I get overwhelmed sometimes.
I get overwhelmed by the amount of things to be done around here. This is intensified by the fact that I am only home for 48 hours.
I get overwhelmed by the feelings that come when facing the sad, yet inevitable fact that my parents are fading quickly.
I get overwhelmed by all the things we need (and none of them are frivolous) and the fact that we, like so many others, are struggling financially.
I get overwhelmed by lack of sleep. Oh, for a good night’s sleep. And a better mattress. See above.
I get overwhelmed by the sadness and pain and loss so many are suffering. And by a climate in our country which seems to be void of compassion.
I get overwhelmed by blogging. Posting every day can be challenging. Is my content interesting enough? My stats (which I try not to pay too much attention to) are down. Commenting is down. But, in all honesty, I have been sadly lacking in commenting skills of late. You reap what you sow.
I get overwhelmed by competition in the blogging world and the pressure to post fresh content. Who has the neatest project? Who has the most followers? Who has been published? How many times have they been published? Who takes the prettiest pictures? When that happens, I need to pull away for a while.
I get overwhelmed by photos that are staged and pretty vignettes at every turn. They look beautiful, absolutely, and I have staged my fair share of photos. But I look around my house, which I love, and think: I simply cannot stage another vignette, nor do I have the space for one. My current vignettes: clutter on the kitchen table, two dogs on the carpet in the den, stuff everywhere that I don’t have time to deal with before I leave for Hartford this morning. I know everyone loves pretty pictures but I’m craving ‘real’ these days. I’m rather tired of everything else.
I get overwhelmed by the need to balance being with my family and working in a profession where work, when it finally comes, often takes me away from them.
I get overwhelmed by fear. On a big and small level. Let’s face it. Fear is fear and when it takes over, it’s hard to get it under control. But controlled it must be, because any decision based on fear is a bad one.
I get overwhelmed. But I know that my reactions to everything I’ve just mentioned are totally up to me. This is how I feel now. But a change in perspective, in attitude, can turn it all around. And there is so much I am thankful for.
Just felt the need to share what I’ve been feeling lately. I strive for honesty in life and in this blog.
Thanks for listening. I’m off to Hartford.
I am here for you sister any time. I feel like you do, just barely keeping my head above water with all the things going on. Mom and Dad are overwhelming that is for sure.
Love you and wish I could make it better,
Mere
It is what it is. Hang in there, Claudia.
S
xo
Thank you for sharing such an honest post, Claudia. It is not easy when parents are declining, both physically and mentally. My parents were in that situation for about 10 years. It is sad and difficult to go through – for them and for the child watching it happen and trying to be helpful to them and to be encouraging and cheerful. They are both gone now, and there are so many times I wish they could just be here, just stop in and spend the afternoon, just give me some good sound advice (like they always did). I will pray for you. Life is overwhelming at times.
You just summed up how I’ve been feeling as of late. No matter what I do, I feel like I should be doing something else, or I’m neglecting something else. I want to enjoy life, but for some reason I’m preventing myself from doing just that. The word “overwhelmed” has been coming out of my mouth a lot lately. Glad I’m not alone.
I so understand, Claudia. I am often overwhelmed with all that needs to be done-including staying connected with the blog world.
As women of this age we have always been told that we can do it all, have it all, be it all. Oh, if only it were that easy! I sometimes struggle just to do the day-to-day things I MUST do, let alone do the things I WANT to do. I thought when I got to be this age that it would be sooo much easier. I think I am busier now than ever before…and the body can’t quite keep up with what the mind longs to do.
I understand about your parents, too. I lost my father when I was 21 to Parkinsons…and helped tend him for about 10 years before he passed. My mother had dementia and came to live with us when I had 4 kids under the age of 8. That was hard on our family but it was what it was. I felt constantly overwhelmed. I can remember someone saying to me that when everything in your life gets you down to remember to look UP. I have clung to that for years…and tried to turn burdens over as they arose. Easy to say but not an easy thing to do, is it?
As far as blogging goes I think we need to remember that so much of what we see is just that- What We See…that the person behind that has made blogging a big part of their life- it is WHO they are and they are defined by what they can do…who they can be online…and real life is sometimes passing them by. We forget that there are warts that don’t show and stacks of laundry waiting to be done and toilets that need to be cleaned…REAL world things.
