Something For the Golfer In Your Family

Tuesday, I was blessed, along with some other San Antonio bloggers, to get to go out to the JW Marriott resort here in San Antonio, and take a peek at their San Antonio Golf Championship going on this week.  I grew up going to the golf course, as my grandpa would play in Senior Tournaments every year. I have fond memories of walking the course, picking up acorns, and when we were really lucky, we got to ride along on the back of my grandpa’s golf cart.

As I got older, my dad took up golfing, along with my other grandpa. So I would occasionally go out to the course and walk alongside them while they played.  All that to say, golf makes me feel happy, because it has a lot of warm memories tied up into it.

The TPC course at the JW Marriott is gorgeous. So many of the golfers love it there because of the good condition of the greens. It’s scenery is pristine, with the view of treetops in so many spots. So whether you are playing, or observing, it’s enjoyable.

The San Antonio Championship by AT&T is for the best players in golf over the age of 50.  One of the highlights of the San Antonio Championship is the Pro-Am. This is where amateur golfers can sign up to play alongside a professional golfer! There are no age restrictions on the Pro-Am, so if you have a little budding golfer and they are 7, or 9, or 16 – they have the opportunity to play alongside a pro.  There is a drawing the night before playtime, where each golf group (4 amateurs to 1 pro) gets to see which pro they will be playing with.  I think this is such a neat idea for golfers to be able to do something they enjoy, plus get up-close-and-personal with a pro.  You don’t have to live in San Antonio to sign up for the Pro-Am. You can live in Florida, Oregon, or anywhere…. And just come into San Antonio for the week of the Championship to play! Of course, you can’t do it this year, but definitely look into signing up for next year!

After the Pro-Am, the 81 champion golfers will play in the Championship from Friday-Monday. They are playing for a purse of $1.8 million!!!

This is the 31^st year of the San Antonio Championship and it couldn’t be held at a more stunning resort than the JW Marriott. In addition to the top-notch facilities, the people there are super friendly, highly personable, and ready to go out of their way to see that your needs are met.

I really enjoyed my time there getting to shuttle around to some of the greens and tees.  I highly recommend taking your loved one, or your family out for some beautiful time outdoors, in a great environment watching some golf and enjoying some of the exhibits and vendors they have set up.  You can also catch the pro’s play in the championship on the Golf Channel if you’re not able to go out and attend personally.

But if you can, go out and spend a little time there this weekend. You can get some exercise, enjoy the beautiful sunshine San Antonio is still having, spend some time with your spouse or kids who are interested in golf, and enjoy the beauty of the outdoors at a luxury resort. It’s surprisingly affordable, and fun!

You just might run into me out there, as well.

Parking: http://attchamp.com/parking-information/

Ticket information: http://attchamp.com/tickets/

Tournament history information: http://attchamp.com/tournament-facts/

**I was treated lunch and given some free items as a blogger, but all opinions, thoughts, and words are solely mine.

Serving God FOR God, and Not For Myself

I took a strengths class with my husband last Winter. Empathy was one of my top core strengths. One of the instructors told me how rare that was. “It’s like a sixth sense,” she said. I guess a lot of people have empathy as a complimentary strength but not as one of their main strengths.

It made so much sense to me. How I invest myself personally into everything I do. How I take everything thrown back at me, personally, as well. Because of empathy. I emote. I relate.

I feel. And I feel. And I feel some more. I feel for myself. I feel for you. And with you.

It’s just who I am.

So it makes sense that I struggle in my skin sometimes. I struggle to remind myself of who I want to be, and why I do what I do (writing).  For I can so easily ingest those follower numbers, those likes, and those blog comments. I can personalize them and focus on “me.” When that’s really not what I want to be about.

I do what I do BECAUSE of my empathy for others. For YOU. Not for me, at all. Yes, I enjoy it, but that’s because I enjoy loving on others. I enjoy encouraging others. I enjoy impacting a life. It does bring me great joy.  But from time to time, I have to analyze my motivation and my perseverance in what I do. Is it so I get more attention – more followers and likes? Or is it so that others can see God in me, and that I can draw them closer to seeking Him?

