I love writing. LOVE IT! When I ‘discovered’ blogging, it was like realizing a dream – I’d grown up wanting to be a writer but never thinking I could have a career in it. I don’t have a journalism degree and I don’t have the resume, and what I love about blogging is that it doesn’t matter. Now, having a quality blog, and being a half-way decent writer does, in fact, matter, as well as being immersed and submerged in what I call ‘blogging culture.’
It was kind of a news flash when I realized that I was not alone in the blogging world in my ‘niche,’ nor was I the best or most original writer. The one thing I can and do embrace is that I am passionate about my subject matter and blogging – and I want to become a better blogger. SEO, do follow, no follow, etc – I’m still struggling to learn all those things!
There’s an awesome retreat coming up in October – Brandcation – and unfortunately, I can’t afford to go on my own. I feel like I’m ready to take my blog to the next level by connecting with amazing bloggers face-to-face. While I might not be the biggest blog, I know I won’t just be taking things away from the weekend of fun and networking – I feel like I have something of substance to contribute. (Now, that ’substance’ might only be silly remarks and bad jokes, but hey…someone has to be the funny one!)
Blogging has allowed me to express myself in the one medium I feel most comfortable – the written word. I am not a great speaker, I am not an artist or a singer – but writing just flows from my fingertips. It was what I was meant to do – and if I never write more than ‘just a blog,’ I’ll be happy. I’ve shared my triumphs and tragedies through my blog, been open and honest and shared things that are so important to me. I’m thankful for this blog, and all the bloggers I’ve been so fortunate to connect with during this journey.
I know that all the bloggers entering this contest are amazing people and I don’t envy the judges who will be choosing the winner!
This post is my entry to win a ticket and lodging at Brandcation, and is sponsored by MomDot, Minnesota Blogger Life with Levi, and Toni from Just Stop Screaming. All opinions are my own and I was not compensated in any way for them.
Oh – the title? I sat here for 10 minutes hemming and hawing about what to title this. I can write 400 words no problem, but ask me to title it….oh man. Is there a “how to create a title without looking like a doofus” lecture I can attend?
The winners have been announced here, and I was not one of them, and that’s okay! I was so happy to even have the chance to be considered and am still thankful for the MomDot community that I’ve become a part of.
Ohh good luck! If you do go, can’t wait to hear more about it!
Also, I too hate writing the titles
Rachel, I’m so proud of you. As I’ve watched your “blogging” expand over the last year, I have seen a wonderfully, honest, open and passionate writer be born. You may have always loved to write since you were a child, but I believe the “blogging” has truly helped inspire and fire-up what was always in your heart. I have no doubts whatsoever that you are going to do wonderful. You always speak from a heart of truth and passion, and those are two things that make a good writer. As you know, I share your passion for writing. Other than the Lord, my children and grandchildren, a journal and a pen are my favorite things! (oh and a good cup of java)… I have a couple blogs, but truthfully I only use them for my daily practice writing. The one secret to becoming a good writer is to write EVERYDAY. I’ve been working on a novel for about 3 years, and only have 10 chapters… yep, its going to be awhile before it gets done. That’s ok though… I just love writing. Maybe someday someone will enjoy it enough to pay for it. Wouldn’t that be grand. Until then, I just keep putting words to paper. Rachel, you are a dear friend, and I pray that God will continue to inspire you and allow you to make a difference in peoples lives. Lord bless you, and just enjoy the journey. (p.s. you are sooo right about titles!)
Pam
Thank you so much, Pam!! I love you and am so thankful for you! Looking forward to your finished work
Rachel… since we only became Facebook Friends about 15 minutes ago… literally…, this is the very first time I’ve seen your blog. I love your post! It echoes so much of my own feelings about writing. That’s the one medium in which I am most comfortable, too. I’m not a speaker, and even though I can TALK (too much, sometimes), it’s hard for me to organize my thoughts into a concise presentation that makes a lot of sense to the hearer. But writing….. There’s lots of space for RE-writing and editing to get my points across. (Just in the past 3 sentences, I’ve probably changed my mind and reworded something about 8-10 times!) And about your title… isn’t that the truth! I need that “how to create a title without looking like a doofus” lecture, too. Let me know if you find one!
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Good luck Rachel!!!! You deserve it
You feel just like I do about writing, my blog, and Brandcation.
I feel the same about the amazing people and posts written for this once in a ifetime chance to go to TN. I do not envy the selection committee at all.
Good luck with your writing, your blog, and with the contest.
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I hope you’re able to attend!
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I agree with this.. But the title is very important too even in everything that we do.. It might be in blog, in our kind of work and we, as an individual.. Thanks for this!
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Sounds like you’re doing great and I am waiting to hear from you again in your journey of success in blogging. I agree with you that in writing Title is the hardest part and we use to think about i every now and then what would be the best title for your post.
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