I’m such a slacker. I mean seriously. I’m normally extremely type A, but lately I can’t seem to get my shit together. In my defense, I’ve had friends in town from the USA…Which means there was a lot of debauchery, laughing, eating, drinking and fun being had for two straight weeks. So, I’m really doing my best this week to get my rear end in gear, and get my life back in order.
While I was in mid-swig of my G&T a couple of weeks ago, the lovely Emily, from The Expat Mama (www.theexpatmama.com), nominated me for an award! If you haven’t read her stuff yet, you should. She’s honest, interesting, sounds like a ton of fun, and what I love most…Emily is someone I can relate to, so I think we could be pretty good friends in real life.
Anyhoo, I never get awards…except for maybe “Best Sarcastic Comment” or “The Potty Mouth” kind of awards…Geesh, what does that say about me?…well, I digress. So, I’m totally humbled by the idea of someone feeling connected to my thoughts. Because, realistically…I’m just writing what I’m thinking…whether it be good, bad, or ugly. It’s my theory.
I started blogging as an outlet for myself alone. I was feeling a little bored and lost, so I decided to do something for me. And, I still think that is a true comment. I write for me…I love the idea of people reading my theory on expat life or whatever topic pops into my head…but I still do it for me. I wish I was better at putting my thoughts to paper when ideas explode in my head, but I sometimes think it’s better if I keep some things to myself. I’m pretty sure you’d all think my Twitter feed would be hysterically funny and bad-ass.
My advice for new bloggers? Write about what peaks your interest. That’s when the words flow. You can’t force yourself to talk about something you aren’t interested in…I like to think of it as a conversation with the reader. I’m not great at writing reviews…therefore you will highly unlikely find me reviewing a hotel or a service on my blog.
The Smalls Abroad (www.lilliansmall.com) – This blog is stunning. The photos alone can tell a great story, but Lillian does a great job at telling us about expat life and offering great travel info and reviews. You must check out her South Africa posts!
Going American (www.going-american.com) – I love this blog because it’s like a little taste of home for me. Sandra is always telling her readers about things she finds, likes or dislikes…it’s a mix of experiences, product reviews and discoveries!
4 kids, 20 Suitcases and a Beagle (http://kirstyriceonline.com) – Kirsty is a well versed expat with kids born around the world. She’s full of great advice, great observation, and has a great podcast called Two Fat Expats…it’s a super fun listening experience!
Global Munchkins (www.globalmuchkins.com) – This blog is something else, and I hope it’s okay to list it here because they seem pretty big time. Amber (AKA Mama Munchkin) tells us all about her awesome travels with her 5 kids and husband. Her travel and lifestyle sight is full of great information about numerous destinations and tons of lifestyle stuff too!
Okay…so here are the guidelines for the ‘Blogger Recognition Award’…
Thank the blogger who nominated you and provide links to their blog.
Write a post to show your award.
Attach the award to your post.
Write a brief story of how your blog started.
Give a piece of advice to new bloggers.
Select 15 other blogs you want to give the award to. (Obviously I cheated, I told you I was a slacker lately…I only nominated 4!)
Comment on each blog and let them know you have nominated them.