It’s the latter I want. It’s the latter that will give me true value. And yet I still struggle with personally wanting to be liked. Loved. Accepted.  As we all do.

Empathy.

It’s my strength, yes. But I think it’s also my weakness.

I am so thankful to get realigned from time to time. I’m humbled, and thankful to be reminded I’ve strayed off of my focus and intent. I’m blessed to get back on track with serving God FOR God, and not for myself.  For I don’t ever want to use His name, His values, and His words – for my own attention.

“Lord, I am your servant. A servant that does indeed, go astray from time to time. Thank you for lovingly always bringing me back into the fold and never chastising me with anger. You are my God. And I WILL serve you.

Always.”

Nothing Wrong With a Little "Selfie!"

“Selfies.” The craze of this generation.

Everyone seems to have their own opinions on this craze. I’ve heard it said that people who take ‘selfies’ are narcissists. That it signifies mental or emotional issues. I’ve heard people mock others for taking ‘selfies’ and I’ve seen people think they are ‘above’ the whole craze.

I think ‘selfies’ are fun. And, I think they are perfectly normal and okay to do.

Recently, I went to Hawaii with my husband. We saw people taking selfies all over the place. At the beach, by a palm tree, overlooking the ocean, and more. Sometimes it was an individual ‘selfie’ and sometimes it was a couple.

This is how I see it. There is nothing wrong with taking a picture of yourself, to remember a time, place, or moment. It’s fun. And it’ a way to enjoy life and where you are currently are, in it.

I even think it’s okay to take a  ‘selfie’ once in awhile in your bathroom or car. Make a pucker face, or have fun with a pout. Again, it’s about enjoying life. Enjoying yourself and the moment you are in.

“Selfies” are kind of like photo journals, in a way. You’re recording who you are on a certain date and time. You’re recording your mood, your outlook, your environment.

The only time I can agree with the professionals on ‘selfie’ assessments, is when someone takes CONSTANT and UNENDING selfies, then posts them online or on Instagram. If someone does nothing BUT selfies, then yah, maybe a deeper look needs to be given as to why they don’t find anything else in life worthy of capturing with their camera.

I also personally feel that ‘selfies’ should always be kept classy. Flipping off the camera generally doesn’t make others love you more. And anything you might regret posting one day you get married, have children, or have a relative see – you might want to forget about posting. In fact, forget about taking that shot at all. No shot – no regrets!

But other than those wise words of wisdom, I say, have fun and take some ‘selfies!’ There’s nothing wrong with loving on those around you and taking your own shots of a moment in time. There’s nothing wrong with capturing yourself, either.

Life is meant to be lived and enjoyed. So live and enjoy it. And take a ‘selfie’ to show it.

Publishing In His Name

Sometimes I wonder if there isn’t something “more” I can do to share God’s love with others. Writing is a passion of mine, but it doesn’t always feel “important.” Not when you just blog and write articles, as I do. I don’t have the desire (currently) to write a book and I don’t write Bible Studies. Yet, writing seems to be a gift that God has developed in me.

Then one day, my mom sent me this Bible Verse…

“Publish His glorious deeds among the nations. Tell everyone about the amazing things He does.”  1Chronicles 16:24

And I suddenly felt validated. All those blog posts and articles where I simply share what God is doing in my life – and I was doing exactly what He wanted me to do!

God wants us to share the amazing things He does for us. No matter how small or little we think they are – if He cares about the details of our lives; shouldn’t we share that with others so that they know He cares about the details of their lives as well? Shouldn’t we use our gifts of writing, publishing, editing, and proofreading for God’s glory and credit?

I answer with a resounding YES!

God wants us to share Him with anyone and everyone who will listen. He wants us to publish those newsletters, write those blogs, columns, and articles, and send out those magazines in His name. He wants us to take pictures of His glorious creation or awe-inspiring God-moments and share them with the world. Tell of His glorious deeds and the amazing things He does.

