Whenever I go to blogs that were well kept up for a time and then suddenly stop I can't help but wonder what happened. Did they get tired of blogging? Did something happen to the blogger? So I decided even though it's been a while and I'm unsure of the future of the blog or the direction things in my life will go from here I would post and share what's gone on this winter as much as possible.
The goats...my goats, are gone. The pigs are gone. No gardens are planted or planned. And I am sad. I loved the homestead and this life in general and I miss it. This winter brought both health concerns and family concerns that left me feeling the only realistic thing to do was to find homes for as many animals as possible and stay flexible with as much of the rest as I could. Letting go of it all is and has been an ongoing process. It's been depressing and the sense of loss at times has been overwhelming. I have no idea what tomorrow will bring.
Having said all that, spring is here. The leaves are emerging and bulbs are in bloom. And with all that sunshine and new growth I find my mind wandering around the edges of possibility. I am already finding myself trying to think up a way to keep or get back some of what I lost these past months. At this point I would be happy with a small vegetable garden. Certainly animals are not a possibility this year but perhaps next year I can start over with that too. Perhaps not, but for today even the hope of it eases the loss.
I had considered ending the blog when things started coming undone but didn't and now I've have decided not to. Hopefully I'll have things to add every now and then even if I don't have enough going on to post like I did last year. And a very heartfelt thanks to the folks that have emailed to check on me or let me know you've missed me or the posts or both. It's meant a lot.
Hoping your all having a wonderful and productive spring.
Elizabeth
Elizabeth, Happy to see you back and that you are planning on keeping the blog going. I wish you the best this Spring and if I can help you out just drop me a quick note.
ReplyDeleteI love my goats so much so I can only imagine how you feel without them, I will keep you in my prayers.
I'm so sorry for your sadness - and the things that have changed in your life to make you sad. I hope that you will find your footing again quickly and that animals, gardens and many flowers will be making you smile soon.
ReplyDeleteWhat stood out to me the most in this post, aside from the loss you share, is the amount of hope you still have. I love this. I'm rooting for you.
Elizabeth, I'm so sorry it's been such a difficult winter for you. I can only imagine how heartsick you must feel without your wonderful animals and garden. Health and family however are most important. After my own health scare a couple of years ago, I know how quickly health concerns can turn life on its head. I hope you can take comfort in what you have, and not what has been lost, and look forward once again to rebuilding your homestead. Start small, take small steps, and we'll be here cheering you on. Wishing you and your family health and happiness. -Clare
ReplyDeleteOh Elizabeth, I'd wondered what happened. I'm so sorry life has been difficult for you. Sounds like you made wise decisions for your circumstances and I'm glad you're keeping up the blog. It may be an encouragement to others who've had to make drastic changes in their lives. And, it will be exciting as you adapt and grow through it all.
ReplyDeleteElizabeth, I just found your blog. I am going to become a follower in the hope I can encourage you...after what seems to have been a bad time in your life. From experience I can tell you that 'this too will pass'...it always does...eventually. :-)
ReplyDeleteElizabeth, I'm glad you let us know what happened. You are brave to share the raw emotion that I feel just thinking about being in your shoes. I don't even know where you live, but if you are in the Triangle area of NC, come over any time to my homestead and nozzle on some goats or listen to the chickens. (Don't have pigs, tho, sorry). When God closes a door, He opens a window.
ReplyDeleteOh I just found your blog today. I'm sorry you've had to let go of a dream. I too had to let go of a dream within the last few years due to illness. I'm still ill but I have new dreams and I'm sure you will too. Hugs. xx
ReplyDeleteOh I forgot to say, that just this week I've been thinking a lot of about the topic you mentioned; bloggers who suddenly stop blogging. I have a friend in Australia (a blogging friend) and I can't get a response and no blogs have been updated for many months. I have another one in the mid-west. It does make me wonder if they are okay or what. Since I no longer "see" or hear from them, I've had to let them go and trust that all things work together for good. I'm glad you had an ability to update your blogging followers about where you are at. You know even if you life has changed, you can carry on blogging about other things. Take care.
ReplyDeleteFound your blog today September 18, 2011. I loved reading every word! God bless you and I pray that you recover quickly. Thank you for sharing your heart. Judi in Portland, Oregon.
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