It's hard to believe it's time for another meeting of the IWSG, hosted by Alex J. Cavanaugh. I'm also amazed that this month is the three year anniversary of the group! It's been an amazing three years and I hope for many more. Visit here if you'd like to sign up and join us!
Before I get to my IWSG post I just want to say thank you to everyone who commented on my post last month about my mom and her cancer fight. I appreciate all of your kind words so much. August went by in a blur but we made it through the month and are feeling positive and optimistic, so here's hoping that continues. I really missed blogging and checking in with everyone out there so I am hoping to get back to the blog and other social media now that we've developed a routine here on the home front.
Which brings me to my topic for this month's meeting. Before I took the month of August off I barely blogged all summer and part of me is feeling insecure about getting back to it. I want to, but I feel like it gets harder and harder to think of anything to post about.
So I think I am going to go back to how I felt when I started this blog in the first place. At that time I didn't have any ideas about publishing or marketing or even novels. I just wanted to write about things that interested me or that I found fun. Now I want to figure out how to go back to that while also writing about my books and helping to promote other authors. The things that interested me then - animals, history, sports, tv - still interest me now, so you may see more posts here about animal rescue or tv shows or anything else that gets my attention. While I love to share about other authors and their books, as well as my own books, I want to mix that in with just writing about topics that interest me. We'll see how it goes!
Since I brought up tv shows, I can't resist sharing my latest obsession. I don't know why I waited so long to start watching The Walking Dead but now that I have (thank you Amazon Instant Video!) I can not stop. This show is incredible and so very addicting. I'm on the third season now and definitely want to be all caught up in time for the start of the new season in October.
I didn't need another show to be obsessed with but this has honestly been a godsend for me over the past month as it's been a fantastic way to get my mind off worrying about my mom. I love binge watching a great show and this definitely fits the bill.
Anyone else a fan of The Walking Dead? (I know you are, Madeline! :D)
How was your August? I am totally anxious for the fall and the end of the heat and humidity. Fall has always been my favorite time of year.
Looking forward to catching up with everyone! :)
I watched the show for a while, but just too many to keep up with.
ReplyDeleteGet back to what is fun for you to blog about. That will make it easier.
Glad to hear your mother is doing better.
Who? Me? :)
ReplyDeleteI liked when you blogged about all kinds of stuff because your interest in those topics definitely came out in your writing. I liked those posts you used to do about when you went for walks with Clancy.
And good news about your Mom!
Madeline @ The Shellshank Redemption
I missed the post about your mum (((hugs))).
ReplyDeleteI must admit my blog is still pretty much what it always has been - bit of everything! I do try to make sure I cover all my topics, but don't worry about it if it goes off plan. I've read a few people recently comment that they're rethinking their blog, I think if it gets to a point when it's not as enjoyable then you have to fix it to suit you :) xx
I missed the post about your mum (((hugs))).
ReplyDeleteI must admit my blog is still pretty much what it always has been - bit of everything! I do try to make sure I cover all my topics, but don't worry about it if it goes off plan. I've read a few people recently comment that they're rethinking their blog, I think if it gets to a point when it's not as enjoyable then you have to fix it to suit you :) xx
I too missed that post Julie, sorry to hear about your mum, sending my best to you all.
ReplyDeleteI think blogging about things that interest or excite you is the way to go. I enjoy hearing what folks are getting up to in other aspects of their world too.
I am really happy that your mom is doing better. Yay! Blogging about what you like is always a good way to go, even if you only talk about your favorite Tv shows.
ReplyDeleteNot a fan of the walking dead, but anything that gives you escape from reality is fantastic. Cheering for you.
I'm glad to see you back, Julie! I haven't watched The Walking Dead yet (we don't have cable), but I want to.
ReplyDeleteWe've all got to do what works for us; everyone's situation is different. I've been pulling back on social media, too. It's not been an easy decision, but I feel it's the right one for me, at least for now.
ReplyDeleteGlad to hear things are going well with your mom.
IWSG #179 until Alex culls the list again.
