Once upon a time when I started blogging (back in 2010), I used to give each month a theme. My effort was very surface. But it was something I saw magazines do, so I wanted my blog to do it, too. Then I’d have a photoshoot trying my best to capture the theme and post it. The idea of having a monthly theme was good, but the execution was pretty bad. My heart was in the right place though.
After some reflection during social distancing, I’ve decided to refresh the monthly theme idea and do it right. Coincidentally, this month’s theme is: Refresh.
With spring finally here, it seemed appropriate. Plus, we’re all spending so much more time at home which seemed like a hindrance at first thought, but it really is such a treat if you decide to refresh your mindset. It certainly isn’t easy – whether you live alone or have “fifty-leven” kids like I do. It’s a new reality for us who live in a first world bubble drenched in convenience.
I’m currently in a season where I have to refresh quite a few areas in my life. Going from 2 to 3 children is quite the shift, especially now that they’re home all the time. (Maizah and Caliana usually go to school full time Monday through Friday.) Having Hubs around to help throughout the day is certainly appreciated, but adjusting your marriage to a house bound quarantine is quite the task. Nurturing those relationships – with my husband and my children – while adjusting to our new reality isn’t just important to me but a priority. Looking forward to welcoming a refresh in my relationships with myself and the people I love the most. And man, self care looks a little different when you aren’t allowed to leave the house. But it’s amazing what being deliberate about your morning and evening skincare routine will do.
This month also makes it 6 months since we’ve been in our new home. I’ll be the first to admit that I thought all my house projects would be done by now. Not sure why I thought that since I was incredibly pregnant until January, but I’m about 25% done. The dining room is the most done room, but still not there yet. But what is obvious is that lots of organizing needs to be done now that we really live here because our stuff is everywhere! I started by organizing on the small scale with the linen closet and I’m slowly moving my way up. Hopefully, the pantry, master closet and playroom follow suit with getting organized as well. It turns out that even if your house isn’t Pinterest-worthy decorated, it still needs to be organized.
Aside from family and home, I’ve been thinking a lot about my blog as a business. Maybe it’s because I just came off of maternity leave last month, but I’ve had the urge to pivot. After 10 years of blogging, the idea that I should be further than where I am has been lurking in my thoughts. Be clear, I’m grateful and wildly fortunate to be in the position I’m in, but I’m not interested in being comfortable. It’s time for me to pivot and refresh my business with new ideas and even a couple of old ones that I never executed properly. Even little things like updating your press kit and promoting your content consistently can give you the refresh you need.
In this month’s content, you’ll notice things feeling lighter and fresher. It’s deliberate. With the current climate of the world, I want the content here on MattieJames.com to be a light. Plus, we have more daylight (thank God) and I’m doing my best to put it to good use. And yes, you’re home more, but that isn’t a bad thing. I’ll be sharing ideas on how to refresh your dining room with an update of my own. And because everyone is home – around the clock – getting the house clean can seem impossible. I’m excited to tell you about the weekly cleaning schedule that helps you maintain a tidy home. After all, a clear space equals a clear mind.
Working from home doesn’t mean you should stay in pajamas all day. No, you don’t have to be dressed up either, so I have 20 work from home outfit ideas to help you address your wardrobe during this time. And for the sake of getting use out of my new blazer, I’ll be sharing how to wear a spring friendly blazer multiple ways. My spring capsule wardrobe was a hit last month, so I thought I’d take it one step further and show you what spring wardrobe staples are a must in this new season. I’ve been into neutral, versatile pieces as of late.
To refresh means to make fresh again; reinvigorate or cheer. I’m willing to accept the challenge to Make Content Fresh Again and post for the sake of serving my audience and not just to beat the algorithm. Hopefully, this month’s content does just that.
What are you looking forward to giving a refresh this month? Let me know over on Instagram.
Thanks for thinking of the readers! We can use all the inspiration we can get during this social distancing. Your photos look like they come strait out of a magazine!