Why do I write? Mostly, because I can’t tell stories worth a shit unless I can pepper in some pictures. And I like facts; I find that writing helps me keep the facts straight. Writing gives me a tangible goal- whether it is trimming my rambling down to 600 words for an article for another publication, or trying to get my point across about why I hate grocery shopping, it allows me to see progress and a finished product. It isn’t always very good, and sometimes my stories flat out suck. But I consider each post a chance to do better and get it right next time.
How did I decide to blog? First off, I am still very much a novice with this blogging stuff. I am self taught, and only recently figured out how to use hashtags on Instagram so people around the world could see my photos. Lame, I know, but I am a work in progress. Had it not been for a few friends that pushed me, believed in me, and assured me that people actually would enjoy reading what I had to write, I just decided to jump into this adventure with both feet. I am pretty proud that I have stuck with it, and am even getting paid to write for another ranch publication. I live for gold stars, so I kind of like that little paycheck each month- for doing something I enjoy.
My husband asked me after I first started blogging, why all of a sudden I had this urge to write and share my crap (my words, not his) with the whole world. And honestly, I still don’t know why all of a sudden I started writing. I loved to write in school; creating short stories and even writing ten-page papers never really bothered me. The problem was, though, that my teachers were a bunch of assholes that didn’t appreciate my talent (or at least that is how I always felt!). Writing about shit I don’t care about is what makes writing hard- so I write about things I love: ranch life, my kids, my husband, and things I hate: cubicles, drama, shopping…. and sometimes, people read it, comment on it, and it makes me feel good about myself. Selfish, I know, but I have finally realized that taking time to do what I love is good for my soul.
As for what I write about, pretty much anything goes. I try to stay away from politics, because I despise the trolls online that look for any excuse to ruin your good name. Mostly, I just write about whatever is on my mind at the time. Sometimes it is a picture that sets my mind in motion, or an article or story I read. It may be a conversation with my kids or my husband that sparks a memory and the story tells itself. Sometimes, it is just random shit that is meant purely to make the reader laugh.
My writing is clearly not for everyone, and I am okay with that. What it is, though, at the end of the day, is a reflection of me and my little world. For those of you that have stuck by me this last year, reading my posts on Facebook, sharing my photos on Instagram, and just cheering me on, I thank you! You are the reason I write, and I love that I get to share this journey with you. Here’s to another year of blogging shenanigans!!
Peace out. ~ Richelle