But

Taking baby steps back into blogging....

Thank you so very much to you, my dear blogging friends, for your gentle and loving words of support and friendship. Your advice and wisdom has helped me more than you can imagine.

When it is obvious that the goals cannot be reached, don't adjust the goals, adjust the action steps. 
Confucious



Since taking this little blogging break I realized that I was not blogging for the reasons that inspired me to blog in the first place. When I started my blog it was for me to give thanks for the people and things that make me happy...





For each new morning with its light,For rest and shelter of the night,For health and food, for love and friends,For everything Thy goodness sends. Ralph Waldo Emerson



I started this blog to take time out of my day to reflect on my many blessings and to find beauty in the every day....

The first step is to find out what you love – and don’t be practical about it. The second step is to start doing what you love immediately, in any small way possible.
Barbara Sher


Aunt Amelia inspired me to believe that it takes courage to make bold changes in one's life and Mya helped me realize that breaking big projects into small steps makes them do-able.


Growth is an erratic forward movement: two steps forward, one step back. Remember that and be very gentle with yourself. 
Julia Cameron 

Many of you have helped me realize that a journey of a thousand miles starts with one small little baby step.


Baby step by baby step, you have what you need right now to start moving in the direction of your happiest dreams.
Marta Davidovich Ockuly


After my holiday at the beach with my family and, more specifically, after watching a stunning sunrise, I had my blogging "aha moment!" I decided that I really do want to blog but from now on I will be doing it on my terms! 

Ideals are like stars: you will not succeed in touching them with your hands, but like the seafaring man on the ocean desert of waters, you choose them as your guides, and following them, you reach your destiny. Carl Schurz (1829 - 1906)


No more blogging unless I want to!


Your kind words made me realize that I have invested too much time, love and into this blog of mine to just abandon it completely......


Thank you for that!
Gratitude is the fairest blossom which springs from the soul. Henry Ward Beecher

So, I guess I am saying that I am blogging again and I would be thrilled and very grateful if you could hang in there with me as I begin this new blogging journey!



Best wishes always,
Natasha In Oz 
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57 comments:

  1. petals and vintageApril 11, 2011 at 9:15 AM

    Good for you Natasha and a huge welcome back.
    Pam x

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  2. Katie @ Team SkelleyApril 11, 2011 at 9:23 AM

    We all understand and have been there. You just check in and blog when YOU want to and we will all be here to share what you. XOXO, Katie

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  3. brismodApril 11, 2011 at 9:49 AM

    Well done Natasha. Good to hear that you'll be back online! xx

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  4. Blondie's JournalApril 11, 2011 at 9:54 AM

    I have been conflicted as you have, Natasha, and I find that just going at my own pace, just for me, is best all the way around. I'm glad you are back on your own terms.

    XO,
    Jane

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  5. LindaGApril 11, 2011 at 10:04 AM

    Natasha, that's the only way to blog. When you want to. After all, it's your blog. ;)

    I love all your gorgeous photos. I'm glad you decided to share them with us. :)

    They have flowers like the one you picture there, on Okinawa. I remember seeing them from our time there.

    Take care. ♥

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  6. DianeApril 11, 2011 at 10:16 AM

    Hugs and glad you found your direction and passion again. :O)

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  7. Mary LouApril 11, 2011 at 10:23 AM

    I'm so happy to see you! Thank you for this much needed advice. This is the most beautiful post you've ever done.
    Thank you for staying in my blogging world. I missed you!

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  8. UnknownApril 11, 2011 at 10:39 AM

    Natasha, you have no idea how excited I was to see your name on my blog dashboard!!! Yay...I love that you are doing it on your own terms...good for you sweetie.

    welcome 'home'

    melody-mae

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  9. SusanApril 11, 2011 at 10:39 AM

    Natasha! I am so happy to see you! I knew you would find your answer!! You are blogging for the right reasons now! Your photos are beautiful!

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  10. JApril 11, 2011 at 10:42 AM

    That's great Natasha! Your words remind me to keep true to what I want my blog to be.

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  11. CathyApril 11, 2011 at 10:54 AM

    Blogging can really suck you in, can't it. I'm glad you have a new focus on it. I'll look forward to reading your new posts.

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  12. Theresa MilsteinApril 11, 2011 at 11:18 AM

    Natasha, welcome back. It can be too time-consuming and we can take it too seriously. When I got a full-time job 6 months ago, I was worried I'd lose followers because I'd have less time to devote to blogging. Silly worry.

