It's been a crazy few days, and it all started when my husband killed our months-old computer. Not having access to my online stuff, and basically being handed a forced time-out gave me a chance to actually sit and think about things that have been swirling around in my head for quite a while.
Here's the thing. Blogging isn't fun anymore. Since maybe May, I feel like every project I've worked on or blogged about was not for me, but for an audience. It might have been a bee block, a swap or a blog hop, but none of it really made me happy. Yes, I was enjoyed the connections I made, but I haven't been sewing for me and I certainly haven't found myself wanting to write up a blog post. Sadly, I think I got caught up in thinking of what would be good "exposure" rather than what I would enjoy. Yeah, I know.....
Because of this little revelation, I've decided to stop hosting the Handmade Parade. While I absolutely love the projects and inspiration people have shared, it's just time for me to step back. When something starts to feel like a chore, instead of a joy, it's time to re-think things.
That said, if there is someone who wants to keep it going, I would be thrilled! I think hand stitchers need a place to connect and share. There are bloghops and linkys for everything else, I really think someone needs to keep the Handmade Parade going. Any takers?
I hear you Katie. It's hard to have a balance of what you actually want to do, and doing things that you think others want to see. Good for you for being honest with yourself and with us.
ReplyDeleteIt's important to keep things in check and to listen to your inner self. Hope you find joy in blogging again and a place that feels right.
ReplyDeleteI have handstitching projects all around me and keep forgetting to take pictures.
ReplyDeleteI totally understand how you feel. I briefly wondered if anyone would notice I didn't do any Farmer's blocks this week because it was just too much with summit prep.
I love the Handmade Parade and hand stitching even if I've been *terrible* about taking pictures. I could continue it after Summit. (If you find someone else that you feel is a better fit, just let me know. I won't be bothered in the least).
I can completely understand how you feel. It's important to listen to what your instincts tell you, and if it's not fun anymore it's a good time to take a moment for yourself and reassess. Sometimes all you need is a good break. :)
ReplyDeleteKatie, I feel sad reading your words and yet I completely understand and respect what you're saying. I hit a speed bump myself last week when I had to shut my sewing and blogging down for a few days and look at my priorities. I have really come to believe that -- for me, at least -- if I don't love it, I shouldn't be doing it. And only you can decide what you really love. I hope you can come to a decision that you feel peaceful about.
ReplyDeleteBlogging isn't what it use to be and sometimes trying to keep up becomes overwhelming. I know I've found it harder to blog and take pictures in the last year and the pressure of trying to keep up just got to much...so I dropped the ball and let things coast. I'm still not blogging as much as I think I used to, but that's ok as I'd rather be sewing for myself and getting the buzz from finishing a few things than to be keeping all that pressure on myself. I guess a choice has to be made whether quilting is a hobby or a job...some people love it as a job and can blog and host all kinds of things, but for me it is my hobby and I'm going to enjoy the process rather than trying to be something I'm not.
ReplyDeletePhew...well that comment was more about me than you, but I hope it helps to know we all re-evaluate our blogs and our role in it all and that it's ok to regroup and come at it from a different angle.
I look forward to seeing what you are working on next and hearing about how you are enjoying the process...for me quilting is just as much about the journey as it is the end product. ((Hugs))
Hi Katie! Good for you, sad for us! You have to do and make what you enjoy - that is what it's all about! Leave the linky party and enjoy sewing and hopefully you find time to share your beautiful works with us!
ReplyDeleteHappy sewing and have a great weekend! x Teje
I totally understand! I think it's absolutely a good decision if it leads to finding you more happiness in making things. I love seeing all the handstitching, especially yours, but will be glad to see whatever you share is something you really loved making! I'm feeling that pressure to make things that I don't really want to make too. I support you in re-evaluating things. When it starts to not be fun anymore, time for another look. I hope you get some time to do something fun that you LOVE!!!!
ReplyDeleteI totally understand! Do what makes you happy! I can take care of handmade parade for you and am happy to return it if you ever change your mind! Just let me know, and no problem if you already have someone. Have a great Sunday!
ReplyDeleteI just saw your post on the Tula Pink Sew Along. I really like that Field Study quilt. I wanted to ask you about the fabric requirements. I looked up the pattern on her website and would like to buy it. I like the idea that it is easy to match up seams. I need some easy in my life.
ReplyDeleteMy question is what kind of fabric requirement is there? Can I use fat quarters or will I need more yardage to make an entire zig zag row? Just a rough estimate would be helpful. Thanks so much!
I understand what you mean about blogging. I like to do it just for myself and the friendships I've made, but sometimes it does get a little out of hand. When I am yelling at my kids to let me use the computer for five minutes or screaming in the front yard to just let me take one freakin' photo without a cat or kid in it, I step back and tell myself to chill. So I think taking a break is a great decision. You've got to put yourself and your family first! I became a follower though, just in case you post sometimes:)
I can easily see how becoming involved in so many blogging events can lead to burnout. Sometimes I wonder of some of my favorite bloggers ever have a chance follow their creativity and see where it takes then anymore. As a new blogger, it's a good reminder not to over extend in my excitement to get involved. I think one of the reasons Handmade Parade has been my favorite is because it's low-key and approachable. There's not the frantic pace or pressure I feel with some of the others. I too would be willing to host it. I wonder if a rotating schedule would work and keep it fresh?
ReplyDeleteI look forward to seeing what you come up with after you've had a chance to renew. Take care Katie!
Caryn
I completely understand. This is exactly why I've never taken part in bees and swaps. I've got my first ever blog hop coming up because it's something that appealed to me, but I'm not planning to join up to any more any time soon.
ReplyDeleteFor me crafting is a relaxing activity. I want to work on what I want, when I want and when I can. For me blogging is about sharing my work and life with my friends. So there's no pressure if I don't blog for a while. It's about making me happy, not pandering to others. I'm so glad for you that you sat down and thought about what you wanted it to mean for you. I hope you get the joy of crafting and blogging back.
Despite the opportunity to make you think... Naughty hubby for breaking the computer. How did he manage that?
Good for you - life is too short to not be doing what you love, I'm new to this and notice (for sure) how time consuming it can be...
ReplyDeleteIt's funny because I felt some sort of internet vibe about how you were feeling... I think you've made the right decision although I do love the parade!
ReplyDeleteBlog when you want, with what you want to show us, and make things you love :) I adore your work so I hope you carry on enjoying the process!
I'd host if it wasn't approaching baby time!! I think Allegory would do a great job in carrying on something so fun.
huge hugs Katie xxx