You may or may not have noticed, but I took the past week and a half “off” from blogging. I still posted deals and shared a few guest posts, but I didn’t write any personal posts or the regular weekly features.
I started the week feeling very much in need of a “brain break”. I usually am very inspired with post ideas, but I just felt creatively tapped out this week.
And I know exactly why.
You see, the last nine months, I’ve been pouring my heart and soul into my book-writing project. I finally got the last of the copy edits turned in on Monday evening, so it’s officially “done” on my end.
By the time I reached the book-writing finish line on Monday, I had nothing left in my creative juices tank. So I decided to followed my own advice to not worry about what the right or wrong way to blog is, and just took an unannounced break from all blog-writing.
Instead of my usual blogging hours, I spent a lot of time offline soaking up the sunshine, reading, hanging out with friends, celebrating our birthday girl, camping out with friends (even a little target practice), and just enjoying more intentional quiet.
It was exactly what my brain and spirit needed and I’m feeling so refreshed and ready to get back into the swing of my usual blogging again. So be prepared for lots of posts coming your way again on Monday. 🙂
Wondering what my new book is about? After years of mulling over this project and months of work, I can finally give you a little sneak peek…
Say Goodbye to Survival Mode is the story of my struggles and journey from living in survival mode to finding margin, passion, and purpose in life. It’s filled with practical strategies and big picture perspective to help exhausted and overwhelmed women climb off the hamster wheel of survival mode and get on the path of living all of life on purpose.
This book is slated to release in January 2014 and will be a hardcover book. And yes, I’m kind of a wee bit excited about it — if you can’t tell. 😉
For more information, you can check out the description on Amazon here. More details and all sorts of fun things coming closer to the launch date.
Thank you so very much for sharing in my excitement. Your support and cheerleading of the past many months of working on this project means the world to me!
Phyllis R. says
Have you been inside my mind lately? I have actually used the term “survival mode” to describe how I feel my life is right now. I’m looking forward to reading your book. Hope I can “survive” until then! Lol! Congratulations!
Brenda says
I am beyond excited about your new book and cannot wait to read it! It excites me to see the many ways that God is using you to reach so many people in this world. Praying His “beyond measure” blessings on you as you “cast your bread upon the waters”.
Crystal says
Thank you, friend, for the encouragement and blessing that you are to me!
Susan Jerby says
I’m excitedly awaiting the launch of your book. After 20+ years of organization reading and schedule readjusting, I’m still in survival mode or “tyranny of the urgent” as I like to call it. Can’t wait to read your book. Congratulations upon its completion!
Fanny says
I was wondering what you were up to. Congrats on getting it done! It looks like you were reading my mind. I am in survival mode! I’m working on finishing my next ebook too and I am exhausted. I will send you a copy.
Can’t wait to read you new book! Congrats again and you deserve a break.
debbie says
Aghhhh!! I NEED this book! And my sister needs it more! Can’t wait!
Mel says
Oh, I am so looking forward to reading this, Crystal! The same topic has been on my mind and heart the last few months (I call it “a life of triage”); I even wrote a post about finding a way to break the cycle:
http://melifornia.com/2013/06/05/beating-the-deadline-the-joy-of-working-ahead/
I’ll be pre-ordering your book so it lands on my doorstep ASAP. (Look at me, working ahead! 🙂 )
Erica Lynn @ Optimal Health Consultant says
I love this idea for a book! We have been transitioning over the last year from having no money and all the time in the world, to having adequate money and no free time.
I’m excited to hear what what you have to say about your transition. 🙂
Jennifer says
Wow!! This is SO exciting and I can’t wait to read it!!!!
Meg says
My husband says that I’m asleep on the hamster wheel!
Can it be this book will save me? 🙂
Carrie O. says
Congratulations on the “birth” of your newest baby after nine months 🙂 Looks like a great read on a much needed topic.
