Saturday, December 21, 2013

Plans for 2014 - New Directions

I've been thinking.......I've been planning......I've been changing.

I'm wondering if my book blog has run its course....

I've actually read many similar thoughts from bloggers I have followed for a long time.

 When I first began blogging (strictly as an experiment just to see how a blog really worked), an amazing thing happened. I was having fun. I was meeting like-minded readers and creating a pile of wonderful new-to-me books to read. I expanded my horizons beyond the Outlander series (which was pretty much my staple when I had time to read) and discovered historical mysteries, fabulous historical fiction, and Regency and Highland romances. I have so many books on my shelf that I only hope to live long enough to put a dent in them! But the truth of the matter is that lately life has been pretty busy and blogging takes time -- I still love to read and browse through other bloggers' sites, but I'm not inspired at all to post my thoughts on the books I read.

Goodreads has been a good place for me lately. It's quick, it's easy, and if I don't want to say anything about a book, I can still rate it and shelve it. Done. Many bloggers are also on these sites, so I still feel like I'm in touch with blogging friends.

So......this is a long way of saying that in 2014, this blog will be quiet. I'm keeping it as a reference for all my reviews, but anyone who would like to still follow and discuss books can find me at Goodreads.

What are your thoughts? Do you have any plans for blogging/not blogging in 2014? I'd love to hear your plans because I really DO care about staying in touch with the people who have made having this blog so worthwhile.

In the meantime, I wish you all peace and joy!


10 comments:

Gerbera Daisy Diaries said...

I've cut back significantly on my blog...and haven't regretted it.
Happy 2014.

Unknown said...

I am new to blogging and appreciate reading other blogger's perspectives. I started my first blog and deleted it, unsure if blogging was what I wanted to do. I opened a new blog though because I missed blogging. So, I recommend not deleting your blog in case you would like to come back to it. Wishing you Happy Holidays!

Joanne said...

Glad to hear this, Melissa -- I do follow you on GR.

Pat -- I won't be deleting my blog as I put too much effort into writing my posts, plus it's a great resource for me. Are you on Goodreads?

Julie at Outlandish Dreaming said...

I'm with you Joanne, I think I'm doing the same thing!

Unknown said...

I have read a lot of people are having a little burnout. I am in some ways too, nut I can't imagine giving up my blog. I have changed the way I blog in some ways, I have freed up my schedule and become more flexible. I don't work to anyone elses schedule. I use Goodreads to keep track of my books but don't engage too much as I don't tend to have that much time nor can I easily find those close friends I like to follow. Hopefully you find your passion again!

Melissa @ Confessions of an Avid Reader said...

Hi Joanne. I'm sad that you'll no longer be blogging, but I totally understand your reasons for stopping. I've considered stopping too, as sometimes I feel I put in so much work for what seems to be little return, but I'm going to stick with it a while longer and see how things play out. I'm no longer on GoodReads (I just don't like the format) but since you'll still be popping buy other blogs I know we'll keep in touch :-) Remember, if you ever want to guest post let me know...

Joanne said...

Heather and Melissa -- I am so glad you both plan on continuing with your blogs! I do plan to continue visiting book blogs, so we can stay in touch that way. Melissa, if I find an absolutely wonderful book that I feel inspired to write about, I will definitely let you know. If you ever want to do a buddy read, let me know! I'd love to do a guest post!

Have a wonderful New Year!

Shoshanah said...

I think with the amount of time it takes to blog it definitely makes sense that you're going to want to change the time you put into it. I've definitely been through blogging slumps where it's been hard to write, but at this point I can't quite imagine my life without it.

And I just sent you a friend request on goodreads!

Joanne said...

Shoshanah - Got it! Looking forward to sharing on Goodreads!

Audra said...

Yours might be the second or third blog today that has announced a hiatus/close and I'm so bummed -- although I completely appreciate why the decision!

I've actually stopped using GoodReads since the whole Review policy change and am bummed as a giant part of my friends list there quit GR in response. But I'll try to check in more to see what you're reading and liking.

Favorite Period Dramas

Mount TBR

Joanne's to-read book montage

On a Highland Shore
A Light on the Veranda
Entwined
The Queen's Vow: A Novel Of Isabella Of Castile
The Edwardians
Maisie Dobbs
Howards End
Lady's Maid
Instruments Of Darkness
When Maidens Mourn
Where Shadows Dance
What Remains of Heaven
Where Serpents Sleep
Why Mermaids Sing
When Gods Die
Shadowfever
Before Ever After
The Sugar Queen
Garden Spells
After the Night


Joanne's favorite books »
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