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  13. BethApril 11, 2011 at 11:42 AM

    So lovely to see a post from you. I'm pleased that you have had time to reflect on how you want to blog. It can be quite addictive and I'm sure a lot of bloggers worry that they are "doing it right". I believe that there is only one way to blog - the way that the owner of the blog does it!
    Have a great week.
    x

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  14. WendyApril 11, 2011 at 11:48 AM

    Natasha,
    Your heart is one of the sweetest I know and so glad to have you back blogging! Hugs!
    Wendy

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  15. Red Couch RecipesApril 11, 2011 at 11:52 AM

    What gorgeous pictures. Glad you had a nice break. I can relate as I go through different things in my life it is relected in my blog. Welcome back on your own terms. Joni

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  16. Marty@A Stroll Thru LifeApril 11, 2011 at 11:58 AM

    Your pictures are wonderful. I loved seeing them all. I so agree that we all need to blog at our own pace and for our own reasons. A blog can be a real blessing and creative outlet where you get to visist with wonderful new friends and like minds. However, if it becomes a job, then I think it's not worth it. Just blog when you want and about what you want. Hugs, Marty

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  17. SimoneyApril 11, 2011 at 12:26 PM

    Oh Natasha! I must have missed your "goodbye" post! So I am relieved to have only caught this one! "Welcome back" and yay for you figuring out that you can blog to please yourself.
    I have noticed a few bloggers over the past few months going through this dilemma, as blogging has become more about "boosting numbers" "getting traffic" etc.
    It really is a trap isn't it?
    One I know I have fallen into at different times too :)
    But so glad you will not be giving up entirely, rather just rediscovering your original passion/love for blogging.
    I think that's the only sustainable way to blog, really. Otherwise we will eventually burn out, and have enough of trying to please everybody else.
    You have a unique voice and those who love it will always want to visit and know you.
    Personally I am glad y0o have "blog-met" you, and your beautiful kiddos.
    Dash still talks about "Big Al".
    So yeah, yay. You're still with us. Phew!
    x

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  18. Julie HarwardApril 11, 2011 at 1:34 PM

    I am so glad you have come to this point and that you will continue... "as you like it!" I guess I am a stubborn girl..I just have to do it my way..be myself..no matter if I am liked or not. I do not join all the "lets get togethers" it's too time consuming and it takes away from what I want to do and makes me feel obligated to perform..I don't like that, so I don't. Being just yourself is enough and those that like you will be there to be your friend..like me! ;D

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  19. JaneApril 11, 2011 at 1:36 PM

    Oh, bravo you, Natasha! I'm so delighted your little blogcation has allowed you to realise what's most important to you. Welcome back, Sweetheart - on your own terms! J x

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  20. AnitaApril 11, 2011 at 1:37 PM

    I only recently discovered your blog and I've really enjoyed reading your posts and looking at your beautiful photos.
    Blessings,
    Anita

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  21. SarahApril 11, 2011 at 2:26 PM

    Natasha, I was thrilled to see this post pop up on my sidebar. Bravo! You have the right attitude! Our blogs should be a source of pleasure and inspiration, not something that pulls us down. This post is amazing both in the images and the wonderful quotes, and your thoughts. I'm there with you each step! ~ Sarah

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  22. SWEDISH HOUSEApril 11, 2011 at 2:52 PM

    Hej Natasha
    WELCOME BACK!
    Thank you for sharing your beautiful images and wise words...
    LOVE PEACE enJOY blogging
    Julie
    x

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  23. MimiApril 11, 2011 at 3:50 PM

    Welcome back Natasha, I was only thinking of you last night! Small steps. Mimi xx

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  24. Daydream LivingApril 11, 2011 at 4:15 PM

    Well, welcome back honey! Glad you made your choices and love to see more of your stunning area, you know how much I love Oz, so thanks for this lovely eyecandy-beachy-pics, take care Natasha,
    Maureen xx

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  25. AnonymousApril 11, 2011 at 4:22 PM

    Natasha,
    I am so glad that you decided to continue your blogging. Your beach photos are lovely. I do believe you have something very special to give through your blog. Welcome back, Kim

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  26. DonnaApril 11, 2011 at 4:55 PM

    I have to say dear Natasha..that I've been there..twice now! But I thought if you needed to take a break..that would certainly not hurt. I had a feeling you'd be back. I learned to quit 'living for the blog'..making things just to join linky parties. Then there's all this pressure! I decided to 'blog life' however boring it might be.

    That's why I have a post about getting rid of mange and scorpions--Ha! I figured..if I needed the help..someone else might too.

    It changed the whole purpose of my blog. I'm glad you will still be here.

    When you get a chance, you might check out today's post. I did my first newsletter...and came up with a nifty html code to make multiple summaries in my ONE post. It was SOooo hard!!! I'm not a coder or programmer!

    I would miss you so much if you weren't here. It's funny sometimes we have to step back to see where we are headed. That was part of my the reason for my own decision. I get too close to the bloggy world to think clearly.

