This is why they pay me the big bucks.
After 2 days of closed door sessions, the creative team here at the 90 West blog has come to a decision.
With the creative team meeting behind closed doors, the minions working fast and furiously to keep the blog afloat, and I using my preferred blog problem solving method of whining to the Queen B, an agreement has been reached to satisfy all involved parties.
That would be me, me and me.
The blog is on a break. I am on a break.
The lead writer for the blog, head of the creative team, and chief minion, me, is stressed out about all things blog related. The blog is not fun anymore. The blog is a job. A no-paying job. And did I mention it is not fun?
The blog used to be fun. And I used to be funny.
But going to work everyday is not fun, therefore I am no longer feeling the funny.
(Unless of course, you are a rock star. Or Tim McGraw’s personal assistant. Then that would be a fun job.)
((And if you are reading this and you are Tim’s personal assistant, could you tell him I would love to be his friend? Or his sister?))
(((Because I know we would have fun hanging out together. I know it.)))
((((And could I get a calendar? Or a tshirt? Autographed?))))
Oh, I do still find things funny. But the funny that is everyday around here is just not coming out very funny on the blog.
So I am folding my cards. Waving my white flag. I surrender. I cry Uncle.
I cannot do it all.
I am in the midst of the last weeks of school events and programs. I have sports seasons that have begun to overlap and I have a birthday to prepare for. I have a name to sew on the back of a jersey, summer plans to coordinate, and a yard that needs attention. I have babies to hug. And laugh with. And I have a husband to talk to. And a bit of laundry to do. (Or every piece of clothing we own, however you want to look at it.)
And I am having some trouble getting all of that done while posting daily on the blog. I am having trouble keeping up the quality, yes I called it quality, of material that I post on the blog. Lately, my thoughts are jumbled and rambling, and I am not all together proud of the ‘writing’ I’ve been publishing everyday. I expect to do better than I have been, and it frustrates me at eleven o’clock every night when I cannot bring a whole post together the way I envision it in my head. Because, Interpeeps, I’m tired at eleven o’clock at night. I want to sleep. Or watch Jon and Kate plus 8.
I have not been a good blog reader and commenter lately, and I have not been responding to my comments like I usually do. I feel guilty about it. I’ve met so many great bloggers and I should show you the respect that you show me when you leave a comment by thanking you for your comment. Or visiting your blog. And lately, there has just been no time.
And I am sick of thinking about me and what I can say about me, myself and I, and all the things that goes with it, here on the blog. Just look at how many times this post has the word me or I in it. It’s quite a few.
I had some goals for the blog that have not been met. I have some goals for the blog that need re-thinking. I have also had some unexpected surprises come from having the blog.
The good definitely outweighs the bad, and I for sure will be back before long. I love blogging and I love bloggers. But for right now, I need a break.
And I’m lucky enough to be the one that is in charge around here.
Posted: May 29th, 2008 under I Should Be Sleeping.
Comments: 45
Comments
Comment from chickadee
Time: May 29, 2008, 1:07 am
i think your expectations are too high for yourself. are you an over achiever? you certainly don’t make blogging seem hard. but by all means take a break when you feel stressed. you’re right, blogging should be fun. let yourself off the hook and make up new rules like you’re only going to post 3 times a week and you’re only going to reply to comments once a week. set a time limit for yourself when doing that and if you don’t get around to everyone, so what. become lazy, like me. (i’m an expert if you need anymore tips.)
Comment from JanMary, N Ireland
Time: May 29, 2008, 1:22 am
While I understand you decision, I will miss you while you are gone. Hope it is not for TOO long. The only one putting pressure on you is you! So take a break, and come back only if and when you want to. Hugs
Comment from Queen B
Time: May 29, 2008, 2:08 am
Enjoy your siesta. Come back soon. Or whenever you want to.
Because you are, after all, the CEO of the 90 West Group.
Comment from Suzy
Time: May 29, 2008, 2:53 am
Lisa, it takes more strength to say you can’t do something, than it does to do it. And I respect you for that! There’s a season for everything. Bless you and your sweet family!
Comment from the roost
Time: May 29, 2008, 6:38 am
I admire you for doing making an “unpopular” hard decision. For yourself and your family. I have loved your post and “getting to know you”. There are times to step away from lesser things for greater things…Ps 27v23 is one of my favorite verse’s. You have assessed the state of your family and are making adjustments. That my friend is a very mature thing!
Comment from sheila
Time: May 29, 2008, 6:53 am
We’re supposed to post quality material on our blogs?
Crap, Nobody told me….
Comment from Jess
Time: May 29, 2008, 6:54 am
You will be missed….. a lot! Enjoy the summer with your beautiful kiddos.
Jess
Comment from Tammy
Time: May 29, 2008, 7:54 am
Good for you, sounds like you deserve a nice needed break. I will look forward to your return. I have been an occasional lurker around here.
I absolutely L-O-V-E your dogs! I have a lab that is 12 1/2 and she’s been the best dog ever. I am sad to see her get old.
Have a fun break!
