What’s the story here?
True story:
Are you Deb from Deb’s World, asked a fellow bike rider at our lunch stop along the Tumbarumba To Rosewood Rail Trail the other day.
Yes, I answered tentatively, how did you know?
Rosie from Melbourne had been following my blog throughout the Covid lockdown and she and her husband recognised me from my posts 
Cue excited reaction from me and further questioning plus photo opportunity with Rosie!
Apparently my blog, among many others, helped Rosie cope with being unable to travel, reading about what others were doing and seeing different parts of the world through the eyes of someone else while she was in months of lockdown.
The power of a blog cannot be underestimated!
Also they told me that they may not have come to Tumbarumba to ride the rail trail if it wasn’t for me, as the weather forecast for their original destination was wet so they looked inland and remembered ‘that blogger Deb’ came from Tumbarumba and there was a rail trail to ride there!!
To say I was happy was an understatement and yes my fellow riders teased me relentlessly about being famous, a midlife influencer, a star – but I didn’t care!
Rosie (and her husband) had made my day!
This happy snap with Rosie, was taken by her husband.
Ups and Downs of Life
Isn’t it funny how things can change within a matter of days?
Last week I was wondering if I should continue with these weekly posts, given all that is happening in the world, and then Rosie and her husband come along and make me feel absolutely amazing!
It’s funny, because just a few days before this I was questioned by some friends, about why I blog, why do I put myself out there, why bother doing it all, about the negativity of social media and all those types of things – and then this little ‘random thing’ happens and I realise that’s why I do it!
For these amazing moments of connection with others, totally unexpected, random but affirming.
You just never know who you might be helping with your words (along with yourself of course) and where that will take you!
We were out on the rail trail with our 2 trioBikes, having taken two elderly couples along the 21km rail trail, which they LOVED, and then after a pleasant lunch together we rode back enjoying a chat along the way.
It’s not hard to feel amazing sometimes!!
Changes to Wordless Wednesday
I have been doing Wordless Wednesday posts (or attempting to do them) for quite some time now, but I like words too much. So for this year I’ve decided to change it up a bit, post only when I have something to say on a Wednesday and use the Wake up and be Amazing, it’s Wednesday as my inspiration. It makes me smile 🙂
Wishing you well, whatever is going on in your world 🙂
You’re amazing too – and don’t you forget it!
Deb 🙂
All my Wordless Wednesday posts can be found by clicking this link
Recent posts:
- Earth Day and a Sculpture Walk #SundayStills
- An update on my 52 Book Club 2024 Reading Challenge #WOYBS
- Tell Us About…Your Personal Style
- Tell Us About…Linkup Info
- Getting my DNA tested and finding a few surprises #WWWhimsy
You can also find Deb’s World in lots of other places – stay in touch by clicking any of the buttons below.
Everyone has a story to tell!
Deb is a young-at-heart & active 60+ blogger/retiree, after being made redundant from her 22-year career managing education programs in a men’s correctional centre (jail). She now spends her time reading, blogging, riding her ebike and travelling. Deb was awarded a Bravery Award from the Queen when she was 17 after a tragic accident – a definite life changing moment! She is married with 3 grown-up daughters & has 4 grandchildren. You can read more of Deb’s story here
Copyright © 2021 debs-world.com – All rights reserved
Deb's World 
What an incredible true story, Debbie. It just goes to show how much we should believe that what we write and publish on our blogs affects people worldwide. When we ask ourselves if it is all worth it, we should think of those who look forward to our posts, especially those who may be housebound or who live alone.
I love Wordless Wednesday because it gives me the chance to highlight my photos and not to allow what I write to take away any of the limelight. All my Wordless Wednesday posts seem to attract lots of traffic, and I often get comments from readers who have not left comments for me before. I’m amazed by how many good writers participate in Wordless Wednesday. It certainly helped get me more interested in photography. Sometimes, photos can tell stories all by themselves. Wordless Wednesday is indeed the day to show off our photography skills to the world.
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I get it Hugh and you’re right so many comments come in on wordless posts which is great to see our audiences are widening. It has been a great way to get more photography posts out there and I love sharing my photos any way I can, I’ve learnt so much along the way from others too.
This true story really made me smile and gave me a buzz which I’m happy to share with my readers. Is it all worth it – heck yes!!!
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Thank you for sharing great story dear
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Thanks for reading it!
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What a great share! I always wonder if anyone be me reads our blog posts so it’s nice to hear how you were affected by a random meeting of a reader.
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This is such good news – because we don’t always see the rippling effect of our blogging efforts – and so the times we do get to see it ! Well how awesome!’–
And a few years back – I was shocked when I was on a long blog break and someone at church asked me when I was going to blog again! And then a cousin asked me too and I was like “wow , some local people read as well”
–
Anyhow – one way that you have inspired me (and shows how you never know when your words will impact)
Well a while ago you were blogging a lot and you started your post mentioning that and then said you were not apologizing for it!
It was so refreshing and reminded me that if our heart wants to blog a lot for a season than we need to go for it!