When one is going through a difficult time, it is good to find an outlet whether it is TV, reading or blogging. I know what you are going through as my dad died of cancer and my mom has dementia and she lived with me until 2011. I now visit constantly but it can be draining. Good for you to get back to blogging about anything:) I have also nominated you for the Liebster Award. I hope you do not mind. If you partake, great but if not, no probs! I just find you wonderful to read about and so...that's why I nominated you:)
ReplyDeleteWhen one is going through a difficult time, it is good to find an outlet whether it is TV, reading or blogging. I know what you are going through as my dad died of cancer and my mom has dementia and she lived with me until 2011. I now visit constantly but it can be draining. Good for you to get back to blogging about anything:) I have also nominated you for the Liebster Award. I hope you do not mind. If you partake, great but if not, no probs! I just find you wonderful to read about and so...that's why I nominated you:)
ReplyDeleteHere's to your mom's continued improvement. Glad you're back and have time to do some things you enjoy.
ReplyDeleteI haven't seen any walking dead around here unless I glance in the mirror. It has been one of those summers that hasn't let stop to catch my breath.
Starting backup is easier than most people will have you belive. Just focus. And it's fun too, because it's like being new again and you get to try a bunch of new tricks you've learned.
ReplyDeleteI'm glad to hear your mom is doing well! I think I put too much pressure on myself with the blog too. I also want to go back to just doing it for fun...and according to the readers I meet at Wal Mart, they want a return to the general posts.
ReplyDeleteLove blogs with a variety of topics :)
ReplyDeleteGlad to see a post from you and hope to see a lot more soon! Write about whatever you want to write about. You may find you have more things in common with your fellow bloggers.
ReplyDeleteSo glad your mom is doing better.
ReplyDeleteUm, if I say that I'm addicted to TWD, will you find me nuts? We do a marathon of the previous season before the new one starts. It's just that good.
I waited on Breaking Bad and then I binge watched it the summer before it went off the air. I was crushed! Hmm, that was last summer I think.
And, finally, for what it's worth, I love blogs that have variety so your new format is perfect!!
ElsieI
I'm glad you're back and that your mom is doing good! I think writing about things that interest you will be fun and relaxing. You should go for it! I'll be looking forward to those posts. :)
ReplyDeleteI've never seen the show, but my wife and I are looking for something to watch while we're waiting for the new TV season to start. Maybe we'll try it out.
ReplyDelete@Alex, yeah, I definitely think it will. Thanks!
ReplyDelete@Madeline, aww, thanks! I loved doing those posts about Clancy and keep wanting to go back to them, I have just been too lazy to go out exploring LOL.
@Suzanne, thank you, I appreciate the hugs. And I've read some of that as well recently, it seems to be going around. I think a bit of everything is fun! :)
@Karen, thanks so much.
@Suzanne, I do too so I think it will be fun to get back to. Thanks for your good wishes!
@Murees, yeah, it does make it more fun I think. Thanks so much!
@Cherie, thanks, I'm glad to be back. :)
@Melissa, yeah, sometimes you just have to do what works best for you. I think easing back into things will work out for me, fingers crossed anyway. :)
@Birgit, that's so kind of you, thanks! I will be over and really appreciate it. I'm sorry about your parents, my dad suffered from dementia before he passed away and I know how hard it can be. Hugs to you.
@Lee, I'm sorry you've had one of those summers but you cracked me up with your walking dead comment! I'm sure that's not true LOL.
@Samuel, good point, thanks!
@Elizabeth, that's interesting to know! And thanks about my mom, I appreciate it.
@Carol, agreed!
@Sarah, I hope so, thanks so much.
@Elsie, only if I had to find myself nuts too LOL. I am totally addicted. I've still never seen Breaking Bad but I love binge watching!
@Chrys, thanks, I hope it will be fun. :)
@Ken, if you try it out I hope you like it. I really didn't expect to but I got sucked in instantly LOL.
Big fan of The Walking Dead. Sorry about your mother and welcome back Julie. IWSG Co-Host
ReplyDeleteI'm really glad to hear that your mum is doing better, Julie!
