Coke: My choice drug

Just so you know, I'm not a druggie. But recently a friend and I were contemplating how we can find time to do it all... Work, be a mom, take care of our husbands and our home. She (jokingly) said she'd have to take up cocaine to find a balance and time for it all. Lucky for me, a different kind of coke helped me discover the answer to my conundrum.

First and foremost let me say that I was invited to attend the Conversations with Coca-Cola Conference to learn about their Live Positively program. Coke hooked me up with a flight, hotel, and food. I'm not gonna lie, when I first got there, saw my hotel room, and the agenda, I had to ask myself what they wanted in exchange for all this wining and dining.

The journalist side of me thinks "UH OH!" Especially with the recent Huffington Post article snuffing at bloggers vacationing with McDonald's. But here's the thing. Bloggers aren't journalists. Bloggers openly share their opinions in their articles and journalists do not (or should not). Some bloggers' opinions can be swayed by swag and only write positive reviews, others choose to write how they REALLY feel regardless if they love it or hate it.

I, as a moonlight blogger, definitely have a fun time sharing my real opinions on random topics that I couldn't on air at my day job. So I enjoyed the trip as a blogger, with slight skepticism as a journalist, wondering when they were going to drop the bomb about what they wanted in return. But the bomb never fell.

We enjoyed a free tour of the world of Coke, where we got to taste Coke products from around the world... Some tastier than others. Among them was a European drink called Beverly which as you can tell, everyone loved.
There were also lessons on fitness and nutrition. Subway trainer Monica Vazquez game us some tips, and showed us some workouts we can do easily in our home. We had a plank-off and I won. ... NOT. But I wasn't the first one out.
Some of the most interesting lessons to me were about building our brands, and learning how Coke is making a difference in the world. Thankfully, they didn't tell me I had to blog about my experience, or tell me what to tell my friends, but I did walk away inspired after some "AH HA!" moments that I need to write down and remember.

Before going to Atlanta, my career goals were all over the map. Part of me wanted to be a stay at home mom, running some kind of business from home, another part of me was terrified at the thought of not working full-time and giving up everything I've worked towards.

When I opened my agenda the first item that caught my eye was "vision boards." I LOVE vision boards. It's kinda my thing. They can help you remain focused on a goal when you keep it visible in your home.

Funny enough, I forgot to snap a picture of mine and they're mailing it to me, so I can't share a photo right now. But it did have a couple pictures of Oprah, words like "balance" "quality time with family" and a quote about letting my daughter know she can be whatever she wants to be, and I'll do whatever it takes to help her.

Shortly thereafter we listened to a Women in the Workplace panel that was the single most motivational part of the conference for me.

In front of us sat seven successful women executives who all work for Coca-Cola, and have some sort of family of their own. From single moms, to soon-to-be-married, to being caregivers for their relatives, they each have an important personal life that comes first.

I asked each of them how they find a balance between wanting to be successful at work but also wanting to be just as successful at home and here's essentially what they said: Balance is a false goal. You can't balance everything perfectly everyday all the time. Sometimes you've gotta sacrifice a little of one for the other, but the most important thing to remember is to give your all and focus on the task at hand. When at work focus on the job, not wondering what your kid is up to, and when you're at home, leave the blackberry in your purse.

I grabbed Wendy Clark, Senior VP of Marketing Communications for Coke and, one of the panelists after the session and talked to her about one of the things she mentioned "I'm a better mom because I work, and I am better at work because I'm a mom." This resonated with me, and when I thanked her for that comment and told her about my battle with guilt she told me our kids don't know any different. Her children have never known her as a stay at home mom, or life outside of nannies and/or daycare. It's just a part of their lives. She said it's important she doesn't ever say things around her kids like "I wish I was at home" because that can make things confusing for them, and make them wonder why she does work if she doesn't have to.

A few other words that stuck with me during the Women in Leadership panel:
-Give your mentors permission to be completely honest with you.
-Stop trying to be perfect at everything and worry about what REALLY matters to your family.
-It's not a race. There are not finish lines where we're going.
-Take risks, and always feel a little uncomfortable in your job (it'll push you to get better).
-Define your own success and don't let anyone elses vision dictate your own.

So much food for thought! And so inspiring to see so many successful business women within this organization. Their "Live Positively" initiative not only does a million different things for local communities, schools, and quite frankly the planet at large (with recycling and such), it also gives employees a way to keep their families first when necessary as a part of their balanced living goals.

Right now there are about 29% of women in leadership roles in their company but they want to continue bring that number up. And they have a goal to create 5 million women entreprenurs around the world by 2020.

Between the conference and watching my favorite local news anchors in Atlanta, I came home completely pumped about my career goals.

Once again I witnessed it is possible to have a successful career and a thriving family life. It just won't be a perfect balance like I may have hoped. No need to become a coke addict. At least not the white stuff. But a trip for the Coke Conference was just the right dose of what I needed.
A big thank you for the invite, the lessons, and the chance to drink all of the coke products my heart desired. I was peeing like a race horse the whole trip... Yet I still with I had taken 10 more bottles of that Minute Maid Strawberry Passion stuff home cause it was like a slice of Heaven.

Atlanta bound

From one thing to the next I tell ya.

I'm originally from Atlanta and oh how I love it. I always wanted to go back there and work someday. My family still lives there as does my best friend. So imagine my surprise when my inbox lit up with a message from Coca-Cola inviting me to their Conversations with Coca-Cola blogging conference.

They hand-selected about 22 of us to bring out to their headquarters, meet each other, show us around the World of Coke, learn more about their live positively philosophy and how to better build my own brand.

Naturally, I accepted, then told my mom I was coming for a visit and bringing her grand baby. 

One of our flights in 2010

My mom actually used to work for Coca-Cola (on a totally different, technology side of things) so we've been fans a long time (we never really liked the other stuff).

Since I'm off on Mondays and Tuesdays, I asked if I could shift my flight a bit and arrive a couple days before the conference to spend time with my family and they obliged! We're flying in tonight, just in time for Mother's Day!

My younger sister Heather will be driving up from Alabama to visit too. She just found out she's having a little girl, so I'm excited to rub her belly and get Lil' J to talk to her cookin' cousin. My other two sisters may or may not get to skip school for an educational trip to the Georgia Aquarium or Zoo Atlanta Monday. My youngest sister, Kimmie is SO excited to see her niece. Last time they were together they did a lot of this.

Then Tuesday my best friend and I want to get our kids together before I head downtown for the conference starting Wednesday Morning.

The conference should be packed with information and great networking opportunities, I can't wait. Friday it'll be back to work, but at least I'll be refreshed and invigorated with the go-getter attitude. At least that's my hope. This opportunity worked out great because I hadn't decided on a blogging conference to attend, and I like to go to one a year. Last year EVO was amazing, and the two years prior BlogHer was fun too. It should be interesting to see how this one is since it's much smaller and more personal than the others.

Getting there should be another story all together. I'm pretty sure I've gone on more trips in the last two years than I did the rest of my life combined and I've brought Lil' J on all but one. Luckily this time I have my iPad, packed with games she normally has limited play time for, and I'm going to buy a couple episodes of Sesame Street and Yo Gabba Gabba. That will surely get us through the trip there and back right? (I pray).

So if I'm not around the next couple of days it's cause I'm taking a hometown hiatus. Having fun with family and making an attempt at building my brand. Then when I get back it'll be about time to start cookin' the next Spawnie. So much excitement packed in a week. I may implode from the thrill.