Stephanie says
YAY!!! Can’t wait to read the new book!! Through your blog I am slowly coming out of survival mode. Timely as I decide what my next step will be when my youngest starts kindergarten next year. 🙂
Kalyn Brooke | Creative Savings says
I am so very excited for you Crystal!! Love the cover – it’s so bright and encouraging!
Crystal says
Thanks so much for your kind encouragement! I *love* the cover, too!
Tandra@Little Houses Big Dogs says
I’m exceedingly excited to read your book in 2014! This book will speak to so many women who dream of great things but struggle to reach them. Thank you for the inspiration.
Lora C says
I can’t wait to read your book. The title resonates with me. At one time in my life my pastor told me that I was in survival mode. I believe that I have lived most of my life there and am just starting to learn how not to live there. Your book sounds like it is just what I need. Congratulations on completing it!!
Joni says
Do you think your book would apply equally to a man? My husband has been living this way for a long time. He always complains he never has free time, but he gets paralyzed from all he has to do. If not your book, could you recommend one? Thank you!
Crystal says
It’s written specifically for women, but the principles could be applied universally. Maybe a book for him to consider would be Eat That Frog?
Jenny says
A hardcover book? Congratulations- that’s wonderful!
Annie Kate says
Congratulations! I’m so glad you were able to take a break after all that effort! And I can’t wait to see your book–I’m sure it will bless many moms. I’d love to review it for you, when the time comes.
Saturday night I printed out my son’s grade 12 records and slipped them into my husband’s briefcase for delivery to the university on Monday. The longest project I’ve ever worked on, finally finished. And, boy, did I need a brain break, just like you did. My husband took me on a firefly walk, we sat on the front step and watched the thunder clouds, and suddenly I’ve started writing poetry again!
Tami @ ThisMomsDelight.com says
Oh, I can’t wait to read your book. Survival mode is wearisome!
Marie says
I’m so excited for your new book! You have been an encouragement to me in more ways then you know!!!
So glad you were able to take a break from the blog! I got a break with my family this weekend and it was really nice. lots of much needed laughter!!
I will be keeping your project in prayer as I know it will be a blessing to many!
Brittany says
How exciting!!! Looks like a really good book too. I’m sure you’ll remind us when it comes out…?
Autumn says
Congrats Crystal! That’s awesome. How do you find the time tho…? Really? Lol. I look forward to your new book and learning more. I’ve already learned so much from you can’t wait to soak up more. 🙂 Happy you could enjoy some time with your family.
Beka says
Looks awesome!! Congrats on getting this done!! Great title, great blurb!! I look forward to reading it!
Karen says
Glad you got a break and SO excited about your new book. I can’t wait to read it! You definitely pour a lot of yourself into this blog and your writing.
Thanks.
Karina says
Woohoo! Thank you for all the hard work. We reap what you’ve sewn. : )
Melony says
Crystal, I am SO excited to read your new book!!! You are one of the only bloggers that I read on a regular basis and I appreciate your time and effort more than words can say! Blessings, Melony 🙂
Libby says
So thrilled for you, Crystal. I’m certain the world needs a book just like this and you are just the right blend of inspiration and practical wisdoms to birth it. So grateful you’re using your gifts for the benefit of all of us!
Kim @ Homesteader's Heart says
So excited for you. God has given you a wonderful talent of putting your thoughts on paper to share with the world. I know He will bless your efforts.
Can’t wait to hear more about it.
Hugs
Kim
Jamie Rohrbaugh says
I did notice and prayed for you! Thought you might be on a fun cruise or something. 🙂 I’m glad you’re feeling rested! Have a great week!
Jamie Rohrbaugh says
Oh, and the book looks awesome too. LOL… I thought it was a paid ad at first. Oops! 🙂
Jo Lynn says
I did think a couple times this past week, “Crystal must be taking a little break” : ) I peeked at your pictures from the week and it looks like you had a very fun week and I am really glad you got to rest and be rejuvenated!
I am SOOOO VERY EXCITED for your new book!
