Have you ever written a post you regretted. I wrote one Saturday night expressing some feelings related to RVing that I should just have left alone. I had a feeling after I wrote it that I had let myself become way too personal & opinionated with my thoughts. That post kept waking me up most of the night. I wrote about a subject I have very little understanding about & that was a mistake on my part. This morning I finally deleted the whole thing. I now have some re-evaluating to do & some blogging decisions to make…… A.
I didn't think there was anything wrong with your post, AL. In fact, I agree with you although not everyone will, I know. But it's your blog, your thoughts, and you should feel free to share what is on your mind and heart. I appreciate your thoughtful writing and beautiful photos every day! Look forward to may more!
ReplyDeleteWhoa - I guess I have a totally different take on blogging. I write my blog for myself with my thoughts and whatever else I want to put in it. If somebody else wants to read it that's great and I love having their comments to read. I guess I think of my blog as my journal - something I can read in my old age and remember this time of my life. Thoughts, places, friends, whatever.
ReplyDeleteI really appreciate reading others thoughts on all subjects - especially on RVing no matter what aspect of it. So, please, no regrets. If you want to change your blog, please do because it is yours. And I appreciate what you write.
That explains my inability to open your last post. Thanks
ReplyDeleteGeez Al, I thought that was a good post. I don't see where you had to remove it. Many of your observations were right on the money. I have met lots of RVers with the same concerns and opinions. Generally our families have been supportive.
ReplyDeleteJohn
Dear Al. You are such a special person and it hurts my heart to think of you worrying about that post. It was plain and thoughtful and excellently put on a MOST IMPORTANT SUBJECT.
ReplyDeleteWe are into our 70s and still hope to return to USA and become a part of the RV community for a time .... but as each month slides by and our circumstances remain the same don't give us the freedom we crave we are watching our dream fade.
Reality has priority over dreams. You said it well.
Blessings
Al, I don't know what you wrote about, but you are a consummate blogger, one who is too hard on himself. Stick around, Pal. We love you!
ReplyDeleteCome on, Al. No apologies for speaking your thoughts. You know what you know from your viewpoint and please, if we can't speak from our viewpoint we are all just a bunch of fakes. I deleted some stuff in a post once because Mo was disturbed that I had revealed too much about another person, my friend Bel. But you only spoke from your heart about yourself. That is a GOOD thing, because a bunch of folks out there might be inspired by that realizing that maybe their own thoughts aren't so different. Politically correct stuff is fine, but let's all be real whenever we can without dissing someone else. You are nothing if not real, so again, no apologies! I haven't had a chance to voice my own thoughts on this since my comment to Donna went blip thanks to poor internet connections, and it might be a bit late now, but maybe not.
ReplyDeleteAl your blog is just that..your blog. If people don't particularly like the theme of your blog for the day, then so be it. Nobody is forcing them to either read it or agree with it. If they want to, they can always leave a comment to that effect.
ReplyDeleteI was surprised this morning when I checked the blogs and what I had read last night was gone, but I realized right away that you had removed most of what you had typed last night and I did understand why you had. Didn't think it was necessary but understood.
What you or anybody else writes in their blog is an expression or opinion of your own.
ReplyDeleteIt is up to the reader of the blog to determine its worthiness or not.
We have entirely too many journalist writing stuff to please the reader not writing about actual or real expressions.
An RV'rs blog isn't a fictional fairy tale it's about the RV'rs current situations and their feelings.
Now that you have served some time in that cushy chair, how about all that snow that needs moved out of the way?
Mac
Al, I think you wrote a fine blog entry, and it's no doubt one that needed to be written. We are all so different and come from different places and experiences, and sharing andf getting to know more about others gives us an insight that is certainly missing from a stationary lifestyle.
ReplyDeletePlease continue to write what you think and feel, as I hope to do the same.
Goog morning Al --
ReplyDeleteI didn't have the chance to read the post you deleted but I can 'identify' with what you may be feeling about having posted it.
