Alisha dos Santos For the last 10 years, I’ve hesitated to start blogging. I second guessed myself as a writer. I wondered who would want to hear my voice and who would judge and criticize.
Social media can be a cruel, cruel world. But it can also be an uplifting one where people come together to encourage and inspire one another. That’s the community I’m choosing to be a part of.
In 2016, I took my first step into the blogging world as a contributor to Tampa Bay Moms Blog. I dipped my toes in and hesitantly tested the waters there.
As my confidence as a blogger grew, I considered starting my own blog but I was at a loss for what my blogging niche could be. What did I have to offer that wasn’t already out there? What void could my voice fill?
One day, I decided to take some time for myself and go out paddleboarding. The kids were with their grandparents and I had a ton of work to do but I felt called to the water. I needed a few minutes to relax and clear my head.
As I focused on my paddling, I started to change my perspective. When I took notice of the beauty around me, I felt something awakening inside of me.
For so long, I focused on who I should be as a mom and a wife. I forgot about who Alisha was an individual – someone who feels most alive when she’s seeking adventure.
As I remembered who I was, the ideas started flowing. First, ideas for a work project I had procrastinated on, then a blog post idea for Tampa Bay Moms Blog.
As I made more time for me time on the water, more ideas came. Soon enough, I discovered that the paddleboard was my thinking spot, and adventurous living was my blogging niche.
I thought of the blog name Adventure-Seeking Mom but I was sure the website domain name was already taken.
When I found the domain name was available, I knew it was a sign. God was calling me to this.
But I kept finding a reason to put off the blog’s launch.
The Push I Needed To Dive Into Blogging
One Friday night, I decided to take my son to movie night at our church. They were showing a movie I heard was phenomenal, The Greatest Showman. I expected the film to inspire my son who was developing an interest in music. But I didn’t expect the impact it would have on me.
Inspired by the film’s messages to chase your dreams and embrace who you are, I bought the Adventure-Seeking Mom domain the next day.
And in the words of that epic song from the movie:
Look out ’cause here I come
And I’m marching on to the beat I drum
I’m not scared to be seen
I make no apologies, this is me
God gave me a voice and a gift for writing. I don’t want to waste that gift by hiding in fear.
I hope that the words I write will be a blessing to someone who needs to hear that they are not alone in their yearnings to move and grow as an individual, in addition to as a mom.
Give yourself permission to dream of things outside of motherhood. I know it will set you free. It might just make you a better mom, too.
Hi Alisha,
Congratulations! I am very happy you dove in. Your first blog entry touched and inspired me in so many ways it was also very relatable. Being adventurous (we still have a paddleboarding date) as well and being a care taker of either a child or parent seem to conflict and create fear but as you demonstrate they are very complimentary. Our RVing adventures took similar courage and, like you, I have found an adventure that feeds my soul. I look forward to reading more! – Liz
Hi Liz! I’m so glad you can relate in your own role as a caretaker. I’m inspired by your strength and courage. I can’t wait for our paddleboarding date and to hear all about your RV adventures!