Every gift He has given us is important. Even if you write for your church newsletter or a community newspaper – use it as an opportunity to share the Lord with those in your circle. God will take it and flourish it. He will reach the hearts that need reaching and He will work through you. All you have to do is share.

*First published at Devotional Christian.com

Eshakti: A Fun Option for Clothes Buyers

I was contacted over a month ago by Eshakti, asking if I wouldn't mind reviewing one of their retail pieces.  I had never heard of them before, so I stopped by their website and took a look.

They sent me this cheerful turquoise blouse.

This blouse would be a perfect addition for someone's wardrobe as we head into the Fall season. I think the sleeves are adorable and unique. They were a tad big on me, but I have pretty small arms. I still loved them.

As for quality, I was very pleased to see this blouse was solidly made. Might have been a tiny bit stiff and I probably would prefer a more relaxed material, but overall, very well made.  I chose to dress it up in a bohemian, western kind of way - but the great thing about this blouse is that it can be dressed up or down. Either way, it's pretty cute.

I don't know about you, but I like having things that are a little unique. I don't want to show up in the same thing everyone else is wearing! Eshakti has a lot of unique pieces like this blouse.

I think Eshakti would be a great resource for a woman who needs some nice pieces for work. You can even customize your pieces for a little bit added extra cost. They allow you to change things such as neckline, dress length, and sleeve type. 

I do feel that a lot of their pieces have a retro/old fashioned look to them, but there are some cute feminine things in the mix that are more contemporary.

Check them out and give them a try. You can find Eshakti here:

*Eshakti website

*Facebook

*Twitter

*Pinterest

*Thanks to Eshakti for giving me this piece in exchange for doing a review of one of their products!

A Night Out At Urban Taco

Thanks to the "San Antonio Bloggers," I had the opportunity to try a new place to eat last night. URBAN TACO.

Urban Taco is located over in the Quarry and has a unique niche in the mexican food industry. Their meals aren't your normal "enchilada, refried beans, and rice!" They have many different combos of foods that mix both sweet and spicy together with a flair for gourmet.

Our table got started with some chips and their "salsa trio." They have a list of salsas you can choose from to use in your trio. We chose a guacamole and lime one, some black beans and corn salsa, and a spicier rojo salsa.  The black beans and guacamole were my favorite and I loved the chips! These chips are cut into thick strips and have some kind of seasoning on them that makes you keep grabbing for more. They were yummy.

For our entree, I ordered the pollo (chicken) quesadilla. These quesadillas have 3 kinds of cheeses on them and as you can see from the photo on the left - are very lovely to look at, as well! Again, great seasoning on the chicken. I really liked it and the quesadilla was very filling. I had to box up the rest to take home!

Urban Taco is in a great spot in the Quarry. It's lively inside the restaurant and feels very festive.  When I went, it was packed full inside. I've always said, a packed restaurant means good food!  Parking can be a bit tricky though, since the other shops and restaurant customers fill up the spaces as well; but it's a pretty safe area, even if you need to walk a bit to get to the restaurant.

The menu is mostly in spanish, so be prepared to have someone translate what some of the items are if you aren't familiar with the wording.  Also, I found most of the items to be a bit on the spendier side. It would be a pricey dinner for a family of four, but the atmosphere and quality of food would be a great option for a dinner out for a husband and wife, or a night out with just the girls or guys.

If you're looking for fresh ingredients, good quality of food, a fun atmosphere, and some slightly different alterations to your normal mexican dishes - you'd probably really love Urban Taco. Give it a try and enjoy the experience!




*Disclaimer: I was given a free entree and drink by Urban Taco... but all opinions and thoughts are purely my own.

The 2014 Ultimate Blog Party

I may be arriving to the party late, but I'm here! I'm joining the 2014 Ultimate Blog party. It's a fun way for bloggers to hop on around the internet and meet other bloggers.