Big thanks to Coca-Cola for making my flight, hotel and conference experience possible!

Taking a dump

Yesterday evening I randomly started a Tumblr blog. So now I'm officially on every social media site known to man. Don't ask me why I started it.

Well, ok, you can ask me...

I know I already have too many blogs. Well, this one and my one on BabyCenter, and other ones I occasionally contribute to... But on all of those blogs, including this one, I rarely feel comfortable taking a brain dump and pushing my random and sometimes strange or disturbing thoughts out there. I should though. I mean here at least. Actually, I sorta feel like I'm cheating on this blog, starting that one. I tumbled (is that the term for that blog?) twice this afternoon trying to figure out if it was working and just laying random thoughts out on the page when I had a few moments to post from my phone.

Posts are too long for a tweet but not long enough for a dedicated blog post here. Plus no cute photos and that's what you're are really here for aren't you? Admit it!

Anyway, so I think that may be my new spot for brain dumping. I don't expect you to read both sites. In fact stay here, it's better, that one may be pretty lame. Although I've turned this post into a big turd itself, it somehow doesn't feel quite as lame as the ones I'm letting out over there and I'd hate for my boring crap for scare yall nice folk away.

Here's how it's 'bout to go down on my blog

My blog has been through so much over the past three years.

End of 2008-2009 Was a blast going on and on back and forth about becoming a mom, then finally getting pregnant about a year after starting my blog.

2010 Was full of pregnancy documentation, promotions, and exploring the world of reviews and giveaways. Toward the end of 2010 I realized that wasn't for me and pretty much went in the opposite direction in 2011 avoiding most at all costs.

Toward the end I think I found a happy medium, and I hope to continue that.

I sorta felt like I fell into a mid-blogging-life crisis for a little while. I didn't want my blog to ONLY be about my daughter, in fact I wanted it to be about ME and my experiences raising her. Not "she did this and she did that..." I also didn't want to be a blogger who writes sponsored posts all the time. I like to craft but I'm not a "craft blogger" and I'll never be a go-to site for the coolest crafts. Maybe cool crafts for dummies because my skill level is as such.

I like photography, and taking photos but I'm learning as I go. I'm no Pioneer Woman.

I actually don't really focus on anything. Which some blogging coaches would say is not good if you want to "grow your blog."

This made me take a step back and ask myself once again, why I'm blogging.

It sure as heck isn't to make money. Not on this here blog. That should take some pressure off, right?

I love keeping a journal and I'm going to be totally honest right now... I love knowing that people are actually reading it. People actually think my life is interesting/ crazy/ entertaining/a bad reality show they can't turn off. Either way, it's flattering.

Ok there I said it.

So now that I got that off my chest, I'm trying to find a balance between keeping fabulous people who like to read my blog, but not CARING if nobody is reading my blog. Let me explain...

I don't really pay attention to my blog stats anymore. I get a weekly email with how many people visited but other than glancing that over I don't pay attention to the analytics. I DO however, read each and ever comment and email I get and I get all happy and sappy when I get a big response to a post. The problem is the opposite is true when I get little to no response. I'm like "wait, where did everyone go?... They must hate me... Ok I shouldn't write about that anymore."

So one person may say that my no-sew tshirt dress tutorial helped them SO MUCH, but in my head I'm like "huh, one comment, people must think that's boring."

Then someone may email or facebook me saying they loved it, and I get excited again for them. It's an emotional roller coaster.

Ok, its not that bad. It's silly, but some of that it goes through my head. Especially cause I'm a hypocrite. Yea, I'll admit it. I don't comment on blogs I read as much as I should either. Actually last year was so busy it was an all-time low for visiting other blogs and commenting back.

Ok, I'm going on way too long about this. Anyway, point is, I may have thought up a solution to my problem.

If I'm going to be honest with myself, I'm not writing this blog JUST for myself. It's for myself, my daughter, my family, my friends, and all of the people who have written to me and said my experiences and words have helped them in some way. If more people discover my little corner of the Internet, its awesome. But I can't stress about it. This aint a job. In fact, it's more like free therapy.

SO... To find the balance between caring and not caring and going back to my frequent stream-consciousnesses posts I'm going to write as if I'm writing this blog for myself and my best friend.

Funny thing is, I don't think my best friend reads my blog.

You know who else doesn't read my blog? ... Aside from my husband. (He doesn't read it either (but he's not allowed to)). My mom. Jeez, now that I think about it no one reads my blog. Except you. Therefore you will be like the BFF I'm writing to from now on. I can be silly, share my secrets (but not the ones that could get me fired or divorced) introduce you to cool things I find, teach you how I made something new, tell you how much I love being a mom, and ask you what you think of my new outfit, or the photo I took this morning.

And I won't be sad if you don't respond right away because hey, we are busy people. And life gets in the way. I can totally relate. Even if you don't talk for a while, you know your BFF is still there whenever you need them, and you can pick back up right where you left off.

Another thing... Going through my blog rolls and old posts I noticed an extremely different crowd. It's like a class of Baby Making Machine readers graduated and I'm yapping to a new group of kids.

I feel bad having a blog roll when I can't add everyone. Especially when I'd most like to visit those who visit me and see what yall are all about because if you like me that means I'd probably like you too.

To solve this problem I got rid of my blog rolls on the sidebar and my friends link at the top. Now I can focus on getting to know visitors who want to be visited and make new blog friends. How will I know who you are, you ask? With my handy dandy stalker tracker of course. It'll email me your address and I can come visit your house and bring you cookies!

KIDDING OF COURSE!

My comments section will be like my daily blog roll. If you leave your link in your comment, or if it's attached to your name and you've updated within a month, I'll assume you don't mind me paying you a visit back. I've already been doing this since the start of the year and it's SO NICE visiting you back!

So there you have it! My blogging resolution to write as if this is for me and my BFF in a nutshell.

So, you want to get sponsored to a blog conference huh?

I get quite a few questions from time to time asking about blog conferences and how I was sponsored. I've never taken the time to answer this question very well, so I wanted to take some time to do this today. I may have gone a little overboard with the photos of my Lil' J as a teeny tiny thing. I also may have cried while uploading them. *Sniffle* She's 1 tomorrow.

Anyway, first off, I should tell you what a blogging conference is... For those of you who don't know, it's a place to network with others involved in social media, spread the word about your own company or blog, learn how to get better, and network network network.

Lil' J and I at Blogher 2010

Before starting my blog I had been to several journalism conferences, one of which got me the job I have today, and many other opportunities. I've always loved to network and it's been no different with social media.

Lil' J repping Piggies and Paws

I've been to Blogher twice, once in 2009 with the Blogrollers, (and I used advertising money from my blog to pay for my flight), and once in 2010, sponsored by Piggies and Paws. Next week I'm also going to EVO 2011 with a Piggies and Paws team (including owner, Jennifer Thomas, Kadi Prescott, Gena Morris, and a few Piggies and Paws artists), and I'm beyond thrilled. I wasn't sure if I wanted to go to a blog conference again this year but I've heard nothing but good things about EVO, many people touting it as the best blogging conference.

As I mentioned, I'm going to be representing Piggies and Paws again, (and so is Lil' J). I'm so excited and blessed to be going with a company I love. And that's the thing. If you're looking to represent a company at a conference it's got to be something you love. I don't recommend just writing cold emails to companies you've never mentioned, worked with or communicated with before just because you want a free trip. Quite honestly, I find that as tacky. But I'm not an expert. So I thought I'd let my sponsor answer questions about what she looks for in a blogger to represent her brand at a conference. This also applies to giveaway sponsorship for those of you who are interested in doing blog reviews or giveaways. 