I've started a post of my own about three weeks ago and have been revising it ever since. Just yesterday I felt I had improved the text/verbiage to the point that it wouldn't come across as too negative (and worry my family and friends abit?). I didn't publish it yesterday 'cause I had already published another one. After reading your post today, I started 'waffling' about it again.
Then, I read all the comments from that post and todays post. I'll join with their voice(s) and say that you're a terrific blogger and I appreciate you (and Kelly) sharing your experiences, thoughts, feelings, photos with us. I feel like in our blogging community we've each (all) become friends and what better way to be a friend than t be a good listener? We're each learning from each other too and that's always beneficial.
There were many comments that I found rang 'true' for me - Russ K's words that 'Being happy with yourself and what you are doing each day is priceless'!! And, Happytrails comments 'You only know what best fills your inner being with peace, so you need to decide based on that'!! I'm going to write each of those down and tack them up in my eyesight line as a reminder.
I hope you'll value the opinions of all of your blogging friends and continue to 'share' with us Al.
Al, I read your entire post last night and wondered right away whether it would be there in the morning. It is not unusual for you to have a change of heart/anxiety attack after posting - where the world can see it - something that discusses a very personal aspect of your life. Personal? Yes. Opinionated? Only in the sense that you wrote YOUR truth, very frankly. I didn't read anything that said/implied "and this is how YOU, reader, should feel/act/live, too"!
ReplyDeleteIt was a revealing post that gave us, your readers, an interesting glimpse into our friend Al... but I'm not surprised you feel you got too close to the edge, revealing more of yourself while "noodling" at night than you are comfortable with in the light of day. Aren't you glad you write a blog and not a book?? :)
I'm so sorry you are so troubled... don't beat yourself up over it. Love yourself as your readers love you! :)
Like many others have said, I saw nothing wrong with your blog post. We're in a similar situation...between us we have 10 kids, 25 grandkids and one great. They are scattered all over the country and we try to see them at least every other year (although some get to see us every year).
ReplyDeleteOur life doesn't revolve around them, they have their own lives. We love seeing them, they love (we hope) seeing us. But we live our life for us first...that's our choice.
Al, continue being WHO you ARE. Don't change your blog for others, too many of us enjoy it (and you guys) the way it (and you) is (are). [Confused? LOL!)
Al,
ReplyDeleteAs others have said it is your blog and your thoughts. You made some valid points that should be considered by most who RV. The RV life is just that, LIFE. Everyone has a little different viewpoint. I enjoy your blog immensely and look forward to your viewpoint. Keep up the good work.
Al, I'm sorry you felt it necessary to delete that post. I enjoyed it very much. I feel as though I know you a little better now and that is a good thing. I also agreed with what you had to say. Life is full of suprizes and sometimes they are not good. You should never feel guilty for what you do or believe in. We all must march to our own drumbeat. Put the post back. It is a keeper.
ReplyDeleteDear Al, that was a good post. Your blog and yours thoughts. Thank you
ReplyDeleteAl, please keep posting as you have been. Your post was a challenge to all of us to live OUR dreams, and to choose our present and future as we want. If life throws us a curve, we have to be ready for that, too. I applaud you for the subject matter today as I did the other day.
ReplyDeleteSelene, NC
If you felt your post needed to be removed then that was the right decision no matter what anybody else thinks or says here in the comments section. It’s your blog and you are the only one who understands the motive for your own posts and feels whatever consequences result from it – real or imagined.
ReplyDeleteAs for the actual post itself, I did read it and never really thought about you removing it even though I felt it might generate some different opinions. I know I just found myself thinking about Margie and Bruce and how they managed to travel and enjoy their grandchildren so I knew it wasn’t simply an either/or choice. It’s just one more of the endless examples of how we are all different as RV’ers.
My own view? I think this falls into the category of 'small stuff' not to be sweated over.
Al, as I said in my response to your post...I don't think anyone could find a more supportive or non-judgmental group than this group of bloggers. Don't beat yourself up, it's still your blog to post (or delete) as you see fit. We all appreciate you Al for your photos, your commentary, and your transparency as a human being. Just let 'er rip!!