For those of you visiting me from 5 Minutes For Mom, thank you so much for stopping by!


This Is A Peek At Me:

Two daughters, husband, and me

Stepson, daughter-in-law, and three grandkiddos

I am a proud mom of two precious, joyful, delightful, and beautiful teen daughters. I'm also a proud stepmom. My stepson and daughter-in-law have given me three precious grandchildren. I'm so blessed.  I've been married to my hard-working, handsome warrior for almost 20 years.  We just moved to Texas in September from Idaho and I just love it so far!

My Blog:

This blog is a labor of love for me. I mainly write on faith and family - but it can all be boiled down to "life." I try to be honest about the lessons I'm learning, the joys I'm blessed with, and the hurts I struggle to overcome. I've always wanted this blog to be relateable - a place where someone can come and say, "you too?" Maybe, in the process, someone gets some encouragement and hope along the way.

I had my own website/newsletter for 16 years (Emphasis On Moms). But now I focus on just enjoying being a blogger, and have stretched my wings into freelance writing a bit (something I'm really enjoying and hope to do more of).You can find me at StartMarriageRight.com, Ibelieve.com, and I do some writing for the San Antonio Marriage Initiative.

Get To Know Me Better:

I thoroughly enjoy meeting and getting to know my readers.  I am at several places where you can connect with me more personally than just this blog.

Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/dionnasanchez 

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/dionnasanchezwriter

Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/dionnasanchez

Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/dionnasanchez

Please let me know you stopped by! I look forward to getting to know your heart and you personally. 

Do come back and visit me again. 

5 Ways To Still Be "You" As You Blog

There are so many sites out there with blogging and social media advice. I’ve been writing online for a while now and I’m still learning so much. Technology is changing right and left and it can almost be a full-time job trying to keep up with it all.

One thing I’ve learned along the way, is that no matter what changes – I need to still be “me.” I need to keep my own voice. It’s too easy to see what someone else is doing and try to adapt that to fit yourself. You can do that in a way, but sometimes you have to go against the grain and simply decide that being “you” is more important than being SEEN by everyone.  For if you do this, the ones that read your words will be the right audience because they will see that you are authentic to your own life and world.

So, here are 5 ways that I’ve been able to distinctly keep my own voice and heart in my blogging and writing.

1.     Use the layout that you like.  There are trends in blogging layouts. Some only show “snippets” of a post, some have a cover page, and some are only on white backgrounds with a header.  Personally, I like to be able to scroll down a page and see the whole post. I don’t enjoy having to click to “read more.” But that’s just me. And that’s my style. So my recommendation would be to use the format that works best for you. It doesn’t matter if it’s the new trend or not. Be “you.” If you like a cute background, use a cute background! Just make sure that everyone can clearly read your words.

2.     Use the blogging platform that you find to be the easiest. In a world that says “Use Wordpress or bust,” I have stuck with blogger. I’m not great at coding or using complicated systems. Blogger is easy, simple, and it’s been reliable for me. I did purchase my own domain so that I don’t have a “blogspot.com” address – but I went through blogger to do that. Simple is what I need and simple is what I use.

3.     Write about what you love.  If you only want to write about your kids, then write about your kids! It won’t feel right to write about other topics. If you are passionate about knitting or fashion, then write about those. There is an audience out there for everything.  But, you also don’t have to stick to one topic alone. It’s YOUR blog. You can do whatever you’d like! So, if you have a cooking blog, and your heart just really feels like it needs to write on a story in the news – go for it! Your audience will enjoy getting a glimpse of you that is out of the norm. For me, I write on whatever topic is on my heart and where God prompts me with that. It usually ends up being mostly on faith and learning through life’s ups and downs with a little bit of lifestyle  and beauty thrown in from time to time. I enjoy writing on life in general.