Emily from Baby Dicky and I at Blogher 2010

Just so you know more about my sponsor, I'll give you a little background. A big thanks to Jennifer for helping me out with this!

Jennifer Thomas is the CEO/Founder of Piggies and Paws, Inc, a unique company providing exquisite artwork created out of your loved one's hand and foot prints. Her company is made up of nearly 250 artists who are hired and trained to run their own Piggies and Paws businesses selling and recreating her 500 copyrighted art designs. She has been running, maintaining, and growing her company for ten years while raising her three children in Southern California.

Jenn and Lil' J

What do you look for in a blog you'd like to work with for a review/giveaway?

Well, I'm definitely not a stat reader. They seem to be somewhat harsh and inconsistent, so I prefer to take a more personal approach. It's important for me to be “hand's on,” head's on” and “heart's on” in all my business collaborations. I enjoy reading blogs, so when I'm browsing, I'm looking for recommendations on products I would love and most likely, those I stumble upon are a great fit for Piggies and Paws as well. I'm immediately attracted to genuine engagers and sincere writers. Because I am the heart and voice behind our unique brand, if it appeals to me personally, it will also appeal to me professionally.

What are qualities you look for in a blogger you'd like to sponsor to an event?

We love to sponsor, mainly because I'm a big believer in investing into other's gifts and dreams. In a person, I look for authenticity, compassion, and personal integrity. In their professionalism, I look for compatibility with all types of people, heart for our product and their knowledge of our company's product/philosophies/purpose.

As a company, how do you find working with bloggers helps your business?

If bloggers and brands start with genuine relationship building and effective communication, working together can be a huge benefit for all involved. The quality of your preparation determines the quality of your outcomes. We want to have ongoing relationships with the bloggers we work with, so we can learn more about meeting each others needs. It's still such a new concept, so it's great to learn and grow together. The outcomes we have seen have done wonders for Piggies and Paws in terms of getting our name and heart out there. It's created brand loyalty and trust with our consumers in immeasurable ways. We also offer quality business coaching to our artists and make the same resources available to the bloggers who work with us on a continual basis. Supporting other women in this way helps our whole company define and live out our greater purpose, while helping us build character and unity within our entire team. The benefits are endless.

I know you receive numerous requests for collaboration, what is a good way for bloggers to do this? What things turn you away from the inquiry?

This is a question I get asked a lot. My greatest advice to enhance any pitch is to one, know who you are, what's important to you and what products really align with those beliefs. Stick to your guns. It doesn't matter how great an opportunity looks, never even consider pitching or representing a company that falls outside these lines. The pitch, the representation and the outcome will be detrimental for everyone. Next, check your intentions. No matter how professional a person sounds or how impressive their stats are, underlying intentions, (good/bad/undefined) are always apparent. Know why you want the opportunity and what goals you plan to reach for yourself and the company you're representing. The underlying message in a pitch is always either the deal sealer or breaker for me. So, to help reflect your honor, sincerity and to insure a pitch is well received, I always suggest pitching for the right reasons. Here are several tips to help define your intentions and ensure your pitch is accepted. When pitching a brand for sponsorship, do it because you...

LOVE IT!

Do it because you love their product, not just because you love the conference.
OWN IT!

Do it because you love their product so much you'd pay for it, not just because you want product for free.
KNOW IT!

Do it because you KNOW and agree with the vision of the company, not just because you KNOW they sponsor bloggers.
HONOR IT!

Do it because you truly desire to use the opportunity to enhance your credibility and professionalism, not just because you can't bear to miss the party.
ROCK IT!

Do it because, (before, during and after the conference), you're committed to being nothing less than a perfect example of the blogger every brand needs to see. One who has a plan to create, a determination to achieve and a desire to provide proof of the powerful outcomes resulting from this much needed collaboration. Nothing gains respect, honor and repeat opportunities quicker than blowing people's socks off!

Many of my readers are small business owners. You as a business owner understand the power of social media. How do you suggest other businesses get into this and why?

Any venture in business is about taking risks and overcoming fear. Social Media is uncharted territory for many businesses, large and small. It's scary, but it can not be avoided. It is where the future of all communication is going and if we want our businesses to thrive we have to go where our consumers are flocking. People are using TV, newspapers, magazines and radio less and less to get information. They are hitting the Internet. If we are not educating ourselves as business owners and overcoming our fears to dive in, how will anyone know about our unique products and services? Start learning. Start trying. Start connecting.

Is there anything else I didn't ask you that you would like to add?
I just want to thank you for this opportunity and for introducing me to your amazing readers. You are a gifted writer, a loving wife & mama and a loyal friend. Since the day we were introduced, there has never been a time you have not gone above and beyond for me. What started out as business, quickly became a treasured friendship and I am more grateful than you'll ever know. You are top of the line, through and through and there is nothing I wouldn't ever do for you. Thank you for being such a great example for all of us to follow.







***
I hope that's helpful to some of you!

You can find your local licensed artists in various cities and states, nationwide by going to http://www.piggiesandpaws.com/. There are a limited amount of samples on the site due to copyrights, but if you'd like to see more, check out their videos at www.facebook.com/PiggiesAndPaws. You can also follow Jennifer on Twitter: @PiggiesAndPaws

New look

Like my new digs? The new and improved Design Girl, aka Danielle Moss Graphic Design & Photography freshened it up for me. Figures the one time I dress my daughter in a plain onesie ends up being the one I love and using as my header. Something about her sweet innocence and genuine smile gets me though.

If you're looking to freshen up your blog you can get $10 off your deposit for a new design from her. Just tell her I sent you! Everyone who comments on this post before next Tuesday the 5th will be entered to win a free pre-made design of your choice. Leave a second comment with which pre-made you'd choose, or if you are/become a follower of her blog for an extra entry. You can also check out her cute personal blog while you're at it! Good luck!

Fashionista Fail: Why I'm Not a Fashion Blogger

As I scroll through my reader and blogrolls of friends and friends of friends, I can't help but notice an influx of fashion and style blogs. I also can't help but notice my self esteem level plummeting by the time I finish scrolling through the photos of perfectly placed home decor, style combinations I can't afford, beautiful actresses and models--Oh, wait--You mean that was YOU? The person writing the blog modeling that gorgeous pair of boots? Ok well I hate you for being so cute.

No, I don't really hate you. I actually want to thank you for making me take a look at myself and realize I could use a makeover.

Now I don't have time to get my nails done and I don't have money to get a new wardrobe, but I do have a closet full of outfits ranging from middle school to now.

My current problem with dressing is I just grab whatever will be easy to take off. I'm nursing my daughter half the day so I don't want to wear my button down blouses, or anything too tight. Today I threw on a black t-shirt, non-matching yellow jacket thing (non matching cause there's a brown button, I think it should be black), jeans, loafer shoes and Christmas socks.

I didn't brush my hair or put on makeup. I actually look like I'm rocking borderline dreads, and if you zoom in you'll see my awesome heart-stamped socks.

I had my husband snap a couple photos of me to demonstrate. I did my best to pose like a real fashion blogger would.

Next, I dug in my closet and put on some things I never wear.