I am glad you voiced this here today because I think it is the way many of us feel on some level. The best part is that you have got it “out”..so maybe the inner angst will quiet a bit now…because you know that you are not alone-just about every one of us “gets it”. Blessings to you today, Claudia. I hope you have some peaceful days up in Hartford. xo Diana
You are very honest. Remember all of us are facing trials. I remind my children—problems are simply ‘bumps’ in the road. I look forward to reading your post. You are creative. Safe trip…my prayers are with you.
Carol
Life in general just feels overwhelming to me right now. Really tight finances seem to compound the problem for me. I feel like every time I turn around, something is breaking down that I can’t afford to fix right now, and that in turn leads to more stress. It feels like a never ending cycle for me right now.
Hi, Claudia!
I’m not a follower, but I love your blog, which is required reading for me every day. I agree with the things that Diana says. And I think we feel like, sometimes, part of the storyline of our life. I strongly believe in their ability to overcome this stage and see all the beauty that exists around us and within us.
Hugs from Brazil!
Zilda
Yes sometimes life is very overwhelming. Try to stay thinking positive, positive thoughts attracts positivity.
Hugs
Maria
Claudia, you are not alone in the feeling of being overwhelmed. I think it is a general feeling on most days. Is it because the country is doing so bad economically? Is it due to so many people at the end of their ropes? I know that my daughter and I are barely making it some months, but this is due to a divorcee after 33 yrs of marriage and never working outside the house, so no one is going to hire me now. We scrape by week after week and that gets very overwhelming. I have found that if I find one thing to be happy about, one blessing each day, it makes it better.
Be careful on your travels.
Hugs….
Claudia, I do not know if it is the time of year or what but I felt the same way when I got up this morning. I could have written this post. My husband was getting ready for his part-time job, which is not enough hours, our lives are adjusting to a new addition to our family, our new lovely dog Rufus who has joyfully come after the recent loss of our two other babies.
I look around my 2 acres and am amazed that there can be so much to do after the winter. Didn’t I clean all of the yard in the fall?
As for blogging, well I look at other blogs and think “They look so professional, is my nice at all”. I started my blog a year ago basically to try and drum up some business for my Etsy Shop. It did help some what but honestly not a lot. I kept blogging because I met people like you and Brenda and I realized that Blogging is not only for businesses and interests but it is truly a community. There are blogs for everyone and everything and that is what makes it interesting. I enjoy the professional blogs for decorating, food and life tips but I also really enjoy the real people blogs very much.
I post everyday, because of you and Brenda. I saw that you were posting everyday even if it was just a little blurb. I like that because it shows that you are part of a community. It is like saying “Hello” in the mornings. There is not enough friendliness in the world and it is nice to see that there still is online. Being quite new to blogging, I did not even know what it was a year ago, I have found happiness and comfort in the community I call “21st. Century PenPaling”. I like to think, no I know, that bloggers like us are there for each other for the good times and the bad. A kind word goes a long way.
The sun is coming, the birds are singing, and new life will be bursting out all over soon. Life is change and it can be hard but it is true “We do go on.” I have already faced the losses that you will face, I lost my grandparents, parents, and in-laws in my 40’s and it was very hard but the sun came up, the seasons changed and I carried on.
Allow yourself the blues once in a while but don’t ever think that the life you share with all of us is not appreciated because it is. I love hearing about the little things you and Don and the dogs do. As for readership being down, I think perhaps with the nicer weather people are not on their computers quite as often. I sometimes think no one is out there reading my blog but I still blissfully post everyday even if it is just for me.
Stay positive and enjoy your week.
hugs,
Sue
This is such an amazing shot of you dear……….Don must be busy taking lessons in portrait photography…..so we’ll forgive him for not noticing if the tulips were blooming, ha! ha!
Your scarf is beautiful, as all you and Mere make. Love the denim jacket – a classic which is always in style, and comfy I’m sure.
Overwhelmed…….a strange word and one we women seem to use often. I don’t think men grasp the concept of having just too much to do at any one time, and then worrying about it! They meander along just doing what they can when they can, the rest can wait with obsessing over it. Why oh why can’t we live that way too?
You’ve made a lot of sense in this post and much of it, especially regarding blogging, hits home. It has changed for me too but I’m not worrying about fewer comments (yes, I’m behind with mine too) while I’m away so much. Just plodding along with the travel posts which I hope some travelers, and armchair travelers too, enjoy reading, and because they are my ‘journal’ for my family, none of whom comment which sometimes hurts. Bob has already admitted he can’t keep all the places straight so reading the blog posts help him remember, and he enjoys them.
As for your dear parents – I always think of them when I think of you, knowing how hard this is for you. They are in my prayers.
