Welcome back to Finish The Sentence Friday Blog Hop (FTSF). We give you a sentence and you finish it (however long or short you’d like). Please feel free to link up and follow any or all of our hostesses, which are below.
And now for this week’s sentence to finish: “My blogging goals for this year are……“
Next week’s sentence to finish: “If I had a million dollars, I…”
My blogging goal for this year is…
BALANCE!
That one little word says so much, but as much as I have shared that I need to indeed find a better balance still alludes me and my blog.
So this year first and foremost, I am striving for a better balance on my own little blog.
I love blogging, but I am not going to lie this past week taking a bit of time off was so very nice.
I am truly tired and have done this completely to myself.
I love FTSF, but to be quite honest the last two months, I dread Thursday night each week, because I stay up late to get the party in full swing on my own blog by answering comments and reading and commenting to those who link up.
Most know I have a 3 year old, who is totally afraid of the dark and now seems to crawl into bed with me to fall asleep a couple of nights a week, so 10 pm is hard enough to begin with, but then I am trying to get her to go to bed, while reading and commenting.
I love all that do join us and many of you are on my blog reading list during my week anyways, but still it is getting to be too much for me.
By the way, I am only really supposed to be commenting on a certain number and my co-hosts the same. Yet, I always feel guilty or like I am missing someone if I don’t comment. That truly is just me, but keep telling myself that I should cut back, but then keep doing the same thing (my husband and co-hosts have told me this time and again and need to start listening to them more now then ever). Not sure why either other then pure guilt to not make anyone feel left out or unread.
Again, totally all me and I love my co-hosts and they all know I am just crazy with my commenting. But I do think if I want to stick with FTSF and make it work for me, I am certainly going to make some changes. Starting with doing a bit less commenting at times if I want to keep my sanity in check during the week and even with this linkup by sticking to commenting on the listed numbers I should be doing.
I really hope I am not offending anyone, I seriously do try my best, but I just can’t do as much as I have here without burning out, I feel.
Even posting, I am re-adjusting my posting schedule and not sure which days I will pick, but not sure I will post daily anymore. I am thinking of posting Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursday night for FTSF, as well as my Thankful List on Saturday with an extra post here and there need be, but the four posts a week, plus designing seems to be the ticket in my eyes right now.
Please don’t take my venting here as that I don’t love all my readers and my blog, because I do, but to be honest I need downtime, too. So now again more then ever I am just realizing it and going to try my best to revamp a bit and indeed come up with a better solution for me, as well as my blog.
So stay tuned for all of this in the weeks and months to come now.
Now that I have shared my blogging goals for the new year here, please share yours with us now!
And as I mentioned previously, I am now a proud affiliate marketer for Pandora Towson.
Don’t forget to check out my web design company for specials running at J9 Designs for all your web design needs, plus we offer Paypal’s Bill Me Later, too!
One Click Is All It Takes!!
Billybuc says
I'll be cutting back when necessary….the least of my concerns is blogging….but to answer the question, my blogging goal for this year is to help as many people as I can. Pretty simple, eh?
Get some rest and stay safe in that blizzard.
Janine Huldie says
I know that blogging is totally the least of your concerns, but do love your blogging goal for the year and have no doubt you will attain it! Thanks again and I am staying warm in nice home tonight while it is snowing out. Looks like most will be shut down through tomorrow here and I had no where to go anyway, so just relax a bit I suppose. So not a bad thing 🙂
Sarah says
Janine – I also wrote about needing to find balance! It is so hard – the commenting, the sharing, etc. I remember reading once that a lot of bloggers would prefer shares over comments, so sometimes when I don't have the time to comment, I work on finding a few posts to share. Take it easy ~ and good for you for deciding to post less! It can be overwhelming at times.
