I feel I’ve lost my way recently, since just before Christmas.
Circumstances have meant I’ve struggled to blog regularly and effectively, and I’ve gone off track.
The intention was to blog better this year, but then another bad news bomb dropped.
Truly I’m expecting Ashton Kutcher to appear and declare “You’ve been punk’d!”
The decision has been made not to blog about the latest dose of misfortune the Wrights have encountered.
It was never my intention when starting this blog to turn it into a personal story about my everyday life – the ups and the downs – in particular not the downs. It was to focus on the journey of simplifying family life. Which I can and should continue to do whatever life throws at me. To blog in a way that benefits us all, and isn’t just a narrative of my life.
My question is why do you read my blog? What do you want to read about? I sincerely want to get back on track and provide good quality content that’s a pleasure, not a chore, to read.
Help me get back on track, please.
Thank you!
Apple says
The reason why I read your blog, and blogs in general, is to learn. To learn from people who fundamentally have similar principles to me, but who have different circumstances, ideas, maybe sexual orientation, colour, religious or cultural background from mine. And yes, the blogs I find most interesting/enriching/thought provoking are the ones where rhe blogger is honest in sharing their ups and downs, what they think and how they feel.
All the best to you!
x
Apple says
The reason why I read your blog, and blogs in general, is to learn. To learn from people who fundamentally have similar principles to me, but who have different circumstances, ideas, maybe sexual orientation, colour, religious or cultural background from mine. And yes, the blogs I find most interesting/enriching/thought provoking are the ones where rhe blogger is honest in sharing their ups and downs, what they think and how they feel.
All the best to you!
x
Jean says
I read your blog for basically the same reason which is to learn. Saving money and being frugal are big on my list. I also find sharing feelings both up and down interesting as we all have times where life is always on the upswing. It is times like this that you realize that you are not alone. There are others in the same boat. Take care and continue to do the great job you have done up to date. I look forward to reading your next blog.
Jean says
I read your blog for basically the same reason which is to learn. Saving money and being frugal are big on my list. I also find sharing feelings both up and down interesting as we all have times where life is always on the upswing. It is times like this that you realize that you are not alone. There are others in the same boat. Take care and continue to do the great job you have done up to date. I look forward to reading your next blog.
Nathalie says
I agree with Apple. I follow your blog on Feedly and had filed you in my “Frugal Living and Savings” folder so I guess that was the first reason why I started following you.
I’m sorry to hear you received bad news. While I respect your decision not to blog about it (and I don’t share very personal things on mine either so I DO understand!) may I suggest that the blogosphere can also be a great place for venting/seeking support in those trying times? We’re not all trolls although there are certainly a great number of them out there.
I wish you the very best with your struggles, blog-related or not. I’m keeping you in my Feedly so whenever you decide to post again, I’ll be able to read what’s going on in your world, even if it’s just to gawk at your very clean fridge 🙂 Take care, Jo.
Nathalie says
I agree with Apple. I follow your blog on Feedly and had filed you in my “Frugal Living and Savings” folder so I guess that was the first reason why I started following you.
I’m sorry to hear you received bad news. While I respect your decision not to blog about it (and I don’t share very personal things on mine either so I DO understand!) may I suggest that the blogosphere can also be a great place for venting/seeking support in those trying times? We’re not all trolls although there are certainly a great number of them out there.
I wish you the very best with your struggles, blog-related or not. I’m keeping you in my Feedly so whenever you decide to post again, I’ll be able to read what’s going on in your world, even if it’s just to gawk at your very clean fridge 🙂 Take care, Jo.