Glad you had some time at home, hope this week goes well in Hartford. We love sharing your pics/thoughts of the ‘real’ world – let’s forget about staged vignettes (plenty of others covering that aspect of life), and just enjoy each real day. Saying that, I’m off to the garden again – throwing down fertilizer before the predicted rain arrives, playing in the dirt a bit………….need to replenish soil in the large pots ready for seeds, basil, morning glories and moonflowers etc., little chores that bring Summer beauty.
Hang in there Claudia dear………I’m thinking of you.
Hugs and more hugs, Mary X
You know what I love about you……that you are real and not afraid to talk about it. You share your heart.
As much as I look forward to your posts, you can take a day off here and there. Don’t let this overwhelm you. And, I would much rather read a post about “real” life than a tablescape.
I think you will feel better when you are home again. I wish we didn’t all have to work so hard to get buy. Our generation sure has been hit hard……my opinion, but everyone I know struggles that are close to my age.
I wish I could give you a (((((HUG)))) right now. Just know that I care.
AND, we need a new mattress so badly as well, hah.
ALSO, Goose really did say that about her lungs. She is hilarious. Everyone that meets her or knows her describes her as so funny.
Hey Claudia – I know it’s hard to write a blog every day (I can’t do it). I love blogging and I love reading your blog and Brenda’s and Sue from WickedFaerie. You girls have become my morning ritual. But I have to say that I prefer “real” blogs, not the totally staged professional ones that look like they have a staff working behind the scenes. Life isn’t like that and while pretty pictures are nice, real people are better.
Sounds like you’re struggling right now and I know how you feel. I’ve been struggling since November (mostly with my depression but some financial problems). I was saying the other day that if I lived in the States, I would have had to sell my house to pay the bills of all the DRs I’ve been to lately. Things are turning around and disability payments have kicked in (not that they are permanent or anything) but for now, things seem settled and spring is in the air. I’m getting out to work in the garden on the first nice day.
I know it’s hard having to work away from home. I hated that but you have a lovely home and lovely family to return to. Ride out the bad times and I’m sure things will turn around for you. Take care.
I am sorry you are so overwhelmed right now and it seems rightfully so in most cases, except where you compare your blog to others. I am about this >< close to dropping a lot of the "pretty" blogs that I picked up at last year's Where Bloggers Create party because I've discovered pretty gets tedious, whereas honesty and deep thoughts capture my attention a lot longer.
When I feel overwhelmed, I tell myself, “This too, shall pass”. It always does. Things will get better. Just remind yourself that you have “enough”. You have a lovely home, a happy marriage, food to eat, beauty to behold.
As for our country being devoid of compassion, I have to disagree. We are the most generous country in the world.
nancyr
You have been so very busy lately, hauling rocks, now working away from home and commuting long distance on weekends. Not to mention running an Etsy business and blogging, and family. Of course you are overwhelmed, who wouldn’t be! But you are an amazing woman, and who says you have to post every day? I feel the same way you do about blogs, there is always someone better, more creative, more professional photos, etc. But I went into blogging because it was fun and I wanted to join the community of other bloggers and express my creativity (limited as it may be). Many times I just don’t have anything to say and at those times I just back off for awhile. Eventually I get my enthusiasm back. Take a break if you need to, all things in cycles. Since you are working so much away from home, maybe you should give yourself some time off. Don’t worry, this will pass and you will feel better soon, I’ll bet when you are home again. Sometimes I get frustrated because I must go at a slower pace than I used to and cannot get things accomplished as quickly as I would like. I have family members who frequently let me down or have different values than me, and I can get myself quite upset about it, but I have to talk myself out of it. Keep your chin up – life is basically good, and even though we live in a fairly confusing and cruel world, there are many good people out there and much to be thankful for.
Dear Claudia! I’m so sorry and sad to read that you are in such a depressed and overwhelmed state! Dear girl! Please hang in there, will you.
There’s nothing you can do about your parents. We all have our destiny to walk towards and live through until the end comes. Accept this. Accept what’s going on with them because you can’t change it.
I know overwhelm, I’ve known horrible, delibitating depression and complete burnout of my body to the point that I could barely walk and talk. This happened in the 80s. When all this was happening, I had heart failure on top. I survived it all, Claudia! There are ways.
As the years went by, I discovered inner resources that enabled me to navigate through all the storms that I encountered. In my sufferings, I discovered the Lord. I don’t know what I would do without him. Because He is the only one who keeps me going on a daily basis. It’s a never ending battle, really.
