No, I haven’t sold my house, won the lottery or even had a book published. (YET)
But today is my THIRD anniversary of BLOGGING! (Can you believe it?)
And since I didn’t celebrate the first or second year, I am long overdue. (Way overdue)
In celebration, I am giving away a THIRTY DOLLAR gift certificate from AMAZOM.COM to some lucky blogger friend this week on Wednesday. I’ve asked my husband to be the judge and since he enjoys eating, he has kindly agreed.
How do you win?
Easy.
Please leave your answer to the following THREE questions:
1. How long have you been blogging?
2. What do you enjoy most about blogging?
3. How do you give back to other writers on your blog?
Without all of you fellow bloggers, the time I’ve spent on here would have no meaning. And I’d be a lot less further along with my writing. Thank you for making blogs a great place to hang out and a place to learn.
37 comments:
1. How long have you been blogging?
I think it has been about two years. I don't even remember when started our how to find out when it was. My first two blogs were just photos and stories and I deleted them.
2. What is your favorite part about blogging?
I like meeting new people so this is my world. I do a lot of blog hopping. (some would call it stalking) but I do leave comments when I visit someone.
3. How do you give back to other writers on your blog?
Whenever I have a new visitor, I make it a point to visit their blog. I usually ready several of their posts so I can get a feel for what their blog is all about and then I leave a comment. If I like their blog or their writing style I make sure and let them know. I have never left a negative comment. If I don't like someone's blog I just don't comment.
Ok time to close this contest. You have enough entries. :)
Way to go Terri! Happy 3rd--sounds funny on the heels of the holiday. :D
1. A little over 4 months.
2. Connecting with other writers & learning more about the craft
3. Gave away some Tree Tributes on my blog today...thanking three women for influencing my faith.
Thankful for you,
Wendy
Dear Terri:
What a great idea! So clever and creative.
I have been blogging since November of 2008. My husband and I started with a blog together, then I willed that one to him and branched out on my own in April, so I could focus on the writing life.
My favorite part of blogging is the people. I have grown in the Lord and my writing as I read others' blogs. I've gained a crit partner and many dear friends.
My second favorite part is that my world has enlarged, and I'm less tempted to feel sorry for myself and my little problems.
I give back by praying for those I follow, leaving uplifting comments on their blogs, and giving away prizes!!! Yippee dippee!!!! This is one of my joys, presents for everyone!!!
Congratulations on your 3 year old. May it flourish and gain you favor and blessings,
Jen
Audience of ONE
Woo-hoo! Congrats!!!
Wow, 3 years!?!?! Congratulations! What a generous give away too. Yay!
1. How long have you been blogging? I have been blogging on blogspot for about a year and a half, though I have kept journals since I was a pre-teen!
2. What is your favorite part about blogging? I love to share my heart and I love to write! I am driven to journal and record things. I did not expect to meet such great people on blogger and actually meet some in PERSON!
3. How do you give back to other writers on your blog? I definitely pray for my bloggy friends and I try to be an encourager. I also love to give gifts. I have given away 4 or 5 blogmakeovers -- a series of 5 books by Debi Pearl -- and a personalized tote bag. I can't remember if there has been more. Hmmm, scratching head.
Happy 3rd blogoversary!!!
Love,
Beth
1. 19 months and 607 posts. Will be 2 years in Nov.
2. I love connecting with people and trying to follow the spirit in what to write about so perhaps it will be something they need in their lives. I love being creative and look forward to blogging daily with something uplifting, creative or humorous.
3. To give back: I've taught several free classes on blogging for a Family History conference, my writer's group and for our local computer club. Also have helped several individuals get started and try to write encouraging comments for each blog I visit or if I disagree I may not leave a comment. Have given several awards to my readers and linked their blogs on mine. I feel like I have so many friends and a new online family.
Congratulations!! Three years!! Wow!!
1. I've been blogging for almost a year.
2. I get to share the part of me that isn't always out there for the world to see.
3. When I get a new follower or someone new leaves a comment, I always visit their blog if they have one. I really, really appreciate anyone taking the time out to read what I have to say and want them to know it.
Congrats again!!
Wow, congratulations, Terri! Woo hoo!
1) I've been blogging for almost six months now. Yay!
2) My favorite part is meeting other people, particularly writers.
3) I try to give back by being an encouragement, sharing things I've learned, and supporting other writers on their own blogs.
What a fun contest! You do a great job at give back to your followers :D (And I always enjoy visiting your blog.)
Congradulations!
1) I have been blogging for almost a year!
2)My favorite part about blogging is seeing GOD work in my life and many others. I am overwhelmed as I watch HIM use my (HIS) words to speak to others.
3)I suppose I give back to other writers by sharing honestly from my heart. I long for my lifes struggles and experiences to help others.