Susan (Eastendmom) says
Jo, I can’t add much more to what’s been said already, and said quite well. I am so sorry that your family is going through yet more trying times. It’s seemed from the tone of your recent posts that you have been struggling and for this I’m sorry and wish you strength and peace. You’ll get back on track, even if it’s more slowly than you’d like, and when you do all your blog friends will still be there for you. xo
Susan (Eastendmom) says
Jo, I can’t add much more to what’s been said already, and said quite well. I am so sorry that your family is going through yet more trying times. It’s seemed from the tone of your recent posts that you have been struggling and for this I’m sorry and wish you strength and peace. You’ll get back on track, even if it’s more slowly than you’d like, and when you do all your blog friends will still be there for you. xo
Nor says
For me reading blogs is about the chat as it were. Learning a new recipe, or a money saving tip in a fun, friendly, non-condescending way. It’s a quick win while having a tea break. Something positive to read instead of the constant gripes or random minion pictures on Facebook. Sometimes it’s the virtual friends who can help you just as much when you’re facing a down moment as the real-life friends who will drag you to the pub later. Whatever you want to chat about, is what we’ll read 🙂
Nor says
For me reading blogs is about the chat as it were. Learning a new recipe, or a money saving tip in a fun, friendly, non-condescending way. It’s a quick win while having a tea break. Something positive to read instead of the constant gripes or random minion pictures on Facebook. Sometimes it’s the virtual friends who can help you just as much when you’re facing a down moment as the real-life friends who will drag you to the pub later. Whatever you want to chat about, is what we’ll read 🙂
Diane says
Hang in there. And have faith. You have a lot of people who are praying for you and your family.
Diane says
Hang in there. And have faith. You have a lot of people who are praying for you and your family.
Phil Pogson says
Please go back to telling us about frugality, simple living and being ‘real’ .
By the way – you have not lost your way, you have simply walked down a road that is not your road – it is perfectly OK the turn around right now and walk back up that same road back to where you turned off – you will recognise where you are then.
Phil Pogson says
Please go back to telling us about frugality, simple living and being ‘real’ .
By the way – you have not lost your way, you have simply walked down a road that is not your road – it is perfectly OK the turn around right now and walk back up that same road back to where you turned off – you will recognise where you are then.
ALISON says
Hi, I enjoy every post. The recipes, the chatting, the conversation. I live in the US in the Savannah GA area. I enjoy the discussion about things where you live. Hope this finds you well and that you continue to blog if you wish to do so. Alison
ALISON says
Hi, I enjoy every post. The recipes, the chatting, the conversation. I live in the US in the Savannah GA area. I enjoy the discussion about things where you live. Hope this finds you well and that you continue to blog if you wish to do so. Alison
Clare says
My dear Jo, none of your blogs have ever been a chore to read! Your conversational style, your tips and tricks and you sense of humour make every one a delight! You are going through some mighty struggles right now, and your writing is likely to reflect that. You’re human! It wouldn’t be an honest reflection of you if it didn’t! But more than reading your blog for simple living/minimalist tips/baking tips/reducing my waste etc, I read your blog because it’s you! I met you through your blog, and I consider you a dear friend, admittedly one I never get to see (! stupid miles and airfares..!) but no matter what you write about, it is a doubly wonderful gift in my inbox when you post, an update from a friend and a little bit of inspiration at the same time! Be who you need to be. Life is growing you through all these experiences into who you need to be to do whatever you are supposed to do. Pretty stink way of growing I have to say (!!!), but you will come out the other side wiser, with new skills and with a whole new perspective. Honestly, your loyal readers will love whatever you post, we’re here for you!! You inspire us and have had such positive impacts on so many peoples lives!You just get on with dealing with all these ‘challenges’ as best you can, we’ll all be here no matter what you write about, and even if you need to take a break all together! The most important thing you can do is look after yourself and your family and do the best you can at any given moment. Not the ideal ‘best’ that we all carry around in our heads that has a tendency to piss us off when we can’t live up to it, but the best you can physically do. Some days that might not be much, but we will all love you anyway. Kia Kaha my friend xx
Clare says
My dear Jo, none of your blogs have ever been a chore to read! Your conversational style, your tips and tricks and you sense of humour make every one a delight! You are going through some mighty struggles right now, and your writing is likely to reflect that. You’re human! It wouldn’t be an honest reflection of you if it didn’t! But more than reading your blog for simple living/minimalist tips/baking tips/reducing my waste etc, I read your blog because it’s you! I met you through your blog, and I consider you a dear friend, admittedly one I never get to see (! stupid miles and airfares..!) but no matter what you write about, it is a doubly wonderful gift in my inbox when you post, an update from a friend and a little bit of inspiration at the same time! Be who you need to be. Life is growing you through all these experiences into who you need to be to do whatever you are supposed to do. Pretty stink way of growing I have to say (!!!), but you will come out the other side wiser, with new skills and with a whole new perspective. Honestly, your loyal readers will love whatever you post, we’re here for you!! You inspire us and have had such positive impacts on so many peoples lives!You just get on with dealing with all these ‘challenges’ as best you can, we’ll all be here no matter what you write about, and even if you need to take a break all together! The most important thing you can do is look after yourself and your family and do the best you can at any given moment. Not the ideal ‘best’ that we all carry around in our heads that has a tendency to piss us off when we can’t live up to it, but the best you can physically do. Some days that might not be much, but we will all love you anyway. Kia Kaha my friend xx
Jo H. says
Oh, Jo, I’m so sorry you’ve had another blow – sometimes life is like that, and it’s not nice at all. Sending you wishes for strength, for resilience, for little joys in your day to let you know there is still good to be found, and for the comfort of humour if you can manage it. This too shall pass. Just keep going, one foot in front of the other.