ReplyDeleteI've never been much of a TV person... but we all need that 'go-to place', where we can get our minds off our worries...
I also started a new Monday blogging schedule, in the form of a mixed-bag styled post...
Happy IWSG Day!
I don't do zombies. :) I just finished binge watching Hell on Wheels, which I enjoyed. I'm now watching Dr. Who... on Netflix.
ReplyDeleteGlad things are positive in your camp. Hope it stays that way.
Everyone has been rethinking their blogs. I blog about what interests me these days too. Then incorporate promos at the end. That way, there is always me and room to help others.
The trend lately seems to be posting 1x a week.
Good luck getting your blogging motivation back! Looking forward to the posts about things that interest you :)
ReplyDeleteWelcome back! It's good to hear from you again. I'm also glad to hear things are moving in a positive direction with your mom.
ReplyDeleteI like eclectic blogs, too. It keeps things more interesting, both for the blogger, and for readers.
Welcome back, Julie! I'm so glad to see you again, and so much happier to hear that you're feeling positive and optimistic. I hope your mom continues to heal with ease and speed!
ReplyDeleteWhatever you want to write about, I'll happily read - but I love the idea of getting back to what interests and inspires you. That's a great idea :)
Hey Julie, so glad to hear your Mom is doing better. I've been away all summer too, but had to start with the IWSG to get back to it. I'm starting slow and like you will post about what I know! LOL
ReplyDeleteI started watching the WD, but ended up listening to it because I can't handle the gore, but quit about a year ago, because even just listening was making me sick, the sound affects became too much! LOL
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteIsn't it great fun watching multiple episodes of a great show in clumps rather than waiting for it to come on once a week and only watching one at a time? I'm a huge fan. It's how I watched some of my faves: The Wire, The Sopranos, Homeland, Breaking Bad, and Game of Thrones. The Walking Dead didn't grab me the same way as these others, but I have seen some of the episodes and I do like Andrew Lincoln, who I first met as the best friend of the newlywed who marries Kiera Knightley and tries to keep his love of her a secret in the movie Love Actually. Yum.
ReplyDeleteI've never watched The Walking Dead. Hubby probably did, but I try to choose the series I get hooked on carefully, or I could easily do nothing but watch TV!
ReplyDeleteGood to hear the news of your mother is positive :-)
I'm very sorry to hear that your mom is so ill, but glad she has received some positive news. It was good of you to take off the month of August to be there for her. Family is number one.
ReplyDeleteI've also been away from blogging, but I've been away for a really long time. I know what you mean about feeling insecure about returning to the blogging world. You have the right idea, just write about what you like and about topics that interest you.
I've never watched The Walking Dead, but my husband and son are obsessed. Like you, I don't need any more television obsessions. Of course, I can't resist. I've recently become obsessed with House of Cards and Orange is the New Black. Go Netflix.
@Sheena-kay, thank you and yay for another TWD fan! :)
ReplyDelete@Michelle, it seems lots of people are doing once a week now. I love your mixed-bag posts. :)
@Mary, I thought I didn't do zombies either. Who knew? :D I've watched Hell on Wheels too! I think I'm one of the only people on earth who doesn't like Dr. Who LOL.
@Laura, thanks!
@Susan, thanks, I'm so glad to be back.
@Liz, aww, thank you!
@Yolanda, I'm so glad to see you back too! Yay! Thanks so much.
@Kim, I LOVE binge watching! And you mentioned some of my faves - Game of Thrones is my #1 obsession LOL. And yes, Andrew Lincoln was adorable in Love, Actually. I love that move. <3
@Annalisa, sometimes I feel like that is all I'm doing LOL. Thanks!
@Melissa, I don't have Netflix but if I did I have a feeling I would share those obsessions LOL. SO glad to see you back and thanks so much for your comment.