Janine Huldie says
Sarah, I just read your post and meant when I said I loved it and you truly inspired me with what you said tonight. I love the sharing idea and may have to take to doing that a bit more now when I can. Thanks again, Sarah!! 🙂
babygatesdown says
Blog about your life – don't live to blog. End of story. When I started blogging again in June one of the main things I told myself was that if it felt like a chore, I needed to reign it in. It's tough. You can always do more. But you don't have to and it's a matter of figuring out the right balance for you. It sounds like you have new resolve to do that. I'll try not to be offended if I never hear from you again (sob! and joking!)
Best – Louise
Janine Huldie says
Louise, trust me you will totally hear from me again just hope no one gets offended if I do miss a comment here and there once in awhile. But believe me you could never lose me completely, because I do love the interaction, too!! 🙂
rmemommy says
I completely agree with you Janine! I completely let blogging take over my life the past few months – the reading, the commenting, the social media, the writing. I was obsessed and neglecting my family and my house for the sake of my blog. I don't think there is really such a thing a balance with it – it is just a matter of priorities. I need to remember that my blog is (for me) a hobby because I do not make any $$ at it. BTW – you are a master commenter, but I am positive everyone would understand if you didn't make it around to every single post!
Janine Huldie says
Thank you Lisa for saying that and you are so right about priorities, definitely have to remind myself this with blogging, because as much as I love it, I have to walk away some times to get other things done.
Kristi Campbell says
OH JANINE!!!! Just comment less. That's why you have us. People will continue to adore you, because you are awesome. Balance matters more. I LOVED the FTSF break we just took!!! Happy 2014, my friend. Do what you need to for you and your family. xo
Janine Huldie says
Thanks so much Kristi and seriously so glad you said that, because I love you guys and this hop, but sometimes I get stressed out about Thursdays and commenting, because I seriously can't do it all, as much as I wish I could. Loved our break, too and we should definitely take more as time permits. But seriously love you and Happy 2014 to you, too!! 🙂
pfchico says
You are right Janine. I find myself so completely consumed with blogging that I almost have forgotten how important the things that I am blogging about are. I have only been at it for 2 1/2 months, so I really wanted to post as much as possible but it feels like it has taken over my life. I love it but I am burning myself out with home & work & my blog, I have not been sleeping trying to fit it all in. I need to find that balance as well. You are the best when it comes to leaving thoughtful comments but like everyone else said, it will be understood. You still are one of my favs. 🙂 I hope you find that balance.
Janine Huldie says
I love your blog and seriously so glad you did find me, but I know the beginnings of blogging can be totally fun and then it becomes so much more. Trust me I have been there. That said, I wouldn't trade my experiences so far with it for the world, but still I would say definitely don't stress about it or let it take over your life (easier said then done though). I truly hope we can both find balance this year and thank you so very much for your friendship, too!! 🙂
Ruchira says
Janine, you do full justice to all who comment on your blog and I have always applauded you for this.
With toddlers in your household…it is totally understandable 🙂 No worries, take it easy and i wish you the best!
Janine Huldie says
Thanks so much Ruchira and just know how much I appreciate your kind words and support here my friend!! 🙂
tamaralikecamera says
Sending you balance vibes! Comment less. I had to do it and I feel a lot better. We all know you're so giving and awesome and you'll still comment and get comments. I have no doubt about that!
Janine Huldie says
Thanks Tamara and totally helps that you had to do this, too. Seriously, I feel so bad thinking about cutting down a bit with commenting, but I was starting to go out of my mind before the holiday break. And just know I love you for this and so much more!! 🙂 xoxo!!
April (@100LBC) says
Thanks for sharing and linking up with Countdown in Style! Don’t forget to come back on Friday to see if you were featured!
~~April~~
100lbCountdown.com
Janine Huldie says
Thanks again, April and seriously mean when I say I am so happy to linkup with both you and Brittnei on Sundays now! 🙂
Jean says
No one who had their head on straight will be offended if you don't comment. Really. Maybe one thing you could do for the hop is scan the list to see who is a newbie and make it a point to comment on their blogs. I remember when I first started my blog and I linked up with you guys, it was a thrill that you came to read me. Ignore the rest of us 🙂 We won't feel hurt.