I came to your blog in the midst of looking for decluttering inspiration and stayed for the no-food-waste motivation. I’m doing better on both fronts, so I’m happy to read anything here. I think to write consistently and regularly a person needs to write from the heart, not what other people want to read, but what you want to write, and those who are interested will find you. Follow your instincts.
Jo H. says
Oh, Jo, I’m so sorry you’ve had another blow – sometimes life is like that, and it’s not nice at all. Sending you wishes for strength, for resilience, for little joys in your day to let you know there is still good to be found, and for the comfort of humour if you can manage it. This too shall pass. Just keep going, one foot in front of the other.
I came to your blog in the midst of looking for decluttering inspiration and stayed for the no-food-waste motivation. I’m doing better on both fronts, so I’m happy to read anything here. I think to write consistently and regularly a person needs to write from the heart, not what other people want to read, but what you want to write, and those who are interested will find you. Follow your instincts.
valmediaaccademy says
I enjoy your kind of reduce, recycle, re use mentality. Anything that makes us aware of how much we waste is great – be it time, food, things, money etc.
I also think it is good that are honest enough to share your tough times as it is very easy to show a polished veneer to your readers that does not reflect real life for any of us.
I know that things will turn around for you, it is often in those darkest hours that the seeds of something new and positive are growing x
valmediaaccademy says
I enjoy your kind of reduce, recycle, re use mentality. Anything that makes us aware of how much we waste is great – be it time, food, things, money etc.
I also think it is good that are honest enough to share your tough times as it is very easy to show a polished veneer to your readers that does not reflect real life for any of us.
I know that things will turn around for you, it is often in those darkest hours that the seeds of something new and positive are growing x
Simply Being Mum says
Guys – I cannot express how humbled I am at the comments left on this post. I’m not a drama queen, and am a rather private person despite being a ‘blogger’ – I know ‘oxymoron’. I sincerely feel your genuine good wishes and support, and am so lucky to have been able to meet you all (even if that is virtually).
And Clare – we will meet in person one day. I know it.
My motivation has been ignited. And although I’m not going to talk about the nitty gritty of this new development, I have posts that have been inspired by the change in our family life’s course. I’m currently researching space clearing – which links really closely to decluttering. My thinking is it can’t be bad karma that’s out to get us (I have a ruck load of karma points) , it must be something else 🙂 Post Monday on the subject – but I’m looking for help on this – so if you know anything about energy/space and clearing etc please do chip in.
Penny L says
Hi Jo. Have been contemplating my reply to this post, but everyone seems to have said what I think much more articulately than I could have done! Life seems to go through peaks and troughs , when we go through the rubbish times I try to hang on to the thought that we can’t change what is happening as it’s out of our control , the only thing we can change is our reaction to it. But that thought is about as much use as a chocolate teapot at the moment the proverbial hits the fan, it sometimes helps when I’ve calmed down!!
Karen Kingston is the author and blog writer that I know who writes about space clearing (Clear your Clutter with FengShui).
Sending you love Penny Lx
Jo H. says
Jo – looking forward to anything on this topic, which I think indicates that while I am doing better, I’m not done yet 🙂
Simply Being Mum says
Hi Jo – my first post just got published on space clearing!
Simply Being Mum says
Guys – I cannot express how humbled I am at the comments left on this post. I’m not a drama queen, and am a rather private person despite being a ‘blogger’ – I know ‘oxymoron’. I sincerely feel your genuine good wishes and support, and am so lucky to have been able to meet you all (even if that is virtually).