And, now, I guess I’m considered old. I’m seventy. I want to do so many things on a daily basis but I can’t fly through my tasks anymore. I do a daily work out of about forty minutes a day and that helps my body remain strong and flexible. I find that maintaining my apartment has gotten more difficult and I’m fighting this. I’m trying to accept that I’m not as fast as I used to be.
I make long lists of things I want to do and when I’m writing the lists, I see myself flying through all the tasks as I used to. But when I start doing them, well, I’m not going so fast. Like washing my three small floors on my knees because I hate mops.
One amazing method and this is hard to believe is “to live in the moment”. This way, we don’t worry about the past or the future. In a realistic way, of course, keeping in mind what needs to be done. But, learning to live in the moment is a difficult thing to achieve. It takes a lot of practice but the greatest benefit is that it stops us from worrying and being overwhelmed.
I don’t have a blog and many people have told me I should have one. But, I know that I could not deal with that. Just writing comments sometimes overwhelms me and I often think of stopping. But then, I’m old, alone, and I think it’s good for me to communicate. Because I’m not well, I don’t go anywhere.
Don’t worry about your blog, Claudia. Don’t write when you don’t feel like it. It’s not the end of the world. Don’t worry if people don’t comment as much. Sometimes there are things going on in people’s lives that we don’t know about. Just be yourself. That’s what attracted me to your blog, really! You! Just be Claudia. Okay!
Did you notice that you get a great many, in depth comments when you post about something honest and serious? It doesn’t always feel necessary to comment on a pretty pic. You enjoy it and it may give you some inspiration, but that is all. A tutorial may get questions and thanks. Writing about a subject that makes people feel they are not alone in their thinking or gives comfort and encouragement, brings on the comments that are part of a real connection. You’re doing fine! ~ Maureen
We all feel the same as you at times or even a lot of the time. I will not let myself get overwhelmed about not blogging enough. I did this for me in the beginning and I can’t help what others think I should or should not do or how much I should do it. As for your parents, alot of us have been there too. I was the one who took care of them which gave me some peace of mind but at the same time a lot of sadness. I have a terrible habit of worrying about stuff that hasn’t even happened or may never happened. It is a quality that has been passed down through the family! When I catch myself doing it I try and repeat to myself “let go and let God”….it seems to help. I hope you take the time to just think about yourself for a little while and do something special. I think it will help rejuvenate you! Take care…Hugs, Patti
Oh Claudia…I’m sorry you are feeling overwhelmed right now…I think most of us can understand and identify with you. Life gets so busy sometimes and you get TIRED! For me, I try very hard not to put pressure on myself about blogging, I only blog when I want to share something, and if it is stressful, I back off for a while. It’s so hard with your parents…I am there, too. Do something you really enjoy, rest, eat well, exercise…take care of you, too! A BIG XO being sent your way!
A certain of stress (I think that is what you are talking about) is probably common to most of us but it ruins our days to allow it to take control. The two things that keeps it away from me is first and foremost, having God in my daily life and keeping an attitude of gratitude – dwelling on the good things and being grateful.
Betty
I get overwhelmed so easily too! Why do we women put so much pressure on ourselves? Who knows? We just do.
Blogging can be such a wonderful source for us though. It is therapy for me.
Thinking of you!
Kris
Thank you for writing so clearly about life at this moment. I echo so much of what you write. I made the decision to blog a bit less, read fewer posts, put more time in to the realities of my life. My stats are down, my comments are down and I decided that was ok. I know I am not commenting on each post that I read and I am not replying to comments I receive and that is just the way it is at this time. Good reality check today and I do thank you.
Joy
I have yet to meet a blogger who has not felt this way at some time or many times… It is why I leave my link to my post about it (fasten your seat belts) on my sidebar and I still get emails from girls reading it for the first time
I don’t give a flying fig anymore about that stuff and haven’t now for a couple years. I read every day those gals on my blog roll and then there are some I read once a week and some I catch up with once a month. Sometimes I comment frequently and sometimes rarely.
Living alone with a home to care for is even more daunting for me and my lack of income would shock you. I just turned down a new job opportunity yesterday that would force me to travel and work very long hours. ALthough I desperately need the money I know myself and know that that is not the life for me. At my age I can no longer handle that, so here I sit and even with all the circumstances I am content in this small life. I have lost three friends in less than a month and three more are fighting advanced cancer. I am content because I am still IN this life with my children.
When the sadness comes I fight it off as you do, and you will, and we carry on.
