It’s been awhile since I’ve published a blog post. So long, that when I tried to add a post on my desktop I could only access a black screen. It looks like I need to do a little site maintenance, but in the meantime I’m using my iPad.
Where did I go during all of those months of inactivity? Great question. I was still writing, on and off, experimenting with different genres. With only so many hours in the day, I convinced myself that something needed to go. For the last couple of years, I noticed that my new blog posts received very little interaction. The site has been getting consistent views, but mostly people just read the “old” posts. I’ll admit that’s frustrating. So, when I was trying to find the best way to spend my days, I decided not to waste my time on this blog any longer. With plenty of other content and media out there, I figured I would not really be missed.
I was right. My site chugged along as it always has, with readers accessing my articles on hexagonal thinking and genius hour, paying little attention to more recent additions. There was just one problem. I missed blogging. Despite making the conscious decision to stop, I continued to bookmark things that I thought might one day share on the blog and kept dictating entries in my head. I began to feel like I was punishing myself instead of rewarding myself with more time to write other things.
And that’s why I’ve decided to come back. I may not post as frequently as I used to, but I will post as frequently as I’d like to. Maybe it will all go into the same void where much of the digital garbage the human race is creating everyday eventually resides. But I’m returning to doing something I really enjoyed, and I guess that really can’t be classified as a “waste of time.”
Where did I come from? Several months of trying something new that didn’t quite work the way I expected. That’s been my approach to life the last decade or so and, while it’s frustrating, at least I keep learning 🙂
Thanks, Terri, for all the work you put into this site. I am a retired teacher, and an intermittent reader. I do have 14 grandchildren, but half are into their teens now. I often forward interesting links and information to my children with children and enjoy keeping up with new educational ideas.
FOURTEEEN grandchildren? Congratulations! I appreciate your kind words, and will definitely keep writing.
You have contributed SO much valuable content here! I’m so glad you will be adding to it as you feel inspired, because your ideas ARE inspired and have made me a better teacher. Thank you for all you have freely shared here. We have reaped the benefits of your passion for “engaging and empowering learners!”
Gosh, thank you so much! You just gave me some much-needed motivation!
I MISSED YOU!!!! I have been looking at your blog and checking email looking for you!! I actually thought I got removed from the email list lol! I was so happy to see this email pop up!!!
Oh no! I’m sorry for making you think you were deleted! I hate that feeling! Thanks for reading (and commenting!)
I missed you! And I’m glad you’re back to posting in a way that makes YOU feel good about it!
Gosh, thank you! I must admit that I’m selfishly glad a few people still read the new posts.
Thanks for keeping it real! I’m glad you’ve tried other things, but I’m also glad you are back. I love to peek into your brain, my friend. You always give me much to ponder and reflect on.
Thanks for your comment! I appreciate your kind words!
Glad you are back!!
Thanks, Emily!
Terri, the most important thing is doing what you love and what you need. That being said, I also want you to know how much you have inspired me and how much I use your information. I have been a gifted services elementary teacher for 14 years, finding your blog in one of the first years of my career. Every time someone compliments me on a lesson, idea, etc. I always say it comes from a fabulous blog called “Engage Their Minds” because 99% of the time, it does. I cannot count the number of times I have shared your ideas with not only other gifted teachers, but classroom teachers as well when they need resources. And also, the number of times I have shared your ideas with parents, who are always grateful. I have to wonder if the lack of attention on your newer posts is not due to your ideas, but instead due to the increased workload so many of us are experiencing. No matter what, I want you to know how much you have inspired me and countless other teachers, parents, and students. Thank you.
Hi Terri,
I was glad to see your blog post as I have been missing it. High quality enrichment resources are often hard to find and I have followed you for many years utilizing your ideas in my classroom. They have always been helpful and saved me many times when I was looking for a new lesson. Thanks for sharing your knowledge and insights. And know that even if you never posted again, which I really hope that you do, you have made a difference.
Thank you so much! This is very helpful to hear, to be honest. I hope to be posting more soon!