A new year and a blog anniversary!  Two years of posting twice a week.  Through a pandemic and the corresponding lockdown, I somehow managed to stick to my schedule, despite most days feeling like Blursday.  There is a definite lack of novelty in my life these days.  No trips to the city, no parties or dinners out and no visits from the grandchildren.   When every day is pretty much the same as yesterday and you aren’t creating new memories, what is there to write about?  

That is what was going through my head while out on a walk with Mr. Smith a couple of weeks ago.  I shared with him that I was thinking of going to posting once a week instead of twice and trying to funnel my energies back into my book.  He was quiet for a moment before saying, “I don’t think you should do that.”  He encouraged me to keep posting twice a week AND get back to working on the book.   I should treat writing like a job and devote the proper time and attention to reaching my goals.  

Mr. Smith has long been my muse.  I had toyed with the idea of writing a blog for several years, but never got past the thinking about it point.  It was his Christmas gift three years ago of a vintage typewriter and a copy of John McFee’s Draft No. 4 that finally pushed me over the proverbial hump.  There is magic in seeing yourself through someone else’s eyes.  When another person – especially someone you love and admire – has faith in your ability, it becomes easier to gather up your confidence and move forward.

As we walked along the Susquehanna River that day, I mulled over what Mr. Smith had shared.  He was correct that I had the time.  I love my little blog and had been wondering where to go with it.  I have no desire to “monetize” it, blogs with lots of ads drive me crazy.  I don’t want to link to Pinterest, imploring people to share and pin my posts.  I simply want to write a blog that keeps me engaged in life and that readers find interesting, but lately it seems tough to come up with blog topics.  As we continued walking and talking that day, I had another idea that I think is my solution.

Sunday posts will continue to be the staple, but Wednesday posts will follow a formula.  For at least the next year, the first Wednesday of every month will be a book(s) review.  Reading has kept me sane through the pandemic and deserves an earned spot.  The second Wednesday of the month will feature “A Congenial Table”.  I don’t want to give too much away, so consider this an amuse bouche!

I am excited about the third Wednesday, “Women of Consequence”.  We will visit women whose activities have created consequence whether through writing, social activism, talents or accomplishments.  The fourth Wednesday will be reserved for my stream of consciousness ramblings, “Midweek Mélange”.  On months that have a fifth Wednesday, it will be “Wordless Wednesday” when I post a favorite photograph.

I’m excited and a little (pleasantly) surprised to be starting my third year of blogging.  Thank you from the bottom of my heart for every read, share and comment.  

Happy New Year and cheers to you all.  

C’est la vie.