I have a confession to make: I'm not really sure what I'm doing here. I try to show up here four days a week a deliver you interesting and entertaining posts about food, art, and interior design. The truth is I don't really feel that this blog has found its direction or unique voice. Because of my overwhelming feelings of inadequacy I am always shocked and uplifted by the days when I log into blogger and see that there is a new follower. It's amazing to me that someone other than my mother can look past my run on sentences and other egregious grammar mistakes and still enjoy what I'm trying to do here. You all really make me smile and to thank you I will continue to work on becoming a better blogger.
I'm currently taking the Blogging Your Way e-course taught by Holly Becker from Decor8. I'm excited to spend this time developing my own voice and learning how to create a fun and welcoming community here for everyone to enjoy. I'm also working hard at improving my writing skills. It turns out that I don't remember some of the most basic rules of sentence structure. Thanks to a recommendation from a new friend who is a wonderful writer I picked up a copy of "The Elements of Style" by William Strunk, Jr. This book is a total life saver and I highly recommend it. I finally know where commas do and do not belong. I haven't had to too much time to devote to the book but I already know Mr. Strunk would think that I use way too many words. I'm working on it.
I'll wrap up this little guts spilling session and leave you with this gorgeous photograph to admire. For those who celebreate, Have a wonderful Easter and Passover.
-Michelle
I know exactly how you feel. I write one blog for a company, and that has its direction that I formulated years ago, but my personal blog is all over the place. I thought it would find a focus over time, but it just hasn't - I can't decide where to take it!
ReplyDeleteI'm so jealous you are in Holly's class. I missed the boat on that one!
becky
I'll confess, I feel exactly the same way most of the time too! I find so many gorgeous blogs that are already doing what I'm trying to do, but in the end I just like having my own resource with my own style and my own bizarre ramblings.
ReplyDeleteI'm sure you'll get so much out of Holly's course though and I can't wait to see what comes out of it for you! (I'm still cursing the pesky Australian dollar for keeping the course out of my reach!)
You must treat yourself to the Maira Kalman Illustrated "The Elements of Style." It's marvelous.
ReplyDeleteyour blog is beautiful. I think you should keep it up. :)
ReplyDeleteI completely agree with you. I feel the same way all the time. Sometimes I consider quitting my blog, but it's such a good outlet for me. But having the love and acceptance of our peers is always a good thing. I love what you're doing here. Keep it up!
ReplyDeleteOdd because I was having the same thoughts this weekend. I was actually contemplating quitting mine altogether. Not because of the writing... but more because of the focus and that perhaps I have nothing to contribute that isn't already out there. That, and maybe I could be doing something else with my time. Something 'real'???
ReplyDeleteBut I love your blog and I would miss it. Truly.
Michelle,
ReplyDeleteIts funny you should write this because when I saw you in forum of the Blogging your Way ecourse I was surprised. "What is she doing here? She has a very successful blog". I came across Design Evolution a few months ago and have been a fan. But its interesting to me that "you" are feeling these things too. I was very discouraged last week. Feeling like I didn't know where my place was in the world of blogging or art/design. I think its interesting too that Holly mentioned that we find ourselves in a new dilemma today than she did three years ago-- with sooo many design blogs saturating the internet. And now we are faced with the with coming up with , what's next. I think many many more people have blogs than ever did a couple of years ago. I too am struggling with how to stand out and find new content. It was brave of you to share your feelings on your blog. I haven't even told many people that I am in the class. But I know only good will come out of it.
Thanks again. And I believe in you. and in your efforts to find your true self.
I think many people feel like that sometimes, and it's always nice to hear a confession like that! Your blog is so cute though. I'm adding it to my bloglines now ;) -- another of Holly's students!
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