It’s funny how life seems to be clamping down on us tight.

And what, with me going back to my blog after what seems like a very long time. Wait it is a long time. Though it didn’t feel like it. Still, a break that lasts longer than a Sunday afternoon. Writing used to be easy for me, and it was a strong line that ran through my whole life. In fact this was going to be my first post when I came back but it just seemed wrong somehow.

I remember how excited I was when I started this blog, which was a personal success that made me feel like I could not stop smiling. At that very moment, I felt like I was letting everyone see my soul.

But then, as if on cue, life stepped in. Our responsibilities sneak up on us and take precedence over everything else. Like fall leaves, my tasks piled up, and each one begged for my attention until the daily grind took it all away. Those times spent building words were quickly replaced by due dates, chores, and a never-ending list of “to-dos.”

In this case, though, reflection is very important. I learned something very important about myself: writing is not just a hobby for me; it’s a part of who I am. There would be no blog, no safe place for my ideas to run wild. Making relationships with people who may be going through similar things helps me process events and feelings.

With my fingers poised above the keyboard, I feel a flood of memories that will never go away. The nice smell of new ink makes me think of writing notes with my grandma next to me in the afternoons. Her words of wisdom echoed through the years as she told stories with both grit and grace. Her dedication to housework was a reflection of how carefully she lived her life; her use of natural cleaning products made from simple ingredients is still a lesson in how to live a simple life.

When we come back here, we feel responsible because it’s a place where we can talk about the things that really interest us, like history, architecture, and the future of our world. All of them are closely connected through stories, which are the threads that connect our wants and personalities! Everyone has a story to tell, so let’s use this group power to get each other interested in things again.

So, let’s go back together! In this fast-paced world, let’s think about how we can find balance between our responsibilities and our creative selves. How can we find time to express ourselves when our lives are so busy and our computers are typing away? What does it mean to rediscover your interest after a breakup?

In the next few weeks (hopefully without another long break), I want to share both personal stories and thoughts on these bigger ideas. We’ll be looking at what drives us and what stops us. Together, let’s value every moment we spend writing as a way to grow as people.

I’m glad you’re here with me again on this way back home—to the page calling each of us!