Hi friends! I am in the middle of a transferring this little blog of mine to Wordpress. Bear with me...I am the least tech savvy person on the planet.
Hopefully I'll be back online blogging on the new improved http://healthhappinessandskinnyjeans.com/ very soon!!!
Showing posts with label blogging. Show all posts
Showing posts with label blogging. Show all posts
9/1/11
8/27/11
Blogger Date @ Live Food Bar
Today was such an exciting day for me! Not only did I get to try a new restaurant and have a fabulous lunch on a patio on a beautiful summer's day but I did it with some amazing Toronto bloggers.
Perfection
The super sweet Danielle of Body by Nature organized this little get-together at Live, which is a local organic vegan raw food restaurant. Quite the mouthful huh?
Thankfully that mouthful was of delicious food!
The menu was full of so many tasty sounding dishes it was really hard to choose. I landed on a salad (which was soooo good!) but secretly wanted a taste of everyone else's food too (Tacos, waffles and wraps...oh my!)
If you've got doubts about raw vegan food being good you need to try this place- I promise it will change your mind for good!
The only thing better than the food at this place was the company. I've said it before but I love spending time with other bloggers. It's like getting together with old friends who know you, support you and just "get" you. The conversation flowed from the minute we sat down and before I knew it two and a half hours had flown by.
Truthfully I could have stayed and chatted for another three hours and had dinner there too. We talked about so many different things (raw food, blogging, running) and barely scratched the surface of everything we could have discussed.
All that really means is that another meet up is in order for the very near future. Any excuse to chat with these ladies and try those tacos is good by me!
So tell me, how did you spend your Saturday?
Perfection
The super sweet Danielle of Body by Nature organized this little get-together at Live, which is a local organic vegan raw food restaurant. Quite the mouthful huh?
Thankfully that mouthful was of delicious food!
The menu was full of so many tasty sounding dishes it was really hard to choose. I landed on a salad (which was soooo good!) but secretly wanted a taste of everyone else's food too (Tacos, waffles and wraps...oh my!)
If you've got doubts about raw vegan food being good you need to try this place- I promise it will change your mind for good!
The only thing better than the food at this place was the company. I've said it before but I love spending time with other bloggers. It's like getting together with old friends who know you, support you and just "get" you. The conversation flowed from the minute we sat down and before I knew it two and a half hours had flown by.
Truthfully I could have stayed and chatted for another three hours and had dinner there too. We talked about so many different things (raw food, blogging, running) and barely scratched the surface of everything we could have discussed.
All that really means is that another meet up is in order for the very near future. Any excuse to chat with these ladies and try those tacos is good by me!
So tell me, how did you spend your Saturday?
8/16/11
Show Me the Money
This post is one that I have been pseudo writing in my head for a while. Truthfully, its been on my mind ever since this little addition to the site ------------------------------------------------>
Maybe you noticed, maybe you didn't or maybe you are a newer reader (welcome!) and don't know any different but to bring everyone up to speed I joined the Blogher Advertising Network over a month ago and am now amongst a growing group of outstanding women who contribute to some great content on the web.
Not a bad affiliation huh?
It wasn't a decision that I came to lightly. The idea of turning my little blog into a potential money making venture has always been on my mind. I mean what blogger hasn't had the dream of quitting their day job to do something they are so passionate about for a living? Yet, something held me back from taking the next step towards the reality of even making a few extra bucks.
A few things actually.
Will I Be Seen as a Sell Out?
As my readership has grown (thank you all so much for that by the way) I have always done my very best to stay true to my original intention for this blog: To share my life; the good , the bad and the ugly, with everyone or nobody, in a creative and real way.
So would my decision to advertise change people's perception of that intention? Would my blog be viewed as a revenue opportunity for me rather then a place where I feel like I am part of a community of really amazing people who understand and support me?
Would I Have to Compromise the Mission of the Blog?
The requirement to fulfill certain content requirements has always made me shy away from certain ad networks. As an example, Foodbuzz is great for food bloggers who's content is naturally about food most of the time. That isn't me. I tried it and it just doesn't fit for me. So to have to blog about it would force me to provide content that is forced and that's not what this space is about. "I must blog about my boring breakfast" is not real to me. You don't want to see it and I don't want to share it. Its a win-win to leave it out. So no Foodbuzz for this gal.
Would the Ads Compromise the Integrity of the Blog (and me)?
I am sure there is lots of money to be made hocking diet pills, plastic surgery and raunchy xxx-rated websites. Unfortunately for my bank account my integrity isn't for sale. I am not going to use my personal space on the web to promote something that goes against what me and my blog stand for. If those things are your thing, great! But its not mine and I don't want it on here. No judgement, just a personal choice that I needed to be able to make.
Would an Advertising Contract Restrict My Creativity?
While some networks require certain content, others may limit what a blogger can write about (product reviews and sponsored giveaways are two examples) I want to be free to write in the way that I always have (under my own guidelines and no one elses) so I couldn't take on a contract that would stifle me.
Would It Be Worth It?