Janine Huldie says
Jean, I like the way you think and definitely will keep this in mind. I am so happy that you do join us and hope you know that. And seriously thank you for your kind words here and for being so understanding!! 🙂
Brittnei Washington says
Janine, I always see all of your posts and I wonder how you are able to do it all. It is a lot of work when you post daily and try to comment on everyone's blog AND do that on a linky party you host too! You know I would not be offended if you didn't comment on a couple of my posts because I totally get it. I've been slacking with blog reading a bit mostly because I haven't been feeling well, but I'm learning that as I grow and meet more people in the blog world and spread my wings to different opportunities, as the people I meet continue to tell me, it will be completely impossible for me to do all of what a successful blog wants to do and keep up on commenting on umpteen blogs all the time. I have my few that I try my best to support (you are included in that of course), but I know that eventually I will have to stick to my small tribe to comment as I start to do more things because we as wives, moms and bloggers, we just can't do it all. 🙂
Janine Huldie says
So true Brittnei and you said a mouthful here. I have to admit, I am trying my best to comment, but I had to cut down a bit as well, but do know just like you, I am totally a fan of your blog and support yours, as well. Seriously, I love that we have gotten to be friends and know each other better from blogging. So, I truly value our friendship. Thanks seriously for just being there and know it means the world to me!! 🙂
christine says
I know exactly how you feel with the commenting on your own blog hop participants' posts.
Each weekend, so many wonderful people take the time to write a post specifically for our TToT, so I feel awful if I can't get to everyone. We have the same deal, where we are to get to certain numbers. I hate leaving it at that. Not only because I want everyone to feel welcome, but because I really do want to read what everyone wrote! Sometimes, though, I just have to let it go, as living life is more important. Let's make a deal. I won't be offended if you don't always make it to mine, and you won't be offended if I don't always make it to yours. 🙂
Have fun with blogging, but enjoy your family first.
Janine Huldie says
Christine, it is a total deal and you are really too kind. Thank you for understanding and trust me I will not be ignoring you or your blog anytime soon, but just so nice to know that you do get it and that it isn't just me. I totally hate hurting anyone or making them feel like I am not happy that they linked up, but have been killing myself weekly trying to get to everyone on top of those blogs I normally read, too. So, I just realized something has to give and I just have to let it go I suppose. Great advice though and seriously huge hugs your way!! 🙂
tinarobmorley says
I fell behind with commenting last year and decided that that is just how it's going to have to be, although I also felt guilty. I'm so glad that you brought it up, because I feel better about my decision to just let it go and only do what I can. Happy New Year and thanks for hosting once again!
Janine Huldie says
I am so glad you said that about letting it go, Tina and that is what I am so trying to do now the best I know how. Seriously, I am so not good at that sometimes, but I am trying to forgive myself for it and tell myself sometimes I just have to let it go, too. Thanks again for linking up with us!! 🙂
April (@100LBC) says
I can’t say that I won’t miss you comments, but it’s pertinent that we find a balance. I’ve actually picked up posting more but that’s only because I have 65 posts still in DRAFT! You have to do what’s best for you and everyone else will just have to deal. 🙂
Janine Huldie says
Thanks so much April, but trust me I am not giving up on commenting completely just have to know when to say enough is enough and walk when I need to. I think that is more the key then anything, because sometimes I feel so guilty and then stay online and do more then I really am capable of in the actual moment if that makes sense. And 65 posts in draft, that is amazing and hope you will post and share them will us soon!! 🙂
Amy_CMI says
Everyone needs a break. Downtime is a necessity. I can truly relate on trying to find that balance as well. Your goal for the New Year is a great goal to have in mind. You and your family are the most important thing. 😉 You are such a loyal commenter, but shoot everyone will be fine. Don't let guilt get you, and if you don't get to comment as much as you want, just let it go. Everyone loves you, and will understand. If they don't, then shame on them. Happy Friday!
