Holding On
I’m starting to feel antsy.
Like the anticipatory thrill that permeates the air before the end of a school year. Daydreaming while staring at a classroom clock, wondering what you’ll do when the time is all yours.
I’m officially on blogging day #336 of Blog365.
Twenty-nine more posts to go.
I can almost feel my arms begin to reach for the skies, awaiting the finish line tape to pull and break across my chest.
I can hardly wait.
But I’m not there yet. And to be quite frank, I’m finding it difficult to focus during the final stretch.
I think my biggest struggle is that winter is still foreign to me. I’ve spent most of my life living near the equator. Where anything below 50F degrees is a bitterly cold, and the sun shines for most of the day. Now, I live in New England. Where anything above 50F degrees is incredibly warm, and the sun only makes a brief daily appearance. And as the days become shorter, and the sun tucks away in the mid afternoon, I find myself scrambling to soak up what little light each day has to offer.
While Babisodes was in preschool this morning, I played hooky from the blogosphere to take a long walk…alone. With the mix of chill and anticipation in the air, I found it difficult to breathe. My mind rewound the past 11 months- writing, reading, commenting, taking snapshots, learning, growing, and more importantly, building priceless friendships with individuals on and offline. Looking back, I find bittersweet reflections of how quickly time has passed, much of it invested here. Mostly, it was time well spent, but sometimes admittedly thieved from my daughter, husband, and sometimes, just… life.
Times like today, when I would have normally spent a few hours occupied here, but I didn’t. Instead I walked…and walked…and walked. Taking in the final days offering clear blue skies, basking in the remaining 45F degree temperatures of the year. Allowing the cold, brisk air to whip through and clear my head.
Looking around I discovered just a few small leaves remaining on the very tops of a tree. They were already crisp and brown. It’s only a matter of time. One day soon, they will let go and fall freely, just as the others have. Where the wind will take them, it is not known. Perhaps on new and exciting journeys.
But for now, they’re holding on.
Just as I am.
I know how you feel Momisodes.
I’m impressed that you’ve made it this far. Hang on! The finish line is in sight!
Daddy Dan’s last blog post..Thanksgiving Weekend
December 2nd, 2008 at 8:21 pm
I post to my blog every weekday. Some weeks were incredibly easy, some incredibly hard. I haven’t officially been doing any blog365 because I treasure the weekends, too!
There IS a lot you give up to write everyday, in particular with work, family, already committed activities, etc. I’ve also gained a lot, I feel.
What was the biggest positive for you?
December 2nd, 2008 at 8:26 pm
I understand, Sandy. Most of the time, I’m glad I did Blog 365… (Yes, I’m still hanging in there.) My blog may have withered if I’d not forced myself to blog every. single. day. I may not have blogged much of the last month if I didn’t “have to.” But if I’d not blogged I would not have documented some life stuff… It may not be interesting to everyone, but most of the stuff I blogged I’m glad I blogged.
On the other hand, what in my life DID wither because I blogged every. single. day? Hmmm…
I may not blog for a month come January 1. Or I might blog every day — but without “having to.”
My goal for next year is to blog 3 times a week… Or at least that’s what I say today. It’s nice to be able to change my mind…
Rebecca (Ramblings by Reba)’s last blog post..Photographing the moon: a few tips…
December 2nd, 2008 at 8:29 pm
enjoy life, kiddo. you’re almost there!! again, you are AMAZING! i think i gave up in march. i still have written more than 300 days so I’m super proud of myself, too. but you ma’am? *low whistle and applause*
jameil’s last blog post..Thanksgiving Wrap-Up
December 2nd, 2008 at 8:36 pm
your words never cease to amaze me! I’m looking forward to the new year and less blogging. Still I am so glad I happened upon your site and will read as long as you write here!
missy’s last blog post..A poet who didn’t know it…
December 2nd, 2008 at 8:43 pm
I can’t believe you have actually done it, or are close enough to taste it! Early congrats, girl, because even if you skip out on the last day, you’ve done an amazing job and should be proud of yourself. As a reader since day one of your journey, I can attest to your growth as a writer.
And that is NOT meant to sound like a backhanded compliment
December 2nd, 2008 at 9:44 pm
Love this.. I cannot wait to celebrate with you when you push publish on your last 365 post!!! Keep it going Sandy..your in the home stretch!!
Kim’s last blog post..Weekly Winners
December 2nd, 2008 at 9:51 pm
How ironic….I was just thinking about you this morning and all of this….wondering what you would do with your time, whether you would go on a long hiatus, keep going since you are in the “groove” and are so used to it, or what….I wonder if it was during the time you were on your walk? hmmm.