As for content, I don’t know about you but brilliant prose does not drip from my lips each time I open them so I don’t expect my writing to be perfect either :D and as another gal commented on pretty blogs… although I love the pretty blogs and many gals behind them are equally lovely..I love the blogs that share the guts
and gore now and then. If I don’t have a real relationship with the author, then my interest wanes..so
we’re all here, still reading, still enjoying..we just may be mowing or cleaning or at the vets or on the roof trimming trees…me..yesterday
this land of blog is not stagnant, it ebbs, it flows, it torrents at times….. we must ride the currents.
Happy Tuesday Claudia
I’m glad you shared your feelings, Claudia! That’s what attracted me to your blog in the first place–your “realness.” When you’re not getting enough sleep, things easily feel overwhelming. And your body doesn’t make enough serotonin in the night if you don’t get enough sleep. You can get depressed as a result. So sleep is my #1 priority. I start with good sleep and go from there.
You almost sound burnt out. When I start to feel an inkling of burnout, I slow down and start practicing extreme self-care: allowing enough time for sleep, taking a hot bath each night before bed, drinking lots of water, taking a walk EVERY day, eating in a way that results in feeling good, resting.
My husband has really helped me with having me write a list of everything I need to do, so I can get it out of my head and on paper. Then I prioritize and start working the list, knowing I can’t do it all now.
Noticing everything I’m grateful for and saying it out loud does wonders. A gratitude list each night before bed is fantastic too! Thanks for sharing. I felt complete overwhelm yesterday afternoon, but I wrote some lists, remembered I didn’t sleep well the night before, and thought, “This feeling is just right now. It will change.” And it did! :-)
Here’s a great post (including the comments) on burnout for crafty bloggers: http://www.craftypod.com/2012/04/11/on-creative-dry-spells/ I also really enjoyed this one on trying to do too much as a blogger: http://www.craftypod.com/2012/03/28/how-i-made-my-online-diet-healthier-in-march/ The comments are really great too! I think you’ll like them! :-) Jennifer
I think you’ve voiced what a lot of us are feeling.
Sometimes it seems we’re on a treadmill….running as fast as we can, and getting nowhere. So much to do, and so little time…and, money. It does get overwhelming, sometimes.
Hang in there.
So much of what you wrote could be written by so many of us…
It’s wonderfully refreshing to hear someone else say I am overwhelmed with trying to keep up, manage, decorate, and create.
We are looking after our aging parents also, and that is pretty scary at times. I see them going downhill, and I think, how can this be, I just got up here, and now they are going. It’s also heartbreaking.
And then there is the blogging, thank goodness for the blogging. But how do people manage to take amazing shots, create a new project everyday, and still read and comment on blogs. I am so glad that someone has finally said something about that.
I hope that your life gets to a more even keel, that things improve financially, and emotionally. Know that whenever you post we are there for you, and love what you write. No matter how many days in between.
Jen @ Muddy Boot Dreams
Claudia, it might seem weird to some because I know we are “on-line” friends, but I do feel as if we are good friends. I wish I was there because I could give you a hug and squeeze your hand. I hope knowing how much you are loved by so many brings you a smile and comfort.
I always, always, always think you are wonderful. And, I adore you just the way you are.♥
dear Claudia~You have such wonderful bloggy Friends who have written supportive comments!
I can only say a brief “Amen” to all the above.
Your ability to be “Real” is why I followed your blog in the first place. I love the fact that you have your Real natural hair, you have Real dogs, you show your Real home and Real projects and take your own Real photos.
I abandoned a little blog I began while caring for a grandchild (I taught myself during naptime). As my Real world took over my time, I realized this blog world is just overwhelming to someone like me, who lives with huge commitments and Real yard and garden demands. My parents are also in decline, and I’ve had to travel back and forth 300 miles every other week or so for the past year. It’s truly exhausting!
You will make the best decisions after knowing you have so much love and support for living your own Real true Life. Please remember, I am thrilled whenever I come to read a snippet of blogs on my reader. These Real people, whom I’ll never meet in this Life, but who I admire for their ability to share their everyday Real life with those of us who only wish we could say it as well as they.
I will always enjoy coming for a visit!