Again, making money has it's obvious appeals. But putting up and running ads, working within certain stipulations and consistently monitoring the content of the ads to ensure that they are in line with the blog is a lot of work if I am going to make less than a $1 at the end of the month. I do this because I love it, I did and would continue to do it for free but if I am not making any money down come the ads and we can just resume out regularly scheduled programming.
A girl can dream right?
Fortunately for me BlogHer offers me the ability to stay true to what I stand for and still open up some ad space. Making a bit of money without selling myself short? Works for me!
In truth what I would really love to do with some future earnings is finance a self-hosted blog on a nice, pretty (and costly) Wordpress theme. Long term, a trip to a blogger convention (like Las Vegas or HLS) would be simply amazing!
Blogging is by no means a get-rich-quick scheme nor do I need to every get even remotely wealthy to enjoy it and dedicate myself to it. The money is a bonus, because the true satisfaction I get from this is priceless.
If you want to read more on monetizing your blog check out Katy Widrick's great series on the subject.
So tell me, what do you think about ads on blogs?
Maybe you noticed, maybe you didn't or maybe you are a newer reader (welcome!) and don't know any different but to bring everyone up to speed I joined the Blogher Advertising Network over a month ago and am now amongst a growing group of outstanding women who contribute to some great content on the web.
 |
| Source |
Not a bad affiliation huh?
It wasn't a decision that I came to lightly. The idea of turning my little blog into a potential money making venture has always been on my mind. I mean what blogger hasn't had the dream of quitting their day job to do something they are so passionate about for a living? Yet, something held me back from taking the next step towards the reality of even making a few extra bucks.
A few things actually.
Will I Be Seen as a Sell Out?
As my readership has grown (thank you all so much for that by the way) I have always done my very best to stay true to my original intention for this blog: To share my life; the good , the bad and the ugly, with everyone or nobody, in a creative and real way.
So would my decision to advertise change people's perception of that intention? Would my blog be viewed as a revenue opportunity for me rather then a place where I feel like I am part of a community of really amazing people who understand and support me?
Would I Have to Compromise the Mission of the Blog?
The requirement to fulfill certain content requirements has always made me shy away from certain ad networks. As an example, Foodbuzz is great for food bloggers who's content is naturally about food most of the time. That isn't me. I tried it and it just doesn't fit for me. So to have to blog about it would force me to provide content that is forced and that's not what this space is about. "I must blog about my boring breakfast" is not real to me. You don't want to see it and I don't want to share it. Its a win-win to leave it out. So no Foodbuzz for this gal.
Would the Ads Compromise the Integrity of the Blog (and me)?
I am sure there is lots of money to be made hocking diet pills, plastic surgery and raunchy xxx-rated websites. Unfortunately for my bank account my integrity isn't for sale. I am not going to use my personal space on the web to promote something that goes against what me and my blog stand for. If those things are your thing, great! But its not mine and I don't want it on here. No judgement, just a personal choice that I needed to be able to make.
Would an Advertising Contract Restrict My Creativity?
While some networks require certain content, others may limit what a blogger can write about (product reviews and sponsored giveaways are two examples) I want to be free to write in the way that I always have (under my own guidelines and no one elses) so I couldn't take on a contract that would stifle me.
Would It Be Worth It?
Again, making money has it's obvious appeals. But putting up and running ads, working within certain stipulations and consistently monitoring the content of the ads to ensure that they are in line with the blog is a lot of work if I am going to make less than a $1 at the end of the month. I do this because I love it, I did and would continue to do it for free but if I am not making any money down come the ads and we can just resume out regularly scheduled programming.
 |
| Source |
A girl can dream right?
Fortunately for me BlogHer offers me the ability to stay true to what I stand for and still open up some ad space. Making a bit of money without selling myself short? Works for me!
In truth what I would really love to do with some future earnings is finance a self-hosted blog on a nice, pretty (and costly) Wordpress theme. Long term, a trip to a blogger convention (like Las Vegas or HLS) would be simply amazing!
Blogging is by no means a get-rich-quick scheme nor do I need to every get even remotely wealthy to enjoy it and dedicate myself to it. The money is a bonus, because the true satisfaction I get from this is priceless.
If you want to read more on monetizing your blog check out Katy Widrick's great series on the subject.
So tell me, what do you think about ads on blogs?
8/2/11
TMI- How Much is Too Much?
I love blogging. The freedom to create a niche and make it your own is refreshing and liberating. It's a chance to create something that is truly yours in whatever form you choose.
Well, within reason I suppose...
I've shared my opinion on blogging etiquette and do's and don'ts in the past ( you can read about that here and here) but tonight I want to delve into the topic of oversharing, taboo topics and the infamous TMI (too much information)
As I blogger I set out my own guidelines for where I "draw the line", so to speak. I learned a lot from other bloggers and got a feel for what I was comfortable with sharing. I know instantly if I feel weird about posting something and before I hit publish I ask myself a few questions:
Now don't get me wrong...I love my readers! Every single person who takes time out of their busy life to read what I have to say is a complete and utter rockstar in my eyes. The point that I am making is that I write what I think and the readers I want are the ones who appreciate that. You don't always have to agree with me but I want you to value my right to an opinion as I value yours.