Thing #1: Heels. At 5 11" I HATE heels. You know how some people just don't know how to walk in heels? They walk forward on their feet like they're sneaking around... That's me. And when I get too cocky about standing straight I usually stumble. I put on a pair of boots and practiced strutting my stuff around the yard.

Thing #2: A belt as an accessory. Normally I wear belts to keep my pants up, not as a fashion statement. But I've had this one for over three years and had yet to wear it so I tried it on. I'm not sure I tied it right but it looked ok to me.

Thing #3: A necklace. I don't wear jewelry besides my rings. I buy cheap jewelry to wear for work but cheap jewelry makes me itch so I usually leave it in my desk drawer and put it on right before I go on air. I had this plastic-pearl necklace on my dresser so I threw it on. I also took one of Lil' J's headbands and wore it as a bracelet to match my belt, and put a pink flower in my hair. I still didn't brush it but I pinned it up a little to make it look like it was purposely messy.

I grabbed a pink purse and umbrella even thought it was sunny because they are pink and I don't know how else to spice up an outfit after two colors so here we go. And where was my daughter during this impromptu photoshoot? See for yourself.

She was actually sitting aside gawking and laughing at me. Probably because she knows she can do so much better. And I automatically look 10Xs better too when I'm with her. Maybe it's because my daughter is sucking the style out of me and using it for herself. She wouldn't be caught dead in a plain onesie. At least not without a matching hair bow, diaper and Trumpette socks. Me on the other hand--I'm lucky if my socks match.

Anyway, getting all dressed up to take pictures got me all inspired to shop. I can see now why these fashion bloggers go round and round with their shopping and sharing and shopping and sharing. I was feeling like a fashionista, and so ready to buy a new pair of knee-high boots on Amazon but in the midst of browsing these yoga pants caught my eye and stole me away.

So I'm back here blogging in my t-shirt and comfy basketball shorts, which is much more conducive for hanging out with my slobbery, poopy (when she's not constipated) baby. I suppose now is just not the season for me to be stylish.

We'll have to check back in a year from now. In the mean time, if any of you see me getting way out of hand, tell me. I hate to end up having hidden cameras around my house and a surprise visit from What Not to Wear.

What would you do for more blog followers?

Pay cash money? That's what about 300 bloggers are doing and it made me think about this whole blogging, follower, money making phenomenon. As my girl @whodemis on Twitter says "I can't knock the hustle" and I have to agree because let me admit... This idea was GENIUS.

1. Create an email account connected to business name for advertising.

2. Create a linky for bloggers who want more followers. Make the requirement $10 to be entered on to the linky (it's a business write off).

3. Use money from the first 100 links to set up a raffle, instruct visitors to follow the blogs then comment for each follow to be entered to win $1000.

Initially when I saw it I thought the $10 tax write off was because the money was going to charity. Sweet right? Not exactly. The host, and advertiser for the blogs on the linky pockets the proceeds. Really it's a win win win. She gets to make $2K... or whatever else over the initial $1000, which she's already done. Blogs who want more followers get them, and one lucky follower gets $1000.

Now I could go on a rant about how we need more engineers in this country, people who study, develop new inventions, businesses, and jobs for more people---That "get rich quick" schemes like this are ultimately showing we as a people falling short of the big picture, but I won't go into that. Instead, what I want to focus on is this idea of blog followers.

Why do we have them? Well, Cindy hit the nail on the head with her post about the blogging bubble. When I begged my friends to be my first 7, 100, I'll admit, the number big and bright to the right had me gloating. It was my stamp of "coolness" if you will. A way to obviously show people read me and say "I'm kind of a big deal." No but really, it felt good to know people were reading me. And there's nothing wrong with that. Until it turns into an obsession.

I did some giveaways just for my followers, to gain more followers, and in turn used that number to get better giveaways and even more followers. I know it sounds dirty, I'm just being honest.

Sometime over the last year this craze with that number BLEW UP! I mean, huge in the blogosphere! There were linkies like "Follow me Friday" "More Followers Monday" "Pretty Please Follow Me Wednesday" (ok I made the last one up). And I'll admit, I tried a couple but then realized there was no way I'd be able to read all of these new blogs in my reader, and I felt a bit... Dare I say... desperate. Sure, I'd find a couple gems in the bunch but really? Comeon, let's me honest, we all just wanted to boost our stats. Even if that number has become so diluted, and really null and void at this point because everyone now has a few a hundred dozen fake followers.

But then I would write a post like this one, and gain two dozen followers in a day or two. Seeing the number rising corresponding with a post I wrote from the heart meant so much more to me than a random follower who when you click on their name, it takes you to a profile with nothing more than an email address to contact them if they won, and a list of a thousand other blogs they followed for the giveaways--aka a giveaway hoarder.

So this year I made a resolution to tone it down with the reviews. Mostly accept mom-owned products to make things more personal, and force me to be less commercial. Following was optional to enter giveaways but still a common entry for many people.

But somewhere between doing my own giveaways for followers, dogging this small sortof pyramid scheme on twitter, and then getting called a hypocrite (hey, I can admit it, it's hypocritical) I was forced to ask myself: Why does that number to the right matter? My blog isn't my job. I don't need stats to make money or provide for my family. it's a place for me to release, vent, and rant about things like this. So why does it matter?

If a company is interested in working with me, do I want them to contact me because of a number they see when they visit my blog, or write to me because of the content the read? My guess is before, some were just looking at the number. Which may be one reason I recently got an email from a PR rep which started "Hi Amanda..." when my name is actually not Amanda.

So, now realizing that that number was good for nothing, other that to occasionally stroke my ego as it would go up, or make me feel bad when I noticed it go down, or possibly make others feel bad if theirs wasn't as high, I've decided to escape the circus and simply remove it indefinitely. At least until I regain my reigns.

If people still follow blogs and read them in their reader the old fashioned way (or is it the new-aged way?) they can subscribe my blog via reader by clicking the reader button under my "about" section, or just get my email subscription or just do the for realz old fashioned way and use my RSS feed subscription thingy.

I have to admit, this takes a slight leap of faith. My blog has brought me tremendous opportunities. I've fallen into writing gigs, side jobs, and even recently was contacted by a network news station about my love letters. I don't know if that was because of that number to the right, or because of me.

Going forward, I guess I will.

*Update* It's come to my attention that 1. That blog taking money for the raffle has disappeared, which may very well have confirm my suspicions of a scam. And 2. I have many readers who read my blog who found me through a giveaway but stayed for my content... Who knew? Thanks all yall, really, thank you everyone who reads. Sorry for my rant on this subject, I just was getting annoyed of being thrown into the same pot as many bloggers who only do giveaways. There's nothing wrong with that, but that's not what I want to be known for, or as.

A New Year A New Me

Every year I make a list of goals I have for the year. Cook more, eat less crap, exercise. It's the same routine. I'm still doing that, with hopes of following through fr once. But this year, here online, I thought I'd make a personal blog resolution: To keep it real.

More Photographs.

More interaction.

Less comparing myself and my blog to others.

More honesty.

Less big company reviews.

More supporting mom-owned shops.

Less arguing.

More passion.

More returning the comment love.

More giving back to charities (like we did for March of Dimes).

There are blogs I LOVE to read. And every time I visit them I leave smiling and refreshed that there are still bloggers like this and this (and there are so many more but these are a couple of my many favorites).

When I go through my reader I see posts full of reviews, giveaways, pleas for more subscribers, and advertisements. I got swept up in this movement this year. It began to consume me. Not in 2011.