I thoroughly enjoyed and was helped by Money Saving’s Mom Budget and gave several to friends as gifts. Since you started sharing that you had another book in the works I’ve been eagerly awaiting a hint of what it would be about.
Say Goodbye to Survival Mode sounds like it is going to be an absolutely fantastic book. Now that I know what your book is going to be about, and its an even better topic than I imagined, I almost wish I ddin’t know because January seems like such a long time to wait for what I believe is going to be a really helpful life changing book for so many of us.
I feel like I’ve been in survival mode since my son was born almost four years ago and I want to be out of that mode and enjoy life so bad. I am really really looking forward to this book and will be eagerly awaiting it being available to read!!!
cher says
You are a remarkable woman!Way to go!
Heather says
I will be buying this book. It is like you are talking right to me with the description. Entering a new season in life and I am stuck in the old one wondering how to jump ship. Can’t wait to read this. Thanks.
Johanna says
Congrats!!! Can’t wait to see what you have come up with for us in your new book!
Tabitha says
I’m really excited to read it Crystal. Its been such a joy to see your story online over the past 2 1/2 years! 🙂
I’m really excited for you and your family on your second book release!!!
Anne says
Awesome! Congratulations! I am so excited for this book. I am a brand-new stay at home mom to our 7 month old. I just ended my 11th year of teaching 2nd grade and I thought it would always be my vocation….until I spent Easter vacation home with my daughter and throug prayer, discerned God had a new path for me. I want to live purposely for our family and thrive, not survive!
Your site has been such an inspiration for me. I came to it for money saving tips but you are SOOO much more than a deal blogger. Please keep spreading the Good News in all you do. I appreciate it more than I can articulate.
Tara H says
Ooh! I can’t wait til it comes out! I’ll be looking forward to reading it. Congratulations!
Laura says
Wonderful! Can’t wait to read it!
And good for you taking time off after working so hard! Discipline and margin, right? 🙂
Melissa says
Congratulations on completing such a major project! That must feel wonderful. I can understand needing a break after completing it. I felt the same way when I finished grad school. I was thrilled, but very much in need of recharging my creative batteries! Look forward to having you back on Monday.
Julie says
I NEED this book! We have a special needs 7 year old, possible issues with the 4 year old and a 5 month old – all boys. We are living in survival mode and are so ready to get off the hamster wheel. Congratulations on the new book and I will definately be buying it when it comes out.
Kelly Logan says
Congrats Crystal!!! Can’t wait to read it!
Anne @ Modern Mrs Darcy says
The cover is gorgeous! Can’t wait to see the finished product.
Crystal says
Thank you so much for your part in making this happen. I appreciate you!
RuthS says
Yay for the new book!!!
Kathy says
Congratulations, Crystal! I am on a bit of a journey myself, writing my first ever book and I am a senior citizen. I too have had a book brewing in my mind for some years entailing the story of my struggles with a chronic long term disease., and ways I found to cope in the hope of helping others. I began the book but several months ago The Lord moved me to write a totally different type of book which I am now trying. Of course I also hope He allows me to also do the original one .Though I have health obstacles to writing , this is an exciting adventure for me. God Bless you and I wish you much success with your new book!
Crystal says
How exciting that you’re writing a book, too!
Victoria @ Creative Home Keeper says
How exciting for you! I can’t wait to read it.
Diane says
Yay! Thrilled for you, Crystal!
MK says
I wanted to say something intelligent and witty about my excitement over this book, but all that I could think was “squeeeeeeeeee!” Super excited! 😀
Crystal says
😉 This comment brought a smile to my face!
Jennifer @ Budgeting in Baby says
Very excited to read your new book.
Anna@The DIY Mom says
Congratulations! And I’m glad you got to enjoy some down time after all that hard work.
Keri Travis says
I can’t wait! Congratulations on your new book. You are such an inspiration!
Andrea says
Glad to hear you took a break for yourself! Since it was unannounced, I was afraid your family had some sort of tragedy. A fun, relaxing week is sooo much better!
