One September evening in 2010 I was watching the Food Network, as I often can be found doing. I don't remember what cooking show I was watching (let's be honest, it was probably something to do with Bobby Flay), but I do remember how much I wanted to be that chef, cooking and teaching and interacting with an audience, connecting with the thousands of people out there. But there's no way I could ever have such an opportunity!
Then I realized...I can do that. Maybe not necessarily in front of a camera on a big television network, but in other ways I could do this. I've got a computer, capable typing fingers, a love of cooking and baking, a camera, and a bubbly personality to tie it all together. It wouldn't be a cooking show, but it would be a way for me to share my love of food, give a tip here and there, and maybe hear from a few people along the way.
Little did I know that my little online recipe book would turn into something so life changing.
Blogging has turned into a hobby, a passion, a part-time job, a social connection, and my window to the world. It's this stay-at-home mom's daily chat with the girls (and guys) where I can share a recipe, craft, or party idea with my best pals.
On some occasions it's a nail-biting, eye-gauging, want-to-scream-so-loud-I-wake-up-the-neighbors experience. But it's those days that make me want to pick myself back up and keep going.
I've met so many wonderful people since starting this blog. There are bloggers that I've never met in person, but I can easily call them my friends. And I have the best following anyone could ask for! I love reading all the wonderful comments, e-mails, Facebook posts, etc. from all of you and I appreciate each and every one. My blog wouldn't be where it is without you.
Blogging has helped me develop a love for things that I didn't realize I loved so much. Crafts, party planning, organization, printables, DIY, and washi tape, to name a few! I love learning about the next big thing in the craft world and what's being done with it, whether I do something with it or not. And sometimes my mind runs a mile a minute thinking about all the possibilities of what I can create in the kitchen next!
Blogging has helped improve my photography-a hobby I've loved since I was 9. My pictures look drastically different since I first started this blog! I love having all the practice.
Blogging makes me happy. My husband sees it and I know my kids can see it too. I feel so much joy being able to make a new meal for my family, creating a fun holiday printable to display in the house, or throwing a themed birthday party for my kids where most of the decor and party goods are made or put together by me, then hitting that "New Post" button in blogger so I can tell my friends about it. I feel more creative and see the world in a different light.
I love being a blogger! The ups and downs and all arounds. I'm grateful for the opportunity to share what I love, and I look forward to what the future has in store for this little piece of the web!
*Today I'm linking up with Sugar Bee Crafts for the "How Has Blogging Changed Your Life" segment.
I've loved reading about other bloggers, and if you're a blogger I would like to extend an invite to share your thoughts on blogging and link up too!*