ReplyDeleteI agree with Rick, I personally didn't see anything wrong with your opinions, but I think if you had second thoughts and pulled it, that is your right. Just don't beat yourself up over it. As sure as heck, life goes on. Be safe out there. Sam & Donna..
ReplyDeleteThis may be a duplicate post - sorry - internet connection failed! Please delete if duplicate.
ReplyDeleteAl, as I said in my response to your post...I don't think anyone could find a more supportive or non-judgmental group than this group of bloggers. Don't beat yourself up, it's still your blog to post (or delete) as you see fit. We all appreciate you Al for your photos, your commentary, and your transparency as a human being. Just let 'er rip!!
My impression on reading your blog was that you were a little more candid than I expected. Everyone has family and their "family" experiences are each unigue and different from others. My understanding was that you only explained some facts and how you dealt with it. Seemed reasonable to me. Ease up a bit Al and have a great day.
ReplyDeleteI read the post, but not any comments. I hope that you didn't get any bad comments. We are all going through some kind of adjustment or pain or we wouldn't be going out on the road and doing something different than the rest of the world. I don't feel you are judging anyone. But, I wonder if others were judging you and this is why you deleted the post. Or you didn't want your family to read it - that is why I will probably delete some of my posts. I don't want my family to read them when I tell them about this blog.
ReplyDeleteReading the Bayfield Bunch is better than watching Days of Our Lives or General Hospital - such drama.
ReplyDeleteawww..I'm sorry you took it out..I loved it in that it made me think about OUR situation and our future. I loved it because it was personal, rang true, and came from the heart. I'm sorry that what others might think or your regrets in having given a little more personal insight than you wanted to might have affected your choice to pull it. I've read some really interesting and personal blogs NOT related to travel that people put out there to share personal struggles with alcoholism, depression and other highly personal things that most of us would rather keep private. Yours was great because so many people can relate to it and it got us to thinking! Kudos! and hope you continue to publish what you are thinking! It's great to get to know you better!
ReplyDeleteI don't have too much to add to what everyone else has already written. I will just say that I did read the post before you changed it and I thought it was good. But if it made you more comfortable to change it, then it's a good thing you deleted it - like everyone else has said, it's your blog and you don't need to stress over it. :)
ReplyDeleteDidn't get to read it but wish I had. You are a very likable guy with an interesting life and people like hearing what is on your mind about RVing, etc.
ReplyDeleteGeez, I guess that's what I get for coming late to the party. I did not have the chance to read last night's post and am bummed about it. Judging from the comments left here today, I'd say you probably wrote a fine post that allowed the readers to get to know a little more about the personal side of Al Bossence. You know, the side that you try to keep hidden all the time. Wish I could have read it.
ReplyDeleteIt's amazing to me how a lot of us reach the same place, travelling on different paths. I read the post last night,and didn't see anything wrong with it, but then
ReplyDeletewe haven't had a "leave it to Beaver" lifestyle either.
Al, I didn't see your blog entry but am gathering all the blog "hugs" you are getting from your blogger friends. Please allow me to add to the theme to not be too hard on yourself. Ah, if we weren't human beings and make blunders [usually in our minds only] we would be a boring lot, wouldn't we? Be kind to yourself!
ReplyDeleteHi Al I really appreciated your Sat. blog. My wife and I are in the process of deciding what we will be doing in the next few years and I called her in to read your blog. It is great to hear other peoples opinions and you posed many different points of view. Everyone is going to do what is right for them in the long run but it is nice to hear other points of view and maybe consider somethings we overlooked or didn't consider because we haven't experienced them yet. Keep up the good work.
ReplyDeleteDoug.
I love reading blogs because it gives you insight into the heart and minds of others. I didn't get to read what you posted yesterday but you have always been honest and open so you should never censor yourself. So what if someone disagrees with what you wrote. That is what freedom is all about. I have questioned posting about some things but then decided to do so anyway. It was what I was thinking and feeling at the time. Keep on blogging and have a great day.
ReplyDeleteAl like so many others who had the chance to read yesterday's blog I felt there wasn't anything wrong with it, and am surprised that you pulled it, but that is your right.
