One hundred and one, you never looked so good. When I started My Patchwork Journey, my goal was a weekly post for two years. Could I do it? Well, I didn’t exactly hit that mark, or this would be my 104th post. But am I happy with 101? You bet. Am I happy I made it two years? Absolutely. (I had this ready to go for 100, but then Ryan Lochte gave me inspiration that needed to be dealt with last week.)
Thank you for going on this journey with me. It’s always an anxious moment when I hit the “publish” button, so with every Like, I do a little high five in the air; a Comment guarantees a wahoo, and when someone Shares the post, I do a little happy dance. You had no idea your reaction led to my own personal cardio workout, did you? I value all of the feedback and comments I’ve received, trust me.
Why have a blog? That’s the question I’ve asked myself, and I’ve considered ending this project. Isn’t two years enough? What am I trying to accomplish that the 200 million other bloggers haven’t? Blogging is my approach to lifelong learning, just as others might take a class in painting or learn a foreign language. It’s researching topics, improving my writing skills, sharpening my powers of observation, and translating what I see and hear into something that I hope is entertaining and enjoyable to the reader.
I don’t know how to burp a child, I couldn’t have a cooking blog because I never get the same results twice, and the closest I’ve been to the sandwich generation was when I transitioned from bologna on Wonder bread, to smoked turkey with gouda on artisanal nine grain, so I can’t write on any of those popular topics. No, my posts are about life. I enjoy taking readers with me when I travel, whether on the savannas of Africa, or the hills of Kentucky. But most of all, it’s what I witness on the sidelines of life that inspires me, causes me to ponder, and quite honestly, gives me a good chuckle. That’s what I like to write about.
In looking back over some of my posts, I scratch my head and ask What the devil was I thinking? I’m sure you’ve said the same thing. But then out of the blue, someone will say to me “I love how you made me think about … ” Now let me tell you, that’s gratifying! My goal for year three? Create more “I love how you made me think” posts and fewer of the head scratchers.
In closing, thank you for joining me on this journey. I’m trying to complete a major writing project, so you may not hear from me as frequently. On the other hand, I’ve got a little trip planned for mid-September which is already generating some fun blog ideas. I can’t wait to take you with me!
Meanwhile, I’ve discovered the traditional gift for a two year anniversary is cotton. Is that not perfect for me? Time to turn off the computer, and go play in some cotton – as in quilt fabric, and continue my patchwork journey.
P.S. I invite you to consider subscribing or signing up so every post will hit your mailbox. It’s like your own personal delivery service but without a tip expected! Look for the little white box located on this home page to subscribe. And please, if you like a post you’ve read, feel free to share it with others. I love to dance!
So glad you will keep it going. I look forward to your posts much like I look forward to my readers digest. I love reading from start to finish. It makes me laugh and makes me think. I get to travel along with you from my frontroom and have a great time along the way. Thank you!
Carol, thanks! That means so much to me. Yep, the journey continues…
I always look forward to reading your posts when they come. It’s been a wonderful journey. Keep up the good work and I will keep reading.
Thanks Gail – I’m really flattered. I’m glad you’re getting them now. Really appreciate your reading and taking the time to comment. Wahoo!
I am very happy to know you will be continuing this project. You are so funny sometimes. I have read some blogs aloud at my knitting group so they can also enjoy. Keep up the good writing!
Oh, I love that you share them with your group – that makes me so happy. Wahoo! I’ll do my best to keep them coming; can’t always count on funny, though. Thanks for the visit and the comment.
I admire your tenacity, and although I don’t always, or should I say rarely, comment, I do enjoy reading your blog. keep up the good work.
Thank you! I wish I had this same tenacity in other things – like exercise. Maybe a new blog post! Thanks for the visit and the comment. Wahoo!
Pam,
I read every one though I rarely comment. Makes me think we keep in better touch than we do! Time for lunch in between your travels and mine!
Thanks. Yes, it’s like a mini-memoir, in real time. Lunch sounds good. Appreciate you taking the time to read and comment. Wahoo!
I look forward to your blog and thank you for continuing . You always brighten my Monday with your humor and your incite into human behavior,etc. I had never read a blog until I signed up for yours. You have a gift. Thank you.
This touches me. Thank you! I’ll keep blogging and will try not to disappoint. Thanks for the read and taking the time to comment. Wahoo!
