So, I've had this post title saved for a couple months. Evolution, though, was meant to be about the evolution of design in our home. I have "finished for now" updates of our bedrooms but wanted to emphasize that they're never really "done," merely, evolving.
Well, there sat the title waiting for the words and pictures and slowly I noticed my published post count inching nearer 500. Finally it was clear that Evolution was meant for this, my fiiiiiiiive huuuuuuuuuundreth post! I was surely not always certain this blog would go on this long, and to average more than 100 posts a year has really delighted me.
As I contemplated this post and the history of this blog, lots of wonderful things hit home. It all started with Ben and a BBQ and a way to keep faraway family and friends in touch with our day to day lives. As we were blessed to move back home and close to lots of those in our initially intended audience, the blog evolved into my gift for Ben and our family. I can't imagine how delightful it would be to have a history like this of the early days of my own life and I sincerely hope Ben appreciates it someday.
Now, and slowly, it's become clear that the biggest gift of this blog isn't to Ben or our family but to ME!!! In the hours of writing and picture organizing and yes, at times, dreaded life-capturing, I've given myself THE MOST AMAZING GIFT.
Motherhood is no doubt my passion and calling and now I have this beautiful documentation of my life's greatest and most extraordinary adventure. I know Ryan appreciates our blog and I know one day Ben will too, but if no one ever reads another post, the blog will continue just for me. Realizing that makes me look so forward to the next 500 posts and the grand changes and adventures they will capture.
All that said, if you're a long-time and always reader, or a pop-in once in a while and take-a-peeker, I appreciate you and am so glad you're along on this beautiful journey. XOXO! -Jess
Aww! Motherhood is definitely your calling and I love you for it. I also love the blog. Xox
ReplyDelete500 posts! WOW! I'm happy/impressed that you've kept up with your blog for years now. I love keeping in touch with you this way, and watching Ben grow. I don't know him well in "real" life, having only met him when he was a little baby (at the BBQ!) but I feel like I know him, thanks to your blogging!
ReplyDeleteMy cousin turns her blog into a book each year- what a great keepsake! Even if it's just sharing everyday details of life, I'm sure Ben, and especially you, will be happy to have this documentation many years from now. :)
You are right about this being such a special gift to your baby boy, Ryan, AND you. But, it is a gift to the rest of us as well. I love your clever and love-filled posts and delight in watching Ben grow up through the screen when the miles sadly keep us apart. Keep up the great work and Meaghan ^^^ is right about both of us needing to get these blogs printed!
ReplyDeleteI love how I get to feel like a close friend to your family through this! Thanks for giving us a peek into your life + family! Here's to the next 500 + all the precious memories it will hold.
ReplyDelete(Also, PLEASE fill me in on how to print our blogs?!)
Seriously, 500?!?! Way to go, Jess. This is a beautiful way to capture the strong woman, mother, wife, daughter, sister, Aunt Jess and friend that you are. I am very proud of you. Many people, me included, wish they had the passion for writing and capturing and doing what you do!
ReplyDeleteYour right it is a wonderful gift, enjoy it now and forever.