Janine Huldie says
Amy, what can I say, but I love you, too. And seriously thanks so much for all your kind words here and I really just trying to figure it all out now I suppose, but just felt I needed to share a bit of how I feel here, because damn sometimes Fridays, especially with this linkup seem to be so very busy and just wanted to make sure others understood that if I miss a post or two it isn't that I am not happy that linkup, but I just can't do it all and be everywhere, I suppose. Thank you again seriously for ust being such a wonderful friend!! 🙂
Rebecca says
I totally hear ya! If something is starting to feel like drudgery, its time for a change. I doubt if you will offend anyone. We all have lives and families and maybe its time for something new!
Janine Huldie says
Rebecca couldn't agree more and that is why I knew I had to say and share here because I just wanted to make sure others understood how I was feeling and not think I was ignoring anyone. And thank you for your support. Totally appreciate it 🙂
Tarana says
I think it's wonderful that you do so much for those who link up with you, but with a 3 year old and design work, I think you can afford to cut down. Happy New Year to you!
Janine Huldie says
Thanks so much Tarana and I am totally trying to cut back just slightly and have a great new year, too!! 🙂
massholemommy says
I hear ya, but if you need to cut back, you just have to do it. We will all still be here and we all still love ya 🙂
My recent post Bottling and Labeling the Beer We Brewed
Janine Huldie says
Thanks Robin and I just feel like I need to walk away more every once in awhile if that makes sense. I don't want to leave for long, but just enough that when I come back, I still love it and long for it. Over the holidays, I did this and I found when I came back I had more to say then I ever could imagine and couldn't stop writing. So, I know in my heart that this is the ticket for me 🙂
Kenya G. Johnson says
Janine – don't feel guilty. I never got so burned out as when I co-hosted on a blog hop. I read all the one's I was "required" to read then I went back and read as many others as I could. I hope you find that balance. Glad you got that off your chest 😉
Janine Huldie says
Thanks so much for sharing that with me, Kenya, because I love doing the hop, but it is truly the one time of the week that I am definitely feel a bit of burnt out on this end. So, I knew I needed to get it out there and vent. Totally made me feel better to share and get off my chest. 🙂
Sandy_Ramsey says
I hear every word you are saying and I sit back and wonder how you manage to do as much as you do. I believe no one would fault you for commenting or posting less. You will definitely still be one of the most amazing people and I won't be offended if you don't comment on every one of my posts. I'm pretty sure I speak for a lot of people when I say that! Balance is tough to find with blogging, at least I think so. You have to do what is best for you to keep yourself and your family happy and healthy. Time to give yourself a break and this sounds like a good start!
Janine Huldie says
Thanks Sandy so much for what you said here and will say that the feeling is quite mutual. You know I love you and your blog, Sandy and just so happy to be a reader and follower, but yes I do need to step back every once in awhile, too, but trust me I will never be far away!! 🙂
sara says
I often wondered how you were able to do it all. Balance is the key for me this year. I have never felt compelled go post every single day and I really want to make sure that the posts I put out are ones that I can be proud of. I am also learning to give myself more grace this year as I am not always going to live up to the expectations i set. Enjoy that your blog is so successful but enjoy some me time as well.
Janine Huldie says
Thank you Sara for your words of wisdom here. Seriously, I am with you on wanting to share posts that I love and are proud of. And I think it is nice to know I am not the only trying to cut myself more slack here on the blogging end! 🙂
Rosey says
Healthy balance is all a good thing, no need to feel anything but happy about finding it.
Janine Huldie says
Thanks Rosey and love the way you put that here!! 🙂
notinjersey says
good luck with your goals! I am soon sharing a children's book on my blog about a bat that is afraid of the dark – maybe this will be helpful for you!
Janine Huldie says
Thanks Dara and can’t wait to read this review now! 🙂
Dana says
I totally get it, Janine. I rarely participate in blog hops anymore because it was too time consuming to read and comment on those posts in addition to the ones I regularly read. Last night I linked up and went to bed – I let all the posts wait until morning. Balance is key – you are right about that!