And hey, call me out if you think I've crossed a line. I am totally okay with that because I am also okay will explaining myself, my rationale and my intentions. I'm all for healthy and candid discussions that go both ways (that's what the comments sections is for!)
Some of my favorite blogs have discussed fertility, birth control and family planning , the Diva Cup (all Caitlin by the way) runners' trots, unwashed hair and clothing, run ins with rude stinky men and their sex life (in great detail). I'm not shy but I also know that if something makes me a little uneasy I can click away. Its my choice what to read much the same as its a bloggers choice what to write.
For the record, things that will never make it onto my blog:
Otherwise its fair game. I'm gonna talk about my good days and my bad ones. I'll probably talk about chafing and sweat and how much I stink. I'll even mention poop (if for no other reason then to write the word poop!) Someday I may talk about marriage or heartbreak (although hopefully the former not the latter) and my role as a wife and mother (and then I get to talk poop all the time!) Its my blog and the intention is to be REAL. I can't say it enough. If there was one way to sum up my blogging mandate its this:
Be as real as possible. Never compromise integrity. Always be honest, even when its scary. Be open. Share.
So really the point is that I believe everyone defines their own TMI threshold. And if I can appreciate it for what its worth I am always going to look past the "Omigod did she just write that" and love your blog just the same! (Or potentially more...ahem, Cely!)
I hope you'll do the same for me too.
So tell me, do you have a TMI threshold? How much is too much to you?
Well, within reason I suppose...
I've shared my opinion on blogging etiquette and do's and don'ts in the past ( you can read about that here and here) but tonight I want to delve into the topic of oversharing, taboo topics and the infamous TMI (too much information)
As I blogger I set out my own guidelines for where I "draw the line", so to speak. I learned a lot from other bloggers and got a feel for what I was comfortable with sharing. I know instantly if I feel weird about posting something and before I hit publish I ask myself a few questions:
- Is the theme of the post in keeping with the overall theme of my blog? Will people expect this from me?
- What is the purpose of sharing this information? Am I trying to make people laugh or is there more to it then that?
- Will people understand the humour and the direction I am going in based on previous posts and the tone of my writing?
- Would I cringe if my mom read it? How about my boss? How about my boss's mom?
- Will sharing a story help someone? Am I discussing a tough topic that should be discussed?
- Will I lose readers?
Now don't get me wrong...I love my readers! Every single person who takes time out of their busy life to read what I have to say is a complete and utter rockstar in my eyes. The point that I am making is that I write what I think and the readers I want are the ones who appreciate that. You don't always have to agree with me but I want you to value my right to an opinion as I value yours.
And hey, call me out if you think I've crossed a line. I am totally okay with that because I am also okay will explaining myself, my rationale and my intentions. I'm all for healthy and candid discussions that go both ways (that's what the comments sections is for!)
Some of my favorite blogs have discussed fertility, birth control and family planning , the Diva Cup (all Caitlin by the way) runners' trots, unwashed hair and clothing, run ins with rude stinky men and their sex life (in great detail). I'm not shy but I also know that if something makes me a little uneasy I can click away. Its my choice what to read much the same as its a bloggers choice what to write.
For the record, things that will never make it onto my blog:
- Details about my family and friends and their personal lives/health etc. unless they grant me permission to discuss it
- My sex life (innuendo is all you're getting people!!)
- Details about the company I work for
- Personal information that could jeopardize my safety
Otherwise its fair game. I'm gonna talk about my good days and my bad ones. I'll probably talk about chafing and sweat and how much I stink. I'll even mention poop (if for no other reason then to write the word poop!) Someday I may talk about marriage or heartbreak (although hopefully the former not the latter) and my role as a wife and mother (and then I get to talk poop all the time!) Its my blog and the intention is to be REAL. I can't say it enough. If there was one way to sum up my blogging mandate its this:
Be as real as possible. Never compromise integrity. Always be honest, even when its scary. Be open. Share.
So really the point is that I believe everyone defines their own TMI threshold. And if I can appreciate it for what its worth I am always going to look past the "Omigod did she just write that" and love your blog just the same! (Or potentially more...ahem, Cely!)
I hope you'll do the same for me too.
So tell me, do you have a TMI threshold? How much is too much to you?
7/27/11
My 7 Links
I've seen this post quite a few times in my travels through the blogosphere and thought that it would be fun to play along and share of few of my older posts with you.
Most Beautiful
International Women's Day- While the photos are not mine they are some of the most moving photographs I've seen on the internet.
Most Popular
I Got Babies on the Brain- Baby fever has definitely hit the blogworld and this post's popularity is a testament to that.
Most Controversial
Baby I Love Ya but You're Making Me Fat! I didn't receive any overly negative feedback but the "f" word is always a sensitive topic.
Most Beautiful
International Women's Day- While the photos are not mine they are some of the most moving photographs I've seen on the internet.
Most Popular
I Got Babies on the Brain- Baby fever has definitely hit the blogworld and this post's popularity is a testament to that.
