Feb. 3, 2017 was the first post or blog that I ever had published with the Dayton Moms Blog. Now the Dayton Mom Collective, it was a huge vulnerable step for me to take a chance and share about me and my life. I remember that first post made me so nervous when it went live and I checked back repeatedly for comments and views. The Blend was about a very hard time in my life blending our families.
Now, seven and a half years later, with over 200 posts under my belt, I still LOVE writing and sharing with the Collective and have joined a few more markets in writing (Cincinnati and Louisville). I never expected the amazing way that God would use this little corner of the internet and how it would shape and add so much to my life.
I had no idea the connections that would happen by taking an uncomfortable leap to begin my writing journey.
So many times I run into a fellow writer and engage in a conversation and my husband will ask how I know the person and my response is, “Oh, we write together.” It has happened so often, he is used to it now.
Over the past seven years, I have joined so many amazing women, learned from them, written with them and started so many amazing relationships.
I worship weekly at my church with an incredible mother that I used to write with. She has become a dear friend and fellow plant momma that I am so grateful for.
Another momma I met is a fellow Christ-follower, and I have had the opportunity to read some of her work, give her my feedback and pray for her as she makes decisions in her life.
One momma shares the same health concerns that I deal with, and I am able to check on them and encourage her on her journey.
My husband and I had our will drawn up and took care of that uncomfortable task with an amazing attorney that I used to write with.
Just recently at a soccer tournament, I ran into a precious momma that I used to write with and that I deeply respect, and still keep in contact with on social media.
I have a friend that I met through the Collective and rented a vacation rental she has in the mountains. She also has been an amazing resource in a possible career shift.
Another writing-momma-gone-financial-planner has assisted my husband and I in planning for our financial future.
Such sweet unexpected connections and blessings in my life that all started with a leap of faith and a few creative ideas swirling around in my head.
Community and connection, that is what I found in this group of writing mothers through the Collective. Unexpected and something I never knew I needed.