Now, if a giveaway is included in a post it's at the bottom, in italics, and more discreet. If you leave a comment, you're entered. No hoops to jump through, there aren't a million ways to enter (because some people have all day to enter every way possible but most people don't) if you just comment on the post you can win, and there's maybe one way you can get an extra entry.

I was brought down by a handful of people on twitter, surrounding births of friends, my birth, decisions I was making regarding it, and how I've chosen to raise my child. I've found blogging about thinking about becoming a mom is much less controversial than decisions that come along with becoming a mother.  I let it get to me, but I won't in 2011.

I can't sensor and alter every line I type for fear someone will misread it the wrong way and think I'm talking about them. I can't write in fear of offending. Or worry a joke toward myself will be taken the wrong way. I'd never intentionally hurt someone, but I can't waste precious time trying to correct every single misunderstanding.

I won't sugarcoat things. Actually, I think I'm good at not pretending like my life is perfect. That would be hard to fake.

I'm coming back next year. Stronger. Happier. Unafraid.

I'm gonna do me.

Happy New Year.

13 Tips for New Bloggers

Two years ago today I started this blog, not sure when I would be ready to have a baby. Now, I'm constantly hitting the "delete" key as my 5 month old daughter smashes the keys while she sits in my lap.

Last night I realized today marks two years of having this blog so I'm skipping a week of posting What I'm Makin' Monday.

I get emails almost on a weekly basis asking tips for having a "successful blog." While this is very flattering, I never know what to say because when I started this blog, I didn't set out for this to be where is is today.

I decided to sit down and think about what I've done and how after two years, I've ended up here. 

1. Do You
Be yourself.
Don't try to be like someone else.
Just write like you talk--Or how you think.

2. Make Friends
Interact with those who have blogs similar to yours.
Twitter and TheSitsGirls are good resources for that!
Visit their blogs, say "hi"
Thank your readers regularly.

Thank you!

3. Update Regularly
Be a little predictable.
Not in your writing, but in how often you post.
You don't have to post every day, but try to keep it regular.
Whether it's once a day, week, or once a month.
Keep it consistent so people know when to come back

4. Spell Check and Edit
Don't freak out about it. Just try.
It helps a lot, and shows you care.
But don't get offended if you miss something and someone points it out to you.
It's better than people secretly snickering. Thank them profusely and fix it.

(This has gotten infinitely more difficult for me since having my daughter, so some days it's worth it to write my post one day, then post the next after I have a day to edit it. I've accidentally posted too early before and it bothers me having typos, so I'm thankful for my friends who point them out for me to fix.)

5. Find Your Niche
What sets your blog apart from others?
Focus on that.
But don't be afraid to mix it up from time to time.
You never know if a new topic will spark a new focus.

6. Ask Yourself "Why am I Blogging?"
Are you blogging to have fun?
For family?
To get free stuff?
To one day write a book?
To try to make an extra income?
In hopes of quitting your day job?

Figure you why you're doing it and remember that's why you're doing it. If you forget why you started in the first place, it can make it hard to stay motivated.

Also, know this can evolve over time. This started as a diary where I could creatively express myself and has turned into more involving some reviews, and some researched-based posts. When I start doing too much of those things though I get bored with myself and miss my "diary days."

About "Sponsorships"
I get a lot of questions about getting sponsored for things, sponsors on your blog, or sponsors for giveaways, reviews, etc. This is something that's evolved a lot since my blog began. When I was getting ready to TTC, I would seek out sponsors to review their fertility products, and do giveaways on my blog etc. But by the time I was pregnant, I didn't need to write to companies, as I had formed my niche and people wrote to me, asking to be sponsors for different pregnancy products etc. Now, I have to decline most review requests, but I still accept giveaway request because I like to give back to my readers. So here's some tips:

7. Find Your Niche
Sound familiar? What's your blog about? What kind of things do you want to sponsor you?
If you're a mom with kids in elementary school, and would like to review learning materials, it makes sense.
But if you're a mom who blogs about fashion and reviews baby products, it doesn't make sense.
Well, unless you're reviewing baby fashion products. Get it?

8. Don't Feel Like You Have to Say Yes to Everything
If your purpose is to review anything and everything on an all encompassing "review blog" still, don't feel like you have to accept everything. I was once offered to do a review/giveaway of my choice of sex toy. While--considering the title of my blog--I could have twisted it fit in with "baby making," that's not something I write about, nor would I feel comfortable reviewing. So I respectfully declined.

I also don't write about cooking or cleaning products because I don't really do that stuff. But I will soon, so maybe one day I will.

9. Reach Out
The name of the game in LIFE is connections. Reach out and get connected with people who are doing what you want to do. I'm a strong believer in having a "mentor"--No, several! With anything you want to get better at. Find someone you look up to and reach out to them. Don't be offended if they don't respond, it's not personal, you know how busy life can get!

There are forums for moms who like to review things. I'm not familiar with many but I know MomDot has one, and Mom Bloggers Club.

10. Start Small
When you're ready to start doing reviews, don't go for the big fish right off the bat. Start small. You can contact companies about a review, but don't expect to always get a yes. Companies will look at your blog, your following, and want to know your statistics. But once you get some reviews under your belt, you can move up to "bigger things."

You can also start by reviewing products you already have at home. If you're wanting to get into electronic reviews, review your home TV, your universal remote, your new MP3 player, your Blue Ray, you get the idea.

11. Don't Wait to be Contacted
If you really want to review that new children's book on your blog there are a few things you can do. 1. Of course buy it and write about it. Or 2. Contact them and tell them about who you are, your blog, and why it would be beneficial for them to send you a copy to review and how doing a giveaway also would build even more excitement for it.

12. When it Comes to Advertising...
~Only work with those you can truly stand behind. It's not a good idea to accept a formula ad if you're anti-formula.
~Be realistic in what you charge.
~Don't expect to get rich. When people assume I'm making lots of money from this blog I chuckle. Ad space and reviews aren't where the money is. I have a full time job and that's how I pay my bills. I'm not saying it can't be done, I'm just saying most people aren't making a living off of their personal blogs.

And finally...

13. When You Gain Momentum and Clout
~Know that people will be mean. There's a sweet blogger I read who has over 8000 followers. People get jealous and stoop to low levels to try to bash her. Calling her names and making fun of her daughter. She writes things just about any other mom would blog about, but when you are very visible it's easier for people to try to shoot you down. If they hated your writing/photos/opinions so much they wouldn't be reading, much less taking the time to tell you about it.

Keep doing you and ignore the madness. Well, unless you're Heather Armstrong aka Dooce, and decide to start Monetize the Hate--a whole separate site filled with ads alongside the hate mail she gets.

Remember, for every 1 hater you have 755Xs more people who love you (hypothetically speaking).

See #1!

Happy Blogging!

Ask Me Anything!

I haven't done one of these posts in awhile and lately I've been getting quite a few emails with questions for me and I try my best to reply to them all but it's really hard! So I'm going to make an FAQ page and add the questions I get most.

It's okay if you don't have a common question, or want to ask anonymously. I'll answer all of them sometime next week in another post, and put any duplicates or ones I've gotten emails about on my FAQ page.

Thanks and Happy Saturday!

Linky List

Are you a Linky Loser? Well I am! My last meme with a linky got like 2 links. My hypothesis is that there are SO MANY memes that people just don't know where to go to find them, and maybe you could participate in many on the same day if only you knew where to link up! So I'm making a list right here right now so we can know when the parties are coming up and so we won't forget to participate! I'm also going to add a link to this list on my sidebar so it's easily accessible.*update* it's added to the right!