Most Controversial
Baby I Love Ya but You're Making Me Fat! I didn't receive any overly negative feedback but the "f" word is always a sensitive topic.
Why I Won't Read Your Blog- It's my honest opinion but I think it rubbed a few people the wrong way
Surprise Success
Blogs>Magazines- I really didn't expect the amount of feedback on this one but of course, I loved every single comment and shared opinion about it.
Not Enough
Looking for a Few Good Blogs- I definitely would have expected a lot more nominations..there are so many excellent blogs out there!!
Most Proud
Finding My Healthy Happy Weight , I'm Too Sexy for My... , In a Moment of Weakness and My Battle with Compulsive Eating- All necessary discussions that were hard to write but essential to share
There you have it...some of my favorites.
And here's to many more...
So tell me, if you could have me read one of your best posts what would it be? (link please!)
7/12/11
When You Just Need to Sweat...
Wow! I can't believe all the positive response I got to my post. I am so pumped that so many of you read it and actually liked it. Thanks a million for all the feedback and link love here and in Twitterland today. As always, you're the bestest! (Its a real word I swear)
Ultimately when it comes down to it the biggest thing that will impact whether I read a blog isn't how fast of a runner you are, how interesting and creative your recipes are or how many marathons you've ran. It's how good you are at keeping it real.
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If I can sense a genuine awesomeness about you I will want to be friends with you. And because I can't pick up and move to every state and province (or convince you all to come to Toronto...although you should, you really should) I can be the next best thing: your blogstalker friend.
There is no perfect way to blog or template that will make you more popular. So just be you. It's the same way you made friends on the playground and it'll work on blogland too I promise!
Fitness/Health Update:
After a 5 day, doctor ordered, fitness hiatus I felt a need to get in the gym and just sweat today.
Isn't it funny how our fitness perspective can change? A few years back I was lucky to make it to the gym once every 5 days and now that same span of time off feels like eternity!!
Not wanting totally over do it I decided a slow and easy run was just what the doctor (would have) ordered (had I have consulted her first...oops!)
5.5miles in an hour. Not too shabby and I got all the sweat I was looking for and then some. Sweet!
The plan for the rest of the week is that there is no plan. I am going to take it day by day and see how my body feels. Hopefully I'll get some more sweat-sessions in but if not, that okay too.
There's always next week.
Well, that's it for me... I'm off to get ready for tonight's #Fitblog chat. Hope to see you there!
So tell me, how has your fitness perspective changed in that last year or two?
Ultimately when it comes down to it the biggest thing that will impact whether I read a blog isn't how fast of a runner you are, how interesting and creative your recipes are or how many marathons you've ran. It's how good you are at keeping it real.
If I can sense a genuine awesomeness about you I will want to be friends with you. And because I can't pick up and move to every state and province (or convince you all to come to Toronto...although you should, you really should) I can be the next best thing: your blog
There is no perfect way to blog or template that will make you more popular. So just be you. It's the same way you made friends on the playground and it'll work on blogland too I promise!
Fitness/Health Update:
After a 5 day, doctor ordered, fitness hiatus I felt a need to get in the gym and just sweat today.
Isn't it funny how our fitness perspective can change? A few years back I was lucky to make it to the gym once every 5 days and now that same span of time off feels like eternity!!
Not wanting totally over do it I decided a slow and easy run was just what the doctor (would have) ordered (had I have consulted her first...oops!)
5.5miles in an hour. Not too shabby and I got all the sweat I was looking for and then some. Sweet!
The plan for the rest of the week is that there is no plan. I am going to take it day by day and see how my body feels. Hopefully I'll get some more sweat-sessions in but if not, that okay too.
There's always next week.
Well, that's it for me... I'm off to get ready for tonight's #Fitblog chat. Hope to see you there!
So tell me, how has your fitness perspective changed in that last year or two?
7/11/11
Why I Won't Read Your Blog
Hey friends! Have you listened to Katy Widrick's 10 Tips for Killer Blog Posts yet? If you haven't, you are definitely missing out! So go do that now and come back. I'll be waiting here, I promise.
Welcome back! How great was that huh? So much of that seems so simple (and obvious) and it basically sums up a lot of the things that draw me to a blog post or even better, a blog. I'll keep coming back for more and more and more (because I'm a blog glutton like that) if I like what I see and read, if you are funny or interesting and I feel like I know you. Accomplish that and you've got a friend for life.
On the other hand...
Yes, I'll just go ahead and say it. There are things that make me stop reading, whether its half way through a post or the entire blog altogether. There are only so many blog reading hours in a day and I want to spend them on all the blogs that I enjoy.
What can I say? I know what I like...or in this case what I don't like.
One Long Paragraph
Katy's mentions the short attention span of readers in her webinar and in my case its totally true. I can't read sentence after sentence after sentence all strung together for what seems like forever. Do that and you've lost me. I will skim, look at pictures and probably just click away.
Don't get me wrong, I want to read what you have to say. But please break it up so I don't lost interest and lose out on all your insight and hilarity!
