These flowers and the scrabble pieces usually sit on my kitchen window. I set up different words and different letters to remind myself what's important to me.
I've been meaning to spend more time on Facebook and Twitter since the first of the year. It's not working. I've been playing with family and friends. My life is out of balance in a good way. The following photos help tell the story of why I'm failing with social media.
My oldest daughter and two grandchildren came to visit for 10 days! The sun rises and sets, the moon shines; the tides rise and fall, and we have only to sit back and enjoy!
Next horse back riding at sunset…
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I hadn't been on a horse in 30 years…it's funny what I'll do for my grandchildren. I couldn't resist this photo, it's the farm girl in me.
Life is good and I choose to say yes to it. I'm living it to the fullest!
Mac just turned 16 and I'm savoring our time together…soon she'll be on to driving, boyfriends and SAT'S. AJ is 13 and ready to cowboy up!
We went for four hours and the dessert was breath taking. It was a trip we'll always remember. After two hours we stopped at a
restaurant to eat.
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On the return trip It was dark and the only light came from the stars and the moon. I was amazed how the horses climbed the mountains through the rocks knowing exactly where to place their feet. I'm on the horse behind Mac taking these photos. My daughter was on the horse behind me. Hubs skipped the ride and drove to the restaurant to eat with us.
There is an olive farm a few miles from us. They sell the most amazing olives, olive oil, bread, gourmet salads and gelatto. Prior to AZ I didn't know what an olive tree looked like!
This famous sculpture is one of the most celebrated works within the art world. The sculpture is located at the Civic Center Mall, between the Scottsdale Center for the Arts and the Civic Center Library. It was conceived in a time when the United States was consumed by the Vietnam War, LOVE became a symbol for Peace. Many couples pose for engagement and wedding photos here.
Love, family, fun and a sunny day! Cherishing the simple pleasures my life brings to me.
Some how I have to find more time for social media!
How about you, where do you make time for everything blogging requires?
More photos to come next week taken with another daughter and grandson;) Isn't life grand?
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Tess,
I don’t have a grand answer, because like you I enjoy life–time with my family, my friends, playing as much as possible, work… however I believe all of that energizes me so that when I *do* share it is excellent energy from a life well lived. In the blogging world, I am still just as heart led as in the real world, so I’m about the connections and hope my thoughts/words help enrich or lend a smile….having said that, it won’t sell multiple printings of books…but the connections I’ve made have allowed me to experience far more than I could have imagined possible….I wouldn’t trade *that* for anything.
And, honestly, this post you shared today is so alive–the photos show you *living life fully* and there isn’t an essay that can teach or inspire as much as what you’ve shared today….
Here’s to lots more Spring and Summer adventure:)
Joy said it all – There is not much to add except – I am from Arizona and have never known that there are olive trees! I am now very curious about that farm and its produce as it sounds delightful! (I am from the mountains higher than Flagstaff)
There is a time and a place for social media. Right now I spend very little time on the computer (when I am not at work) and lots of time with friends and nature and my daughter who is changing and maturing daily. There will be another time for the media – To everything there is a season, no?
Have a wonderful weekend – and great pictures!
The Exception´s last post…Anchors
I dunno… sounds to me like your life is IN balance in a grand way, Tess! The horseback riding sounds wonderful. It is amazing how the horses can find their way in the dark isn’t it? Nah, you’re not failing at Twitter and Facebook; you’re succeeding at life.
Davina´s last post…The Muse is My Master
Hi Tess,
Absolutely nothing wrong with taking a break from the computer and spending quality time with the people who mean the most to you. The pics looks like everyone had a wonderful time.
I went horsebacking riding for the first time a couple of years ago – had a blast but it was only for an hour. I envy your four-hour jaunt.
Karen
Karen´s last post…The First Step In Finding Meaning For Your Life
Hey Tess! Boy, does A.J. look like YOU, or what? It’s so cool!
Fail? Fail and Tess in the same sentence? I think NOT! This blog is very much a hit, and if you want the social media to grow, they will in time. I know you will grow them when you’re ready to — when the time for that is riper. I see you as only getting started.
