Time to check in on my One Little Word 2019 Journey.
My word, if you recall, is story, and I think that quote card that I got from Ali Edwards, the creator of the whole One Little Word thing, is pretty perfect for how I think the word story fits into my life.
I am a storyteller. I always hesitate to call myself a writer because that sounds so . . . official and important. Thinking of myself as a storyteller, though, is much sweeter. For one, I’m a librarian so I make my living because stories exist. And for another, I’m a blogger and what is a blogger if not a storyteller?
The stories I share with you are how you have gotten to know me over these last 14 years. Thinking back, I realize that there have been so many stories! Deaths and births and job changes. Wins and losses, happiness and pain, struggles and disappointments, trips and vacations and blogger meet ups and lots and lots of mundane details about my life and even knitting. And you keep coming back. YOU are a part of my story.
Sometimes I think about not blogging. I think about the time that would free up. I think about how blogging is self indulgent and how maybe the world wouldn’t be diminished if this blog no longer existed. I think about how maybe we’re all just humoring each other and patting each other on the back by reading and commenting. But then I think about how you are my friends . . . and think about the idea that all of us are part of a network of stories. And I think about how much I like it when you share your stories with me and I learn more about who you are. And I know that all of this storytelling makes my life better.
So. For now, and for at least a while longer, I will tell my story through blogging.
Blogging is part of my story.
Good!
I so enjoy your blog. As part of my morning ritual, I read blogs, look at ravelry, check out instagram. Reading your blog is like catching up with a friend over my morning coffee.
I have that same discussion with myself quite frequently! And then I take a few days off . . . and end up missing the stories we all share. I’m grateful for the friendships I’ve made through blogging — I never quite expected that when I started, but now it’s what keeps me coming back. I’m so glad you’re here — sharing your life; sharing your stories. XOXO
I would absolutely miss your voice if you were gone – my world would be diminished! I love that you share your story in such a welcoming way.
I agree with Dee. You’re part of my early morning look at the world. May I point out, I never brace myself for news on your blog like I do when checking on the larger world? Of course you have sadder tales to tell sometimes, but you never make me wonder how stupid or evil people can be. That’s a very good thing these days.
I, too, am another one who enjoys your blog – your stories, your pictures, your book reviews. Thank you for sharing.
And that my friend…is a wonderful story.
You have so much to share with us and we ARE better for your stories and for the things of life you teach us. Being a blogger isn’t (just) self-indulgent. It takes real work to create a daily story and connect it through the years. It is also an act of sharing and caring and giving and loving. The world WOULD be diminished if you stopped. Please don’t.
Dee hit it right on the head! I too start my day with your blog and it would be like loosing a dear friend if you ever decide to stop. You make a difference in the world whether you realize it or not. Everyone appreciates the time you take to make this blog so special, we feel like a family, please don’t quit!
I always look forward to reading the next installment in your story. As a blogging storyteller you are the contemporary version of an age-old tradition: keeper of the family history. Your words and beautiful pictures will be there for your grandchildren years from now. Your blog is certainly an upgrade from 3″ Kodak black-and-white prints in a shoe box!
I’ve had virtually the same exact thoughts about blogging (and perhaps not blogging). But I think that I would miss my blog, even if few others would. The act of writing several times a week is a part of who I am, even if no one is reading. In many ways, I think blogging as an adult has taken the place of the journaling I used to do as a child and teen.
I am glad you’ve decided to continue on with your blog — I really do enjoy reading it and learning more of your story!
Keep your stories coming please! For myself, not blogging would free up a Lot of time but… I’d probably end up in divorce court or a shallow grave fairly quickly if I told all my knitting stories to my family instead of my blog. 🙂
Telling your story in a way we all like to read is definitely a work of art.
Stories are so vital-thanks for sharing yours.
Reading your blog is part of my morning ritual also. It is not only enjoyable but helps to widen my world, which has narrowed due to physical limitations during the last eight years. Your storytelling is NOT frivolous or indulgent. You share your life online and you reach many people that don’t have other outlets. I identify with so much that you write about, even if I am older than you (68) but feel younger in my head. I raised step kids, had one of my own, worked in education and have a great husband who is my best friend. Please know that what you do is important and enriches the world. It also brings together people that would never otherwise have contact with each other. All in all, a great thing!
Oh yeah, and I knit! That’s how I found you! Heehee
You are a writer, Carole, although you may not be comfortable identifying as one. I like to think that those who blog not only enrich the lives of their readers, but also their own through writing down their stories and working through their meanings. You have an audience that would certainly miss you, but ultimately, you will know if and when to stop. Thank you so much for sharing yourself with me, Carole!
I love your storytelling (and writing)!!
Stories are how we make sense of the world and of what happens in it. Personally, I adore listening to a good storyteller. Since I keep reading your blog, what does that say about you? That you are a good storyteller! Keep it up!
I enjoy your stories.
Thank you for being a storyteller. And for showing up on your blog to shar and encourage.
I love being part of – and reading – your story … and I am so grateful you are part of mine, too!