Monday, June 28, 2010

One Year Anniversary


It's official. The month of June marks my one year blogging anniversary. To be honest, I've enjoyed every minute: the friends I've made, the lessons I've learned, and yes, even the pressure to post regularly. It's given me a creative outlet and the inspiration to dream big. And I've been encouraged so much by each and every one of you who have stopped by. I've been humbled by those who have offered up prayers on behalf of me and my family and been privileged to pray for many of you.


From the first entry I posted a year ago, to today's post, blogging has opened up the world of writing to me in a way that I couldn't have imagined. There's so much to gain from the friendships established with other writers, beyond the obvious camaraderie. Valuable information about every genre imaginable. Tips for those times when the words just aren't flowing. Links to classes that will further writing skills. Insight about agents and publishing houses. And it's been remarkable to find numerous 'kindred spirits,' (to borrow a term from Anne of Green Gables), out there in the vast domain of the blogosphere.


Over the past year, I've had the opportunity to take a couple of on-line classes. They were offered by WIES Workshops and taught by Jeanette Hanscome. I was challenged to know my audience, write about what I know, and research possible publishers for my article/devotional. Good stuff! I found it to be a big step from writing my article to sending it to a publisher for consideration. An article was published, a devotional was rejected. All part of this game of writing. I've learned the importance of building an on-line presence through social networks like Facebook and Twitter. I've also learned the importance of utilizing my time wisely and not allowing these networks to take priority over my writing. Balance is key!


The bottom line? Writing is hard work. Don't let anyone tell you otherwise. But the rewards are well worth the effort. Whether you're just looking for a creative outlet, or desire to be a published author, blogging can be a valuable tool to get you to your destination!


As I look forward to another year of blogging, my desire is to write devotionals that point others to my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. "Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith;" (Hebrews 12:2a; KJV).


It's your turn: What keeps you blogging? If you don't blog, how do you choose what blogs to read? I'd love to hear from you!

18 comments:

  1. Congrats to you!!! My year was in March. Friends like you keep me going.

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  2. Diana - You're sweet, girl! Sounds like a belated congratulations is in order for you, too. Thanks for sharing and God bless! :)

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  3. Congrats on your anniversary! I've been writing for 4 years in July-- I love the contacts and have learned so much!

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  4. Terri - Good to hear from you! And happy early blogging anniversary. You've got a few years on me. It is neat to be able to learn from others who have traveled this road longer than I have. Such good insight and wisdom! God bless you as you continue blogging! :)

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  5. Blessings to you Maria, I have to say that your blog always blesses me...so I'm thankful that you continued on even when you didn't feel like there was much to write about....we all have those days. I just celebrated 2 yrs and like you am so grateful for the gift of friendship and fellowship that has come from the blogging world. I too love to write but some days are harder than others. When I look back on my first couple of months I realize just how much I've learned.
    Thanks for always being such an encourager as well.
    Have a great week.
    Hugs, Noreen

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  6. Congratulations! What a wonderful milestone. You've been faithful in serving and sharing. Your blog is a treasure.
    Blessings,
    Karen

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  7. Congratulations! What a wonderful milestone. You have been faithful in serving and sharing. Your blog is a treasure.
    Blessings,
    Karen :)

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  8. SO Glad we are bloggy friends!! YOu are a blessing to me. Always look forward to your wisdom!!
    Congrats!

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  9. Happy Blogoversary!
    Hugs,
    andrea

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  10. Noreen - Happy 2 year blogoversary!! I've thoroughly enjoyed getting to know you - you're so sweet and genuine. Thanks for the encouragement you are in my life as well. Blog buddies are the best! God bless! :)

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  11. Karen - You're such a faithful friend! Thanks for your constant encouragement. Your blog has been so helpful in pointing me to sites where I've gleaned writing info that has helped me to grow. I appreciate you, friend!! :)

    Steph - You're sweet! I've enjoyed reading about your family and seeing things from the perspective of a pastor's wife. Thanks for the well-wishes! :)

    Andrea - So glad to see you again! Thanks for the well-wishes. Continuing to pray for you! God bless!

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  12. Hi Maria -

    Congratulations!

    I've been blogging for two years and writing most of my life. The friends I've made in the blogosphere, as well as the education I've received, keep me blogging.

    BTW, scheduling posts is a good way to relieve blogging pressure. :)

    Blessings,
    Susan

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  13. Susan - Congrats on your two years of blogging! Scheduling posts sounds like a good idea! I've enjoyed getting to know you and truly appreciate your informative blog. God bless you richly, my friend! :)

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  14. Congratulations! I hope you have many more blogger years!

    I have an award for you over at my blog!

    Have a blessed Independence Day!

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  15. Congrats on one year of blogging! That's wonderful (and hard work) :)

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  16. Yay!! One year!! I'm so glad you joined the blogging world. Your posts always light me up!

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  17. Michelle - Thank you so much for your kind words, and oh my goodness, for the blog award as well! You're a dear! Have a safe, happy and blessed 4th! :)

    Lynda - Thanks so much! It has been hard work, but SO worth it! Have a blessed Independence Day celebration!

    Jill - You're too sweet! I'm thankful that the Lord can use these posts to give you a ray of Sonshine in your day. You've been such a blessing to me, from your blog to your offer to let me contact your followers. A BIG thank you for 'taking me under your wing'! I hope to meet you in person some day, lady! God bless!

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  18. Congratulations my blogging friend! What a wonderful milestone :)
    I'm so glad to be among your followers, and I have been encouraged and inspired by your faithfulness to God and obedience to HIm.
    I can't wait to read the Life Lessons of this next year.
    God bless
    Dorothy :)

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