The way I see you is one successful horse-back riding photo-taking family-loving human being!! And a good, encouraging, uplifting friend to many. And that, my buddy — is what matters!
xo
Sounds like you’ve got a good problem on your hands. I think family should always come before social media. Keep up the great job raising your family, social media will find it’s way in the cracks and crevices of life! Sure it’s great for business but no business should take the place of family.
Thanks for sharing!!
Jarrod @ Optimistic Journey´s last post…Are You In Indifference Mode?
Tess, Tess, life is good when you follow your heart BOLDLY and when you refuse to be fearfully doing social networking because you think you have to make IT work with hard work.
Tess, you know your life is in balance, do NOT go there. I too still sometimes wonder what it is that I ‘must’ do to make ‘things’ work and if I am NOT taking off too much time to smell the roses. And yet, we are NOT here to work and be slaves to money, we are here to enjoy life with people who are right in front of our nose.
Tess, you are an awesome woman to ask this question so boldly and then doing boldly what your heart wants to do anyway. Ha, I love you for this, I too wonder sometimes and thanks again for being such a pal and making me feel alright too. Lets carry on boldly enjoying life, this is a far more powerful message than your fear driven tweets would be in my humble opinion.
Love ya, Wilma
Wilma Ham´s last post…Wilma on How our words lift people up
Hey I would take family bonding over twitter and facebook anytime. Enjoy them.
Karla Bond´s last post…Digital Cameras
Thanks, Tess, for sharing these lovely pictures. They tell the whole story. I say, ditch the have-tos and do what feels delicious!
Joy Tanksley´s last post…Magenta
You are really partaking in and experiencing the abundance of your life. Twitter and Facebook will wait for you and will still be there when you get around to them. I guarantee it. Thanks for providing such a glorious example for all of us and for sharing. Enjoy!
Hi Tess
There is nothing better than to hear of people enjoying their life – I mean REALLY enjoying their life, like you are! So feel great!
Social media is, and can be wonderful but to a certain point. I will be honest that I don’t go out of my way to engage in social media. I engage in it as naturally as possible when I am on the computer, but I am not one of those people who tweets when on a walk or with family or friends. There is a time and place for everything.
On top of that there is SO much social media today – if one is not careful it can tug us in too many directions. I know it has taken me a few good months to get to an efficient point where I am today. And the things like you describe above would always come first to me too
So no guilt, and you are definitely not failing – feel great about the amazing time you have been having!
P.S. Wow, does AJ ever resemble his grandma!
Evita´s last post…Healing: The Capability of Being or Becoming a Miracle
Tess!
Keep on “living life”!!! If part of the appeal of facebook and twitter are ways to strengthen and build connections – I say that you are doing it in an even better way – in person, being there – in the moments!!! What a great way to bond with those who really matter to you!!
Lance´s last post…And Why Do We Laugh?
Like many commenters before me you are not failing at the social media when you are enjoying life so much! Keep on enjoying it! You are blessed to have what you have! Family is beautiful especially when you can spend real quality time with them.
Hi Tess
I really needed this post.
I was beginning to think that I was the only person in the entire blogosphere who didn’t have time for twitter and facebook – what a relief!
Truth is, we find time to do what we really want to do.
For me that is writing posts and interacting with other bloggers.
As for twitter and facebook?
Manana, manana.
Keith Davis´s last post…Flying in formation
Joy,
We think a like … if I give up what I have what would I be working for anyway, my ego, more stuff or someday? I’m so happy we’re friends and thanks for inspiring me and encouraging me along the way.
Exception,
Ahh Flagstaff and that area I’ve not been to. I still have a lot of exploring and hiking to do;) You see what I mean?!? You’ll never get those moments back with your daughter. You’re wise to not miss them. It’s called Queen Creek Olive Mill and you can tour the place as well. It’s beautiful.
Davina,
You are sweet and king and that’s why I love you!