And Clare – we will meet in person one day. I know it.
My motivation has been ignited. And although I’m not going to talk about the nitty gritty of this new development, I have posts that have been inspired by the change in our family life’s course. I’m currently researching space clearing – which links really closely to decluttering. My thinking is it can’t be bad karma that’s out to get us (I have a ruck load of karma points) , it must be something else 🙂 Post Monday on the subject – but I’m looking for help on this – so if you know anything about energy/space and clearing etc please do chip in.
Penny L says
Hi Jo. Have been contemplating my reply to this post, but everyone seems to have said what I think much more articulately than I could have done! Life seems to go through peaks and troughs , when we go through the rubbish times I try to hang on to the thought that we can’t change what is happening as it’s out of our control , the only thing we can change is our reaction to it. But that thought is about as much use as a chocolate teapot at the moment the proverbial hits the fan, it sometimes helps when I’ve calmed down!!
Karen Kingston is the author and blog writer that I know who writes about space clearing (Clear your Clutter with FengShui).
Sending you love Penny Lx
Jo H. says
Jo – looking forward to anything on this topic, which I think indicates that while I am doing better, I’m not done yet 🙂
Simply Being Mum says
Hi Jo – my first post just got published on space clearing!
Nancy says
I agree with all the comments above. I’m American, partially of English ancestry. I’ve visited England in the past and hope to return one day in the future. I started reading your blog via Kristen’s No-Waste Friday and just thoroughly enjoy my visits when you post.
Nancy
Simply Being Mum says
Thank you Nancy that’s lovely to hear. And you have a gorgeous name by the way 😉
Nancy says
I agree with all the comments above. I’m American, partially of English ancestry. I’ve visited England in the past and hope to return one day in the future. I started reading your blog via Kristen’s No-Waste Friday and just thoroughly enjoy my visits when you post.
Nancy
Simply Being Mum says
Thank you Nancy that’s lovely to hear. And you have a gorgeous name by the way 😉
kahlerklan says
As the reader above stated I started reading your blog thru Kristin’s but have stayed with you because I like your honesty and have become inspired by some of the things you have posted. Its not easy in the frugal blog world to find someone who is going a little bit farther than most and I really appreciate that. I’m so very, very sorry that you’re going through a difficult time. I will pray for you.
Simply Being Mum says
Thank you for your thoughts. Sincerely it’s been humbling to read the comments. Thank you.
kahlerklan says
As the reader above stated I started reading your blog thru Kristin’s but have stayed with you because I like your honesty and have become inspired by some of the things you have posted. Its not easy in the frugal blog world to find someone who is going a little bit farther than most and I really appreciate that. I’m so very, very sorry that you’re going through a difficult time. I will pray for you.
Simply Being Mum says
Thank you for your thoughts. Sincerely it’s been humbling to read the comments. Thank you.
rinkungfu says
I came to your blog through a Pinterest search for salt dough, and followed because I have my own family and I liked your values and felt I could learn. I hope whatever has happened passes soon for you and your family.
Simply Being Mum says
The salt dough post! It’s probably my most read blog post! I think it’s even been used in a US academic dissertation – if I remember correctly I think I recall giving my permission. Who’d have thought something like that would connect with so many people. I truly appreciate you sticking around.
rinkungfu says
Hahaha that’s amazing!
rinkungfu says
I came to your blog through a Pinterest search for salt dough, and followed because I have my own family and I liked your values and felt I could learn. I hope whatever has happened passes soon for you and your family.
Simply Being Mum says
The salt dough post! It’s probably my most read blog post! I think it’s even been used in a US academic dissertation – if I remember correctly I think I recall giving my permission. Who’d have thought something like that would connect with so many people. I truly appreciate you sticking around.
rinkungfu says
Hahaha that’s amazing!
val ottaway says
I read your blog for inspiration and pure celebration of being a wife mother and more importantly a Woman. Your blog lifts me and encourages me when life is good AND when its been alittle testing. Chin up we are all quietly suppoting you.
val ottaway says
I read your blog for inspiration and pure celebration of being a wife mother and more importantly a Woman. Your blog lifts me and encourages me when life is good AND when its been alittle testing. Chin up we are all quietly suppoting you.