Anyway, several weeks ago there was an amazing thing that happened. A number of bloggers opened up and poured their hearts out. Some even admitted that the pressure’s getting ridiculously high. Until reading all these posts, I thought I was alone in feeling that way. So here I am, joining in. I’m going to be brutally honest and tell you all that I’ve been holding back for the last few months.
When I started blogging, everything felt very community oriented. I was enjoying my new project/blog and loved making connections with others from all over. Then things seemed to change. Suddenly it seemed like everybody felt the need to have gorgeous photos and ridiculously styled events. I know I’ve fallen into that trap myself too many times. You know what I really learned from planning all those parties last year? Making every party styled to the hilt is completely unrealistic - yes, even the ones that claim to be for $100 or less. (Side rant: Those “parties” really irk me. Seriously? It’s only $100 or less if you already have on hand a fantastic stash of coordinating items like platters, boxes, fabric, and linens. Oh yeah...and typically if you plan on only shoving sugar into your children’s gullets!)
I love a pretty picture as much as anyone else, but the husband and I are still trying to recover financially from that little experiment of mine last year. (not that we’re struggling financially...we’re lucky enough that we’re not, but it got way too expensive too easily) The pressure to be everywhere all at once and always attempting to produce unique content often left me feeling inadequate. What I want most from this blog is to be a place where people can feel inspired without feeling overwhelmed. And I don’t think that’s where a lot of design and party blogs are really going.
So there’s my party/design rant. That’s why you haven’t seen much DIY from me lately. I’m calling it quits on trying to outdo myself all the time. I’m taking my life back and enjoying my family. I’ll still try to make my parties look as good as I can-but within reasonable budget and time constraints. No more missing out on life’s moments in order to put together a party. My designs from now on (party, home, whatever) will reflect what they really are - parties and designs for the average family.
On a more personal note, I’m having a hard time keeping up with blogging and social networking in general right now. I’m hardly on my computer or phone more than 15 or 20 minutes each day...and that’s usually to check the forecast, look up vendors for the parties, or to quickly scan Facebook & Twitter updates. The toddler is trying to be sweet, but is a major handful these days seeking attention...and if the baby isn’t asleep or eating; she’s usually crying. The only thing that keeps her calm is being in the sling - which isn’t totally hands free. So I'm doing most things-including typing this post-one handed. And that takes at least twice as long. It’s awful writing such negative thoughts. Don’t get me wrong; I’m thrilled to have both my girls; I’m just so tired trying to do everything for both kids and the Husband. There aren’t nearly enough hours in the day to get everything done.
So there you have it...things I’ve been afraid to tell not only you, but my family as well. Is there anything that you’ve been afraid to share with your readers?
