for you.
ReplyDeleteLove, YouRRR Pirate Cousin.
P.S. Keep writing and changing. I'd rather die than feel limited! Ah-ha, keep changing, challenging, and creating. Continue being a "C" word, hahahahahaha....!
P.S.S. Check out Georgia O'Keeffe for vulva tutorials, am I right? Embrace your lady parts! No one else's will ever be like yours, so why get discouraged? Who are you comparing yours to? Hmm?
Um you are my favorite, I love everything about this post. And I'm 100% with you on the freedom or die bit. There was a time in my life when I did not feel free and let me tell you, it was rough. I'll probably be writing about it soon and maybe you can relate. <3
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