I too am glad you’re continuing to share your thoughts and comic sidebars. A thought occurred to me today to share your blog with my niece. She began her writing many years ago as a teen. She doesn’t always have a forum, I’m going to suggest she consider a blog of her own. Thanks for the inspiration, I’ll pass it on.
Thanks! Now that’s exciting to think I may inspire someone else. It’s a struggle to figure out who your audience is and of course, that’s directly linked to what you write about and your focus. Appreciate you reading and taking the time to comment. Wahoo!
“…the closest I’ve been to the sandwich generation was when I transitioned from bologna on Wonder bread, to smoked turkey with gouda on artisanal nine grain,”
Great writing, Pam, though you are a wee bit dangerous. You crack me up and make me snort my breakfast juice.
Keep em coming!
Keep on snorting, I say. Nothing wrong with that. So glad you enjoyed it this morning. Wahoo!
I ALWAYS read and sometimes share with Ger. We always appreciate your perspective!
Thanks, Sue. It really has been fun and I hope to keep supplying you with plenty of perspective. It’s killing me to not write about politics, but it’s a pledge I made when I birthed this thing. Thanks for ready and commenting. Wahoo!
Keep it up! I love reading your blog. Your insight, humor, and telling us like it is, is really refreshing given the time we are living. It is a breath of fresh air.
Thank you, Kathy. Some weeks, it’s a real stretch, to be sure. I appreciate the read and taking the time to comment. Wahoo!
Congratulations on hitting the 2-year mark! I discovered your blog half a year ago and it always brightens my day… like getting a postcard from a witty and nomadic friend. I enjoy your sense of humor and unique perspective and I look forward to reading about more of your life adventures.
Paula, thank you so much. I hope I can live up to your expectations! I really appreciate your visit and your comment. Wahoo!
You can count on my continuing to read your entertaining and thought-provoking posts! I shared the post about Ryan Lochte with my three adult sons and their wives, and got this feedback:
Reggie (Chris’ wife): Amen! I read it aloud to Nick (14) and Haley (11)!
Dean: I talked with Mia (12) about this, and left it on the table for Lyssa to read too. We actually used this info and Ryan Lochte’s example to help respond to a homework assignment from one of Mia’s writing teachers that asked “Describe how and why all behavior falls under the expected behavior rules for Evergreen Country Day School?”. Great article.
Clint: I need a Thai version of this for Danny….(age 10)
Your thoughts resonated with many parents!
Wow, Carol. This is really great feedback. Thank you so much for reading, sharing and taking the time to comment. Wahoo and now, time for a little dance.
You amuse me, you cause me to think, and although I still haven’t followed through as I would have liked, you inspire me. I was quite upset when I read that you had considered ending this blog, and quite relieved when I read that you would continue. Thanks, Pam.
Thanks Deb, and guess what? Your time will come. At times, it does feel like you’re on a nude beach and you’re the only one who read the sign – a little overexposed. If I can amuse you and make you think, then it’s a success, by all means. Thanks fr the read AND for taking the time to comment. Wahoo!
Congratulations on your two-year
mark. Please keep writing so we can all keep reading!
Thanks, Leslie. I’ll do my best. Appreciate not only the read, but taking the time to comment. Wahoo!
Pam, you have inspired me to learn how to blog and share my upcoming life change: retiring in Urla, Turkey. I hope you’ll check out my blog. I look forward to be able to read your insights on life.
Carol, that would be perfect! Most people I know need a bit of help getting theirs started, so I presume you’ll take care of that before you move. I can’t wait to follow you. Glad I can be of help… And thanks for the read and comment.
Oh Pam, what wonderful and well deserved responses. Congratulations! I read every blog, and will be more diligent in my responses. Bob and I both enjoy your writing, you are a very talented writer. We’re so glad you’re going to continue.
From a very proud sister.
Thanks, but I didn’t mean to shame people into commenting. It’s just that it makes me feel good when I know I’ve connected with people. I think I have to go back and change that! Glad you and Bob read and find occasional enjoyment.
I love to read your blogs but I am slowly doing so. Please keep on writing and congratulations!
Thank you, Sandra, and if you haven’t already, please subscribe! I’ll keep on writing as long as the material comes to me, which is much easier some weeks.