Where have I gone?
I've been writing Darling Dexter for just under two years (crazy!) and I can't believe how far it has come. My initial purpose was to document my creative endeavors with the world and that still continues to be a large part of my content. However, transitioning from a full-time job as a graphic designer to a full-time student has really shifted my perspective on what my purpose is as a blogger.
Before, I sat infront of my computer screen for 8+ hours everyday working and blogging simultaneously. I wasn't overjoyed with the work that I was doing so blogging allowed me to free my creative spirit from the confines of an office. I was able to stay up to date with the 300+ blogs I follow, the latest flickr uploads, and the ever changing, always inspiring creative online world. I posted multiple times a day and loved every minute of my little escapes from my "real" work. But nearly 3 months ago, I left my job and went back to school full-time -- and most importantly, I now spend (on average) 2 hours a day on the computer.
So what's this all mean and why do I think you might care? Well, it explains my drop in posting over the past couple of months. I started my blog for me, to have a place for me to share, inspire, collaborate, etc. And when I ran into the problem of not being able to commit to posting like I use to, I felt guilty -- like I wasn't doing my job. And that's silly, right? But, I love blogging and I love the readers and other bloggers. Most importantly, I love the blog world because it's not a job -- I do this for fun, for free :) So I told myself, don't force it. I write when I'm inspired and when it's a good time for me. I appreciate quality and only want to share the best with all of you.
These photos are a couple of my final still life shots for my studio lighting course -- check out more of my work on flickr.
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Reader Comments (20)
Whitney, these are gorgeous! Congratulations!
Beautiful, beautiful pictures! But also nice note. I think a lot of people start doing something they love and somehow, whether by choice or not, it becomes a chore, a unhappy job. When that happens it is good to pause and remind yourself why you do what you do and why you love it. It takes a lot of pressure off yourself and is a good reminder that you are doing this because it pleases you - not other people. And sometimes gettting back to yourself is what was great about your art, writing, whatever, in the first place. Just a really nice sentiment. Thank you!
Vivi
hivingout.blogspot.com
We're glad you're here! :)
And I feel you on the grad student issue---except in the sciences, I already spend a lot of time in front of the computer doing research, preparing presentations...and trying to satisfy that creative part of my brain while browsing blogs like yours can get exhausting. But I wouldn't want it any other way.
The blog world loves you too :) Taking care of yourself is the most important thing, sounds like you have a healthy perspective on your priorities! Oh, and your photos are exquisite.
These photos are beautiful! I just found your blog and I think it's lovely :)
I am a full-time university student as well, I work on my computer and to be honest, cutting down the time spent in front of it is sometimes a really good thing to do!
Beautiful photos! I, too, struggle with posting frequently v. actually taking time away from the computer to do things/create things that merit posts.
I'm delighted that you are doing what you think is best when it comes to you blog. I also find it amusing that this falls right in line with what I just did on my blog - except I started a brand new blog all together. It is so easy to let blogging take over our lives, but there are so many more exciting things to experience in the world out there. :)
I'm gladyou don't need blogging as much as an outlet, shows how well your life is going!! Glad you are still posting on occassion too.
Those are STUNNING pictures. I love the first tulip picture!
We devoted readers definitely understand that your blog postings change as your life and schedule change. But please keep posting! I really enjoy reading your blog - seeing your creative endeavors, inspiration, sewing projects, etc.
I absolutely LOVE the photo of the flower laying on the book. You've used just the right amount of light to make all the edges of the flower visible without blowing it out too white where it would just blend into the background. I also love your use of depth of field. All of the flower images are beautiful, but that one in particular is very well done. :)
And while it can be frustrating not to have as much time as you would like online to complete your blogging, it can be good to get away from the computer. It can be as bad as television sometimes!
What courage it takes to really go after what you really love. Never feel guilty for saying no to things that keep you from being who you know in your heart you should be. Congrats on following your heart
your photos are amazing ... so talented!
gorgeous photos!
Awesome, girl... I look forward to your posts, however, I look forward more to seeing you grow as a designer, artist, professional and now, photographer. Please continue to share your journey at whatever pace makes you happy! We love you and support you in all you do!
I hit this wall a few months ago. I felt like I couldn't keep up with my reader, let alone posting. Taking a breather definitely helped, as did just readjusting my outlook--that it's not an obligation but for fun.
Do what makes you happy! From my seat, you're doing a great job.
Can't wait to see more of your work!
i love this! especially because i am a full time student myself, and have also had to learn that it's okay if i'm not constantly updating my blog. i love having my blogging space to share things that inspire me, when they inspire me.
thanks for a great post.
Thanks for the post. You should post when you feel inspired and when something moves you. Do it for you, and when you can, because we'll be here to read. I've been reading your blog for about 6 months now, and I've enjoyed it immensely.
these are incredible, you definitely have a gift, well done