Blessings~
Look at the wonderful heartfelt comments you have received already. I staged and outdoor tablescpe last week and that really is not me and I know that(the roses blooming did get to me). I have lost nearly all of my family and I do hear what you are saying about your parents. It must be terribly hard for them to be in Florida. Please know I do stop by nearly every day even if I do not comment. We have a new puppy, Sheldon, after your pupil on Big Bang, and it is puppy madness here and I am sick too and need to go to bed. Big Hugs, Olive
I understand each and everything you have said Claudia. It is a testament to peoples level of compassion that so many have come by and commented. I am willing to bet you already feel better and are ready to face all those overwhelming issues head on. Hang in there friend. Ann
Don’t apologize for feeling overwhelmed, Claudia. I think it’s a natural response to being a sensitive human being, because for better or worse, life doesn’t parcel out our challenges one by one… rather, they all tend to come at us in heavy mind-numbing parcels, all at once. (At least it seems so to me, some days.) As for blogging, I think a blogger needs to decide “Who is this blog for?” If it’s for you, then *you* are the only person it has to please. I hope your weather today is as beautiful as it is here! I find that a walk outside always lifts my spirits when I feel overwhelmed. It doesn’t really solve anything, but it gives me a chance to exhale. Sending loving thoughts your way!
There are many of your followers that feel overwhelmed just as you have written. Thank you for sharing your worries with us. Take some time for youself. I love everything that you post because it is honest and heartfelt.
Claudia, I tto get overwhelmed, by so many things, and situations-lately…
And like you one of them is the blogging world, where I also have been “forsed” to go more easy,and not to be so many places -to comment and enjoy, every day!- I had to tell myself that blogging should be only fun-and not a stressful thing in life.Hugs,Dorthe
Claudia-
It speaks to me that you took the time to write this post and publish it. That shows so much commitment; even when faced with overwhelming tasks. Take each moment as they come– and count your blessings!
I don’t mind one bit reading posts like this, because it shows me your human side, not just your bloggy side.
We are NOT our blogs– as women we have lives, elderly parents, responsibilities…
When I am overwhelmed with these- I remember the scripture
CAST ALL YOUR CARES UPON HIM; FOR HE CARES FOR YOU.
1 Peter 5: 7
Peace and Grace- Pat
hello claudia, so sorry to hear that you are feeling overwhelmed. i know that feeling well. i too get overwhelmed with all the sadness in the world. last night we watched the movie “a better life” and was blown away. i highly suggest it if you need to feel grateful. it totally worked on me. much love, janet
I can certainly understand why you are overwhelmed. Life gets to be more than we can bear sometimes. It’s at those times, we just need to pause and reflect and checkout for little while. Take care of yourself. It’s hard to do when sometimes. When my parents were so sick it was hard to just keep my head above water. Some days even now it is hard to just put one foot in front of the other and I have to literally do just that-one foot at a time. I have been out of work for almost a year-just too stressed after my parents died to do anything. I needed that rest, but financially I am drowning. It’s hard.
About blogging. I too look at everyone’s post that are so beautiful and think…will I ever get there where YOU are??? But I have to remember that blogging is for me-a way of expressing my feelings. I think we just have to be where we are-and be real. I appreciate that you are real!
My dear Claudia. Feeling overwhelmed just lets you know you are human. We all worry, fear, & compare. Your blog is lovely, I wish mine was this nice, interesting, or had a 9th of the followers you have, so you can stop the compare part. The worry you have for your parents is the world’s cruel way of repaying us for all the worrying they did for us. Unfortunately it makes us sad to see them this way when they were our rocks for so long. My prayers go out to you for that. You’re right about fear…It must be put under. Work is a crazy thing…We love it, we hate it, we need it, never steady, & it’s never convient. What gets me through is the knowing that it’s only a means to the end that we desire. Remember that overwhelmed is another word for dissatisfied, & when we’re dissatisfied change is near &/or needed.
Thank you Claudia for your honest, heartfelt post. I can so fully relate to your sense of being overwhelmed. I feel this on a regular basis and, although I don’t seem to be able to avoid becoming overwhelmed, I have found solace. My peace comes from seeking things that remind me of a simplier time . . . old trees, timeless rivers, farmsites, etc. I often page through my little collection of 1920-40 magazines just to become more aware of the rhythm of peoples’ daily lives in previous generations. I become aware that I am only one “thread” in a tapestry of humanity. Seeing a “bigger picture,” somehow helps me to put my struggles into prespective. Thank you so much for your honesty, Claudia. I enjoy your posts.
