12.15.2010

ramblings and lurkers.

I had a few thoughts swirling around in my head, but every time I attempted to put them into writing, they ended up sounding like nothing but a muddled mess.  and so after pecking at the backspace key for the 40th time, I finally just gave up.  maybe another day.

so I'll just go on about yesterday instead.

it began like most every other day.  after making a quick round through the house to make sure the mess and laundry weren't going anywhere, I brewed myself some coffee and sat down at the computer.

THAT was the beginning of the end.

I don't remember whose blog I began with (I read a handful everyday and not always in the same order), but anyhow, after reading through it, I noticed a button on the sidebar linking to another blog.  curious, I clicked on it and proceeded to read a couple entries from that blog.  it wasn't long before I stumbled upon another link and clicked again.  this went on and on, until an hour had passed and I had accomplished nothing except a bunch of blog reading.

but I couldn't get myself to stop.  the stories were fascinating.  some shared heart-wrenching stories.  others were inspirational or humorous.  as unique as each blog was, they all had one thing in common; the authors were exceptional writers.  and they had about 352 comments on every one of their posts.

that brings me to this question: what IS it that spurs a person like yourself to comment?  don't get me wrong, I'm not trying to lament here.  as a blogger, I want to be able to connect with my readers in hopes of gaining a little insight.  what brings you here today?  do you like what you see?  how did you find me?  have you had similar experiences in raising children?  you've all read my crazy musings.  now tell me a little about yourself.     

I admit I've been just as guilty when it comes to lurking as everyone else.  but ever since I started this whole blogging thing, I've realized how encouraging a simple comment or thought really is.  it gives that little extra "oomph" to keep posting.  and I'm trying to make a better effort at reciprocating, as well.  

so, real quick, I want to say thanks to all of you that have reached out.  I truly have been enriched by your comments, encouragement you have given through really tough days, your stories, your kindness.  I value inspiration... the fact that every one of us has the ability to give it... and that, if we let ourselves, we certainly have the opportunity to take it.  I have been inspired in so many ways and always look forward to the wonderful things you have to say.

you guys are the best!

-jessica


PS. if you have a blog you would like to share, please do!  being the nosy gal that I am, I love reading about other people's stories and adventures.  I'd love to hear yours! 


PSS. also, there's still time to enter the giveaway!  able mabel has lots of great last minute gift ideas!

25 comments:

Keilah said...

Blogs ARE addicting. Guess I'm just as nosy as you. :) I love to read your blog. Your humor sometimes gets ME through a tough day. And I love your pictures. When you are ready to sell your camera, let me know! Then my blogs pictures might be a bit closer to looking as good as yours:) Keep posting!

Aunty Dee said...

I like to read your blog so I can stay more connected to what is happening with you and the family. I even feel closer to you all because your blog gives me more insite to who you are inside, the cute little everyday happenings of my great nieces and nephews, the things a person misses when you don't have a family to raise. I love reading of the good things (and bad) that go on. You do a great job--keep it up! Love to you all.

joleen said...

I love reading your blogs because you have an awesome way of writing. You can take an ordinary day and turn it into an adventure. I love all your stories - kids, trips, everyday experiences

Linda said...

Ditto Joleen's comments, plus, the things you write about...I feel so often like I can relate. And, your pictures are wonderful! I don't read many blogs, but I wouldn't miss yours!

Sue Hill said...

I've become addicted to your blog! I love it -- I can relate to so much of what you write about! Keep it up!

Ramona said...

I love to see what you have done, what your kids are up to, the adventures you go on, love looking at your pictures. You are so funny. I love your aspect on raising so many kids and your appreciation for a large family when you were an only child. Keep writing!

Dave and Brianna said...

I read a few blogs(scrapbooking world mostly) there are a few I check everyday. I read your every post unless I've miraculously not sat at the computer some day. You are hilarious in your writings and I love that!

Paula Hillukka said...

It's interesting to read other's perspective on life. :) Your pictures are artfully done--keep it up! I don't always comment, because all you might see is "LOL" or something else really cliche... :D I do enjoy it, though!

Anonymous said...

I love your sense of humor and your photography is great! I read a few blogs each day (on my lunch break at work)- Suziebeezieland, Live from Tormville,Becky Higgins and Write, Click, Scrapbook are a few of my favorites. It's funny because I actually saw someone from my hometown in some of your pictures. Small world! Keep blogging- you have a gift! (-:
JoAnn

Anonymous said...