4.     Talk to people. Let people get to know you. If people leave a comment, comment back! You don’t have to reply to every single one – but a blog is partially about relating to others. If it’s just for you, you might want to keep it private. But if it’s public, others want to get to know you and talk to you. Reply to comments if you’re on twitter or instagram. Relate to others on your facebook page. No audience wants to feel ignored all the time. It can get harder the more responses you get, but it’s important to remind others that you aren’t “above” them. You are ONE of them. You can do this on any level you feel comfortable, but it truly does reinforce who YOU are.

5.     Ignore the advice out there if it doesn’t “fit” you. If you don’t enjoy having to have an email list just to grow your blog…. don’t! If you don’t have the time to participate in different discussion groups….  don’t! If you don’t like using SEO words in your posts just so you will be listed in Google… don’t!  You will be discovered by the people who find your words meaningful, helpful, or relatable in some way. We all only have so many hours in a day. We can’t do it ALL. Use the platforms that matter to you and ignore the ones that you don’t enjoy or have trouble grasping. It’s okay.

There are definitely certain rules that seem to work for growing an online presence. But overall, I’ve found it’s important to enjoy what I do. Don’t focus on popularity or success. Focus on passion and joy and the rest will truly follow if it’s meant to be.

**I’d love to connect with you on the many different social networks I’m a part of. You can find me here:

Blog – http://beautyinthestorm.com

Instagram – http://www.instagram.com/dionnasanchez

Twitter – http://www.twitter.com/dionnasanchez

Facebook – http://www.facebook.com/dionnasanchezwriter

Google Plus - +DionnaSanchez

Everyone Loves To Find a Great New Store

I was invited to my first “blogger event” on Wednesday evening here in San Antonio. I was so excited to discover a new store since I’m unfamiliar with the area, and Apricot Lane did not disappoint.

This cute little Boutique is a franchise. There are over 80 stores, but each one is a little bit different because the owners of each store gets to do their own buying. So each one has its own personality and flair.

Our delightful little store, is owned by a mother and her two daughters. Cathy, Allison, and Lauren have the goal to encourage “mom-daughter” shopping, so they each have their own likes and clothing tastes embedded into their store.

Apricot Lane San Antonio has everything from “Miss Me” jeans, infinity scarves, and boots, to hats with a little bling, and a huge jewelry collection. It’s not a huge store, but it’s one of those shops that you see something new each time you walk through it.  You can also order online or have something delivered from another Apricot Lane to your local store.

One of my favorite things about Apricot Lane San Antonio, is that they often have photos on their facebook and instagram pages of someone wearing their merchandise. So you can see exactly how a top hangs or how a dress looks on the body. It’s terrific.

I came away from our fun shopping night with two infinity scarves for my daughters and a pair of leggings for each one of us. Let me tell you, these just aren’t any leggings – they are lined with fleece! Sooo comfortable and soft, and super affordable for both moms and daughters at $8 each! 

I also couldn’t resist this Texas-shaped necklace. I’m so excited to be making Texas my new home state and it took a lot for our family to get here. This necklace makes me smile just wearing it.

If you’re looking for a store where the people are super sweet and where you can find unique things that not every other store carries – give Apricot Lane a try.  Their prices range anywhere from the $8 leggings to $40 and $60 depending on the item. So save up those pennies and pamper yourself for a day out soon. It’s a lovely place for some “girl” time.

You can find them at: http://www.apricotlanesanantonio.com/
On facebook at: http://www.facebook.com/apricotlanesanantonio
and on instagram as: apricotlanesa

**Disclosure: I was given a gift card at this blogger event, but all opinions on the store and merchandise are solely mine.

The Hardest Thing About Being a Writer

“With great power, comes great responsibility.”  I love that quote. I’ve used it with my children, and I’ve often reminded myself of its words, as well.

When people ask me what I do, I usually say I’m a “stay at home” mom. I don’t often think of saying, “I’m a writer.” But I AM a writer. I may not get paid a six-figure income for the words I put out there, but I’m still a writer.

Sometimes being a writer isn’t as glamorous as some people think. I’m sure people imagine a life filled with writing whenever you feel like it and having loads of free time to do what you want. They probably think it’s an easy job. But I’ve learned it’s nowhere near that.

