How Has Blogging Affected Me?

My friend Mary at NotBefore7 tagged me to write about how blogging has affected me. Thanks for making my brain think Mary - I need that every now and then. So here is what I came up with:

1) Understanding my abilities - I've always enjoyed writing but never really knew if I the skills to write stories that people would enjoy reading. I've received lots of great feedback which has encouraged me to keep this blog update and interesting. I started this blog simply to keep track of the little things in life that I would have forgotten a week, months, or even years down the road but it has turned into much more than that. It helps keep my distant family and friends updated on our daily lives and provides a much needed avenue for me to escape from the world of mommyhood for a few minutes and focus on my writing. (which leads into my second point)

2) Encouraging me to reflect - Blogging has allowed me to take a few minutes a few times a week and reflect on a days (or weeks) events. While I don't usually pour my heart out on here, I do stop to think about things that have happened to me or the kids. It make me greater appreciate what a wonderful life and family I have!

3) Aiding in the ability to communicate - Not having to relay every little story to everyone I know (especially those that really don't want to hear about it!). I love the fact that if someone is interested in our lives, they can CHOOSE to read my blog.

4) Reducing my stress level - I was never much of a scrapbooker. I loved the idea but always felt completely overwhelmed by all the choices of colors, labels, stickers, stencils, shapes. But I always worried because I wasn't keeping track of all the important things a mommy was supposed to keep track of. I wish I had started this blog the day I found out I was pregnant with Allison but I'm happy that I at least started it while both of them are young. In terms of creating a keepsake of memories their childhoods, blogging is much more up my alley. I've always been a big computer user, so being able to document everything using a keyboard and mouse makes my life much easier.

5) Humor - it simply helps me laugh. Writing about Allison and Daniel always brings a smile to my face.