ReplyDeleteThere is nothing wrong with being personal with your postings. The rest of us are just along for the ride and loving it. Those that think too much about it, or take it the wrong way that's their problem.
I have always envied your freedom and ability to live your dreams and seeing the beauty this world has to offer all of us, but only the lucky few actually get to experience. Keep your chin up and keep up the good work
Rick R. Windsor Ontario.
No need to be so tough on your thoughts and ideas. As 'The Beatles' made famous, "LET IT BE". Your blog; your ideas; your thinking; your way!!! To write it is OK. The remove it is OK too!!
ReplyDeleteI thought it was a good post. Not sure why you deleted it?
ReplyDeleteCheers!
Hey there Al.
ReplyDeleteThe first thing I look for when I go on line in the evening is the Bayfield Bunch's RV Blog and I'm glad to have read last night's post because it makes me feel I know you better than before. Don't ever apologize for the way you feel or for who and what you are! Your descriptive epilogues and pictures are a credit to you and your writing talent.
By the way; welcome back to Huron County.
Gerrit in Wingham, ON, Canada
I agree with Laurie! Your posts are thoughtful, introspective and accurate to life. Don't beat yourself up over any of it.
ReplyDeleteEmjay
I'm sorry I missed the post that deleted...and I'm really wish I could have read it. I was obvious..from comments...that is was thought-provoking. A lot of us probably need to read it...please repost! Your post are among my favorites.....You and Kelley sounded like more the kind of RVers my husband are. Your responses....our thoughts...really mean a lot to some of us. Please don't stop sharing with us!!
ReplyDeleteokay..I miss reading this morning so now I will be comment #38..or maybe #39?..it is your blog and your thoughts..your post that was deleted was the subject over our breakfast this morning..all good of course..cause we agree with you..life is short as we all know..live your dream..and if it involves RVing or visiting the 'grands'.{makes me sad to type that word..'grands' makes me think of Bruce and Margie} ...or just enjoying the company of your 'best friend'..we say go for it!..with modern technololgy there is no reason not to stay in touch with those 'back home'!!..keep on blogging Al ..it was nice to hear about a little piece of history of Al Bossence!!..
ReplyDeleteAl,
ReplyDeleteI saw nothing in your post Saturday that should cause concern on anyone's part. You better not let anyone's negative comments cause you a minute's worry or concern, please.
You write from the heart, and you have a good heart to write from. You've been through a lot of different experiences in your life, and you can't help but look at things from the perspective you have gained by those things.
We enjoy reading your posts, mainly because you do write lively, interesting, colorful, and heartfelt things.
I would encourage you to give yourself some slack, and be certain that the majority of people following your blog are doing so because they enjoy reading what you write, and seeing the great photos you take.
Don't give up on yourself. You have strength and courage and you are doing the best you can with everything God has given you. Your life is meaningful to us, and also to a lot of other people.
Keep sharing. Thanks!!
I read the post and am sure you had good reason for deleting it although I don't know what that would be. I didn't see anything there that fell into the delete category.
ReplyDeleteI agree with the others that say don't be so hard on yourself and keep it up. Thank you for working so hard on every post and letting us get to know you guys.
I guess I am late to this party, but I was not offended by your post on Saturday. Each of us finds ourselves in a different place in life, and that forms the basis for how we perceive things.
ReplyDeleteAll you did was to report how things are from your perspective. And there is nothing wrong with that.
You are able to leave in the Winter and not be hassled by feelings that you need to return for your family, while others are such an integral part of the family scene back home, that leaving becomes very difficult.
In our case, the grands and my son's families rely heavily on grandma to baby sit, and buy stuff for their families and so forth. When we are gone, she worries constantly that things are not getting done without her. There fore she can not enjoy herself while she is gone. She is beside herself with anguish! Kind of like Kelly is never without the responsibilities of Deer Park.
This is a real problem, because we can never have a dream home in the Southwest because our dreams are so different.
Or perhaps I will be in Arizona by myself a lot of the time.
Count your blessings my dear friend, and don't worry so much about these silly blog posts. They are no different than you and I having a cup of Tim's next to the fire late at night and rolling the cob!