Blessings and prayers, andrea
1. How long have you been blogging?
About 4 months.
2. What is your favorite part about blogging?
Can I give a three-part answer? Having a forum to share thoughts and ideas; getting good ideas from other people; meeting new people.
3. How do you give back to other writers on your blog?
Trying to write something at least occasionally worth reading.
wb
I'm so new to blogging it should be illegal...I've been at it since May 1, 2009. Embarrassing, really. But, we have to start somewhere.
My favorite part of blogging is the challenge of trying to create something interesting and compelling--with a dash of humor--that will entertain and maybe educate my visitors. ANd to create such an animal five days a week...I take weekends "off."
I've not thought much about the give back part to be real honest...told you I was new. I do try to follow other bloggers who follow me. I try to leave a comment, because many bloggers measure success by comments. Soon, I'm hosting a new friend I met through, well, blogging. He has a new release and even though my blog is new, and my visitors average only about 20 per day...some of which, I'm afraid, are web bots...it feels good to provide him the best platform I can for his new release.
Best regards, Galen
Imagineering Fiction Blog
Happy Blog Birthday! WOW! Three years, way to go girlfriend!!!!!!!!
Your blog is always one of my daily stops, I get so much out of your insights and your encouragements.
Being at the very beginning of this witting process your blog gives me the perspective and the insights from someone who is a bit further along in the process. It makes the process more real. It also keeps the idea of getting publish one day in the forefront, it is so easy to allow the tasks of the day, I am the worlds worst for allowing other things to take precedence over what I want to do. It happens all the time (everyday!!).
Your consistent and encouraging words always put that thought back in my mind, “What have I done today or this week to further my goal????????”
Love you girl!!!! One day I’ll be reading your book and can tell my peeps, I know her!!!!
1. How long have you been blogging?
My first post was on Thursday, February 14, 2008 posted at 10:45 AM. My how time flies when you are having fun, 18 months of fun!!!!!
2. What is your favorite part about blogging?
I think for me the most rewarding part of blogging is three-fold.
I have been struggling with a call to write for a very long time. Due to some insecurities within myself I realized that I needed to force myself do certain things. Sharing what I write with others was a huge first step. I needed to get comfortable placing my words on paper and then saying “Hey! I wrote this what do you think?” Well, blogging has been the vehicle that has helped in part remove that inner fear I had in sharing my thoughts with the general public.
The positive comments I have received have been a huge bonus in helping me to get over myself. Fear is not from God, and I was allowing fear to dictate this aspect of my life. I still struggle with hitting the publish button every now and again but it is becoming easier and easier.
Secondly having a blog motivates me to actually write. Before I just had the pages of my journal. Which is wonderful, I still write in my journal on a very regular basis. However my blog has given me a tool to be able to share my faith, share my thoughts and practice writing on a more consistent basis.
Thirdly, I just love it! I am kicking myself for not getting into to this sooner. The people I have met, the cyber friends I have contact with have been amazing. I feel connected to this internet family in a very real way. I just love all of y’all! Getting that small charge every day when I check my email to see if I have received a comment is just the thing that can help get me through a rough patch during the day.
3. How do you give back to other writers on your blog?
One of my rules or maybe guidelines I should say is this, if I have a new commenter stop by and visit, I always follow the link back to there page and say thank you. After reading for a minute or two on their site I may decide to add them to my blog roll.
I also give my blog roll a good once over every day to look for new post. If a title catches my eye or a post is particularly humorous or moving I will always make the effort to leave a positive comment. When I see one of my blogging pals is struggling and has shared a difficult or painful post I always feel prompted to leave a word of encouragement as well as an appropriate scripture. God can use all things to His glory and blogging is no exception.
I also try to link back to other bloggers as often as I can. If I have written a post that was inspired by another blogger then I will link up with that blog so the reader can follow the idea back to its source, paying it forward in cyber space, so to speak. Every little bit helps.
Blessings
Robin
Congrats, Terri! So exciting!
1) In October I'll have been blogging for two years. My, how time flies!
2) I most love sharing part of myself... and getting that same part from others in return.
3) I think what's most important of what I give back is support and encouragement. Without those between us, none of us would be where we are, you know?
I love your blog, Terri! Missed it while I was away.
I just had to come back today, after your previous (teasing) post. Happy Blogoversary, Terri!
1. How long have you been blogging?
Since September of last year...guess I should start thinking about what I am going to do for my Blog's birthday!
2. What is your favorite part about blogging?
Writing something that I know others read, and then getting comments on my blog posts. I have enjoyed making lots of new blogging friends over the last few months.
3. How do you give back to other writers on your blog?
I visit other people's websites and follow many blogs. I also try to write things (every so often) that other writers can learn from. I'm still working on that last part though! :)
Congratulations again on three years. I love your blog!