Have one? Leave a comment letting me know the same of your blog, the meme, and what day you post it so I can add it to the new A-list, and participate myself!


Monday
What I'm Making Monday


Tuesday
Mom Tip Tuesdays


Wednesday
Discussion Wednesday
Wordful Wednesday
Wednesday Confessions

{Wordless Wednesdays}
Country Girl, City Life
Read. Run. Create. Balance.

Thursday
Giveaway Corral

Friday
Favorite Friday

Saturday


Sunday

A Year, 10 Months and 2 Weeks Ago...

I wrote this:

'My brothers and sisters, there is no tomorrow to remember if we don’t do something today.' That's what President Monson (Leader of the LDS church) said during General Conference in October.

There are lots of things I've told myself I'll do later... Study, clean the house, do the laundry for once. More specifically, there are things I've said I'll do once we have kids or before I get pregnant...Learn how to cook, exercise, eat better.

A blog may have not been what he had in mind, but an idea for a blog came to my mind after hearing that talk. I'm going to use that statement as a guide, and I'm going to document a specific journey here.

If you couldn't tell, this blog is about baby making... Sort of. Ok, not really. I'm not sure when I'm going to start having children (spawn, I like to call them sometimes). The date I have in mind fluctuates.

If you know me, you know I'm a planner. I like to plan trips, special occasions, career moves, everything. I like to set goals and deadlines. I wouldn't call myself a control freak, especially not when it comes to little day to day things. But when it comes to planning my life, I can be (but hey, is it really a bad thing?).

In the talk I quoted earlier President Monson quotes a line from The Music Man saying “You pile up enough tomorrows, and you’ll find you’ve collected a lot of empty yesterdays.”

Well folks, I don't want empty yesterdays. I dedicate this blog to my questions, my explorations, my journey through pregnancy preparations. I'm deeply intrigued by pregnancy, labor, infants, and children. When I have a close friend experiencing these things I'll often ask them a million questions about their experiences. It may be a while before I document any of my personal pregnancy experiences so for now I'll write about my planning, my practicing, my thoughts, and ask you for tips along the way.

So join in, please, feel free to add your own opinions or advice. I'm open to discussions, or any other idea you may have. Most of all, I hope you enjoy reading about my journey!

And now, I have this:

Oh how so much has changed!

I re-posted this as a part of The Sits Girls "Back to Blogging" event.

That was fun!

Life Makeover

I can't believe how different my life--my world is from just 7 weeks (and one day) ago. I didn't believe everyone when they told me how different things would be, and every day I'm becoming more and more of a hypocrite doing things I never thought I'd do. Motherhood is truly giving me a makeover. I'll be going into my motherhood confessions soon enough, and I've even added a section for them so watch out!

To go along with my life makeover, I had a blog makeover. What do you think? My friend and designer Danielle aka The Design Girl did it. And as usual, did a fabulous job! I wanted to go back to my "blogging roots" focusing on writing (less giveaway and sponsor flair), plus add more space for photos since I'm trying to develop photography skills.


To do this I thought I wanted a more basic look, but we were also able to remove the cartoon and add a personal touch up top with a silhouette photo of me and my daughter taken by my friend Becca from Grand Felicity Photography.

I also have added comment moderation for now because the spam comments are THROUGH THE ROOF!


So, what do you think?

I know a few of my friends have asked me about who designs my site, so if you're looking for someone who can take your vision and make it a reality check The Design Girl out!

Also, she does scrapbook kits, incase you're into digital scrapbooking, and she's having a sale this week for her design-iversary.

She is also offering my readers $10 off any blog design you order from her, just tell her I sent you!
I hope you like the new look as much as I do and will join me in my new quest.--My journey THROUGH motherhood.


And notice my new signature...

Breastfeeding in First Class the Night Before BlogHer

Have you ever ridden first class? I hadn't either until my trip to New York City for Blogher 2010. It was luck, and I like to think a little fate that got my seat on that flight. My sponsor--Piggies and Paws was in the process of buying my last minute ticket when I found out I had won a Twitter contest for a round trip flight Gummylump was having.

I'd only seen glimpses of what first class was like while watching an episode of Jerry Seinfield. And a scene in Jerry Maguire. In both the flight attendants would close a thin blue curtain separating the elite from the coach class. I was about to get a taste of the elite.

It didn't cross my mind that the people who actually paid an extra chunk of cash to be up front in soft cushy seats may be unhappy to see me and my baby--Mostly my baby. A dear friend and commenter on my blog put that thought in my mind a few days before takeoff. But my daughter had been on two flights before already and done wonderfully. Hopefully this trip would be no different.

It felt as though the red carpet had been rolled out for us. Not only because I had a small infant, but because I had a golden ticket--Literally. So we got to board the plane first. Well, actually second. The person with the seat next to mine managed to board before me, or maybe he was already on the plane from the flight before as he had already managed to get himself settled and even take his shoes off.
This confused me for a moment. I wasn't sure if first class means you get slippers or something too or if he was just making himself extra comfortable. Since he didn't mind taking his shoes off hopefully he wouldn't mind me pulling my shirt down to feed my baby--Shoot. I hadn't thought about that. I had nursed in public before but never directly next to a complete stranger in a small confined space. I mean sure, the seats were more spacious than coach but not far enough for him not to notice what I was doing.

I got settled in my seat and looked him up and down as I thought about my options. He was dressed in business attire from head to toe--minus the shoes. He also had headphones in. Great. Maybe that would distract him. My daughter was sleeping, as I knew she would be quite possibly for another hour or two, but surely not the whole flight. Not without eating.

By then other first class passengers were taking their seats and taking note of my little one wrapped up in my arms. I smiled and gave nods, while noticing the scene's resemblance to a recent lawsuit I had read about. Crying baby, annoyed passenger. Since when did that become a reason to sue? Anyway... I silently hoped we wouldn't all turn the flight into a news story.

I sent a tweet out to find confidence in breastfeeding elbow to elbow with a stranger--A man. A man with a beard, a business suit and no shoes. Do rich people even breastfeed? (kidding) I just know one reason I am so adamant is so I can save money I would use for formula.

The flight attendant asked for our drink orders. Nice. Pre-drinks! I got my usual, some cranberry apple juice and kept tweeting away.

By the time I turned off my phone and the plane took off I knew when the time came to feed my daughter I'd just do it. And I'd try my best to do it before she fully woke up or made a peep. Better to avoid drawing attention.

Next, the flight attendant came back around and asked for our meal orders! Yum! A meal. I'm all about free food. Though I wasn't sure where it would go. There was so much leg room in front and no trays to be pulled down from the front. Would I have to balance the food on my baby's head?

Luckily, my neighbor had done this before. I tried to be nonchalant as I watched how he pulled out the tray. AH HA! Lift your arm rest, pull on tray lever, then extend. Voilà!
I ate my dinner and tried my best not to spill it all in my daughter's hair, and hoped she'd sleep long enough to eat my whole meal. She did. And not long after I was done with mine she was ready for hers.

I felt her stirring in my wrap, and I could tell her boob shark fin was up, so I pulled out my nursing cover and put that on before pulling her out of the wrap. I turned toward the window to get her latched on and once she was drinking away she was happy and basically back asleep.

Piece of cake! What was I so worried about? Feeding her kept her happy and quiet. No first class drama!

