In many, many ways this has been a challenging year for me. I’ve lost a lot and gained a lot (mostly perspective). I’ve twisted my life into new and unfamiliar territory in every aspect possible which continues to stretch me today.
I’m returning to blogging today simply because it’s always been a comfort to me and all this NEW NEW NEW makes me crave familiarity. A Merry Life is like a familiar friend I used to communicate with a ton but drifted away from as life changed and progressed.
Blogging too much about my personal life ended up being very awkward when things went south. It seemed safest and smartest to run away and deal with things in private. That break was much appreciated as I built myself back up stronger than ever.
After several months off I’ve realized I missed blogging. Writing is something I have to do to feel whole. It’s something that keeps me (mostly) sane. Perhaps I could do with the chronic over-sharing part, but that comes with it. I’ve been doing this since I was 13 and first got internet access at home. It’s just part of what I do. Whenever I rip it away I always bring it back because I miss blogging.
Blogging is definitely a form of self-expression laced with narcissism. At least personal blogging is such, though I’m sure gossip bloggers and tech bloggers and others who don’t blog about their own live have a different experience. Regardless of the downsides and the occasional heartache of being a blogger, it’s something I enjoy.
Deal with it.
(That’s more for me than you.)
As an update on my life, in many ways I’m in the exact same spot I was in when I started my blog several years ago. There were a lot of different jobs and loves and adventures in between, but I feel like I’m starting over in many areas. Once again I’m wondering where my life will go, what adventures I will go one, who I will love, where I will live, what I will blog about and what I will do to make a difference in other people’s live.
I don’t have many answers to those questions yet but I do know I want to make a difference. I want to make the lives of others better than they were before they met me. I don’t have many goals right now but that is one of them.
Love God. Love others. Love myself.
That’s the only plan I’ve got for now. Just wanted to say I missed you all. Nice comments, mean comments, friendships, haters. I missed you all. Hope all is well for you.
Welcome back Mary, good to see you blogging again, and continuing to move forward with an adventurous spirit :-)
Thanks Amanda!
Welcome back! I wanted to let you know that you have touched the lives of others and inspired. Yours was one of the blogs that inspired me to take charge and turn my life around. It hasn’t always been pretty, but it’s definitely better than where I was. Thanks! :-)
Thank means so much to me Emanuel. Thank you.
Not gonna lie, Mary. I used to leave some douchey comments. But seeing your post made me smile. I admire your strength, wish nothing but the best for you and yours. I look forward to this next exciting chapter of your Merry Life.
Happy to hear this Alex. :)
All I can say is ditto to the good comments above. I’ve missed you, and I’m glad you’re back!
So glad to see you back and hoping you are doing well! (PS will confess I checked your blog a bit obsessively for updates…)
Good to have you back and know you are well
Glad your back and raring to go Mary as one door closes there’s always another to open :) how’s that gorgeous dog of yours…
Happy to ‘see’ you again, Mary!! You sound really great – strong, resilient. Glad you’re back!
Good Morning,
I Love that you are back!! Your writing is SOO real, that makes it more relatable for me! Keep doing what you love.
Lisa
I was just thinking about you, Mary! I’m so happy that you’re back posting, at least every now and then. “Starting over” (in many different ways) is always something I crave, but in the end am terrified of. You’re a brave and strong woman, Mary – don’t forget that!
Keep writing! We missed you! :)
Blogging can be a blessing and a curse depending on the subject matter for sure. Glad you are keeping with it!
Welcome back! You certainly sound like you are heading in a good direction. Much love to you! We got your back!
Welcome back!
Welcome back!
Life is full of surprises for you readers too. I sure enjoy reading you and wish you the best in your new adventures!
So glad to see you back, you have always been such an inspiration, even though I’m generally a lurker. Look forward to reading more, over-share and all!
Mary – take a step at a time. I posted on my FB & Instagram a saying about baby steps are fine & tip toe if you must but even the littlest step is a step forward.. hugs & hoping you heal!
welcome back Mary!! :)
Mary glad to see you blogging! You never know what life has in store so embrace it and look ahead. XO
Welcome back!
Welcome back! I’m glad your back and writing for YOU as that’s ultimately why most of us start a blog right?! Enjoy the ride that is life :)
Ive been thinking about you a lot too.
I’m glad you’re back. :)
I’ve missed your wonderful blogging and am
super happy to see you back !
I always appreciated how honest and genuine
you are as a writer ( there is much fake
B.S. out there that I was always refreshed by
you being yourself ).
You are great Mary :)