Why Write (another) Blog?

Why write another blog? At this point, I have over a dozen blogs in various stages of production (most of them defunct). Why do I think this time will be different? 

My first foray into blogging was with My Cozy Book Nook. I began in 2009 and posted on a regular basis through 2013. At first, I enjoyed the limitations of a book review blog, and I met many online friends whom I still support today, such as Deb at ReaderBuzz, Candace at BethFishReads, Bryan at Still Unfinished, and JoAnn at GulfsideMusing. But ultimately, I felt too confined. And Impostor Syndrome continued to remind me that my reviews were not good enough, intelligent enough, succinct enough (you get the picture).

Subsequent blogs delved into the joys and challenges of Midlife. Stepping Stones, Revising Life After 50, and Molly's Cozy Book Nook allowed me to connect with other women my age. I found comfort in learning I was not alone in my thoughts, experiences, or feelings. But alas, Impostor Syndrome reminded me that no one cared if I posted weekly, monthly, or ever at all. Consequently, my posts became far too infrequent. Eventually, they stopped altogether.

So why start another blog? Won't Impostor Syndrome attack again? Won't this be another strong, passionate start that fades into a lackluster finish?

Quite possibly.

But this time feels different.

Here are my five reasons to write yet another blog:

1. I am passionate about the topic. Family has always been my top priority. I photographed milestone events since I was a child. I became a Creative Memories instructor because I embraced the mission of Preserving the Past - Enriching the Present - Inspiring Hope for the Future. I strongly believe that our past affects our present and impacts our future. Family Story is the theme that ties it all together.
2. My Core Values align perfectly.
1. Family (addressed above) 
2. Life-Long Learning - Genealogy research is a never-ending opportunity to learn and discover. The same could be said for writing - or photography.
3. Significance (leaving a legacy) - Everyone has a story to tell. We all have a life purpose. And our life affects others long after we have passed.
4. Spirituality - Romans 8:28 is my life verse: ALL things work together for good to those that love God and have been called according to His purpose. Writing a faith legacy can powerfully impact the next generation.
5. Exhortation (encouragement) - I am a teacher because I like to share. When I learn a new skill or piece of information, I instantly want to tell others - and encourage them to take the next steps. 
3. I crave connection. As an introvert, I am shy and reserved. That does not mean, however, I am anti-social. In fact, I thrive on meaningful conversations. This online space allows me to connect with others in a significant way.
4. The time is right. Now that I am retired, I can devote time to researching my own family history as well as sharing what I've learned with others. My days are no longer segmented into job vs hobbies. These are now one and the same. Also, I have honed my writing life over these past few years. I know the power of a regular writing routine. And I have a writing partner who will encourage me to continue if when I want to quit.
5.  I'm ready to defeat Impostor Syndrome. I've mentioned this topic numerous times already (and I promise to go into more detail in my next post). But suffice it to say, I'm tired of listening to the lies. I know I am not an expert in genealogy -- or writing family narrative -- or photography. But that does not mean I cannot share my heart with others. 

I hope this bit of background information helps you better understand the person behind the blog.

Now tell me, kind reader, what sparks your interest in telling your family story?