Over the past few weeks I’ve found myself walking down memory lane, all thanks to Facebook’s gentle reminders. One year ago I celebrated my dear mother’s birthday with her and sang the same lullaby my siblings and I grew up with. Reading my own words about that moment made me cry, and it left me wanting to run upstairs and hug her neck right now.
These reminders also pulled up memories of a dream-come-true trip to Hawaii from a few years back. Apart from one passport scare that I caused myself, those days were pure sweetness and adventure—sun, sand, new experiences, and a chance to breathe and reset.
As I continued to browse old posts, I laughed out loud remembering the night we impulsively tore out kitchen cupboards and kicked our renovation into high gear. That DIY momentum led to one of our favorite home transformations, and the memory of it still makes me smile.
Other posts reminded me of a month-long series about cooking for a crowd that left my feet aching just reading it—and also reminded me that I should get back to the exercise class I paid for. I’d signed up for fifteen sessions and somehow only used one. Clearly, my motivation for regular workouts still needs work, but the memories of coming together with friends for food and activity are encouraging.
That butter chicken dinner we made for a large group is still a favorite of my husband’s, and it’s one of those recipes that brings people together around the table. Those kinds of posts—about food, home, and family—are the heartbeat of this blog and remind me why I started writing in the first place.
Spending time with my old posts led me to some honest reflection about the blog itself. I’ve been blogging for many years, pouring time into learning, designing, writing, and refining. Meanwhile, I’ve watched other bloggers grow rapidly and attract big audiences, sometimes offering bold promises—things like how to earn large incomes quickly. That can be discouraging, and I found myself asking some hard questions: What is the true purpose of this blog? Who am I writing for? Why am I writing at all?
Those were tough questions, and for a while I felt stuck. I didn’t want to quit, but I wasn’t sure what the next step should be. After much thought I decided to seek professional help. I reached out to two Christian designers who specialize in blog design and in helping creatives clarify and pursue God-sized dreams. I won’t go into details yet, but I plan to share more about that process in time.
After only two short, focused conversations I walked away feeling renewed energy—and a little terrified, in a good way. They gave me a packet of homework that pushes deep and asks foundational questions about mission, audience, and content. Some of the exercises make my head hurt, but they’re helpful and necessary. This clarity work—focusing on why I create, whom I serve, and how I want to show up online—already feels like progress.
If you’re wrestling with something right now—whether it’s a project, a relationship, or a creative pursuit—you might consider calling in help too. Sometimes an outside perspective, a coach, or a trusted friend can illuminate blind spots and offer encouragement that lightens the load. Sharing the struggle often makes it easier to carry and can even open the door to new friendships and collaborations.
For me, revisiting old posts turned into a productive season of reflection and decision-making. I’m rediscovering the heart of this blog—family, home, simple creativity, and honest faith—and I’m excited to see how that clarity will shape future posts, design choices, and the community I hope to build. If any of this resonates with you, take a moment to reflect on what matters most in your work or life, and consider reaching out for help when you need it. It might be the best step you take.