For the Sake of Posting, Posts
I get it. We all want to post often because we know it helps us build and maintain a readership but nothing is more obvious then the quick "I got nothing to say at all but here's a photo of some toast and a link to an old post because I was too lazy to write anything fresh" post. And I am not interested.
I'd rather read you once a day, or week, or hell month for that matter if your content is interesting and refreshing. I am really so tired of looking at toast with almond butter I could scream!
Now, if you are strapped for time (who isn't) or feeling some writers block and you want to post, what I can say that I like looking at really interesting photos. Putting together a wordless post that captures the essence of a weekend/event/race is still really entertaining and a nice change from the talk, talk, talk everywhere else
Miss I'm So Perfect
There is nothing that is going to lose me faster than a blogger with a perfect diet, fitness routine, family, house, job and hairstyle. Why? Because she is not REAL!
I don't care who you are, what side of the globe you blog on or what your experience is, there is not a blogger out there who doesn't mess up sometimes. And those are the bloggers I want to know! Give me the girl who skips an occasional workout to go to happy hour, eats candy with breakfast sometimes and fails to brush her hair every once and a while and you've got someone I can relate to.
I refuse to read the blogs that make everyday seem like easy, peasey sunshine. And I don't want to read all about your perfect anything unless you are also willing to post a photo (or at least a story) of that time your dress got tucked in your underwear on your way to meet your in-laws for the first time.
We've all been there. And I know you have too, whether you share it or not.
Get All Preachy
For the same reason that I don't want to read that so-called perfect blog, I also can't stand a blog that is nothing but advice and how to's and "I'm such and expert" blah blah blah. If you're blog reads like eHow.com I'm a goner.
If I wanted expert advice online, I'd turn to Wikipedia...duh!
Be a real person. Ask for help sometimes. Tell me a story of that mistake you made. It's called authenticity and I like it.
Never Post Real Photos
I love photography. It doesn't even have to be great photography for me to love it. What I enjoy is how a photo captures a memory or a moment, can make you laugh or make you cry, but nonetheless brings you in on the story.
Show me your life in your blog. If all you ever use are someone else's images to illustrate your point, I don't feel like there is a real life author behind the message. I want to see your face. Hell I want to see your dog's face! Give me something to look at and I'm gonna hang out, I promise.
Cross that Line.
I am all for a blogger who curses now and then, pokes fun at herself and celebrities and makes the occasional mildly offensive joke.
On the flip side, anything blatantly racist, sexist or homophobic or an attack on another person and I am out. Permanently.
Keep it clean(ish) people, my grandma reads this sh*t. ...Ok, she doesn't, but someone's does. Aim for PG13
A few things that surprisingly enough, don't bother me:
Believe me, I am far from a perfect blogger and I know that but where I lack in one area, I make up for in another.So if there is one thing I know its what will keep or lose my attention quicker than the sellout of the NYC Marathon. But really, this is just my opinion. You do what you do and maybe you'll catch me stalking my Google Reader for a fresh post from you.....
So tell me, what is one thing you HATE about certain blogs that make you stop reading. (Do not name the blog please...let's play nice)
Welcome back! How great was that huh? So much of that seems so simple (and obvious) and it basically sums up a lot of the things that draw me to a blog post or even better, a blog. I'll keep coming back for more and more and more (because I'm a blog glutton like that) if I like what I see and read, if you are funny or interesting and I feel like I know you. Accomplish that and you've got a friend for life.
On the other hand...
Yes, I'll just go ahead and say it. There are things that make me stop reading, whether its half way through a post or the entire blog altogether. There are only so many blog reading hours in a day and I want to spend them on all the blogs that I enjoy.
What can I say? I know what I like...or in this case what I don't like.
One Long Paragraph
Katy's mentions the short attention span of readers in her webinar and in my case its totally true. I can't read sentence after sentence after sentence all strung together for what seems like forever. Do that and you've lost me. I will skim, look at pictures and probably just click away.
Don't get me wrong, I want to read what you have to say. But please break it up so I don't lost interest and lose out on all your insight and hilarity!
For the Sake of Posting, Posts
I get it. We all want to post often because we know it helps us build and maintain a readership but nothing is more obvious then the quick "I got nothing to say at all but here's a photo of some toast and a link to an old post because I was too lazy to write anything fresh" post. And I am not interested.
I'd rather read you once a day, or week, or hell month for that matter if your content is interesting and refreshing. I am really so tired of looking at toast with almond butter I could scream!
Now, if you are strapped for time (who isn't) or feeling some writers block and you want to post, what I can say that I like looking at really interesting photos. Putting together a wordless post that captures the essence of a weekend/event/race is still really entertaining and a nice change from the talk, talk, talk everywhere else
Miss I'm So Perfect
There is nothing that is going to lose me faster than a blogger with a perfect diet, fitness routine, family, house, job and hairstyle. Why? Because she is not REAL!
I don't care who you are, what side of the globe you blog on or what your experience is, there is not a blogger out there who doesn't mess up sometimes. And those are the bloggers I want to know! Give me the girl who skips an occasional workout to go to happy hour, eats candy with breakfast sometimes and fails to brush her hair every once and a while and you've got someone I can relate to.