I may not comment everyday, but I DO look forward to your posts everyday….and will miss them, but knowing that you are spending more time with your family and YOURSELF will make it ok.
abunslife’s last blog post..Thankful for Spiked Hair
December 2nd, 2008 at 9:59 pm
beautiful post.
i’m glad you took some time for yourself today and had a nice carefree walk in the beautiful weather… well as beautiful as it can get in Winter in NE. I’m missing the sun a lot these days. It was already getting dark here around 3:30 yesterday. ugh.
have a great night.
xoxox
December 2nd, 2008 at 10:16 pm
Loved this. It was a beautiful post. And you are almost there!!
amy’s last blog post..Well, I’ve got some to spare
December 2nd, 2008 at 10:16 pm
Woohoo! Almost there! And here I thought just doing a month of posts was a challenge.
December 2nd, 2008 at 10:17 pm
What a gorgeous photograph! I could not do the 365 thing no matter what, so I really applaud you. I am sure you will make it.
As for your Black Friday excursions? You are a brave woman, and you clearly had a lot of success. Again, though, braver than I. You have me beat on both counts.
December 2nd, 2008 at 11:17 pm
How very true–I often think about what I’d be doing with my time if I had never discovered the internet. Maybe I’d be a few pounds lighter, too?
Asianmommy’s last blog post..Our Favorite Outdoor Winter Activities
December 2nd, 2008 at 11:22 pm
You and me, kid. You and me, and Reba makes three. I wonder who else?
lceel’s last blog post..Tis the season for ….
December 2nd, 2008 at 11:31 pm
Are you glad the end is near? It sounds like you are. And, I hope you got to unwind in the walking.
Anglophile Football Fanatic’s last blog post..The Bigger The Better The Tighter the Sweater
December 2nd, 2008 at 11:46 pm
…and holding you and your family in my prayers!
It is such an impossible feat for me to commit to daily blogging…my night shift job makes it difficult for me…and my outreach program for children just takes half of my weekend.
You’re almost there…and I don’t mean more than the 365 days blogging!
Mariposa’s last blog post..Shattered…
December 2nd, 2008 at 11:50 pm
Yup … What you’ve shared today resonates mightily with me. I remember when you suggested Blog 365 to me at the end of last December and how I resisted at first … then decided to join you on one of my blogs. Looking back, it’s hard to imagine I’ve not only kept that commitment, but I’ve also managed to post periodically on my 2nd blog and started 2 more. Just call me cRaZy !!! Like you, I’ve spend way too much time at the keyboard … and I’m planning to adjust my priorities in January. That said … like you I’m holding on … and I’m glad YOU’RE holding on too. I’m not sure I’d walk and walk in those temperatures however ;–)
Hugs and blessings,
happily retired gal’s last blog post..Ruby Tuesday – Scattered Thoughts
December 3rd, 2008 at 12:04 am
Did you ever know that you’re my heroine….. (please excuse the horrible, croaky, nasty voice I promise it sounds better when I’m not sick!)
CC’s last blog post..Marvelous Children’s Book Monday: Charlotte’s Web
December 3rd, 2008 at 12:43 am
High five!! No, wait, high ten! That’s a big accomplishment. Hang in there, Sandy! I love the way you make everything sound so interesting and inviting with your words.
bri’s last blog post..City Of Angels
December 3rd, 2008 at 1:12 am
You’ve had some changes in your life recently and that added stress doesn’t help an otherwise positive outlook. I think you’ve done a fantastic job and I will miss reading you everyday.
December 3rd, 2008 at 1:13 am
I think it’s awesome that you are so close to completing the 365. Just doing one month was kind of tough some days for me, but a year is really awesome. I also understand balance when blogging becomes a life of its own and starts taking up too much time from real life.
Maggie’s Mind’s last blog post..Sharing the Light
December 3rd, 2008 at 1:30 am
You are in the final home strech of this year-long adventure. You have peppered in some icky things over the last few months. Big events since I’ve followed your blog…a move…a job change to domestic diva only…the babisodes starting preschool…the list goes on. And those were EARLIER in the year.
We’re here with you, Sandy. I will miss you, but would understand if you took a full 30 days off when you get done with all this.
Grandy’s last blog post..The Sweet Old Man
December 3rd, 2008 at 1:49 am
Very nice reflection! It always hardest just before you cross the finish line. Thanks for showing us it can be done!
Elaine B.’s last blog post..5 Values a Business Coach Brings You and Your Business
December 3rd, 2008 at 2:49 am
You’ve done very well to post every day. I’d never be able to do it without a topic.
If you need a rest, have one. Go enjoy a walk in the cold air. Don’t let this blog become a burden.
Solomon’s last blog post..The December ‘08 Contest
December 3rd, 2008 at 5:04 am
I missed being in this blogsphere as you called it yesterday. I found I missed a lot — I know a walk alone can do much to clear the head and help us refocus — now that that is done you are ready to forge ahead. And to go where the winds blow you. I haven’t followed you this entire year, just the past couple of months, and to be truthful I’ve thought about going back to day one and reading all the way through. You have such a wonderful style of writing, and a beautiful mind. Finish stong dear friend, finish strong.