Janine Huldie says
Dana, truly makes me feel better that you too feel this way and I read a few last night here and then also went to bed. It felt great to sign off and just not worry about it into the wee hours of the morning. I got up this morning and like you came back on to comment and such. Thanks Dana 🙂
Michelle Liew says
Janine, whatever you decide, it's always you who comes first. Take care of the mind and body before anything else!
Janine Huldie says
Thanks Michelle and seriously just appreciate your understanding and support ! 🙂
Chris @HyeThymeCafe says
Personally, I don't know how anyone with young kids can get anything done! I used to take care of 6 of them, and just trying to keep track of them all, get them fed, changed, clean, etc. was a full-time job! And that wasn't even my job – just pitching in for a friend. No worries – you gotta do what you gotta do!
Janine Huldie says
Omg, I only have two. God bless you for helping with your friend’s six. Seriously, not sure how those with three manage let alone 6! And can’t thank you enough for sharing and understanding, too! 🙂
susanzutautas says
Don't feel guilty at all. I always feel guilty that I don't get to read as much as I'd like to. So much to keep up with.
Janine Huldie says
I know Susan just so much to keep up with and thank you for being so understanding!! 🙂
realhousewife says
Janine, I know just what you're talking about and this was one of my personal goals too for 2014.
I am going to join FTSF as one as well…so off I go to balance that right out:) lol
It's crazy some days and it is difficult to do it all…then write about it!
Janine Huldie says
I can't wait to tread your FTSF post and glad you get what I am talking about here, Kelly, because I seriously am striving now for better balance!! 🙂
jamie@southmainmuse says
Anyone who has blogged for a while completely understands. After posting everyday NaBloPoMo, I only posted a handful of times in December. We were remodeling, moving back into the renovated space. The holidays, personal issues — it is just too much sometimes. Love you and your positive energy. Sometimes we all need to cut back and focus on the home fires.
Janine Huldie says
I did NaNoWriMo last year and blogged, so I know exactly what you mean. Thanks Jamie so much for sharing and for your support, too 🙂
Lisa Forever Five says
I am crying for your pain, Janine and laughing that you chose this week of all weeks to discuss your commenting trends. Last night I tried to go to bed immediately after I linked up, but it took me a little longer. At 10:45 EST, I rolled over and said, "I'm sure Janine has commented by now" and I clicked my phone to see…and you HAD! I laughed because you always comment quickly after I link up and you always comment. I appreciate it so much and love your comments, but how you keep up with it all is beyond me. Good for you for taking time for yourself. That is always to the benefit of those who love and depend on you in the end:).
Janine Huldie says
Lisa, you made me day with your comment. I love being able to let those who link up know that I am so happy they joined us and yet must admit by 10 pm at night when we open the linkup, I am more then tired from being up at 6:30 most mornings. So, I guess I realized on the break just how much I didn't miss those late night )even though it is once a week). Trust me I will not be far, but I just need others to understand if I miss them once in awhile I am not meaning it to be rude or hurtful to anyone. So, I thank you so much for your kind words today and understanding, too!! 🙂
kellylmckenzie says
I did love that your comments were always on the blogs I read for FTSF Janine. I wondered how you managed to do it all. Good on you for giving yourself the ok to step back and relinquish that task. So time consuming.
I can so relate to your burned outedness! Posting 13 posts in December for our Partners in A Pair Tree was an eye opener. I wanted to get them all written before my two arrived home for the holidays so for a few days all I did was write. The last three or four were whipped off in exhaustion. Just delightful to go and reread prior to posting on the assigned day only to realise I'd written crap. I had to completely rewrite them prior to posting. God awful.
Balance is key. I couldn't agree more.
Janine Huldie says
Kelly, funny you said this, because I did similar right before Christmas this past year, because I knew how busy I would be and made myself crazy writing. So, I definitely think another reason why I felt burnt out. Thank you for sharing this here and seriously said this earlier to a few others, but just nice to know that I am not alone on this.