I guess you have brought me from chuckles to tears in many of your blog enteries. Rarely do I go a day where I don't see what you have to say, and if I do, I make up for it the next. It's nice to see that I am not alone as a mother with a bunch of kids, going through the same kind of daily experiences. So do keep up the blogging!!!
Lynette G.

Brenda K said...

I love your blog! I can relate to so much that you write about, as can probably all Mothers! You are a wonderful writer, like someone else said, you can make an ordinary day into an adventure! I also love the fun crafty ideas and recipes you post! Thank You Jessica- keep it up!

Anonymous said...

i'd have to say i check your blog everyday! sometimes a few times to see if you've put up your new entry or not! its so fun to read and look at your pictures! i must be a nosy person too, my husband hates going out to eat with me when i check out the person next to us or listening to the other person's conversation. really i'm just interested in peoples lives and whats going on. so your blog is always so intresting to me, and since i'm not a good writer, i really enjoy your talent!! keep it up! thanks for the laughs and tears! Corinne J.

Kelly Massman said...

Love the photos, and your story sounds familiar! Lately, I haven't even had time to craft, but I do find myself trying to get through my reader. I have way too many blogs on my list--so I've been bad about lurking without commenting! Plus, I spent a month being sick--so I really need to kick myself in gear! Thanks for the fun posts! and photos and ...

Kristina A. said...

I'm most definitely a "lurker" but your blog has made me laugh and also sigh because so much of what you write is familiar. Keep it up!

Unknown said...

Well Jessica yours in about the only blog I read. And I do not read it every day, as much as I really should. You know you can always get a giggle out of me. And you know I love your kids and you guys. So whatever talents you have managed to throw together to create this blog, I admire and tell you to keep going. Looks like you have a large crowd out there cheering you on. Denise

Anonymous said...

Hey jessica! I read your blog all the time and you have me in fits of giggles or else in the "blink blinks." Keep it up--I wouldn't know what to do over my morning cup of coffee if it weren't for you!! Natalie M

Anita said...

In a world gone insane somedays, your blog can be a nice refreshing laugh. It is a step back in time to when (I'll admit to only half as many) the littles were stomping on our feet over here and keeping us hopping. I don't "blog hop" often, in fact very rarely. I have half a dozen that I pop to every day for a dose of life on someone else's planet.

Briita M said...

I have often told husband, if only I could write my daily happenings into some sort of book then maybe those tough times could be turned into humor! (and I could make some $$ to boot) You do that for me and it looks like the rest of us! You know how it is, when it's happening to someone else, it's just plain funny! Good writing!:)

Anonymous said...

I am one of the "lurkers" who never comment but read your blog daily! I find it hilarious how you bring out the humor in everyday life! Keep going!

stacym said...

Reading your blog always brings a smile to my face and usually a good laugh, also. I think Scarlett is just the CUTEST baby and love to see her pics. The stories about Rowan are so entertaining and just to read about your family, how different each kid is and the things they do is really interesting. (We have the boring one kid thing going on over here)!

Anonymous said...

Yet another lurker!! I love your blog too, and yours is the only one I read...better not find anymore or my duties may get neglected:) Also love the recipe ideas and craft ideas. We made the sweet little turkeys for Thanksgiving! (after I raced around Park Rapids one evening after work, trying to locate some non fluorescent pipe cleaners.....grr, Walmart was out, and went pickin' pine cones under the snow) Thanks Jessica for sharing your talent, makes me feel a little connected to you way down there in AZ! Welcome to northern MN:) -Katie H.

Anonymous said...

I must admit I'm a lurker to...all the way from Auckland, New Zealand. I don't have a blog to share but I do like to take a peek into other peoples worlds, for inspiration and encouragement, and motivation!! Its nice to know others go through the same things!!! I love your humor and your kids are beautiful and your honesty is awesome! Please keep sharing. Andrea.

able mabel said...

I'll resist the urge to say "I told you!". But I'm glad you're hearing it from everyone else besides me because I tell you this on a weekly basis. :)

Anonymous said...

i also read your blog daily! love your writing style and sense of humour!

Anonymous said...

My daughter Amber showed me your blog while she was here in MN visiting from AK. Love your blog. Some days when I didn't have the energy to do anything else I blog hopped. I read three faithfully but do not usually comment. You could really write a book with these entries! :)