Karen,
If you want to come on over I’ll go again;)
Jannie,
How do I heart you? Let me count the ways:)
Jarrod,
I know I’m doing the right thing but my ego gets in my way at times. Augghh!
Evita,
Yes we’re hearing AJ looks like me more and more. The first boy in our family! He has my personality as well. How crazy is that? Thanks for you support I so appreciate it.
Lance,
Thank You! I appreciate your comments, laughter and support.
Karla,
Yes I am blessed! Thank you.
Joy,
Oh yeah what feels delicious. I just love that!
Debbie,
Enjoying and experiencing the abundance in my life. I like the way you put that and I think I’ll write about it as well. Thanks for the insight you have a way with words.
Stacey,
Thank you and I’m blessed to have a ton of family and friends like you!
Keith,
Yeah someone else like me…I’ve always been a misfit!
Tess Bold Life´s last post…The Bold Life: I’m Failing at Twitter & Facebook
Tess, Tess, you’ve just demonstrated what I was telling you the other day! You’re doing it right, SO right. Thank you for this wonderfully visual emphasis on what’s ultimately the MOST important part of life. All the online socializing must take second place. With that, I want to know: Where’d you go riding where you could leave the horses for dinner? And now I’M getting off the computer and going outside. I’ve a couple horses to see.
PS: Your daughter is the spitting image of you.
PPS: Flagstaff’s gorgeous. The White Mountains are, too! In fact, ALL of Arizona’s mountain regions are breathtaking. One of these days, preferrably in the heat of summer, you’ve gotta get out of the city—by car, this time.
Julie´s last post…Bright Moments
I would give anything to be able to say that I am failing at Twitter and Facebook. I can only wish that my life was as physical as yours. Yet, I am thankful for the social media which give me the privilege to communicate and connect with many people while sitting on my lazy butt all day long.
Tracy Todd´s last post…The Curse
Darling Tess,
Youre lIVING….YOURE ALIVE! and thats the best balance you need. Social media is good…but yes..it has its limitations….on the eyes, the fingers..and the mind. But the real social circle..the real life…now thats bliss..through and through. These beautiful moments you spend with your grandkids…will never come back. Facebook and twitter can wait…youre too busy LIVING! And thats the best way to live!
As for me..and social media…well moderation works….ok only a little bit. I have to admit…I aint too good at it either
Much love,
Z~
Hi Tess,
I love it that you so enthusiastically proclaim to the world that you are failing at social networking! Who needs Facebook and Twitter when real life is so delicious? And me? I’m not allowed to have Facebook or Twitter. Let’s just say my “inner” parent has said a resounding “no” to that, understanding full well that I would either get addicted or I would have no time left for things like gardening, walking, reading, etc. Well, probably both would happen. So although another part of me worries that I’m missing out on something, I just keep reminding myself about what my heart knows is true for me.
Your photos are a delight. What a fun life you’re leading!
Patty – Why Not Start Now?´s last post…Fortune Cookie Magic
I hear you, with all the pretty weather and priorities in real life, I too have spent more time on me. Newborn horses to play with, asparagus to hunt… Those plain pleasures that make living superb and interesting! I thought the other day that I may be letting down my blog readers. However, I reminded myself that it’ll be there when the time is accurate. I believe we, in fact, are finding more balance than we are losing here. Thanks, for reminding us that online pursuit is rewarding, but we all live outside our websites and online communities.
Keep on living,
Sandra
Sandra Hendricks´s last post…Prescriptions for Happiness Conclusion
Julie,
I thing you’re so funny and fun! We went to South Mountain. They have a couple of options and we wanted sunset. I can’t tell you how to get to the restaurant via road but I can via horse. LOL
I can’t wait to explore Flagstaff and Northern AZ I gotta talk hubs into the camping thing and he’s hated it since his army days. He did it when the girls were little cuz it’s what we could afford. I’ve got a lot of talkin to do!
Hug the horses for me. I’m going to look online for the place and get back to you. xo
Tracy,
I’m coming to your blog to see what you butt sittin is all about. LOL everyone is so funny today. Welcome and I hope you stop in again soon.
