I was talking with another mom today about why I write this blog. She said she didn’t think I would write a blog if the purpose wasn’t to have people read it. So I’ve been thinking about that. Because, obviously people read it. Not many people. And I do little or nothing to try and get people to read this blog. But people do read it. (You are, right?)

That said, the possibility that others might read what I write does provide some accountability. Much like having to turn in assignments for creative writing class used to do. It makes me mindful of my content, and gives me a desire to make it hang together and make sense. The desire to have any unifying principle comes from without, I suppose.

As for primary motivation, though, this is where, as the mom of small children, I get to explore my own voice. I get to develop perspective on my own life.

I get a chance to “use my words” as I want to use them. It’s a way for me to store up the treasures from my day and take refuge in them at those moments, like right now, when it’s just too close to bedtime and I cannot make anyone happy.

Because, this mom thing? It goes by fast. I mean, really fast. I know that’s a cliche, but sometimes things become cliched because they are so very, very true. And if I don’t create a way to seize the most beautiful parts of this experience, they will definitely get away.