    Rather than throw in the towel this time..I just decided to give myself a little slack. :o)

    Love love love your idea. It makes so much sense! 5 minutes just for me..is such a perfect blog purpose.

    Got to go to bed. I'm going to be soo tired tomorrow! But..I've hurdled a big mountain tonight and I'll be coasting from now on.

    Your photos are simply stunning!

    xo
    Donna @ Comin' Home

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  27. Teacup MomentsApril 11, 2011 at 6:14 PM

    natasha,

    welcome back! cheers to blogging only when you feel like it. sounds like a great plan!

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  28. It's meApril 11, 2011 at 7:12 PM

    Yes yes !!!....you did it girl !!! the right thing....blogging is good not a must !!.....it helps you to relax and follow people all over the world.......now th weather is so beautiful here...i am blogging in the evenings.......and a little bit in the morning.....now i am going to do the house things.......and than i am relax sitting in the sun......have a nice day darling......love love love Ria...xxx....i am so glad you stay......xxx...xxx...xxx....

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  29. Carol at SerendipityApril 11, 2011 at 8:03 PM

    Natasha,
    I am so glad to see you are back. I have recently decided that I will blog for the reasons I began blogging and not get caught up in the pressure. I have a much better attitude.

    Your pictures are just outstanding.

    Carol

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  30. LindyLouMacApril 11, 2011 at 8:42 PM

    Natasha I am thrilled that you think you have found a way to make blogging work, without it becoming life dominating. I came close to stopping completely on Friday, as I seem to be for ever trying to keep up. However my thoughts are like yours if we can just manage to blog for the fun and worry less about what others think, it should work. Surely the real friends we have made will stay with us. :)
    do you think this means you will revive Sunday Song?

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  31. SouthhamsdarlingApril 11, 2011 at 8:46 PM

    Natasha - how wonderful to see your name on my Blog Roll this morning dear friend!! You will see from all the other comments that we are delighted to see you back. AND to see your stunning photos again. I love all the little inspirational quotes after the photos - so appropriate! Like LindyLouMac in Italy, I also have been struggling to keep on top of blogging, BUT I think you have got it just about right, so I shall be taking a leaf out of your book and, hopefully, it will take some of the pressure off. Sending warmest wishes your way.

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  32. MelissaApril 11, 2011 at 9:02 PM

    Yeah for you!! I think that sometimes that is what a person has to do. Take a step back and analyze it and decide to do it for the right reasons...

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  33. Claire DeRosaApril 11, 2011 at 11:26 PM

    Natasha, I was truly sad to hear you were giving up on your blog. I am so glad you decided to keep it going. I enjoy your blog...it reminds me to take 5 minutes for me! Your photos are outstanding and so are you! Thanks for inspiration that you share with all of us.
    Claire

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  34. Tammy @BeatriceBanksApril 11, 2011 at 11:29 PM

    Well said! I'm happy you are back. I enjoy your blog so much. Life is such a delicate balance. And time is something we all struggle with. I'm glad you are doing it on your terms. I believe in keeping it real and keeping it fun!
    Hugs!

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  35. De RuijsbroekjesApril 12, 2011 at 3:22 AM

    oh thank you a 1000 times, for writing this, you are sssssooooo right, that have to be the reason for blogging, thanx for reminding me, thanx again for your 5 minutes, love you! thanks for the little things in time. I m a little depressed and this gives me the courage for tomorrow

    xxx

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  36. It's Just DottieApril 12, 2011 at 4:24 AM

    I have missed the old Natasha. You were one of my first followers and I was one of yours.I blog for me.In a funny way I think it helps me to know it is ok to be just me
    quiet, simple and shy.

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  37. AntoniaApril 12, 2011 at 5:55 AM

    Very glad you are staying Natasha! Antonia ♥

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  38. alessandraApril 12, 2011 at 6:12 AM

    Ah what a beautiful aha moment you had, I think we all had it at one point ;)
    Welcome back, at your terms, how could be otherwise.
    Stunning images btw.

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  39. AngeApril 12, 2011 at 6:17 AM

    Ahhh Natasha, I had that very same 'Aha' moment about 6 months ago. I wondered why I was blogging, who for… Now I write for me (and hope a few people enjoy popping over for a read).
    Looking forward to reading more of YOU

    Love
    xx
    PS GORGEOUS Photos of Mooloolaba ;-)

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  40. BonjourRomanceApril 12, 2011 at 7:36 AM

    Welcome back Natasha, so glad to hear you are blogging again. Doing it on your terms when you feel the need to share something is the best way, and takes the pressure off.
    I am onboard for the ride!
    Mimi

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  41. DebbiedoosApril 12, 2011 at 8:38 AM

    Cheers to you! Always nice to have that moment of clarity..I have been there:)

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  42. JillApril 12, 2011 at 12:59 PM

    Awwww, I'm so glad that you'll still be blogging! The pictures in this post are absolutely stunning! I'd like to hop right into them! Take care!