I refuse to read the blogs that make everyday seem like easy, peasey sunshine. And I don't want to read all about your perfect anything unless you are also willing to post a photo (or at least a story) of that time your dress got tucked in your underwear on your way to meet your in-laws for the first time.
We've all been there. And I know you have too, whether you share it or not.
Get All Preachy
For the same reason that I don't want to read that so-called perfect blog, I also can't stand a blog that is nothing but advice and how to's and "I'm such and expert" blah blah blah. If you're blog reads like eHow.com I'm a goner.
If I wanted expert advice online, I'd turn to Wikipedia...duh!
Be a real person. Ask for help sometimes. Tell me a story of that mistake you made. It's called authenticity and I like it.
Never Post Real Photos
I love photography. It doesn't even have to be great photography for me to love it. What I enjoy is how a photo captures a memory or a moment, can make you laugh or make you cry, but nonetheless brings you in on the story.
Show me your life in your blog. If all you ever use are someone else's images to illustrate your point, I don't feel like there is a real life author behind the message. I want to see your face. Hell I want to see your dog's face! Give me something to look at and I'm gonna hang out, I promise.
Cross that Line.
I am all for a blogger who curses now and then, pokes fun at herself and celebrities and makes the occasional mildly offensive joke.
On the flip side, anything blatantly racist, sexist or homophobic or an attack on another person and I am out. Permanently.
Keep it clean(ish) people, my grandma reads this sh*t. ...Ok, she doesn't, but someone's does. Aim for PG13
A few things that surprisingly enough, don't bother me:
- Lots of pet photos. If the photos have captions and add to the story, even better!
- Celebricizing on a healthy living blog...I can snicker at Lindsey with the best of 'em
- Healthy living turned wedding/baby on the way blogs. If I like you I like your life. Those are big parts of your life so share away!!
- Spelling mistakes. I'm guilty of that in a big, bad way.
Believe me, I am far from a perfect blogger and I know that but where I lack in one area, I make up for in another.So if there is one thing I know its what will keep or lose my attention quicker than the sellout of the NYC Marathon. But really, this is just my opinion. You do what you do and maybe you'll catch me stalking my Google Reader for a fresh post from you.....
So tell me, what is one thing you HATE about certain blogs that make you stop reading. (Do not name the blog please...let's play nice)
6/15/11
Blogs > Magazines
As I stood in the grocery store the other day browsing the magazine stand for something to read I realized something that I had been overlooking for a while; the nature of the magazines that I buy has changed a lot over the last few years. Instead celebrities with no makeup and high fashion movie stars, the covers of the magazines I gravitate towards usually have beautiful pictures of yummy looking food or a runner.
Yes, I knew that times had changed when I put back a Cosmo in favor of Canadian Living.
The other thing that I noticed was that I rarely buy magazines at all anymore. With the exception of a deeply discounted subscription to Chatelaine the only magazine I buy regularly is Runners World. I rarely pick up an issue of Glamour or Women's Health anymore (I used to buy every single issue) and when I do I am just not as engaged as I used to be. But why?
Is it because I'm getting older? (don't answer that)
It it because I am just not as cool as I used to be? (leave that one alone too)
Nope. Its because of you guys. That's right, I have replaced magazines with blogs. I argue its with good reason but you can be the judge of that:
Reason 1: Cost
Blogs are free. Magazines on the other hand are upwards of $5 per issue. I spent nearly $40 on magazines to take to Cuba in April and was done them all by the third day. Definitely not a cost effective option in my opinion.
Reason 2: Wholesome Food
Reason 3: Fitness
Many of the blogs I read are written by runners and fitness enthusiasts who work out because they love to. They have goals and accomplishments far beyond total calorie burn. On the flip side many magazine tend to focus on the easiest or fastest way to lose weight through physical activity. The shift towards exercise as a lifestyle is definitely a welcomed change for my own life.
Reason 4: Recipes
There are many times that I go to buy a magazine for a recipe and then realize I probably know at least two bloggers who created that exact same meal and it will taste better and be healthier. If not I can certainly take ideas from their creations and come up with something pretty darn good on my own.
Reason 5: Substance
In blogland, there are stories and experiences and actual content, not pages and pages of ads pushing diet pills and get thin quick schemes. Sure some bloggers make a living from their blogs and I support that because they have integrity with the ads that they display and I don't have to turn to page 265 to get the rest of the half-told story.
Reason 6: Community
There is a sense of belonging in the healthy living community that can't really be understood or appreciated until you are a part of it (which is easy...come on in!) Through blogs you are cheered on when you succeed and picked back up when you fall. People here just get you and you feel like you know a little bit about what its like to be them. Magazine people on the other hand....yeah, not so much.
Reason 8: Me
I'm a blogger and not in magazines and its my prerogative to prefer places where I am welcome. Its Sam logic, don't worry if you don' quite get it.
With all that said, I can't say I won't ever buy a gossip mag ever again. But know this, it won't be opened until I have caught up on my G-Reader that is for damn sure!
Blogging for the win!
So tel me, do you read a lot of magazines? Whats one magazine you simply have to to buy?