—
Oh and wordless Wednesday posts are some of my least favorite – not yours (as I have not seen many) but in general I just prefer even a few words from the blogger (Linda S does a good job with wordless )but overall the new focus for your Wednesday sounds good
And there is always the “hump day” theme to follow
Hahah – jk
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This is the coolest story I have read in a while and now Rosie has even posted on your comments about how your words changed her actions. I know you always lighten my day. Bernie
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Thanks Bernie, I am thrilled with your lovely comment and also to have Rosie leave a comment is very special 🙂
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Just wonderful Deb and these experiences always seem to come at a time when we are feeling a little self doubt. You are always inspiring and bring joy to many so keep on blogging my friend. xx
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Thanks Sue, it came at just the right moment for me and it’s been lovely to share with everyone, in case they too need some encouragement to continue!
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Unbelievable! Bumping into someone who not only follows your blog, but has found your positivity helpful during Covid…I can’t even imagine. I’m excited for you!
Also, ‘gifting’ elderly couples with a trail ride is a wonderful idea 🙂
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Thanks so much for your lovely encouraging comment, it’s very much appreciated.
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Hi Deb, Rosie here. I’ve just arrived home from our three week road trip after a last stop in Albury. I was reflecting on the trip with my husband on our way home and we both agreed that Tumbarumba was the unexpected highlight, such a picturesque and historic Aussie country town and a great rail trail which we rode twice. I truly would never have visited Tumbarumba if not for you. It was strange but an absolute pleasure to meet you in the flesh after following your blog for so long and I can’t quite believe it happened. Thanks for your very warm and welcoming response! I’ve loved following you on this blog, please don’t underestimate the impact your insights, reflections and life experience can have on others.
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Hi Rosie, it’s so lovely to have your comment and meeting you has certainly lifted my spirits! I’m so pleased you enjoyed our lovely town of Tumbarumba, we certainly are happy living here. I am still buzzing after meeting you both and having your words of support and encouragement, it came at just the right time. Many thanks for your kind words.
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What a wonderful story!
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So glad you enjoyed it!
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How wonderful to meet Rosie and at just the right time, when you were wondering about carrying on with your posts. The universe was telling you that we need your sunny and motivational posts.
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Yes Gail, it was perfect timing and she’s commented on my post, so that’s extra special for me!
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How cool that must’ve been to be recognized! I always say that I should keep writing because I never know who my words might help…
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It’s so true, we must keep writing!
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You spread so much joy through this blog, Debbie. You connect, inspire and make a VERY POSITIVE difference. I’m delighted that you have decided to continue this series!
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Thank you very much Donna, you always make me glow with your comments.xx
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What a wonderful experience. And an indication that what you are doing and saying matters. I have had a lot of trouble justifying my little bit of blogging when things are so uncertain in the world. It surely feels pretty insignificant and almost like a waste of time. Wish there was something more I could do to make a positive difference in this world.
I like words, too, and how to join you some for Wake Up and Be Amazing. I have promised myself I will write on Wednesdays. So I can combine the two!!
Proud of you, friend.
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Hi Leslie, it really was a wonderful random meeting. I hope you feel like writing more, you are an amazing blogger!
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Hi Deb – I love it when those random meetings happen – I had a woman who lives in my area contact me to ask about starting a blog because she’d been reading mine and really wanted to try. Your encounter was even more random and it would have been an absolute blast. I’d just add into your “why do you blog?” answer that you are a joy and encouragement to other bloggers with your comments and interaction – and I can attest to that every time you comment on mine. xxx
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Thanks Leanne, it was very special, not to mention random! How lovely for you to have someone contact you for advice 🙂 Your comments are very kind, many thanks for your friendship!
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What a fabulous story! Wonderful – a reason to keep on blogging and to bring so much joy to so many people.
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Yes it’s a complete turn around from where I was last week! Things happen for a reason 🙂
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An old school and college friend who I hadn’t seen since I was a teenager is doing a project and tracking people down, difficult with women who have married, but somehow found her way to my website.
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That’s fabulous! So happy when these things happen 🙂
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What a great story!
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It was so random Deb, I just had to share!
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What a fabulous story! I’ve met a lot of bloggers but never a stranger who recognized me from my blog. Regarding the negativity of social media, it seems that (at least for me) the negativity doesn’t extend to blogs. Yes, I get spam ( which WordPress usually catches), but I seldom get a comment that isn’t pleasant and positive.
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Thanks Janis, I agree most non-blogging people don’t really associate blogs with social media, but the inference was there in their comments. I must have taken it a bit to heart I think, so this happening to me was serendipitous and well-timed.
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You’re a celebrity! And, yes, our voices do make a difference! Yours is an especially bright and treasured voice in the world! Thanks for faithfully sharing even without the reward!
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Yes a celebrity in my own mind Carol! Thanks for the lovely words 🙂
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That’s just wonderful! I love it too when I hear from someone that something I wrote inspired them or made them smile. So much negativity in this world – it’s nice to read or hear something positive or be told you have a positive impact. Keep up the great work, Debbie!
Deb
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Thanks Deb, it’s so weird in a way hearing from people randomly like that but also affirming and positive.
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