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  43. MyaApril 12, 2011 at 1:23 PM

    Good evening, Natasha. Delighted to see you posting again. I am guesing that you have regained your sense of freedom and that you will be able to blog just for the fun of it. I am not blogging quite as much simply because I do not have the time.
    We were away for a few days also - and to the beach too - my favorite place. Your pictures are wonderful and make me realize that I will never get enough of the oceanside.

    Take care, my friend, and enjoy the week.

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  44. Auntie sezzzzzz...April 12, 2011 at 11:04 PM

    Dear Natasha, I'm so happy that you took a bit of a blogging holiday. And during that time, you came to know just exactly how/why you wish to come back to blogging. Wonderful! If only each and everyone of us, could find this perfect place/state, for ourselves.

    I know, that I'm still trying! Yes, after years and years of blogging, in one place or another, I am still trying to find my perfect way.

    But I will take inspiration from you. I will find it. I will. I will. I will. And when I find it [this time], I will be able to stick by it.

    -sigh- That's my issue. I make lovely plans, and then, forget them, over time. Silly me. With much luck, no more. With much luck, and your inspiration, I'll find my way, and continue to walk that perfect-for-me blogging path.

    And as you say it so well, I will no longer allow guilt, to sneak into my blogging. -happy sigh-

    Gentle hugs,
    'Aunt Amelia'

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  45. Auntie sezzzzzz...April 12, 2011 at 11:08 PM

    Plus, your photos are magnificent! And you are brave enough to show them, in a large size. I love this!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

    Another inspiration I can take from you.

    The size of showing pics, I mean. I have a long way to go, to match your handle on photography. :-)

    Gentle hugs...

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  46. JacobaApril 13, 2011 at 12:42 AM

    Dear Natasha,
    You have been experiencing such overwhelming life events recently in Australia, it is only too understandable that you need time to digest everything. It is good to read though that your creativity is streaming again, that is a good sign.
    Beautiful pictures, beautiful words. The pics take me straight back to my visits to Australia! It makes me dreaming back in time.

    Take it easy, have a happy day!
    Jacoba

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  47. BeverlyApril 13, 2011 at 2:02 AM

    Good for you, Natasha. You must have needed some time to reconnect with your soul. I know you will find a way to make it work for you and your family.

    And, good for us. Now we want have to be missing our Natasha.♥

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  48. AnonymousApril 13, 2011 at 5:50 AM

    Good for you Natasha. I am so pleased to hear that you will still be blogging, but on your terms.

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  49. JennyApril 13, 2011 at 8:24 AM

    Beautiful photos! So glad you're back. xx

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  50. YHOSIEApril 13, 2011 at 12:32 PM

    welcome back :)
    everything in this world must be taken in the right dose.
    so that it'll bring the best part of you ...

    have a nice blogging day

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  51. NatalieApril 13, 2011 at 6:10 PM

    Glad you're not giving up Natasha. I'm totally with you. I regularly experience pangs of guilt when I realise I have gone weeks without blogging but then I remind myself it's meant to be fun! I'll be happy to read your posts whenever you feel like posting.

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  52. AnonymousApril 14, 2011 at 1:56 AM

    Hi-I love your photos - I just featured on my very new blog http://www.beachsidecottage.blogspot.com - I live in South Florida!
    Best Wishes,
    Linda

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  53. LibbieApril 14, 2011 at 12:48 PM

    YAY!!!! You made my night!!! I am so glad you are going keep going...but you are so right...it has to be on your own terms & just for FUN!!! & oh is it fun! :)

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  54. LesaApril 15, 2011 at 2:16 AM

    I am so glad to see you are back. I have so enjoyed your blog. I am even more excited to see that you will be blogging for the "right" reasons. I started a blog a few years ago and was overwhelmed with the pressure to be funny or post every day and I simply could not do it. You have inspired me to take another look at my blog and blog because I want to about what I want to share.

    Thank you again.

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  55. Kat IbáñezApril 15, 2011 at 5:28 AM

    Oh Natasha well done!!!! I´m so happy you´re back my sweet friend, you always inspire us with your posts, words and beautiful pictures, you really have something to say and all your talent needs to be heard!!!!!
    So.....Welcome back lovely Natasha!!!!!!

    A big hug and lots of kisses!!!

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  56. SimonyApril 20, 2011 at 8:03 PM

    These are great news Natasha! Glad to see you back! Blogging should be about the pleasure of writing and sharing thoughts, never an obligation.
    Take care my dear.

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  57. Bluebirds and RosesApril 24, 2011 at 10:06 AM

    Thank you for sharing... we are desperate for sun,green,flowers and spring in New England!Happy Easter!

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