We landed safely in New York--Newark actually, but close enough. A woman behind me complimented me on my beautiful and quiet baby.
I had been waiting my whole life to visit NYC and here I was, also bringing my daughter who was just beginning hers. I sort of felt like a child. As if I needed a chaperon to be there by myself, much less with a baby.

Luckily once I made my way to the Hilton, where the BlogHer convention was being held, I met up with other young moms: @BabyDickey, @MilitaryMama, @MamaBMy and @LittleBGCG who were more experienced, and I believe, less nervous than I.
Emily got the best picture of our kiddos minus her little one who wasn't there. I showed this to my husband and told him she has three boyfriends and he got so mad at me! ... Already protective!!

That night we stayed up until 4am introducing our babies, exchanging blogging stories, scooping up some swag (a $200 goodie bag from Luminess including an airbrush makeup machine and makeup), and socializing. All that fun and the conference hadn't even started yet.
The next day I had my first "I'm a bad mom" moment which sent me crying in a cab on my way back to the hotel, but more on that tomorrow.

I'll also be posting advice about going to Blogher, how to get sponsored, and how to get the most out of your trip!

Thanks again to Piggies and Paws for making it possible for us!

M.I.A.

No, I didn't die/get killed/lost forever in NYC. We had a blast! So much so that I'm still recuperating! So much so that I've had my longest no-blogging streak. I envy people who manage to have time and energy to whip those recap posts up right away... Granted I'm pretty sure I had the youngest baby there, so I have a good excuse. Lil' J was a GREAT Piggies and Paws model (and happy to be one), and we are SO glad they sent us! Check them out for affordable custom artwork using your kiddos hand and foot prints! They have great videos of examples on their Facebook Page. She's wearing an example of their new line soon to be announced!

I have LOTS to say about BlogHer, and other big big big BIG rants regarding controversial issues I'm already witnessing and experiencing in motherhood (yes, already!). But you know how you can't write about something until you write about the other stuff that happened first? I'm having that dilemma. I can't write about the other stuff until I recap BlogHer. As soon as I can get my thoughts together and put down I'll share it all.

Sadly I'm going back to work in less than six weeks. I cry every time I think about it, so I'm going to try not to dwell on that right now. Whoever said I'd be begging to go back to work once I spent some time at home was LYING!... Or just didn't know me. But it's ok, I didn't know me either. And I didn't know I'd be loving this so much.

Anyhoo... I'm trying to keep the computer out of reach, and my daughter in my arms as long as possible. So SORRY if you have sent me an email, or something and I haven't responded. I'll catch up soon! I'm NOT ignoring you. Even if you emailed me two months ago--I'm that far behind!!

I haven't uploaded my pictures from BlogHer yet so for now I'll leave you with this picture my friend from Grand Felicity Photography took during our mother-daughter shoot in Utah right before our trip to NYC. (Photography session giveaway coming soon!)

Announcing My BlogHer Sponsor

I'm a firm believer in the fact that everything happens for a reason. I wasn't sure whether or not I should plan to go to the BlogHer conference this year because I didn't know when I was having my baby, how healthy she'd be, if I'd feel up to going, etc etc. By the time she got here I was worried it was too late to go. The conference is sold out, it was so late to look for sponsors, plus trying to find a room at a booked hotel and everything else is nearly impossible.

I still was excited by the fact that some of my friends I'd love to meet were going, it's in NYC, and I've always wanted to go... It was on my baby bucket list and what better time to cross it off then on maternity leave?

Last year when I went I didn't know much about blogging, I was just having fun. Still, that's my main focus but now I'm really looking to make connections so that one day I can work from home and be with my little munchkin(s).

I couldn't afford to go on my own, and a sponsor would be needed to help make it a reality. I tweeted out that Lil' J and I were looking for a sponsor to BlogHer '10 not sure what I'd hear in response. One of my friend's responded telling me she knew of someone who was looking for sponsor a blogger. I wasn't sure it would work out but in a matter of 24 hours I had talked to (and fell in love with) the owner of the company, came to an agreement, found someone selling their ticket and hotel room, and I won round trip first class flights to the conference just before she bough them. Can we say WOW? Yes, blessed!
So without further adieu, my fabulous BlogHer Sponsor is Piggies and Paws!
A HUGE Thanks to my friend Christina from Being Mrs. Jones for designing my new business card for the conference! See more of her design work at Visual Luxe.

I'm so obsessed with my little munchkin, I take dozens of pictures of her daily, and want to document and save every little thing about her. Piggies and Paws makes beautiful custom artwork from your child's hand and feet prints. Before she was born I was looking for a fun, memorable way save my little girl's prints and while I love the clay and the stamps these take the cake.

I ordered an angel version of her foot and a butterfly design of her hands. I can't wait to see the finished product! Robin, a Pigges and Paws artist in my area, came over to get my baby's prints and Lil' J wasn't too happy to be woken up from her nap, but it'll be worth it later. Here's a video of her getting her angel foot print started.

And a photo of the start of what will end up as a beautiful butterfly!
I'll be telling you more about my sponsor later, and we'll be doing a giveaway as well. Also, checkout their Facebook page to see videos of some of their finished products!

My little girl and I are adjusting well to sleeping, breastfeeding, and each other and we'll have one trip under our belt before our first of many adventures together!--Our trip alone together to New York.

Hopefully they'll be some helping hands around in case we start to crash and burn. Will you be in NYC August 5th-7th? Fill out my form so we can hook up!

Are Giveaway Blogs Annoying Part 2

So if you haven't noticed I think I've solved my dilemma with my blog. Do you remember? I was asking if giveaway blogs are annoying after one of my concerned, but honest readers reached out and said she was getting gosh darn annoyed with the load giveaways. Granted... It WAS Baby Shower Week on my blog, which was the reason for the giveaway madness, but I did take note to what some of you said.

A lot of you said you didn't mind them here and there, and knowing that's how I normally do it, and were ok with that. Others said they loved the reviews and giveaways because it let them know about products that are out there for fertility, pregnancy or their little ones.

When it comes down to it, it's my blog and I want to do what I like to do. As much as I love my readers, I write for me, not you (sorry). So in deciding how to handle this I took some suggestions, but ultimately made these decisions based on how I'd like to see my blog.

Some suggested creating a separate blog for "Baby Makin(g) Machine's Reviews/ Giveaways" but to me that just seems dumb because 1. I can't keep up with ANOTHER blog 2. I don't do enough giveaways to where that would be worth it. And most of all 3. It's like the "Oprah Show Commercials" channel. If a company finds my blog and wants my opinion on something and I want to share it, I'm not going to tell the handful of people who pop in to see what I'm reviewing. I mean, as far as I know, 99% of you read my blog because of my writing, and to see what's up in my crazy life, not just for my giveaways. So that means only about 5% of you would take the time to check that blog too.

So, here are the conclusions I came up with:

1. I'm going to keep doing reviews and giveaways but no more than one a week at the most. Eventually (like now) I'm cutting this back to one or two a month. I'll start them on the weekend, so if you do happen to stop by you can expect one then, or if it's posted during the week, there MAY be a double post that day, with a review/giveaway and a regular post.

2. As usual, I'm only going to tell you about the really cool stuff. I feel bad but I've had to turn down lots of offers lately for things that I honestly would rather just buy myself, rather than feeling obligated to take time to dedicate an entire post to. I really am being picky, and only blogging about things I'd NORMALLY blog about, not just things I'm writing about cause I'm getting it for free.