Yes, I knew that times had changed when I put back a Cosmo in favor of Canadian Living.
The other thing that I noticed was that I rarely buy magazines at all anymore. With the exception of a deeply discounted subscription to Chatelaine the only magazine I buy regularly is Runners World. I rarely pick up an issue of Glamour or Women's Health anymore (I used to buy every single issue) and when I do I am just not as engaged as I used to be. But why?
Is it because I'm getting older? (don't answer that)
It it because I am just not as cool as I used to be? (leave that one alone too)
Nope. Its because of you guys. That's right, I have replaced magazines with blogs. I argue its with good reason but you can be the judge of that:
Reason 1: Cost
Blogs are free. Magazines on the other hand are upwards of $5 per issue. I spent nearly $40 on magazines to take to Cuba in April and was done them all by the third day. Definitely not a cost effective option in my opinion.
Reason 2: Wholesome Food
In the healthy living blog community there is a push towards real food (You know, that stuff that comes from the actual earth?). Women's "health & fitness" magazines tend to feature low-calorie, fat free (and sugar infused) options with minimal nutritional value. Believe me when I say that in my magazine reading days I never would have considered this a lunch choice like I did today.
Reason 3: Fitness
Many of the blogs I read are written by runners and fitness enthusiasts who work out because they love to. They have goals and accomplishments far beyond total calorie burn. On the flip side many magazine tend to focus on the easiest or fastest way to lose weight through physical activity. The shift towards exercise as a lifestyle is definitely a welcomed change for my own life.
Reason 4: Recipes
There are many times that I go to buy a magazine for a recipe and then realize I probably know at least two bloggers who created that exact same meal and it will taste better and be healthier. If not I can certainly take ideas from their creations and come up with something pretty darn good on my own.
Reason 5: Substance
In blogland, there are stories and experiences and actual content, not pages and pages of ads pushing diet pills and get thin quick schemes. Sure some bloggers make a living from their blogs and I support that because they have integrity with the ads that they display and I don't have to turn to page 265 to get the rest of the half-told story.
Reason 6: Community
There is a sense of belonging in the healthy living community that can't really be understood or appreciated until you are a part of it (which is easy...come on in!) Through blogs you are cheered on when you succeed and picked back up when you fall. People here just get you and you feel like you know a little bit about what its like to be them. Magazine people on the other hand....yeah, not so much.
Reason 7: Real Looking People
The blogs that I read are full of beautiful people (yes I'm talking to you SR) and the best part is they are natural and diverse. Some are tall blonds (*cough* you again..) and others are petite brunettes. They have freckles and pimples and some probably even have cellulite (that's more me then you SR but we can pretend can't we?) And even better then the best part is that they aren't afraid to be real. They are wacky, and honest and even down right gross. And if there's a plastic pair of you know whats in the bunch you've certainly got me fooled! Definitely can't say that for some of the magazines out there (did you see that Montag debacle up there?)
Reason 8: Me
I'm a blogger and not in magazines and its my prerogative to prefer places where I am welcome. Its Sam logic, don't worry if you don' quite get it.
With all that said, I can't say I won't ever buy a gossip mag ever again. But know this, it won't be opened until I have caught up on my G-Reader that is for damn sure!
Blogging for the win!
So tel me, do you read a lot of magazines? Whats one magazine you simply have to to buy?
6/14/11
A Lil' Blog Makeover
If you follow me on Twitter you know that I have wanted a blog makeover for a while. While I am still contemplating some major changes and researching a few of my options I thought I would introduce a new look for Health, Happiness & Skinny Jeans.
What else can you expect in the near future?
So tell me, do you like when blogs change their look every so often? Are you a cat person or a dog person?
What else can you expect in the near future?
- Lots and lots of marathon training talk (check out my virtual team while you are at it...these gals kick ass!)
- More kitchen adventures
- Further discussions on self-esteem and positive body image
- A deeper look at my battle with disordered eating
- Pet photos, summer fun and so much more....
So tell me, do you like when blogs change their look every so often? Are you a cat person or a dog person?
5/15/11
What's Going on Around Here??
*This post republished as new. For today's post click here
I don't know if you've noticed (and maybe you haven't) but things are a little different around these parts lately. A little less workout talk. A little more of a focus on body confidence/self esteem. Less cat photos *gasp*!
Never fear, nothing is changing, well as least not drastically.
There will still be lot's of this stuff
And of course this stuff
And this too
Can't forget these
And naturally a good dose of this for good measure
Because really it wouldn't be my blog without it!
What you will also notice is more of my ideas around self-esteem with a little fashion and lifestyle goodies to keep it all interesting. Its important to me to talk about self-worth and confidence because I truly believe these are make-it or break-it factors in a happy and healthy life!
So stick around...lots more to come on Health, Happiness & Skinny Jeans
Oh and I also take reader requests. Let me know if there is something you want to see or see more of ok??? OK!!
So tell me, what topics do you like reading about on blogs? What makes a blog stand out? How does that blogger keep it interesting and fresh and leave you wanting more?
