After talking myself out of it for so many years, I finally decided that now was the time to start a blog. I have a lot of worries about what I don't want my blog to be...or become. I've seen my share of narcissistic ramblings that never fail to trigger goosebumps for me. How do you manage a blog without it becoming too self-centered? I'm reminded of a warning from St. Therese of Lisieux to never write about yourself. She did so only under obedience and with great reluctance. So, praying for the grace of humility from the Little Flower seems like a great place to start!
A blog is a great departure from the norm for me. I've kept journals religiously since I was 10....the pen and paper type, starting with memo pads, then hoarding the college ruled notebooks I was supposed to be using for my schoolwork, to pour my heart and soul into the pages. (Being homeschooled as an introverted teenager, with no sisters to vent to, led to some very dramatic, angst-filled entries.) Later I upgraded to actual bound journals. Very few were permitted a glimpse into them and then only grudgingly. If you have caused me any sort of drama at any point in my life, you most likely would find yourself in them. They've served as my confidante and therapist. Therefore, I need to keep in mind that this blog is not my journal, and keep the juicy stuff for the bound pages. At least most of it. How many bloggers have to stop and erase half a paragraph because they realize they're talking to themselves? I'm tired enough to start doing that!
The Space Between This and That describes how I've felt in most seasons of my life. It could be alternately titled "Not Quite There Yet". It's a common human plight to never be satisfied with exactly where we are in life, and most strive to reach certain goals or ideals for themselves. In high school I was stuck between my studies and dreams of what I wanted my life to be when I graduated. Currently I am in many spaces between, most obviously the space between the baby years and the years when my children will be grown, renting a house in town and buying our place in the country (still hunting!), and the space between skinny and fat. (Despite recently losing 33 lbs., most people would testify that I run much more to the chubby side of that space. Oh yes, there is also a special journal for that!) The Space Between is also a nod to Dave Matthews, of whom I am an avid fan. I am very passionate about certain things in my life, and in this Space I hope to chronicle those passions: homeschooling my four boys as a stay-at-home mom, living our Catholic Faith, crafting things, decorating my home, books I love (or hate), thrifting, and food. Welcome to my Space Between!
