The time of year when we pause to look back on the year. Relish our triumphs, evaluate our disappointments, and plan for a fresh start. I kinda feel like I do this every day just on a smaller scale. :)
In the last week, I have been reminded countless times (ok, I can count them) that people have enjoyed my blog and are looking forward to the next one. Yeah, I've let posting on Facebook replace real writing. Sorry. I blame Facebook and you dear reader.
Facebook is instantaneous. It's magic. Those little icons in the upper left hand corner light up so fast to indicate a message, a "like", or a comment. Yeah, you know what I'm talking about (Ok, Andrea, you don't know :) but trust me, it's pretty cool.) Yes, I'm addicted to those. I love when I post a picture of any ordinary thing, and ding! Someone has seen it. It's like a silent conversation. Some sort of validation that let's me know, yeah, someone is actually curious about what I'm doing. I must admit though, my favorite is a comment or a message. Then it's really like a conversation from across the globe.
You dear reader are silent. I know you're there. I can see how many people view the postings. Yeah, bet you didn't know that, huh? Thank you for reading, but you're not Facebook. No magic. No zip. No ding. However, I like you and not just in the Facebook clicking kind of like you. I really like you.
I like that you supported me in this crazy adventure to teach overseas. You listened to my musings about Turkey. You watched documentaries with me about Turkey and Ataturk. You went out to dinner with me. You had drinks with me. (Man do I miss micro-brews and root beer martinis. Seriously. Delicious. Mad Cow in Greeley. Go if you haven't had one.) You were excited for my adventure but sad to see me go. You cried with me at the airport. You sent me emails and Skype messages. In the beginning. Now. We are complacent with each other. Me not blogging. You not commenting. It's sad because I really like you.
So in this time of reflection, I propose a revival in our relationship. A resolution if you will. I promise I'll blog about something every other week if you dear reader promise to talk to me. (Originally, I was thinking every week, but let's be honest.)You could send an email; you could message me on Facebook; you could even comment in the comment section below. Any message is a good message. I'm not picky.
It doesn't have to be long; it doesn't have to be insightful. Heck, you don't even have to use correct spelling or grammar. Just quit being a lurker and say something. Please? It really does mean a lot to me to continue my friendships back home. I think that is what I have learned the most on this adventure. No one really knows you like the people back home. The ex-pat community is small in Tarsus, and often it feels like they don't want to take the time to get to know people because someone is always moving.
It doesn't matter to me if you think what you're writing is boring. To me, it's a small glimpse into what is happening in your life that I'm missing out on by living in Turkey. Just like you get to travel through me, I need to know what's happening over there with you. Even if you just want to tell me about getting a great deal on some cereal because you had a double coupon, and it was on sale. Tell me. I miss you. All of you. And really, Facebook is cheating on the relationships I miss the most.
Here's to a new year, a new you and me, and a new relationship via Blogger.
Now, this is something I thought I would never see: Stacey talking about how much she LIKES Facebook?! Did the Rapture happen last night or something :)
ReplyDeleteHere's what's going on here this morning: Sam and Dexter are standing here staring at me, wondering how much longer they are going to have to wait for their walk. I need to tell the Boy that he's taking them (it's only 5 degrees out and I am working out with my trainer in half an hour). Later, I'm writing a blog post, working on a Vision Board for next year, and probably taking a nap. So exciting, as always :)
Hey Jill,
DeleteNotice I said I like the "magic" of Facebook. I still think it's a ridiculous time suck and a drama festival. They had to do some research about what would keep people tuned in and those three little buttons really have some serious psychological brain power!
Glad to hear Sam and Dexter are still getting their morning walks! Heard it's been a real cold spell in CO. Can't complain about 50s and 60s, but it really feels cold! I've been wearing my winter coat! That sounds so crazy but true.
Hope the Vision Board turned out the way you wanted.
Keep writing Stacey; we're here reading and thining about you.
ReplyDeleteSounds like a plan, Eric. Have you tried the Turkish restaurant in Ft. Collins yet? Please?? You have to at least tell me what is on the menu -- even if you don't eat there!
DeleteHey amiga keep those blogs coming as I imagine myself there with your evocative writing. And I am not a facebooker either. Love ya!
ReplyDeleteVicky,
DeleteYou know you could get on Facebook. It really is ridiculous, but it is a good way to keep in touch. Glad you're reading and liking it! Miss you!