Comment from Ashlee
Time: May 29, 2008, 8:26 am
This time of year gets ultra crazy. It’s that way for me right now and I’m feeling overwhelmed too. My blog has been lacking as well. So, I completely understand. Have a fun break…and come back refreshed. We’ll still be here for you! :0)
Comment from Rebecca
Time: May 29, 2008, 8:29 am
Enjoy your break! We’ll all be here when you get back. Well, not righthere, because that would be odd. But you know what I mean. 
Comment from Martha
Time: May 29, 2008, 8:53 am
Duuuude.
I hear ya, I hear ya. I’ve not been spending time reading my fave blogs, either.
Because blogs are time-suckers. Fun time-suckers, but time-suckers nonetheless. I look forward to your return, but you should do what’s fun and effortless…especially when you have 4 kids.
xoxox,
martha
Comment from Deb - Mom of 3 Girls
Time: May 29, 2008, 8:55 am
I understand exactly what you’re saying - but hope that you won’t take too long of a break, because I’m going to miss you!
Comment from Jennifer
Time: May 29, 2008, 9:08 am
Have a very nice break! And come back — only if YOU want to! We’ll miss ya!
Smiles,
Jen
Comment from Kelly @ Love Well
Time: May 29, 2008, 9:40 am
Blogging should not be work. It should never be work.
Take a break and don’t come back until you feel refreshed!
And even then, make sure your goals aren’t stealing your joy. That defeats the purpose.
So many times, when I step away from the situation, I find that I’m miserable because I want to have my cake and eat it too — i.e., I want to be a great Mom, a great wife, make dinner every night, have time for thoughtful reflection AND post a witty, insightful post on my blog every day. But I can’t do that. I can’t. Something has to give. Once I realign my expectations with that thing I call reality, I relax a little.
You have chosen wisely.
Comment from Jen on the Edge
Time: May 29, 2008, 10:53 am
Rest. Relax. Enjoy your summer. Come back when you can. We’ll be waiting.
Comment from ValleyGirl
Time: May 29, 2008, 10:54 am
Oh, Lisa. How is it that we start these blogs for the heck of it and then it somehow morphs into something of an obligatory-feeling thing?
I usually don’t post every weekday, but lately, the posts have dwindled down to about three a week ~ and I think even that will decrease a little this summer. That’s my plan anyway. Not so much specifically to take a break from blogging, but more to get outside and enjoy the short summer and to do the things that are important for my family.
Comment from Jill
Time: May 29, 2008, 11:26 am
I’ll miss you, but completely understand your feelings. I hope your summer gets off to a wonderful start!
Comment from Darcie
Time: May 29, 2008, 2:11 pm
Go and rest up. Come back refreshed. We aren’t going anywhere.
Comment from Beachy Mimi
Time: May 29, 2008, 3:12 pm
Enjoy your break! I think you are too hard on yourself. I think your blog is so funny!!! I’ll miss you, but hope to see you back, soon.
Comment from Org Junkie
Time: May 29, 2008, 3:19 pm
Well don’t disappear altogether, I’m posting about you tomorrow!!
I mean just think if I had never “met” you I wouldn’t get my fix each time I looked at the pictures of your spectacular mudroom!
Comment from We are THAT family
Time: May 29, 2008, 4:00 pm
I must say, I’m a little disappointed. You see, I’ve only known you for 5.7 seconds and I liked you instantly. I will miss you. Your blog has something special. Take a break. Refocus. And come back.
I reevaluate weekly. I think too much about it and really understood what you were saying. I wonder how effective I will be once school is out. We’ll see!
Comment from Wendi
Time: May 29, 2008, 10:11 pm
You may not be feeling the funny, but I sure am. I have enjoyed reading your blog. It has definitely become one of the highlights of my day. I completely understand your need for a break. You deserve one. Just don’t take too long… I might need a”Take 90 West” fix before fall.
Comment from Christie
Time: May 29, 2008, 11:20 pm
Good for you for knowing when enough is enough. But absence makes the heart grow fonder, so hopefully you’ll be back and renewed in no time. (or is that “out of sight, out of mind???”)
Comment from Suzanne Bastien
Time: May 29, 2008, 11:23 pm
*hugs* Come around sometimes to say Hi!!!
We love to see ya!
Comment from Marcia, Organising Queen
Time: May 30, 2008, 2:59 am
I came over from Org Junkie…
I’m with Suzy above - it takes more strength to say no so BIG FIVE to you
I love that you have your priorities in order (husband and kids) - enjoy the family time
Comment from Audrey
Time: May 30, 2008, 7:29 am
I completely empathize with you…..it’s one of the reason that I don’t blog myself. However, for the record, you ARE funny….ALWAYS. It’s one of the reasons your blog is among my favorites. But enjoy the vacation from the blog! Just hurry back when you get ready.
Comment from Blazing Goddess
Time: May 30, 2008, 8:58 am
Hey, this is supposed to be fun! Quit until it is again. I’ll keep checking back. You’re on my list of faves. Enjoy your break!
Comment from Becky@BoysRuleMyLife
Time: May 30, 2008, 9:44 am
Why does blogging have to screw up priorities???? I know it does mine. It’s a work in progress. Have a great break. Enjoy the kiddos and a conversation with your Special K!