I’ve worked years and years to earn my reputation and standing. I’ve worked very hard to climb a ladder that seems to not move rung by rung, as I’d prefer, but inch by inch. It’s been hard work and perseverance, and I’m still not where I want to be.

I really don’t mind any of that, though. If something is a passion of yours, the process doesn’t really seem all that terrible. Not to me, anyways.  But I think the hardest thing about being a writer is the responsibility of shouldering people’s burdens.  When people read my thoughts, and my heart, they share things with me. They share secrets, deep hurts and pains, dreams, and depression. It’s hard. It’s not hard in the fact that I wish they wouldn’t share them with me. For I am so humbled that they would. It’s hard that I don’t always have the answers or the wisdom to share with them in return.

I love people. I love the diversity, character, and uniqueness of people. They fascinate me. I LOVE helping people. I love encouraging, motivating, impacting, and moving people’s hearts. It drives me and it fulfills me. So it’s really hard when I don’t have the right words to give someone. I don’t have that “thing” that they so need to hear and I so want to give them. That’s hard for me.

With every job, comes responsibility. With my job as a mom, comes the responsibility to teach my children, to nurture, instill values, protect, and love. With my job as a writer comes the responsibility to remember that my words are hitting a human soul and that they will push or pull them in one direction or another. My job is to push them towards hope.

That’s a great responsibility and one that I take very seriously – never lightly.

I will always treasure the gift of someone’s heart given to me.  I will value each dream, burden, and longing that is shared with me and I will do what I can to honor that trust.  For it is something very fragile.

Speaking To the Vapid Space

Do you ever feel like your words fall on deaf ears? I do. I have.

I’ve shared posts on facebook that no one really notices and then someone else shares it and immediately everyone is liking it.

I’ve suggested new trends to people who, generally, scoffed at the idea. Then someone else suggests it, and suddenly the ideas has more concrete value to it.

Am I not reputable enough? Not BIG enough?

Isn’t that the way it goes, sometimes? You feel as if your words were the same as someone else’s but because they are POPULAR, they are heard.

And you are ignored.

Left to speak to the big open, vapid space. And you wonder why you waste the breath. Why you keep trying.

It’s all about love, really. You love. You care. And so you share.

And every once in awhile someone will hear you. Someone will respond. And to them, you will mean everything. Your heart will reach theirs and soothe over a spot that had been cold, lonely, and empty.

I think my God must feel like that at times, as well. He tries so hard to speak to us. He shares things with us – which we ignore. And then someone whom we think is wonderful and delightful, shares the same thing. And we listen. We find value in THEIR words.

God says He loves me. And I don’t listen. Someone else tells me they love me, and suddenly, I’m all ears.

God tells me I’m valuable. Special. He will fight for me. He CHOSE me. I turn my head at times because it’s so hard to believe. Someone else tells me, and I’m quick to believe they must be right – for they dress well, look attractive, and are well-liked.

It’s a little skewed, isn’t it?

Just as God wants to be heard, so do people. They want to know that someone heard theirs words. That they HEARD their heart.

Do you need to be heard today? I’m listening. Tell me your words.  And they won’t fall on deaf ears or a dull heart.

What's All This Angst About?

I’ve noticed that many of my columns and blogs are about life’s deeper moments. They seem to have a theme – a focus on getting through hard things, seeking God through confusion and stress, or what to do when hurts come. And oh how they come!

Some might think my life is one tragedy after another.

And although my life has had its fair share of spiritual warfare, challenges, hurts, and trials – I am not always holding my hand to my chest trying to breathe myself through each day.

Thank goodness.

I actually feel very blessed. God has given me so many blessings in my life. So many undeserved graces and mercies. He has been faithful to me and I’ve celebrated Him and proclaimed joy out loud many times and in many ways.