Patsy’s last blog post..A Time to Shine
December 3rd, 2008 at 9:26 am
Oh dear. I’m afraid this winter may be a long one for you. Winters in the north can get to be soooooooo long.
I can’t imagine how you did the 365. One month was more than enough for me. Yipes. You are amazing!
Did I miss something? I thought you took Babisodes out of preschool. Did you put her in a new one? What did I miss?
December 3rd, 2008 at 12:00 pm
I’m impressed. There is no way I could do it, I did NoPoBloMo last year and it was HARD. You’re almost done though, I’m sure you’ll be glad you did it.
skiplovey’s last blog post..Busy busy busy
December 3rd, 2008 at 12:39 pm
It seems like so long ago, when we took the 365 vows!
And yet it’s been just a whisper really. I’m counting the days too, and the closer the finish line, the harder it seems to get.
I have not written half as much as you did, I had the photo challenges that kept me busy, and provided me a post for every day.
What you did was amazing, writing something interesting and worth reading EVERY single day is quite a challenge!
And you delivered quality, every single day.
So there’s you, Lceel, Reba and me?
I think we should celebrate at the end of this adventure!
Jientje’s last blog post..Wordless Wednesday, A place to rest …
December 3rd, 2008 at 2:22 pm
Hang in there. And take more of those walks.
That’s time well spent as well
Hugs!
December 3rd, 2008 at 2:29 pm
Good for you to take some time to yourself, everyone needs that sometimes.
You blog beautifully. I admire you.
Average Girl’s last blog post..A Picture from The Pageant
December 3rd, 2008 at 5:36 pm
I can totally relate with how you feel about the commitment of blogging everyday. Sometimes I stress about it and I’m not signed up for anything!
Lately I have let my life dictate my blog time and not surprisingly I have cut back some. Have to say it feels really good. 
kspin’s last blog post..Playing With His Food
December 3rd, 2008 at 5:44 pm
I understand where you’re coming from. I’m doing 365 days of self portraits (day 212) and I’m already worn out from it… so I understand completely.
While it’s tough now; just imagine all the moments you have to reflect on later on. I bet you’ll be glad you’ve recorded some of them.
Jac’s last blog post..Sometimes, the grass isn’t any greener…
December 3rd, 2008 at 9:34 pm
Wow Sandy, I didn’t know you were doing 365. And you are almost done!! Wow. I am so impressed. Your writing is strong and hasnt wavered at all. Go girl!!
December 4th, 2008 at 12:15 am
I’ve seen the challenges that go every day for a month, but not ones for a whole year! Wow.
Alice Audrey’s last blog post..By George! The Prince’s Ship Almost, Maybe, Comes In
December 4th, 2008 at 12:36 am
You really write incredibly. This was so beautiful, all of it. Thank you.
Jannie’s last blog post..A Good-Fitting Bra (uh-oh, here come those Google ads again)
December 4th, 2008 at 12:52 am
What a beautiful journey you just shared with us and what a relaxing walk. You are a sweet, sweet woman and I’m proud to say I found you on the internet and enjoy your thoughts and your life.
kathy’s last blog post..POP Art
December 4th, 2008 at 12:20 pm
I tried to do a post everyday on one of my blogs… I think I lasted about a month (if that!). It’s an amazing accomplishment!
We also have just a couple of leaves hanging on in our tree…
Kmommy’s last blog post..Go Vote for Me!
December 4th, 2008 at 3:21 pm
Good luck! Stay strong! The end is nearly in sight!
Love that photo, BTW. Growing up in San Diego, I sometimes wish that I could experience REAL seasons – change of colors in leaves, rain, heck, even snow.
Shere1’s last blog post..Hubba-wha?!
December 4th, 2008 at 3:49 pm
We all could use a break from the computer and I am happy to see you made this choice! It feels good to do nothing or just to be in the moment outside or having fun with your family. I too am thankful for the internet, blogging and all of the great online friends I have made, but we all know there is more to life!
Michelle’s last blog post..Comment on Ask the Lady…Scarves by The Muse
December 4th, 2008 at 4:15 pm
Sandy, this is beautiful writing! I am still amazed you took on this challenge!
SarahHub @ Oakbriar Farm’s last blog post..Wordless Wednesday
December 4th, 2008 at 6:47 pm
332, wow! You’re nearing the end of the marathon, beginning to feel your enthusiasm flagging, starting to feel the hope of new things. Just a few more miles to go. After that, it sounds like you may evaluate where you want to devote your time and reallocate. Your commitment to blogging could equal commitment to writing a book, or it could be that you’d find extra time for yourself and your family more valuable. But whatever the next step, this achievement will be awesome!
Dot’s last blog post..Weird Tip Tuesday – Eat Less Butter
December 5th, 2008 at 12:07 pm
Kudos to you! I can barely survive one month of NaBloPoMo and didn’t even consider Blog 356. Great job and keep on going!
Angela at mommy bytes’s last blog post..I Can Haz Crafty!
December 8th, 2008 at 10:46 am