Going Behind the Blog

So this little blog has been in my life for about two and a half years and I must say that I REALLY enjoy it. I always used to love reading blogs, but actually running my own blog has been such an awesome and incredible experience. I've made so many amazing friendships through this blog and connected with people during some pretty crazy and different circumstances of my life. I love it and I love all of you - my fabulous readers. And there is the added benefit that I've learned a lot (like HTML coding, I actually know some of it!).

My bestie Erica tagged me in her blog post asking me to take everyone on a tour of my blog land. And since I love blogging so much and rarely talk about the actual "art" of blogging, I figured why not.

What are you working on now?
I have quite a few things in the works. Right now I have a list of several brands that I am working with that are all different (home decor, books, fashion and accessories - stay tuned!) and I'm testing out products for review. Since we recently moved, I'm in "turn this house into a home" mode, so I imagine some how to/DIY posts will be coming your way very soon. Probably after the holidays, but coming none the less!


How does your work differ from others in the genre?
I'm a lifestyle blogger, covering multiple topics (personal style, beauty, recipes, baby, home decor, DIY, personal stories). I like to think that my work is different because I weave a lot of personal information into my stories. When I read a blog I like to get to know the blogger and feel a connection. I try very hard to put my whole heart into every blog post and really add a personal touch. I want you all to know me. If something is happening in my life, I tell you about it. I'm real and honest, and always positive. This blog is not a place for bashing others or pushing negativity on anyone. I keep it all happy and full of rainbows!

And I LOVE responding to comments after each blog post or even on social media. It is so fun seeing familiar names pop up in the comments and to also meet new readers. I read every single comment that comes my way. You guys are the best!


Why do you write/create what you do?
Oh there are so many reasons. Like I said above, I used to love reading blogs - it was almost addictive - and I realized that the things my favorite bloggers were talking about were things I do/purchase/create in my own life. And I've always had friends ask me for beauty advice and want to know where I got my scarf/shirt/shoes/purse/etc. So I figured why not?
Also, I wanted something creative that I could do outside of my work life (at the time). I used to work in a fast paced arts environment and felt like every minute of the work day was devoted to what other people wanted. Writing a blog allowed me to do something for ME!
And most recently, my reason for blogging is to keep my family and friends clued into what is happening in our lives (especially Baby K's). And I also love that I have this little diary to show Baby K later in life.


How does your writing/creative process work?
I try to plan out my blog posts as much as possible. I normally have a weekly editorial calendar planned out. Sometimes I will have two weeks planned out at a time, but most often it is week by week.
I plan my posts based on what is happening in my life. Am I working on a cool DIY project or making something yummy? Then I'm going to share it really soon! Or if life gets crazy (like it is now where I'm spending virtually every free minute unpacking and painting) then I give myself some days off. When I first started this blog I had to blog every day, no questions asked. But then I realized that this thing called life gets in the way sometimes plus throw a baby into the mix and yeah, sometimes you just have to take a day off!

I get asked a lot how do I think up blog posts and come up with new posts every day? There are several ways:
-I'll have brainstorm sessions where I think about everything I am currently working on and figure out what is shareworthy.
-If an idea pops in my head while I am out and about, I will write it down. I always have a notepad or my phone with me and have running lists on both items.
-Tolar or Baby K will inspire me.
-I pay attention to things I want to know and once I figure out the answer, I share it with all of you. I figure if I'm searching for it and able to find the answer then some of you probably want to know as well!
-I work with brands, I LOVE working with brands. I've been introduce to lots of new products that have helped to simplify life and just make it better in general. I only work with brands that offer products that fit into my daily life, things I would use more than once.


So there you have it, a brief glance into my blogging process. Have any other questions you want to know? I'm happy to answer them. Since I've been blogging for awhile, I've learned so much and I love passing on that info to others. So ask away!