Haven't seen that one yet, but my roommate and I are about finished binge watching Parks and Rec, and I'm starting The Closer...really interesting so far. And Parks and Rec is adorable to almost unbearable levels :)
ReplyDeleteSarah Allen
(From Sarah, With Joy)
Glad to hear your mom's doing better, Julie. I'm one of those rare people who have never seen the Walking Dead, but I see a lot of people going ape over it on Facebook. I might have to check it out. I look forward to reading whatever you want to post!
ReplyDeleteGlad to hear your mom is doing better. Not a zombie fan. Glad you found something you like, though.
ReplyDeleteMy kids love the Walking Dead, won't miss it. I watched once or twice. It sounds like you're prioritizing. That's Good!
ReplyDelete@Sarah, I've heard tons of good things about Parks & Rec. Honestly I could use a comedy after TWD, it's so dark I can't believe it.
ReplyDelete@Gwen, thank you!
@Diane, thanks so much.
@Cathy, trying to, although I'm not very good at it LOL.
Great news in that you mom is doing better and hope things only improve :)
ReplyDeleteI know how you feel about the blogging thing, but life is for living and I know we'll understand if you're out doing that.
Glad to see you back :)
Glad to hear about your mother. I'll keep her in my prayers. I hate/love it when I get addicted to a show. Usually it's my children who convince me to watch something.
ReplyDeleteI enjoy the Walking Dead too and am looking forward to the next season.
ReplyDeleteAnd yes, just blog about the things you love. :)
Glad that your mom is doing great and you'll be available to give us treat with beautiful posts. No worries time shall heal and go a normal life. Thanks.
ReplyDeleteI hope your mom continues to improve. I'm sure this ordeal has been a huge strain on both of you. I'm also addicted to many TV shows. I haven't seen The Walking Dead, but I'm glad you enjoy it. Have you checked out Ray Donovan on Showtime? It's a bit like a more dysfunctional version of The Sopranos! I look forward to reading anything you write about, Julie!
ReplyDeleteJulie
Good to see you back Julie. I didn't know about your mum. I hope she is improving and that you're all coping.
ReplyDeleteAs you can see, everyone is happy to see you back. Nothing replaces blogging even if it does take too much time.
I'm still working through Ghosts...not that I'm a slow reader, but I try to read dozens of books at a time, LOL. I'm really into your book after a slowish start. Will let you know when I finish/review it.
Denise
Hi Julie - I'm glad you and your Mom have worked your way round the Caring side of things and a routine is in situ - all my best thoughts for you and the family here ..
ReplyDeleteIt's good you were able to take that time out - but glad you're back ... and enjoying tv shows and your animals ..
Cheers Hilary
@Mark, thanks, I appreciate that.
ReplyDelete@Susan, I know what you mean about love/hate! Sometimes I wish I didn't get so addicted LOL.
@Lynda, I can't wait for October now. :)
@Sangay, thanks so much, nice to meet you!
@Julie, oh, I have watched Ray! Loved last season but I am behind on this season. I need to catch up. Thanks so much.
@Denise, oh, thanks for reading the book! I hope you will enjoy it, I really appreciate that.
@Hilary, thanks so much and cheers back to you. :)
Glad your mom is doing well. I've been thinking about you! I tried watching The Walking Dead on Netflix...I liked the premise and I made it to episode 2 before the violence got the better of me. I had to stop watching at that point, but I can recognize it's a great show if you have the stomach for it. (Same for Breaking Bad--I just can't take the violence, but great show!)
ReplyDeleteHi!!! Welcome back. It was so nice to see your name show up in my comments again. :)
ReplyDeleteI'm very happy to hear that August has left you & your mom on a positive note. Good for you discovering a great new show to obsess over. My family loves Walking Dead. But I, um, go upstairs and watch Once Upon a Time when it's on. I know I'm missing out but...so. much. slurping, and I'm a class A wuss.
Sorry to hear about your mom, Julie. :( My hubby's dad was diagnosed with cancer earlier this year and it's been a tough turn of events but he's hanging on.