Emily says
You should not feel guilty AT ALL! I am truly amazed you have been such a faithful commenter and daily blogger all this time…I for one could never have lasted as long as you have with that kind of schedule. As you know, I have cut back on my blogging activity and even though at times I feel like I'm not doing enough, for now I am happy and sane with how I am blogging. I hope you will enjoy your new, less chaotic schedule — you deserve it!
Janine Huldie says
Thank you Emily and I know you of all can relate to this, because I remember you amending your blog posting schedule in the past. So, I can't thank you enough for reminding me this here and appreciate it more then you know!! 🙂
lrconsiderer says
You do amazingly, Janine. But it sounds like you're right to make your real world a priority 🙂 Good for you.
Janine Huldie says
Thanks Lizzi and I love when you call me Santy Kid, but sometimes even Santa needs a break!! 🙂
lrconsiderer says
My lovely friend, you will ALWAYS be Santy Kid…I have never met ANYONE as determined or able as you to get to so very many blogs FIRST. It's incredible! That doesn't change.
And hey – I don't know if you noticed, but we've totally, TOTALLY taken your inspiration on board over at the TToT, and there's now special kudos for whoever gets 'FIRST!' on someone else's post – so thank you for that 😀 Your spirit lives on, my dear, and you can have a break knowing that you've left a legacy of FUN.
Janine Huldie says
I love that and you totally made me smile on that for sure. See as much as I get stressed,I still love blogging and FTSF and the TToT. I truly find my inspiration from both and just makes me happy when I think about to be quite honest. So, thank you for continuing the hop into the weekend for all of us!! 🙂
lrconsiderer says
I hope to always to. For a long time, anyways 😀
Glad (always) to make you smile. Both hops are beautiful, wonderful places of community. And I think that's what makes them work so well. But when they become a chore, it's definitely time to cut back on *something*. I hope you find a way to juggle it all *hugs*
Janine Huldie says
Thanks again Lizzi and totally agree with you 110%. Never want either to feel like a chore to me, so I am trying now to deal with it before that ever happens and hugs right back at you 🙂
stephsprenger says
I'm so glad you laid this out so honestly- I always say, "I have no idea how Janine reads and comments so much!" We are all human and doing the best we can- give yourself a break! I can't manage to post more than 2 times a week most of the time. To think that a year ago I too posted nearly every day. I don't think I could even manage four to be honest. I am trying to limit the days and hours that I spend writing, reading, and commenting- it's too much, and it's going to take the fun out of it and leave you exhausted and maybe even sick. 🙁 Take good care of yourself, and give yourself permission to cut back! xo
Janine Huldie says
Thanks Stephanie and I truly know exactly what you mean and I just always feel like I don't want to let anyone down, but in the process I am making myself a bit crazy. So, I truly had to just lay it on the line here and bare a bit of my soul to be honest to all and myself, as well. I really appreciate that you and so many others do understand and get this and don't think poorly of me for it. xoxo 🙂
stephanie2006 says
Janine, I couldn't agree more. Being a parent to two little girls is a full-time job, you have a business, and you have your blog. You need to prioritize, and your family comes first. You are a great mom by taking care of yourself and deciding to take a step back. Kudos to you!
Janine Huldie says
Thanks do much Stephanie and must say that I just felt fried by Christmas and knew I need to make a bit of a change for my sanity at the very least!! 🙂
day-with-kt.com says
Janine, I think you nailed why I have yet to do one of the link-ups. I love reading some of them but I think I would be sort-of like you and want to try and read (and comment) on all of them and right now I can barely get through my current feed every day!!
I hope that you are able to cut back and make the changes necessary to avoid blogging burn-out!!!
Janine Huldie says
You actually nailed it Kim and that is exactly why I felt so burnt by the end of the year and couldn’t wait for a break. So seriously am just trying now to do what I need to not to feel that way again. And thanks as always, Kim!! 🙂
stanleyandkatrina says
Hoping over from Make my Saturday Sweet hop. The comments do get out of control in taking up time. Totally understand! Following via twitter and best of luck on the new goals!