However, if YOU are interested in reviewing things that I may not want to (that are still really really awesome, but because of time I can't handle) please email me and let me know! I'll put you on a list and let potential sponsors know they can check out your blog and contact you for a review. Either let me know in the comments here or email me at babymakingmachine{at}gmail.com

3. As always, I'm going to keep my natural flair with my reviews/ giveaways. This isn't hard since I'm being so picky about things I review. If it's not ordinarily cool enough to make the cut in everyday blogging, well, I'm probably not going to write about it. I never try to sound "commercial" in my reviews, and always write them as I'd honestly write any other diary post (besides the end where I offer a giveaway). I mean read this Hot Mama Gowns Review and tell me that sounds like a commercial... Really, that's how I'd write any other post. Same with using BabyTime Bags to pack and get ready for the hospital, and the experience of making my belly cast from Maternitique. I don't just copy-paste stuff from the sponsors site, I tell you like it is... I Do Me.

4. I've taken away the GAZILLION extra ways you can enter a giveaway. I can see how you'd feel like your chances are slim to none when you have to jump through hoops to enter, then compete against people who have time to sit on the computer for hours entering every way possible, when you just want to leave a comment and be done with it.

Because of that, I'm now making most of my giveaways (the ones not in high of a value) where all you do is leave a comment and you're entered. Simple as that. At the most there will be 3 extra ways to enter and that's just if you follow my blog and follow the sponsors Twitter or Facebook pages. It's simple enough, and if you don't have twitter or facebook it's not like your chances have gone down a ton as there aren't 15 other ways to enter.

So there you have it! My solutions! Bloggers, readers, what do you think? How do you handle things like this on your blog?

*I'm not accepting any more offers for reviews/giveaways at the moment because I already have a short list, and I want to enjoy as much time with Lil' J as possible after she's born, and not feel obligated to blog. But if you've written me and I haven't responded I'm not ignoring you, I will reply, I'm just SWAMPED!*

I Have Commitment Problems

Winners for these recent contests:
Womb for Two: Commenter #135 Maya
Forever Bliss Photography Session: #30 Glam-O-Mommy

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Apparently I have problems finishing what I've started... I can say that about many little projects I've started for Lil' J. I made three (cute) burp cloths, and have three to go. Tons of tulle, and tons of tutus to go. Snoop has lots and lots of dog collars I never finished for him. But hey, it could be worse. And at least I've decorated that nursery better than any other room in any other house we've EVER lived in. That's pretty much done.

I was looking through my drafts today in blogger and realize there are 6 posts I've been sitting on forever! So much time has pasted from some of them I'm not sure I'll ever publish them. Maybe, maybe not. But here's a little glimpse in case they never survive to see the "publish" button:

1. Consignment shopping 411: "If there's one thing I've learned in my life it's how to spot a good deal. I'm a woman who likes nice things, but I usually refuse to pay full price for it. I'm not going to say I'm perfect, I've had my fair share of splurges, but I learned very quickly to NEVER buy things full price from Express after buying an $80 dress that I bought in a different color for $15 a month later..."

I went to a lot of consignment sales and had a great post going about the stuff I scored and tips for going to these things. It's practically done, just needs pictures.

2. (No Tile Yet): "Last week I wrote a post on my other blog about push presents. As usual it got some comments from people who think the idea is stupid, unnecessary, worldly... Basically the people who are jealous they didn't get one. ...Kidding!!..."

It's obviously about push presents. And presents for daddy too cause I'm gonna make him work! I only have a few paragraphs started, it would be easy to finish if I was motivated enough.

3. "My Crotch Hurts...": "Last year I spent some time asking people "the things they don't tell you about pregnancy" before deciding to commit to taking the leap myself. Seeing that most people I know how more than one child I assumed all of the good outweighed the bad. But I didn't expect there to be so many things that people forgot to tell me...."

That's basically all I have of that one. I haven't been keeping up with my list so I'm not sure I can remember all of the things people forgot to tell me. One thing I remember cause I'm feeling it now is the crotch pain. I need to finish this before Lil' J is born, and momnesia sets in.

4. "Bladder Battles": "I really don't have many complaints about pregnancy. I've really enjoyed it so far. The nausea during the first trimester was annoying but when it would go away I'd worry, so I almost welcomed it.

Now... as my uterus grows more and more (right now it's about the size of a cantaloupe) the one thing that bugs me is my constant need to pee.

This is coming from a woman who use to pride herself in the length of time she could "hold it in"... So much so that once on my "introduction" form at church, in the slot where you're asked to list your talents I wrote down "holding my pee" right under "hoola hooping..."

That's all I have of that one pretty much, I can't remember where I was going with this... By the way I can't hoola hoop anymore either... Have you tried this pregnant? Must get a video for you this week... It's impossible... and this is from an award-winning hoola-hooper... NO JOKE!

5. Craigslist Psycho: "A few weeks ago we bought a new high definition TV. I get free cable and free HDTV and my husband couldn't stand not having a high definition TV to watch it on. So after months and month of begging and saving we invested in his new favorite toy. But standing it it's way was our old TV... Flat screen, HUGE tube in the back. Weighing over 200 pounds for sure. My husband was so eager to get rid of it, he asked me to put it up on Craigslist in the "free" section. I did. Bad idea..."

This one is done too, I'm not sure what I'm waiting for. Pictures maybe?

The last post was a call I keep getting from these awards to write random things about myself. I don't remember which award this is for and I SUCK at passing them on (so sorry) but I'll try to get better.

Here's things no one knows about me...

1. I don't like using the big utensils... You know how they come with big forks, little forks, big spoons and little spoons (I think it's salad fork vs meal fork etc.)? I don't like using the big ones. I'll always grab the small ones first, and let my husband use the big ones. I don't know why.

2. I can't walk around with a pair of scissors without having a split second vision of my tripping and stabbing myself in the neck... I know it's morbid, and I'm normally not morbid but it's just a weird thought I have when I walk around with scissors... Or knives

3. I'm TERRIFIED of mold. I feel like it's alive (ok I guess it is) and looking at me... Following me. If something looks like mold, even though it's not mold I have to inspect it for awhile and then cut it off and burn it with hot water. If it's not mold on bread I can't go near it, I have someone else clean it.

4. I can't do the dishes without rubber gloves. ... Which is probably why my husband has done the dishes for the past five and a half years (I have unloaded the dishwasher a few times).

5. Well, you already know I'm award-winning hoola-hooper now, so I guess I don't have to disclose that. I will say though that I can't lie... I'm a terrible liar, even if it's a silly joke, I can't do it without my face giving away the lie.

6. Almost as scary as mold are public restrooms... Can't stand them.

7. I hate swimming... Or I should say getting my hair wet. I most likely won't get in a pool this summer, but I have about 15 bikinis/ bathing suits.

8. I am a career woman but secretly wish I could be a good homemaker... I know some people do both but I've tried and failed. It makes me sad.

9. I can say the Bosnian Alphabet.

10. My cankles really hurt... Really bad, but I have an obsession with photographing them. My husband thinks it's gross and always tells me to stop but I can't! I'm pretty sure I have over 50 pictures of them. One of these days I may make my first scrapbook... A cankle scrapbook.

Anything surprise you?

If you want a more serious post from me today, check out my Project Pregnancy Blog on Parenting. I posted about my excitement for breastfeeding (maybe a little weird).

Also, Just for Me and You, and Kolcraft is doing a fundraiser for K.I.D.S... Check it out!