Congratulations on your three years of blogging. You truly are humble (or busy). I don't know how you could hold off so long. I'm glad you are celebrating now.
Question one - I have been blogging two months and twelve days.
Question two - My favorite part of blogging is being creative and putting ideas down I didn't realize were in me.
Question three - My way of giving back to bloggers "on my blog" is to do the best blog I possibly can and while I may not be able to offer a lot of writing advice, I love to inspire with encouragement. I also love to write back when someone leaves a message.
Congratulations on your three year anniversary of blogging! I never thought of celebrating this way. Good idea.
1. I have just past my fourth blog anniversary on June 23rd, though my blogs have morphed with my own lifestyle changes to keep current and relavent.
2. I have a difficult time choosing my favorite part of blogging since it is all so fun. I love to read other's blogs and I love to blog. I suppose my favorite part, though, is that one can be much more candid and interactive with readers through blogging than in print. Blogging gives us an opportunity to create community and thus learn from each other in a real life way.
3. I give to other writers in teh following way. Often, I will include and application question at the end of my post to allow other writers to leave comments and links to their blogs. It also gives them an opportunity to share their opinions on my blog too. I like open discussion. Even though I write about a variety of topics to please many readers, I don't want to only hear myself "talking". I also give referrals to other blogs of writers who have good things to say. Either way, blogging is a great communication tool that helps many writers and readers unite.
I also seem to need an editor on this end of the keyboard for blog comments I write. LOL.
Hey congrats on your 3rd blogiversary! That's a big feat!
1) I'm supposed to remember this? lol. I'd have to go and look it up, but I think about a year - just over? (blushing)
2) My favorite part is definitely interacting with others through the comments. I just love meeting new people!
3) I try to give back by visiting other peoples blogs and making relevant comments - admittedly I fail at doing this regularly. So little time! I also try to post things that will be helpful to other writers both now and in the future. I love the person who said they pray for their blog friends. I'm going to now try to make that a habit too for each blog I visit - what a great idea! (And why didn't I think of it earlier? :))
Anyhow, congrats again, and blessings to you and yours!
BTW, I laughed out loud at your comment about your hubby liking to eat! :) :) :)
1. In order to answer this question, I had to go back and look. Turns out I'm nearing my 3rd year anniversary! My first day of blogging was August 17, 2006.
2. My favorite part about blogging is getting to know people and making friends. I have met so many people online. It's been great fun (and a bit addictive).
3. I try to give back by focusing on writing and editing. And by visiting other blogs every day and commenting. I visit everyone who stops by my blog, plus bloggers on my blogroll, and try to fit in new people every day. I see that they've made an interesting comment on someone else's blog, so I link over and read their posts.
On a side note -- I find that once I start something, I keep going. I've only been blogging close to three years, but I've been sending out my weekly newsletter for 10. (Doesn't feel that long, though.)
Helen
Straight From Hel
Wow, Congratulations, Terri, and what a wonderful way to celebrate!
My answers:
1) Since April 2008- so under a year and half.
2) The inspiration and connection with fellow writers/readers. The comraderie and how we help each other, if only by listening and lifting prayers.
3) I lift lots of prayers, giveaway books every so often and I do visit their blogs, though, I think that's them giving to me, as I gain so much from reading posts and getting to know fellow bloggers.
Congratulations again, Terri! We should be throwing you an anniversary party!
Wow! Congrats Tiffany! Three years is an incredible committment and shows how dedicated you are to your writing career! Great job!
I've been blogging about 5 months, so not nearly as long. My favorite part about it is all of the friendships that I've formed. I just love the network of writers from whom I can learn and grow. And in the blogosphere, I hope that I can give just as much encouragement and friendship in return for all that's been given to me!
Happy Celebrating!
Three years? Awesome! :-)
1. Been blogging over a year, I think.
2. I love to "talk" to people and read about their lives/writing.
3. Hmmmm, if someone needs a beta reader I try to do that. Or if they have a question, I'll try to answer. Tricky question, Terri. LOL I'm not sure if I give back or not, but I hope I do.
Congrats on the anniversary!
I just want you to know how wonderful is your bloggy birthday. There's no doubt that in three years' time you've inspired, nurtured, challenged and grown close to a world you didn't even know existed 3 yrs & one day ago. Well done!
Kathleen
Congratulations on 3 years! That is wonderful!!
I've been blogging for about 3 years, but not diligently until about 7 months ago.
I love meeting new friends and learning more about the craft of writing. Everyone in the writing sphere is so encouraging!
I like to visit other's blogs, and I've given away some books. I plan on doing more when life settles down a bit. ;)
Your excitement is so cool! And matzel tov on your 3rd anniversary.
1. started a blog a few years ago just fiddling around when they came out but only seriously started blogging last year. Around the fall.