ReplyDeleteI know how you feel about the blog. I decided awhile back that I'd only feature promo stuff as part of a regular post on my choice of topic. Otherwise it's just too boring and repetitive. Now it's on MY time and I say when I post. That may sound cold but blogging was becoming such a chore when it's not supposed to be. At one time, bloggers had really interesting stuff to say and opinions to offer. Plus the fact is it's plain hard to write, market, and maintain a worthwhile blog. So no one would blame you if you reduced your blogging schedule a great deal. I sure have!!
All the best for your mom!
I'm been considering going back to the same sort of blogging roots you are. I'm having trouble thinking of what to post, and have skipped a few times, which isn't like me. I think when times are rough, that creative energy can only be directed so many places. Do what makes you happy. You and your mom continue to be in my thoughts.
ReplyDeleteI don't think there should be an obligation to blog. If it doesn't come naturally, then I don't think you should force yourself. Have a lovely weekend, Julie.
ReplyDeleteGlad to hear your mother is doing well. Sounds like she's very tough and determined.
ReplyDeleteI can't blog about writing all the time. It's always good to keep things fresh and balanced on here. Otherwise, you'll get burned out.
Yay about your mom!
ReplyDeleteI haven't gotten to watch TV in a while. I'm hoping once my son gets old enough to play with his sister, I'll get more sit-down time. *crosses fingers*
I hope your mom continues to improve!
@Stephanie, I am actually amazed I can handle the violence, I used to be so squeamish about that! I do have to look away alot though LOL. Thanks!
ReplyDelete@Nicki, aww, thank you. And you made me laugh about the slurping! It really is disgusting.
@Pk, thanks so much, and I'm sorry to hear about your father-in-law. I hope he will make a full recovery!
@Shannon, it seems like a lot of us are thinking along the same lines. Thanks so much for your good thoughts.
@Vanessa, thanks and I hope you enjoy your weekend as well.
@Jay, she is, thank you!
@Loni, LOL, I would probably do well to have less sit-down time. I am such a couch potato lately! Thanks so much for your good wishes.
I've been MIA these last few months more often than not as well, and my blog is in a "flux" state . . . but I think I have a direction I'm headed for in Oct.
ReplyDeleteI'm glad your mom is feeling better. I'll be praying for both of you.
Glad things are starting to feel more positive with your mom! *hugs*
ReplyDeleteAnd I can relate a lot to your insecurity this month. I'm still struggling to get back into a proper blogging routine after being away from it for a while. I really like your idea of mixing other interests in!
You must be relieved re your mum, Julie. Hope things continue to improve.
ReplyDeleteAs for TWD - I've watched since the beginning and it never lets me down. Cannot wait for the next season. I'm also looking forward to for the final season of Boardwalk Empire and Game of Thrones. And oh my, I am longing for another season of True Detective. The first was TV at it's absolute best. :)
shahwharton.com
I haven't seen the Walking Dead yet and maybe I shouldn't. I've got enough shows to watch too. Don't need another. :)
ReplyDeleteI wish you the best with your mother. It does take the wind out of everything else. Blogging will be here when you are ready to focus on it. Since I blog about a variety of things...I guess that's what I like best.
ReplyDelete@Tyrean, thanks so much, I appreciate your prayers.
ReplyDelete@Heather, now I just have to actually do it LOL. Thanks!
@Shah, we like all the same shows! Except I don't watch Boardwalk Empire but your listed all my faves. :) Thanks so much for your good wishes.
@Suzi, LOL, I kind of wish I hadn't started on another one.
@Liza, thank you, I appreciate that.
Welcome back and I wish the best for your mother. I didn't know.
ReplyDeleteI haven't seen that show yet, but people around me talk about it a lot.
Happy to hear that your mom is doing well.
ReplyDeleteAnd I think it's great you want to go back and write about the random things that interest you. That's what I love about blogging, it's fun and random. Looking forward to your posts. I haven't seen Walking Dead yet, but will keep it in mind when I'm requesting TV shows. Right now we are devouring House of Cards and Game of Thrones.
@Medeia, thank you, I appreciate it.
ReplyDelete@TB, ooh, Game of Thrones is my favorite! :)