Welcome to the blog. I just pulled off the questions for this week’s Hodge Podge and, well, I don’t want to overcomplicate this intro/first paragraph (smile), so I will just jump in!
1. What do you make more complicated than it needs to be? There are probably more than a couple things I could include here but, without a doubt, I would say blogging. Any why? I have no idea. But from the thinking of content that is actually worth reading, to trying to find a good schedule for posting and responding to comments, and even trying to balance how much time I spend each week on blogging (reading and writing)….well, this fun hobby can quickly become a chore. Can feel like a full-time job. And I don’t really want a full-time job. Just sayin. I really enjoy blogging but, yes, I can easily drain the joy.
2. What impresses you? Two things come to mind here. One, those with musical talent. I especially envy those who play the piano but am truthfully awed by most any and all musicians, as well as those who write music. I would love to be able to do so…and am definitely impressed by those so gifted. I am also awed (perhaps more than impressed) by those who overcome adversity. All kinds of adversity but, especially, physical. Those who have suffered physically (through accident, illness or even from birth) and have been resilient, fought through fear, persevered, and refused to live defeated.
3. On a scale of 1-10 how picky of an eater are you? (1=extremely and 10=not at all) If you had to eat a meal made entirely of one color what color would you choose? Maybe, a five. I don’t consider myself too picky. I think I eat a wide variety of foods but, I will admit, there are several types of foods that I either do not enjoy and/or will not even try. I guess that makes me picky. I will say that if I am traveling, or if I were a guest in someone’s house, I would eat what they offered me. Well, 90% of the time. In that respect, I do not think I am picky. As far as a monochromatic meal, I would choose green (lettuce/salad greens, with green beans or peas, green apples or kiwi and green tea) or yellow/orange (carrots, corn, peppers and squash (yum!) with some saffron rice)! Actually a one color meal sounds yummy!!
4. What does balance in life mean to you? Does your life currently feel ‘balanced’? Being aware and making an effort to keep important areas of life (work, health, relationships, faith, leisure/fun, etc) in proper perspective. Overall, it is giving the right amount of time and energy to each area. Being flexible when one area demands extra time but maintaining stability, focus and (well) balance. I would not say my life is exactly balanced but neither is completely unbalanced. Best to just leave it at that.
5. If you could travel the world for a year what would be your first destination? The UK, for sure and for certain. England, Wales, Scotland and Ireland. Yes please. All of it! I might be happy to spend the first nine months of that year long trip just in the UK!
6. Insert your own random thought here. You probably heard the phrase, “you can lead a horse to water but you can’t make him drink.” I’ve actually experienced that reality with a friend recently. When expressing my frustration to my husband, he used that exact phrase. But recently, I read a rather impactful twist on that phrase. When thinking about sharing one’s faith, a pastor said (and I am quoting loosely), “it is not your responsiblity to make (others) drink but simply to make them thirsty.” This, by the way, has nothing to do with my friend. No, but it certainly challenged me. Do I make others thirsty…spiritually thirsty?? And how can I do better? Food for thought.
Thanks for coming by the blog today. My plan is to catch up on blog visits today. I look forward to reading about what you have been up to lately!!
Hi Jennifer 🙂 Some of us do have trouble keeping a blogging schedule, don’t we? 🙂 I’m raising my hand! But…on the other hand, I would rather write with substance, than just make up something, just for the sake of posting. And boy could I relate to the “leading a horse to water” statement. Recently dealing with a friend as well. I guess we all have to learn the hard way. And with telling people about Jesus, we say we are planting the seed, but it’s up to God to make it grow 🙂
I enjoyed reading your answers! I overthink a lot of things as well. As for blogging, I’ve been thinking about that a lot as well as I’ve been in a very busy season of life with a time consuming (right now) part time job that has left me drained. But I have still been writing and reading because I enjoy the creative process of writing (though is reciting what I did during a day/week really creative??) and interacting with blog friends. I’ve heard others compare blogging to a part time job and I guess I’ve never felt that way. If it ever seemed burdensome, I wouldn’t do it… I do appreciate your thoughts expressed quite creatively with wisdom and wit and hope that you don’t stop writing. I hate to think that blogging drains your joy :(. I am with you on 3,4 and 5 and your random thought is such a good one- thanks for sharing.
Blogging can feel like a full time job if you don’t find a routine. I think I have found a good balance with it so it doesn’t feel like a chore.
Ahh! For the travel question I said the same but about America. I could happily spend a year exploring the US.
I love all of your answers and can relate. I love blogging, but often, I don’t ever feel guilt of leaving it behind when in person life needs to come first. I am thankful for the real world friends I have made through this community. Hope you have a great day!
Good responses to the Hodge Podge, Jennifer! I probably would put myself at 5-6 for being a picky eater. I think we all struggle with balance in our lives. Before I traveled the world, I would love to travel around the US. There is just so much to see in our country. Being true to one’s self without dismissing someone else’s value impresses as does someone’s integrity. Happy Wednesday!
I love the twist on that phrase-so good! The meal color question has been interesting to read. I lived in the UK for six years and would love another six to see and do all I missed the first time around : ). Hope you have a great day!