~Christine M/Cool Mom
Janine Huldie says
Thank you for hoping over and for also understanding about my needing to take control and have better balance in things in my life and online, too. Following you also now!! 🙂
dishofdailylife says
Linking up late…but better late than never, right?!! I think your goals sound like they will allow you to keep your sanity!! I am like you and am always trying to do so much and taking the much needed break, I found out that I really needed it. I do like to comment as well, but I think I am going to try to show my support in other ways now. I still plan on doing a lot of commenting of course, but like you, it may be a little less, although I will certainly keep up with those who have been so supportive of me! I am going to try to check out some of these posts as well tomorrow.
Janine Huldie says
Michelle, I always thought we were pretty alike and similar on the comment stance. Like you, I in no way am giving up on it completely, but just think I need to sometimes step away and like you said if I can't leave a comment just let it be or do other forms of sharing, as well. Thank you so much for linking up and seriously so glad to have you join us!! 🙂
lizzy allan says
Janine, I am always in awe of how you manage to fit everything you do into a 24 hour day, 7 day week! 99% of the time you're the first person to comment on any of my blog posts and I know you comment on loads of blogs and that is amazing. There is absolutely no way that you should feel guilty about cutting back and finding balance. It's way too easy to burn out (not that I'm speaking from experience in terms of blogging, but I've burnt out in other areas of work in my life before) and that is not a nice place to be at all. I really think finding a work/life balance is the best goal anyone could possibly have and I admire you for choosing this and writing about it so honestly. Your blog is so genuine and authentic, I really feel like I have got to know you quite a bit over the last few months and am looking forward to getting to know you even more throughout 2014. xx
Janine Huldie says
Lizzy, I am so glad we have gotten to know each other better the past few months and wouldn't trade our friendship for the world. That said thank you for being so understanding and your comment here. I seriously appreciate all the wonderful words I have gotten from you and so many others with my honest post about how I have been feeling with commenting and even with FTSF. I love both, but also realize that sometimes it is seriously just too much for me. Thank you again seriously from the bottom of my heart and now wishing you an amazing weekend, too!! 🙂
Katia says
Oh Janine, I'm so right there with you. I've had a full on parenting meltdown moment last week when I was crying over sleep. Mourning the loss of it. My four year old is scared too and he won't go to sleep unless I'm in his bed and wait with him until that happens. He will also not sleep if he wakes up at night and I'm not there. He used to call me into his room, but that would wake up 1 Year Old. He won't come into my room anymore either (that happened about twice) because he's scared of walking through the corridor so now he knocks on the wall and I come back to his room in the middle of the night/wee hours of the morning. I can only imagine throwing hosting a link up into this equation and there's a serious sanity assassin for you! I
I really hope you find that balance, Janine. Blogging should be fun. Maybe give yourself a break and comment the next morning/day. After all it is Finish the Sentence FRIDAY no Thursday 🙂
Janine Huldie says
Katia, you are so right about it being a Friday linkup and yet I always think how am I going to get through all at once, when seriously I am only supposed to read a certain amount. Totally of my own making this stress and got no one to blame, but myself! And the meltdowns, seriously you are so not alone and just want to thank you for letting me know here I am not either 🙂
dianeroark says
Janine,
I totally understand! I homeschool have a special needs son and daughter. I have a rental property that I do nightly rentals. The list goes on. I just started this week co-hosting a blog hop for this year. I was up really late last night and again early this morning with it.
Everything seems it is spinning out of control today because we have been gone this past week. The laundry, groceries, bills, etc. all need to be done this weekend.
I fill like I have not had time to post like I normally do. I am even having trouble figuring out "What's for dinner?" which normally I am organized for the week.
I love blogging but HELP I NEED BALANCE!!!!
