So I Took a Break from Content Creation...Now What?

As the title reads, so I took a break from content creation...In fact, I took a rather extended break, as you'll see between the jump in calendar months from my last post to today's.  And you know what, it's okay to do that, and, even better, I'm relieved that I did.  

As a content creator, there's no shaking the sense of guilt that comes from not publishing frequently, or at least on a more consistent schedule.  We feel the pressures of our #hustleculture, of balancing "the grind" with having a life, and, of course, the ongoing pandemic.  As artists, we get caught up in the production - and in the likes and opinions on social media - rather than recognizing the potential for healing and fulfillment through our expression.  

So, take a break.  When you're feeling burned-out, or preferably before you get there, take a step back to reset and recharge.  This could be for an hour, or an afternoon; a day or days; a week or weeks - as long as you need to feel re-energized and ready to come back.  There is no timeline, other than that which is self-imposed.  Blogging is supposed to be fun, and in order to keep it so, I took a break.  

...Now what?  I'm diving back into my content creation, and more importantly, looking forward to just putting my thoughts on paper, digitally.  In a way, more so than on my other platforms, this blog is mine - it is not, and probably will not ever be "big" - and in this little corner of the internet, I share my authentic self.  Not for likes, or for money, or for anything beyond the joy of expression.  There's always the hope that someone will stumble across a post they connect with, or that is useful for their own projects - and if that's you today, high five!

As for where you'll find me most actively posting right now, I've been participating in the #fallforcostume challenge, hosted by @Redthreaded over on Instagram.  It's become an annual tradition that offers a daily prompt for inspiring a month of posts across the costuming community.  In fact, I've posted every day this month, and you can find me on IG @youngsewphisticate!  

I do also have a few research-heavy projects in the works, both for my day-job (in interpretive program management), and for an upcoming virtual lecture for the Corsets & Cravats, 4th quarter series! 

P.S. Blogger has discontinued their email subscription services, so if you used to receive blog updates through email, please hang tight while I find another service provider...or follow our Facebook Page for notifications & direct links to new blog posts!

Dear Museums, an Open Letter from Those Who Miss You

Dear living history museums, this is an open letter from those who miss you most:

A sense of longing
(Photograph by Judy J.)

Museum seasons close with tears, cheered only by the memories made over the past months and the promise of return in the next season.  It's a long Winter awaiting the re-opening in Spring; and this year, it seems like "Spring" in name only.  "Winter" for your interpreters never ended as we long for our home away from home and for a reunion with those we call museum "family."  Yes, on paper historical interpretation may be a job, but it quickly becomes a cherished way of living and breathing too.  

In these uncertain times, allow us to express concern for you:  for as much as we look forward to being onsite again, we realize that the extended closures, though essential for safety, create unforeseen challenges.  The financial and other implications may seem overwhelming and threatening to future stability (and in some cases, posing the ultimate consequence of permanent closure).  Count on our patience, dedication, and support, as well as our appreciation for the health and safety guidelines your are following for staff and the visiting public.  While no one knows when this may end - just that it will, eventually - we hope that you will continue to stay strong, to adapt to the changing times, and to provide quality education and entertainment for an expanding, digital audience.  

Until we meet again!
(Photograph by Judy J.)

Sincerely,

Your historical interpreters

P.S. Are you a historical interpreter or fellow museum-loving visitor?  What do you miss most about your favorite living history museum or historic site?  Do share in the comments below - stay safe, everyone!