2. meeting some incredible people around the globe and knowing there are some amazing people on our planet.You are one of them.
3.I try to share honestly about my issues that I know others struggle with too. I check out and leave comments on people's blogs who leave comments on mine and those who email me privately, I answer and offer whatever help and support I can. I have connected with some wonderful people.
You are the best Terri! Sarah
CONGRATULATIONS on your third blogoversary, Terri!!!
1. I started Gumbo Writer in September, so a little over 9 months.
2. The thing I love most about blogging is the community of great people you become part of.
3. The way I try to give back is by sharing writerly information each week, hosting writing and poetry contests, and being willing to help out when asked.
HAPPY THIRD BLOG-DAY!
1. I have been blogging about a year and a half.
2. My favorite part about blogging is writing down the things that are important to me and sharing them with family and friends.
3. I am not sure how I give back to other writers on my blog since my specific purpose is not to help writers.
But I do love the new dimension that blogging has brought into my life!
1. I have blogged since the Fall of 2007. In reality, I started blogging to let off steam when my husband lost his job.
2. I love to meet people and share with them my life journey.
3. I try to minister to people through my writing. There are a lot of hurting people out there, and if I can bring some hope or inspiration to someone, then I can say I have been a success at touching someone's heart.
First, congrats on 3 years. I don't know if I'll make it. OK, here's the short version...
1. Blogging = 1 1/2 years.
2. Why? Relationship.
3. How do I give back to other writers? By being available to their needs and by giving them the best writing of my heart.
peace~elaine
Happy 3rd Blogging Anniversary!
1. I've been blogging a little
over one year.
2. My favorite part of blogging
is the discussion in the comment
section. It's like a 10-way
(or more) phone call with my
friends. :)
3. I support other bloggers by
reviewing their books, holding
book drawings, providing links
to other blogs, and doing my
best to encourage them.
Blessings,
Susan :)
1. How long have you been blogging? I started in march, '08
2. What do you enjoy most about blogging? sharing God's Word, learning lessons from others' blog devotions, meeting new people and sharing pictures...have really enjoyed 'around the world' sharing
3. How do you give back to other writers on your blog? prayers, having various giveaways on special days, making buttons for their sites
congratulations on your accomplishment! love all your writing encouragement, etc.
Congrats girl! Three years is a long time!
Okay, here are my answers:
1. Been blogging for 11 months!
2. I love the people I've met online and the great stuff I learn from them!
3. I try to give back to my readers by being honest, transparent, and hopefully by doing so, encouraging. I also try to give by sharing what God puts on my heart.
Hope your blogiversary (sp?) is great and maybe you'll get some good news soon??!!
Oh, one more thing on giving back...I really think it is important to share resources (i.e. great blogs and bloggers) with each other. You do a great job of sharing writer tips and resources and one of the things I want to do on my blog is to point people to other great blogs and bloggers. That's the thought behind my Generous Stranger post and blogroll.
Okay, I'm done now! :)
Wow! Congratulations, Terri. Three years is a long time in the blogosphere! During the time I've been reading I have so enjoyed your writing, encouragement and godly heart.
1. I've been blogging since Feb. '08. So that's...let's see...almost a year and a half.
2. What's my favorite part about blogging? I know I should write about how I love connecting with others, making friends and learning more about writing, which are all true. But my favorite thing about blogging is writing. Getting my thoughts together and sitting down to write them is still exciting. I love to see how God is working in and around me, and how He reveals little details that become my next story.
3. How do you give back to other writers on your blog? OK, I guess I don't have a good answer for this one. I don't write for writers specifically, so I don't single them out. In all I write, I try be encouraging, hopeful and authentic—always pointing to the Almighty, but hopefully never seeming like I have all the answers. When we connect with others along our journey of faith, it makes the path easier to travel.
Congrats again! You are a real treasure.
Congratulations Terri! Three years is definitely worthy of celebration. I really enjoy your insights and admire your commitment to writing.
I've only been blogging for 9 months now. I do it mostly for the enjoyment of putting my thoughts on paper.
I enjoy reading other people's blogs and leaving comments when I have something to say. My downfall is that I want to look at everyone on my list, which can be a bit time consuming.
I always check out new visitors blogs, and I link to other blogs once in a while.
Again, congrats my friend!
Friendship Blogs
Feb. '09 was the birth of my blog,
I was low in spirit and in need of a hug,
So I reached for my pen and closed my eyes,
Looked deep in my soul and began to write.
Thus began a friendship of sharing words,
Of giving and receiving, affirming worth.
Feb. '09 was the birth of my blog,
The day I began a journey of hugs.
Hugs,
Pat
PS. Congratulations! Wow, three years. Pretty good hanging in there on this journey. It's awesome to see and experience the growth and rewards of all our words touching each other's hearts. Wow...
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