Claudia, I have been where you are. I left blogging for months after dad died. I desperately needed a break. Take what you need. Don’t feel the need to post every day. Back when I was on my “break from blogging” you used to have a “real photos” post once a week. I’d for sure join in that now that I’m back to blogging a couple of times a week because to be honest, I lead a very small, dull life in suburbia. I don’t buy anything except things for the Etsy shop, I don’t have any projects on the horizon (other than our long overdue 80’s bedroom, and God knows how long that will take to complete)…
And as for the pain and grief you are feeling at what lies ahead, I am here to tell you that as hard as it seems to believe, it will pass. I will never get over losing my dad, not ever, (or my mom in 1996), but immense grief does eventually give way to acceptance and then to happy memories.
But d be good to yourself. Take a blogging break if you need to. We will all be here when you feel more up to it. Thinking of you and praying for you… Donna
Sharing makes the rest of us facing some of the same things, that we are not alone. Thanks for you honesty and openess. Life you may want to be a pretty stage vignette..but in reality it isn’t.
{{{ Claudia }}}
We are all in much the same boat. I enjoy what you write and look forward to reading everyday. None of us have lives that are interesting all the time.We all strive to put something of value here for folks to read. Several times I have come back to my computer to delete a negative post…thinking…people won’t want to read that rubbish.They have enough trouble in their own lives without reading about mine.
I have noticed that some people only post closeups of their flowers. I always wonder…”What does the whole garden look like? Where are these flowers in relation to their house? Where are their weeds?”
I guess we all hide behind pretty pictures, but once in a while honesty peeks out and those are the jewels.
I do hope that you don’t get discouraged about blogging. You would be missed.
Balisha
I am not a blogger so I had no idea that it could be something competitive. Shew, that sucks. I read your blog every day. I like it. It’s funny, you love your dogs, you cry over trees and you have turquoise pottery in your header. Is there another blog that could do all those things for me? :)
Being overwhelmed should be a temporary thing. Worry can go and on. When I lost my job all I did was worry. Then I realized that if I lost my house I had friends who would help me. I had my dogs, we could live in the car and my friends would feed me. When I took it to the worst case scenario of whatever I was worrying about and I realized I would survive. Then I started letting go of some stuff and thinking more of what I enjoyed that cost no money.
Blog when you want to share with us. WE love it!
Claudia this is so refreshing to read what you write from your heart. I have so often felt all of what you have written…being overwhelmed! For me it is all about being true to myself. I cannot keep up with anyone else so that taken off the list really helps me. Of course I would like to do more, be more, make more, etcetera. Unfortunately life is unique for each of us and our journey is our own. Safe travels and please be Claudia…
I hear you. My mother is in a nursing home. My father died unexpectedly a few years ago. I’ve been unemployed a year–only 2 job interviews. I have health issues, too little energy and too much I’d like to do. Hang in there.
Four years ago today I lost my mother and three years befo that, my father. I had cared for both of them. It is extremely hard and life sucking! But , in the end I know that I had shown my daughters( now grown) how to do it. I have shown them how to live and I have now shown them how to let those we love die. What more can you give of yourself than that?
I will pray for you. Hang in there!
I bottle things up until something small goes wrong and then I lose it. One thing I do that de-stresses me is I take a long long shower and cry cry cry…advantage?.. no one to interupt you, no puffy eyes and the sadness gets washed away. I hope you feel better Claudia.
Blessings, Joanne
You are right on so many counts! You have a lovely blog! I am a novice blogger and look at my stats a lot! I do compare myself and my blog to others. It is hard not to. I struggle to be happy with my little blog, but deep down I am proud of it!
Hang in there! The sun is shining!
chris
I wish that I were more eloquent and could echo the many uplifting words that others have shared with you. Sometimes it helps to know that others are dealing with overwhelming events and that you are not alone in struggling. I thank God every day for love of family and good friends, and for His grace and loving care which is Always there.
Don’t worry about popularity, numbers, etc. Those of us who enjoy checking in with you send thanks for your efforts!
I really enjoy your blog. It’s one that I read in the morning as I have my cup of tea. I think you have a very interesting life, and I so enjoy reading your words and seeing your photos. You are a very wise woman, and I know you know better than to compare yourself to anyone else.
Great post Claudia – I´m so with you. There´s really nothing I can say that haven´t already been said in the comment above. I so agree with Z about the honesty and about sharing the guts – that´s why I love reading your blog (and hers). I wish I was able to do the same – (still fighting with the languase).
Wishing you a beautiful day
xo
Claudia is has been a while since I visited. Life does get busy. Just know we are all thinking about you. You seem like a strong gal and you be able to handle what comes your way. Hugs Bunny
Claudia, my friend, were you reading my mind. I was just thinking many of the same thoughts. Life seems to be very overwhelming at the moment. Sometimes, I think we just have to take a step back and breathe. None of us are perfect and I love seeing the real you. I too, get tired of so many perfectly staged photos all the time. I am a real, ME, and my blog is about that. Keep doing what you do best. We love you for that.