I don't know if you've noticed (and maybe you haven't) but things are a little different around these parts lately. A little less workout talk. A little more of a focus on body confidence/self esteem. Less cat photos *gasp*!
Never fear, nothing is changing, well as least not drastically.
There will still be lot's of this stuff
And of course this stuff
And this too
Can't forget these
And naturally a good dose of this for good measure
Because really it wouldn't be my blog without it!
What you will also notice is more of my ideas around self-esteem with a little fashion and lifestyle goodies to keep it all interesting. Its important to me to talk about self-worth and confidence because I truly believe these are make-it or break-it factors in a happy and healthy life!
So stick around...lots more to come on Health, Happiness & Skinny Jeans
Oh and I also take reader requests. Let me know if there is something you want to see or see more of ok??? OK!!
So tell me, what topics do you like reading about on blogs? What makes a blog stand out? How does that blogger keep it interesting and fresh and leave you wanting more?
5/5/11
Bad Blogger Alert!
Once again thank you to everyone for all your supportive comments and tweets on my last post. I feel so lucky to have such a positive and understanding group of readers who take time out of their busy lives to let me share my life with you. It means the world, it really does!
In my adventures around the blogosphere today I cam across some really valuable feedback from the readers over at Run Eat Repeat. Monica asked what attracts readers to certain blogs and I absolutely loved reading all the comments about what makes one healthy living blog stand out among the throngs of great sites out there.
One comment that stood out to me was Necia who said "Pictures, videos, giveaways, replying to comments and questions. A sense of actual interaction with your readers."
Uh oh....
I don't reply to comments, at least not directly in the comment section. I try to include the answers in future posts but I am not directly interacting with the actual readers. Blogger fail!
But please believe me its not that I don't read the comments (I read every single one..most times I read them twice) or that I don't love the feedback I get (I smile every time a comment comes in) but instead its that I don't know how.
I can be the biggest geek going but unfortunately I didn't inherit any of the technical skills that come with the profile. Despite some research and an ill-fated attempt I can't for the life of me figure out how to enable replies in my comment section. Maybe its Blogger not allowing this function or maybe its me. I don't know and I wish I did. I want to reply to every comment and question. I just can't!
Help!?!
So please, until I get this blogging thing figured out please know I'm not ignoring you. And if you are or happen to know a really techy kinda person who can get this little situation all sorted out I will pay you in songs while you work (my singing isn't good but its much better then my dancing and its all I got)
Bear in mind offers of help might lead to "How to I move to my own domain name" and "Please explain self hosting" but I've been practicing my Adele and my Rolling in the Deep is getting pretty damn good if I do say so myself.
Love ya all!!
Oh, and until I get some IT assistance feel free to send me an email health(dot)happiness(dot)skinnyjeans(at)gmail(dot)com or a tweet (SamSkinnyJeans) and I promise I will respond ASAP!!
Now my spelling mistakes are a whole other post.....
Random fact: I "wrote" this post in my head while vacuuming my apartment. See, I told you I'm a geek!!
So tell me, do you have any tips for a tech-dumb blogger? Where did you learn your computer skills? And where do you come up with your blog posts (if you blog)?
In my adventures around the blogosphere today I cam across some really valuable feedback from the readers over at Run Eat Repeat. Monica asked what attracts readers to certain blogs and I absolutely loved reading all the comments about what makes one healthy living blog stand out among the throngs of great sites out there.
One comment that stood out to me was Necia who said "Pictures, videos, giveaways, replying to comments and questions. A sense of actual interaction with your readers."
Uh oh....
I don't reply to comments, at least not directly in the comment section. I try to include the answers in future posts but I am not directly interacting with the actual readers. Blogger fail!
But please believe me its not that I don't read the comments (I read every single one..most times I read them twice) or that I don't love the feedback I get (I smile every time a comment comes in) but instead its that I don't know how.
I can be the biggest geek going but unfortunately I didn't inherit any of the technical skills that come with the profile. Despite some research and an ill-fated attempt I can't for the life of me figure out how to enable replies in my comment section. Maybe its Blogger not allowing this function or maybe its me. I don't know and I wish I did. I want to reply to every comment and question. I just can't!
Help!?!
So please, until I get this blogging thing figured out please know I'm not ignoring you. And if you are or happen to know a really techy kinda person who can get this little situation all sorted out I will pay you in songs while you work (my singing isn't good but its much better then my dancing and its all I got)
Bear in mind offers of help might lead to "How to I move to my own domain name" and "Please explain self hosting" but I've been practicing my Adele and my Rolling in the Deep is getting pretty damn good if I do say so myself.
Love ya all!!
Oh, and until I get some IT assistance feel free to send me an email health(dot)happiness(dot)skinnyjeans(at)gmail(dot)com or a tweet (SamSkinnyJeans) and I promise I will respond ASAP!!
Now my spelling mistakes are a whole other post.....
Random fact: I "wrote" this post in my head while vacuuming my apartment. See, I told you I'm a geek!!
So tell me, do you have any tips for a tech-dumb blogger? Where did you learn your computer skills? And where do you come up with your blog posts (if you blog)?
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