Blessings,
Diane Roark http://www.recipesforourdailybread.cm
Janine Huldie says
Diane, I tell you I am good all week, but I put so much stress on myself with people linking up and can so relate to what you just said here today. I think we just do this to ourselves and I have to remember sometimes I am just not going to be able to get to everyone and do it all. And just live with it I suppose, but I do feel guilty still as much as I do say that. So trut me I definitely need balance, too!!
Meg Kra says
I think you have to find a balance. It seems like you need to comment/ follow/ like other people to build relationship and gain a following. But it can suck you in. I sometimes feel like I spend more time reading and commenting other people's blogs than I do working on my own. You gotta find a balance! Thanks for sharing!
Janine Huldie says
I know that feeling well, Meg and trust me I have given into more then not and probably why now I am trying to rectify it and try to seek more balance. Thanks for your advice and two cents, as well as linking with us. Happy New Year and hope you will join us again in the future!! 🙂
Aquileana says
Janine…
Yes, I know … To find out balance , that´s the main point…
Let´s try to eliminate the unnecesary and stay simple. At the end it works better taht way…
Cheers & happy new year.
Blessings for you & your family;
Aquileana 😉
Janine Huldie says
Thanks for your support and kind words. Happy new year to you, too! 😉
gigigirl says
I remember telling you awhile ago not to worry about replying to my comments….and I'm glad you are looking at how to open new time and space for you and the family. Because you are conscientious and kind, you don't want to hurt feelings. I don't think anybody will be hurt if you don't comment and/or reply. So stick with your new resolution and give yourself a break! Happy New Year….xxoo
Janine Huldie says
Aunt Gloria, I know you have, but again me just being me I suppose. But in case I miss a comment here or there, you will at least know I am not ignoring you. I read all my comments, but just try my best now to answer them as I can. Love you and hope you are doing well down in FL. Almost time for someone's birthday 🙂 xoxo!!
Gretchen says
You should absolutely not feel guilty about cutting back. You don't want to burn out completely. I realized this past year that I had gotten into such a blogging rut, and I felt like there were certain things I felt that I HAD to participate in EVERY week. I've stepped back and started picking and choosing much more, and I'm so much happier!
And thanks for linking with The Spin Cycle!
Janine Huldie says
Gretchen, seriously thank you for sharing that with me, because I really was starting wonder if it was just me and so nice to know that I am not the only one that needed to pick and choose. I really am so much happier right now and even getting to read a bit (books), too. My pleasure linking up and thank you for stopping by today 🙂
ginnymarie says
Finding balance is so important! I've been blogging for a long time, and sometimes I just need a break from being online. Your loyal readers will always stay with you. 🙂
Janine Huldie says
Ginny, I am totally just starting to realize this more and more. And thank you so much for telling me this again here, because it helps to hear it from others, especially you who has been definitely blogging longer then myself. Thanks again 🙂
donofalltrades says
It's tough to find balance with blogging because we enjoy it but know that it should take a back seat to some more pressing things in life like three year olds. Lol. Good luck. I'm looking for some balance myself.
Janine Huldie says
Awe, thanks Don and I totally agree with you on this. And I hope you too find better balance now, too 🙂
Nellie says
I totally hear you on the cutting back on the blogging. I need balance as well. I decided to spend more time building up my social network so that more opportunities can come along, plus expanding the readership. You have got a lot going on with your design business as well. You are amazing Janine! you are so faithful to little ole me who doesn't deserve it and YOU deserve some me time. A 3 year old crawling in the bed can't be fun. Like I told you before, I will be here (late maybe) but always here!
Janine Huldie says
Nellie, huge thank you as always and totally sounds like we are on the same page with building up social networks and working hard on Instagram, which I totally felt I neglected last year for sure.
cgacad says
janine, at one point in my blogging career, i used to post daily, but i really don't think it's necessary. i personally think 3x a week is ideal. balance is a great goal!
Janine Huldie says
Thanks for sharing that with me, Catherine and totally makes feel better knowing that you used to post daily and don’t anymore either.