Have you ever had an off week? I think I’m having one right now. I’m more than tired. I’m exhausted, or as Mamaw would put it, I’m “run ragged.”

But why? Why do I feel so drained? I reckon the simple answer is just that I’m burnt out.

This summer was busy for me, y’all.

I journeyed from the mountains to the vibrant landscapes of Georgia and Alabama, explored Rockingham County, roamed local festivals, and relaxed by the beach. 

Amidst all that, I managed to maintain the blog and podcast, triple my social media following, and start hosting weekly X spaces.

In what little downtime I had, I was busy promoting. I’ve appeared across various platforms, including podcasts and radio shows, and been featured in newspaper articles.

Weekends were dedicated to prepping for my next venture: video content. I’ve immersed myself in research, invested in equipment, and honed my filming skills.

Side hustles? I started working with a director on a project he’s putting together. It hasn’t been picked up yet, but we’ll be recording a full episode soon!

And if all that isn’t enough, I turned Where the Dogwood Blooms into an LLC.

It’s been an exhilarating journey, leaving me feeling incredibly blessed. At times, it’s almost dreamlike. Don’t get me wrong, I’m grateful for the continuous flow of good fortune, but I have run myself ragged.

Maybe this is the perfect time for exhaustion to set in, though. I’ve noticed a chill in the morning air and seen the leaves streak through with red. More than the date tells me that fall is here.

It’s a season of change, of slowing down, of leaves falling and new beginnings preparing beneath the surface.

Perhaps this exhaustion is my body’s way of telling me it’s time to embrace this transition – to reflect and rejuvenate before the next chapter unfolds.

Even the most vibrant blooms need time to rest and gather strength for the next season.