Blogging Q&A With MommyFriend

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1. Why did you start blogging?

I started blogging because I lost an essay contest for a popular parenting magazine and it crushed me – like way more than it should have. For some reason I thought that was my one and only chance to have my writing read by anyone other than my mother. I always wanted to be a writer but I didn’t know how to get started. I was so depressed about the situation and finally my husband told me, “If you want to write, write! You don’t need permission, just start a blog!” And Mommyfriend was born.

2. What have you learned about life through blogging?

The question is what haven’t I learned from life through blogging! I learned that motherhood was individual. I read blogs every day about mothers who have made alternative choices for their families without apology. The bravery and honesty these mothers continually exhibit made me about a million times more confident as a mother. I don’t have to apologize for anything – I know what’s best for my children. My fellow mom bloggers have given me the courage to feel that way.

3. What have you been most surprised about regarding blogging?

I was surprised to learn no blog was an island. I thought all I had to do was post and people would find me – not so much. I had to get out there, make connections – get involved. I learned that real true friendships can be made with people you’ve never even met. That’s been the case for me. I’m going steady with a few bloggers now that we’ve taken our relationship to the next level and exchanged phone numbers. Simply awesome.

4. Any tips/tricks for those interested in starting their own blog?

Don’t be scared. Hit publish. Get out there! The mom blogging community is one of the most refreshing, inspiring and welcoming groups of women out there! It’s not about competition, it’s about support and love – all love.

A few general rules:

1) Keep your blog clean and uncluttered, easy navigation is a must. 2) No music. I dunno about you but I have a hard time reading blogs and listening to music at the same time (like walking and chewing gum sorta thing). 3) If you have a Twitter, for goodness sakes, do not enable Auto Direct Message your new followers, we hate that. 4) Keep fresh content flowing. Try to be consistent in your publishing schedule. 5) Build and cherish trust with your reader. Your readers are there to know you, the authentic you – the you worth knowing about.