So – what’s all the angst about in a lot of my posts? Well, the thing is, I think sometimes when we are most passionate about something – that is when our emotions come tumbling out. So it’s natural to write more often when God is showing us things through the tough circumstances in life. It’s kind of like how you remember the criticism more than the praise.  The lessons are often found more when we feel pain. Thus – the words are written in those moments of time.

I do feel angst. I do feel heartache. I cry and I doubt. I get discouraged and depressed. But I also laugh. I smile. I dance in joy (literally) and I close my eyes or get on my knees in thanks.

Life  - my life – has many ups and downs.  But it’s often the downs that God draws so close to me and teaches me things that I normally wouldn’t listen to, except that He has my total attention through the hurting moments.

That’s when I choose to write it down so we can all learn. All grow. And all find our smiles again.

What Happened To Blog Link Lists?

I like to travel around and visit new blogs from time to time. It’s how I get to know new people and find great new spots to revisit and read.

Lately, when I travel to blogs, I find that most of them don’t have a sidebar link list anymore.  A few years ago, almost every blog carried a list of other blogs they read and linked to. I loved it. If I found a blog I liked, I’d peruse the list, bookmark a few new ones and stop back by. It was a great “recommendation” tool.

I miss seeing those.

Most blogs don’t list other blogs anymore.  Oh yes, some have the “badge” of a blog or two they follow – but the blog link list? It’s becoming extinct. I’m not sure why that is. Is it because we were trying to clean up our site and they got too cluttered? Is it because it felt like it was too much too maintain and keep up? Or….did we stop visiting other blogs?

It almost seems to me like communication between bloggers has diminished. The interaction has faded somewhat. And I miss that too.

I keep a blog link list. I keep it for myself and no one else – although if you find a great blog on my list, I’m happy to send you there.  But I keep it so I can easily access my favorite blogs to read and visit. Blogs that inspire and motivate me. Bloggers, whom I admire.

I change up my blog list here and there. For me, it’s not hard to do. I just visit a blog on there that I haven’t visited in awhile and see if their content still engages me. If not, or if they have stopped blogging frequently – I delete them. It makes room for me to always add new bloggers, for I’m always open to finding great new reads….and new friends. 

The internet has become such an easy tool at our fingertips. I hope that we don’t step away from the fact that we can still connect with one another. It’s still valued and it’s still needed.

Blogging isn’t just about views, hits, or branding. It’s about people. It’s about relationships. 

I pray the relationship-building that used to occur online between bloggers doesn’t disappear like the blog listing has. I hope we don’t get so focused on promoting ourselves that we forget to build and engage others out there too.  For there are many women out there who may be just the friend we needed to meet.

And I think there is room for everyone.

You Are Not Just One of Many

I have some blogs that I like to visit. I return because they feed me somehow. They inspire me, give me ideas, make me smile, or help me feel like I’m not alone in the things I’m feeling and going through.

I’m a lurker most of the time. Not that I intend to be. I just don’t believe in leaving a comment unless I really have something to say. I don’t like to waste my words. So from time to time, I will leave a comment on these blogs I visit. And I tend to wonder if they really remember me. If they know “me” out of the many other comments they get. After all, some of these blogs I enjoy are what you’d call “popular” blogs. They are well-loved by many other women. And rightly so.

The neat thing about blogging is that you start to feel like you really know someone. They share their heart and photos and you bond with them, in a way. So it can be important to think they are hearing you when you leave a comment. Sometimes I feel that way – that my heart has been heard. Sometimes, I do not. Sometimes I feel like I’m just one of many voices that will not be remembered.

I want you to know that I hear you when you leave a comment for me on my blog. You are not just one of “many.” I try so hard to pay attention. I read your name. I visit your blog if you have one, and I digest what you say to me. For you are important and you are valued. I know that if you take a moment to write something, that it’s something your heart needed to say.

I try to do that because everyone wants to know they have been heard. Everyone wants to feel like they are special.

Please know that your heart and your feelings matter to me. Even if I am unable to reply specifically to you,; your thoughts, your words, and your heart were held by mine with great care.

You will never be just “one” of many to me.