When Worlds Collide

or why I found it necessary to relax, regroup and refocus for the new year...

Here's a sneak peek at some of the projects I've got in store for you!!

Greetings Friends!
How are you?! I've missed you all so much!  I trust that you glided smoothly through the holidays enjoying all the good things and letting the rest slide?  Things at our house were low-key and pleasant.  I made a point of focusing on what's really important (like family and the true meaning of Christmas) instead of getting tricked into thinking I somehow had to create the perfect "TV Christmas" with tons of gifts, over the top decorations, mountains of food and a houseful of jovial guests. That we were all sick with the worst cold/flu/bug we've had in years made it even easier to adjust expectations!  Happily we have all recovered and it feels terrific to be getting back into the blogging zone. 

My self imposed hiatus from blogging and computer use in general has allowed me to evaluate my goals for 2013.  This is really important because as the title of the post indicates, by the end of the year I was feeling woefully unable to successfully navigate my world of crochet, books, family, and work.  I was trying to do so many things it was inevitable that they would all suffer and so would I. Giving myself time to simply relax and enjoy the activities that fill my world turned out to be the best present ever.  I worked on and completed all kinds of crochet projects  (plus read several books!).  Now I have lots great material for blogging.  That was one of my biggest worries - that I was running out of interesting things to write about.  I mean really, how many Wednesdays do you want to see the cardigan that I'm still working on??

The other significant change was the creation of my new book blog - Robin Reads and Writes. (RR&W) If you're a regular you know that I've been including book reviews (mainly fiction) in with my crochet posts for some time.  When the library where I work approached me about making my reviews available on their website I knew that a change of format was in order. After trying several layouts the new blog was born.  Having everything live together under one roof works well for me as far as maintenance goes.  When I started Crochet Nirvana I knew that books would always be part of my site.  Now I'm happy that they have their own special place where they can really shine.

Of course a second blog means more work.  But it's work that I love, and the response has been amazing.  In fact, I have been approached by two different publishers and asked if I would like to be an "early" reviewer.  You know that I said yes!! I mean honestly, how cool is that?  (I'll tell you all about in an upcoming RR&W post!)

Now that I've given myself time to regroup I feel energized and focused. Knowing that I have interesting projects, patterns and tutorials to share makes me feel confident about the future.  I also am thrilled about the direction the book blog is headed.  In addition to fiction I'll be reviewing new crochet/knitting (and other yarn/fiber/craft) books.  With so many exciting things on tap the future looks bright indeed. 

Thanks so much for stopping by and spending a bit of your day with me.
Until next time friends,
Be blessed and stitch & read with love!