Hugs,
Laura
I love you for your honesty and for making me think and keeping from letting my depression take over…..blogging has been such a struggle and I know I’ve lost many readers.. yes I know I can’t post anymore about what’s really going on in my life, who would want to read it? I read your posts and find comfort in the fact that you keep it real….. this is life and you always face it with that winning smile!
thanks,
Mags
xxx
I follow your blog and very much enjoy “everything” you write about. Stay real..that’s what it’s all about. Wishing you a wonderful week filled with sunshine.
Claudia,
I too have felt overwhelmed by many of the things that you mentioned. I took a 2 week blogging vacation. I’m on the computer all day at work and then come home and don’t want to be on the computer again after work. My perception was very distorted and I began beating myself up. It was terrible the way I spoke to myself.
Just keep being you. It doesn’t matter whether you post a sentence or two or if you take a day or a couple weeks off. We’ll still be here for you.
We LOVE YOU just the way you are. I love your honesty, your humor, your compassion and your writing. You take really great photos too! Oh, creativity? Wow! You blow me away with some of the things you come up with!
I love hearing about your life because I can relate to so many things that you talk about. I love the way you stay TRUE to you. You are a beautiful woman and you inspire me Claudia. You are a woman with integrity!
It’s heartbreaking to hear about your mom and it’s difficult to watch our pets get old, but like you said it’s cathartic to write about it. Your plate is pretty full these days so maybe a little break is in order. We’ll still visit your blog so don’t worry about the clicks because you have lots of interesting content to read through.
Sending you BIG ((((cyber))))hugs!
~Sandy
Claudia I am so sorry that you are feeling overwhelmed. Please know that you are not alone in these feelings. Don’t think you have to compete either with all the cutesy photos, etc. that so many blogs post everyday. As others have stated I appreciate your honesty. That’s what friends are all about…sharing what is on our hearts and minds.Just put your faith and trust in Him and He will carry you when you are sleep deprived and when you think you can’t go on.
Sending you a big hug,
Kathy
Claudia – I love that picture of you. .. and.. I try never to think of my blog as anything that is competing with anyone else’s.. it’s a journal of sorts for myself… something for my family to enjoy.. and the fact that others join in and we’ve made a little community is icing on the cake! You don’t have to post every day, it doesn’t have to be interesting to anyone but YOU. Who cares how many comments there are.. sure, it’s nice to get feedback and “talk” to each other.. but when it becomes a chore or a challenge or a numbers game, it ain’t what it was supposed to be. I place for you to create, unwind, listen and be heard. Atleast that’s my view.
Better days ahead…
Yes. I know. I am here for you. Always.
Brenda
How can they not notice? Must be a man thing.
Brenda
Hi C.! I just came by and read your last few posts. I hadn’t seen this one yet. I hope you know what a solace you are to your followers. I come from the shallow end of the blogging pool. When I get overwhelmed I like to put together a vignette and make pretty pictures! But I know many, many come to MHC for just the kind of sharing you do. I think everyone’s stats are down. Blogging is not a fair weather sport. Everyone is in the garden where they should be. Or at the end of semester, etc. Doing real life, like you. But I admire the class with which you keep going on.
I enjoy your blog immensely. Keep blogging, please. Hugs, Deb
Everything has to be balanced: give and be given, output and intake, creativity and inspiration, work and rest; for the body, the soul and the mind.
And the last of my thoughts (as I am a perfectionist): Good is good enough! Just relax.
I wish you a wonderful weekend
I hear you, sister! I just skipped over your 65 comments to this post because I do not have time to read then. How sad. How very sad.
I love your blog. I just found it recently. Keep posting, because there are a lot of people reading you!
I hear you, sister! I just skipped over your 65 comments to this post because I do not have time to read then. How sad. How very sad.
I love your blog. I just found it recently. Keep posting, because there are a lot of people reading you!
I just got back from helping my sister for three weeks. She had surgery on her shoulder that went very well. So I would have answered this on the day you wrote it, but I wasn’t home and my sister doesn’t do internet. She’s almost 70.
I love your blog and read it every day. I love your photos and written content. Hope you read this. I would miss you very much if you stopped posting. I understand being overwhelmed and it is never easy, but this will pass. You and your family are in my prayers.