Looking forward to your new book!
mel says
ya been missing you! looking forward to the book!!
jennifer says
I was wondering about the absence of your usual posts. I’m glad you were out having fun!
Laura Elggren says
How Exciting!!!! I can’t wait to get me one 🙂 Thank you so much for all you do. You help so many to live fuller, save money, and be creative. You’ve helped me personally to help my family make positive changes because of the things you have written. Thank you so much, and a big congratulations!!!
Crystal says
Thank you so very much for your sweet encouragement!
Chelsea says
Congratulations! The book sounds very inspirational, and it must feel so great to have things wrapped up on your end. Very excited for this new opportunity you have to reach others with your encouraging words!
Renee Swope says
Crystal!! I can’t wait for your next book. I was thinking maybe you could use an extra set of eyes to look for typos {wink wink} cause I don’t think I can survive until January!! 🙂 This book is going to be so good in so many ways!! Can’t wait to get a copy!
{{HUGS}}
Crystal says
I think I can make that happen. 😉 Thank you so much for your kind encouragement!
Stacy @ A Delightful Home says
Wonderful, Crystal! I can’t wait.
JenMarie says
So looking forward to reading it! This is such a great title as it seems to be the theme of our generation. We’re all just so…BUSY, but long to take the time to really live intentionally and catch our breath every once in awhile. So glad to hear you had a chance to get refreshed last week. 🙂
Becky says
I’m so happy that you allow yourself some time off when needed. I am excited about your new book! You have helped & encouraged me more than you’ll ever know.
Sarah @ Earlybirdmom.com says
I thought it was a little quiet here 🙂 Congratulations on your upcoming book! I can’t wait to read it.
Lori says
Congratulations, Crystal…This is a much-needed book for many. Thank you for sharing you journey.
Lori
Lana says
Good for you!!!
Kristen says
I can’t wait! I have been thinking about my survival mode a lot this week. Last June, our son was born and two weeks later I was diagnosed with a rare tumor. It took months to recover and I have given myself a lot of grace for his first year but with his birthday next week it’s time to get back to “real life.” I used a few of your articles on perspective and priorities through the past year and started the goal setting articles recently. I’m dreaming big for the future because life is too short to get stuck in a rut!!
Please know that your kind and inspiring words are a tremendous support to at least one reader. 😉
Crystal says
{Hugs!} It sounds like you have been through a LOT. I’m so proud of you — and inspired by you!
Victoria says
Can’t wait to get a hold of your new book. I am so glad you have had such a relaxing week with your family and friends. I showed your target picture to my hubby, that is quite the gun for such a little gal! Love the pink ear protection.
Crystal says
😉
Jessica B. says
Oh, Crystal! You wrote a book for me! Thank you, thank you, thank you! ;D
Kristia says
Congratulations! I can’t wait to read it.
Rebecca Dula says
Yeah!! It will need to be a late Christmas gift from my husband. I’m glad you mentioned that you were MIA for the last 10 days, I kept looking for your goals for the weeks and thought I missed them. Everyone needs some down time. Looking forward to all your posts on Monday.
Crystal says
Truth be told, I skipped writing goals this week, too. And I realized what a difference they make in my life! I’ll be back on the bandwagon on Monday, I promise. 🙂
Staci says
I like the looks of this one. Very relate-able! If that is a word. Keep up the good writing work and encouragement to fellow MOMS to be their personal bests. God bless.
Crystal says
Yes, that was definitely my desire in writing it. Thank you so much for your kind encouragement!
Davonne Parks says
Wow, what an amazing topic. I’m sure the book will be wonderful – I can’t wait to read it! I thought you might be on vacation, and you kind-of were 🙂
Crystal says
Yes, it was a staycation. 😉
Shana Norris says
I cannot wait to read your book, Crystal. The description is definitely enticing. It’s wonderful that something you’ve considered for years is coming to fruition. I love stories like that.
Crystal says
Thanks so much for your kind encouragement! It is my prayer that the message of this book will give hope and practical help to many exhausted and overwhelmed women out there.