Shelving the Project

I was just looking at my last post- and realize it's been some time since I've updated it. Therefore, I only have myself to blame that this project has gone off track. I guess I was hoping and waiting to see what my September 1 deadline would bring, but then life just happens.
Jenna started Kindergarten- and with that an unfortunate new sleep routine that leaves me drained most evenings (we're working on it ;-)
Then, as some of you know, Bill's mom began losing her battle with cancer and she died on Thanksgiving Day. Our lives are forever changed with losing Nina, and we're still trying to wrap our heads around it.
Through all this, I keep thinking of what I'd want to write for Jenna about it all and how it applies to the book I wanted to write.
And that, of course brings me to think of our project...
A few of you have returned your contribution, a few have said you've written yours, gotten a lot out of it, and just need to get it to me. Some of you thought the project was a great idea, but I'm sure, life happened for you too :-)
So, I've decided to stop badgering you, and will just shelve the project. For those of you who did send yours in, thank you for trusting me with your very personal information. I am happy to return it if you'd like. Otherwise, I'll keep it in a secure place in case we decide to take another stab at it! Just let me know what you decide.
In the meantime, I hope the questions inspired some interesting thinking for each of you. I certainly enjoyed writing mine, and will update it over the years. Perhaps one day I'll find a way to make this happen!
With much love, Jodi

Winter Doldrums and That Scary Send Button

Well, the journey continues!  In recent weeks, mired in the post-holidays/ February doldrums, I was thinking that maybe this book will never happen. I must confess that I haven’t even gotten my answers done! I imagine it’s a mix of perfectionism and waiting for the perfect time to sit and write! I am halfway through, however, and I was amazed how quickly that writing flowed (once I sat down and did it!).

Last week I had lunch with one of the amazing women on my list. We’d been trying to get together for months, and when we finally connected the sparks began flying. I haven’t shared this concept to anyone new in a while. Doing so with some so dynamic ignited the energy again!

That night I ran into someone who’s gotten hers written out, she just needs to type it. But life got in the way, and sadly she is dealing with a huge loss right now, so hers is understandably on hold for a bit. I’d venture that the loss of her mom may prompt her to expound on her answers as she types them…

Then I ran into another of you the very next day! She said, “Mine’s done, I just can’t seem to hit ‘send’!”.  I totally get this! These are some personal questions!  Since she’s not alone in the funny tummy feeling about hitting “send”, I have two thoughts to share. It’s likely that I won’t print all of everyone’s answers. So that allows for the anonymous section I’m planning for the answers we just don’t want to own J. Just identify those you want attached to your name, and those you don’t.

Finally, on Monday I had lunch with the first woman I’d met with from my “amazing” list. I told her that I’m writing an updated blog where I might say, “If you know you really won’t get this done, please let me know, as I’ll need to replace you”. She thought that was her “out”. I laughed and said “no way”! That’s when I realized: I asked each of you for a reason! So I really hope you can make it happen. Again, those of us who have done (at least some) of the writing, have found it to be a great experience. And I have big plans for this when we finally pull it all together!

Which brings me to our new and improved deadline: since Fall is my favorite time of year, I plan to take time off from work in September to pull it together. So, September 1 is our deadline to get all the answers in. I hope this helps you- but that it doesn’t cause you to lose any momentum from our initial meeting about this project.  Please call me if you’d like to get together to discuss where you’re at with it!! Thank you everyone-- With Love, Jodi