Just a thought… a button for your sidebar: http://www.tartx.com/blog/?page_id=233
Comment from staciesmadness
Time: May 30, 2008, 10:35 am
right, I think you are amazing.
take a break, don’t put so much pressure on yourself to post daily or to be funny all the time.
Not matter what, I think are are amazing (did I say that already? well it is true)
Come back. when you are ready.
Comment from Christie
Time: May 30, 2008, 3:53 pm
Don’t worry - we’ll be here when you get back.
Too bad you don’t get paid the equivalent of blog maternity leave. THAT would be a good gig.
Comment from Traceytreasure
Time: May 30, 2008, 5:51 pm
You will be missed, Lisa! I will be checking back with your often. We all need a break sometimes and with the nice weather, I’ll be taking many breaks this summer too. You’re not going to lose any fans! You’re just too awesome!! Hugs!
Comment from Mary@notbefore7
Time: May 30, 2008, 8:44 pm
It seems we all “hear you” cause we ALL KNOW the pressure of the blog 
A friend of mine still blogs, but turned off comments. No pressure to respond. No pressure to go comment elsewhere. But she is still recording memories for family.
I am thinking about it for July and August.
In the meantime, you’ll be missed…cause I love sarcasm…and I often find it over here.
Comment from kristenkj
Time: May 31, 2008, 6:22 am
Enjoy your break! We could all use it and this is a particularly difficult time of year…a good time for a break. I can’t wait to *see* you when you are refreshed. I enjoy your rambling even when you’re exhausted at 11pm. I can’t imagine how humorous you’ll be when refreshed! Take care!
Comment from Col
Time: May 31, 2008, 9:43 am
Hey Lisa,
You are only one woman - be kind to yourself. You gave me some advice back when I posted a blog about not having enough time or something or other and you told me just to enjoy it; So, I say the same to you, enjoy what ever it is that you do, are doing, need to do. That’s hard with a houseful of kids and all kind of responsibility. Just remember that you get to change your mind, (anytime you like) set something to the side for another day, you are under no contract!!! It is your lovely, beautiful world and you get to do what ever you like! Yes, I know being with Tim McGraw (sp?) on the beach isn’t happening for you, but you know what I mean! Enjoy what ever you are doing; blogging or not; a little or a lot.
Hugs, Col
Comment from Carolyn
Time: June 1, 2008, 11:44 am
Oh Lisa, I am just now reading this today, because, well I have been busy and stressed and needed a break myself. I so understand what you are saying. Don’t feel guilty for taking a break and doing other great things. I will miss you and I hope that if nothing else you can just come and read..even if you don’t get a chance to make a comment. Just knowing you were there from time to time makes me happy!
Enjoy your break and know we will all be waiting for your return!
Comment from Soliloquy
Time: June 1, 2008, 5:19 pm
YAY YOU!!!!
Seriously. Yay. You.
My reader won’t let me forget about you…. we’ll all be here when you’re ready to come back.
More power to ya’, girl.
(Send your readers to me in the meantime, willya’? *snort*)
Comment from sonja
Time: June 1, 2008, 10:35 pm
you r a champ, i do this sort of thing all the time - ‘oh i think i am going to break if i have to commit to one more thing’ hehe.. but we dont..but it is soooom good to have a break - refresh and come back when u r ready love Sonja
p.s. i have just discovered your site so i get to read all the archived stuff first i am sure that will be plenty for now
Comment from Heidi
Time: June 3, 2008, 6:55 am
Lisa, I wrote the same post (less funny, shorter) last week. I know exactly how you feel….taking a break is definitely what the doctor ordered. Enjoy it. The TV, the sleep, the kidlets. We’ll catch you when you are feeling refreshed again
Heidi
Comment from New Diva
Time: June 10, 2008, 1:21 pm
Enjoy your break! Hope you will be back soon.
Comment from Alice Gold
Time: June 11, 2008, 9:36 am
I took two weeks off my blog…still paying for it…glad to hear that you are taking time off too…now I don’t feel obligated to read your last 12 posts that I missed…hopefully I will be on my top game by the time you come back….enjoy your vacation.
Comment from sheila
Time: June 11, 2008, 9:05 pm
just checking in
hope things are well
i’ve been thinking about you
but no hurry, take you time, enjoy your family
we love you
Comment from Chrissy
Time: June 11, 2008, 11:30 pm
Way to be in charge! Making good decisions!
Comment from Soliloquy
Time: June 15, 2008, 8:44 pm
Just wanted to say that you are missed! But I hope you are doing well and enjoying your bloggy break…..
Comment from Michelle
Time: June 20, 2008, 11:13 pm
Well, this is certainly a bummer since I just stumbled on your INCREDIBLE, hilarious, fab blog tonight. Go on then, take a break, but you need to come back, ya hear? Happy summer & happy break.
Comment from Lynette
Time: June 23, 2008, 2:56 pm
I sure have enjoyed your blogging abilities and look forward to when you decide to return. Breaks are good, very, very good. There is no way I could be a daily blogger - way too much pressure. Come back soon - we miss you!
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