Z.
I love you! Enough said;)
Patti,
You are so right and even though my heart is leading me my ego won’t shut the heck up about the social media! Does anyone have any super glue? I’m following your lead Patti!
Sandra,
And if we’re not all living outside of our blogging communities we’re missing out on the richness of live. All in balance my new friend. Welcome!
Tess Bold Life´s last post…The Bold Life: I’m Failing at Twitter & Facebook
I giggle at this…in a good way of course. I am totally failing at twitter. I go on a few times a week. I find that between blogging & flickr I can’t do much else. I actually force myself to get off the computer and go outside. Isn’t that crazy? Lately I have been more busy with photography so that takes me away…and it’s good. We all need to remember that life exists off line too.
Caroline´s last post…The perfect accessory
Hi Tess,
Firstly, fantastic pics – thanks so much for sharing them and the stories.
Secondly, it sounds to me like your life is completely in balance, and if you force yourself to do the whole twitter / facebook thing, you’d be moving out of balance. If those things were to be naturally a part of your life right now, they’d be there – and they’re not, so I guess I’d just keep on going the way you are. Your blog is fantastic, and as I don’t do twitter or facebook myself I don’t really know what more could be gained by taking time from your family and friends to devote to other social medial. Me, I’d just keep on doing what you’re doing – I’m loving it, I hope you are too!
Topi
Topi´s last post…The possibilities are endless
Hi Tess .. I think you’d better take the advice of mates .. all’s well in The Bold Life household .. and please don’t .. I’m on my over to visit the Olive Farm with you .. and eat at your restaurant, wander into the Sunset in the Desert .. sounds glorious!
Lovely to have just a simple post on family life being thoroughly lived to the full .. all enjoying themselves and being grounded with family and life & at peace .. what could be better …
PS – first Castle one done – Stirling – not sure if your sister went there?! Bats and Moths a ‘filler’ …!!
Love the post – thanks for sharing with us .. Happy Days to you – Hilary
Hilary´s last post…Bat and Moth Survey Night – tonight
Hi Hillary,
I’m not sure about that castle either…bats and moths?!? Oh and please do come over and visit and I’ll buy lunch at the restaurant;)
Tess Bold Life´s last post…The Bold Life: I’m Failing at Twitter & Facebook
What a wonderful way to “fail”!!
Tess, I’m IN LOVE with those photos, and with the idea of horseback riding at sunset. Wow! Thank you for sharing them with all of us — you’re helping me DREAM, and the dreams are beautiful.
As for how I make time for blogging, well, I don’t anymore! And I canceled my Twitter account. Life is taking me over in new and wonderful ways, and it’s asking me to be outside more, which is contrary to the suburban girl in me. I love it, too. Just this morning, I helped plant a garden. Yesterday, I mowed a lawn — only the second time in my life doing it, too! Life is grand, and like you, I’m failing at social media… But “fail” might be better replaced by “choosing in another direction,” which your post so perfectly pointed out.
Much love to you!
Twitter and face book may fade away hopefully not……. but from looking at your lovely collection of photos Tess it looks like you are all having a fantastic time nothing can take that place
Fatibony@Self help Motivation´s last post…Tips to deal with confrontation
Hi Tess,
Wow, I love this post — such a great message, great photos, and lovely to see you out there making it great! I agree with what you’re saying here. I suppose it’d be a different story for me if my business was my online presence — but it is not, so choose otherwise. I treat my online activities as any other hobby. When I spend too much time on anything, it somehow becomes less fun.
I agree with your lovely community, too. It’s great to see so many friends here!
Thanks for a great message, Tess. Perfect timing for me!
~xo
Hi Lori,
If I spend too much time online I get obsessed which is not a good thing for me. I’d rather be obsessed with my physical world out doing fun stuff with face to face interaction in the human flesh. It’s why I’m making it part of my plan to meet my friends on line in person.
I’m meeting Peggy Nolan this weekend and Caroline after that. Yipppeeeeeeeeee!