It’s been a year since I started blogging, can you believe it? I can’t. It’s been an amazing year for me and I’m saying goodbye to 2014 with no regrets. I’ve met some lovely people, made new friends and got introduced to brands I never knew existed.
I was that first time mom who bought almost everything at the store but later realised what a fool I was. I wish I read more blogs and chatted to moms before purchasing anything. Buying expensive products doesn’t make you mom of the year.
Being a South African Mommy Blogger is a bit different compare to bloggers overseas. Blogging isn’t exactly big here but it’s definitely getting there and I’m so excited to be part of that journey.
To me, a blog isn’t for bragging about freebies, it’s about connecting with your audience on a personal level and learning from your readers. I learn from my readers every day. I love chatting to moms about their experiences and challenges.
When I started blogging, I never really understood what it meant and I wasn’t sure what I was going to write…I didn’t even realise how many South African bloggers there were. I remember my first draft said: “Hey guys”. (Ha-ha)
The reason I started You, Baby and I was because I felt like I needed a place to share my thoughts and opinions. I wanted to connect with moms who were just like me. Honestly before the blog, I felt alone. I was a frustrated first time mom who received so much advice that it overwhelmed me. I needed a stranger’s opinion, I needed a mom community!
I admit, at first I was overwhelmed by freebies and just wanted more and more but then I realised that my readers don’t care about the new bath wash I received or the fancy party I attended, there’s so much more to blogging than a goodie bag. My readers wanted to know more about me (that made me feel very important 😀 ) and the products I love, not the brands I want to promote.I didn’t even realise you could earn from a blog until recently! Yes I do earn from my blog but it isn’t exactly a big amount.
A blog is hard work, you should do it because you passionate about writing and not just for fame or money. Trust me, it won’t last. It’s so much more than just typing out a post. I spend hours every day working on a blog post and researching.
Blog for yourself and the world will find you.
My highlight of the year was definitely being featured as a Huffington Post writer. I always doubt and underestimate myself. Huffington has given me a home away from home. I opened myself up to a world of negativity but it was worth it! It made me a stronger person.
The blogging world has become an industry on its own and having a support system is very important. I’m glad I found a group of bloggers that support me and teach me every day.
Today, because of the blog I’ve learnt that I’m not the only one breastfeeding a 2 year-old and I’m not the only mom have sleepless nights. I finally understand the challenges of motherhood and how different but alike we are.
Thank you to everyone who reads my blog and supports me! Your comments mean the world to me and yes I do read them!
Thank you to the brands who supported me from Day 1 and gave the newbie blogger an opportunity.
I’m so excited to be nominated in the South African Blogger Awards and would really appreciate if you could vote for me. This is the big one for South Africa and every vote does count! You can click here and vote for me in both categories. You will receive an email to a link to confirm your vote.
I will be taking a little blogging break from December 25th until January 4th. I’m looking forward to spending this time with my family and friends.
Wishing you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Lots of Love the Vijendranaths.
48 comments
I had no idea you were in South Africa. I prefer to connect with my audience, too. I like the sponsored, stuff, but I also like trying to be helpful and make connections.
It’s so awesome that you got to be in Huffington Post. I really respect that news source!
Merry Christmas! I really do like connecting in the blogging world. I have learned so much from my blogging friends and I like the connection with other moms as well.
Wow! Congrats on being picked up by the Huffington Post! Your hard work is really paying off.
I also love connecting with my audience. I have found the blogging world to be amazing and I have met so many wonderful people since i started blogging! Congrats on being in the Huffington post!
I love how we all get to know each other but we all live in different parts of the world! The internet is a wonderful thing!
Congrats on your first year of the blog and being nominated. I will be sure to vote for you.
Congratulations on a year of Blogging. I look forward to reading your future posts.
How cool! I love international type of blogs 🙂 So fun to read about. Congrats to your first year!
So glad I got to meet you! Yes you are not the only one. Looking forward to what the new year brings.
I would love to visit South Africa one day. I love the fashion and food from there! I hope you and your family have a nice vacation. It’s great to disconnect.
Wow, that’s a huge honor! I read Huffington Post all the time!
Beautifully said
Congratulations on your nomination! It’s very impressive and I’m sure it’s also well-deserved. Good luck and best wishes for a productive and successful 2015!
I sure am glad to meet you here, Shanéy. And, I look forward to reading more of your posts because I’m certain I’d learn more about your country and of course, you. I would love to meet you in person – hopefully, I’d get to travel to South Africa in the nearer future. Merry Christmas!
I think the people you get to interact with in the blogging world are so helpful/wonderful/amazing. I’m glad to hear blogging is growing in your area, and happy Blogiversarry to you!
That is so awesome that you made it on Huffington! I love all the opportunities that blogger has given us.
Blogging is all about making connections. Some of my best friends I met online because we blog. Keep sharing!
I understand what you’re saying, but I think many don’t think of reviews as blogging for freebies. After everything is said and done, it’s work. Many times I pass up reviews, unless it’s something truly worth my time, considering it takes a lot of time and effort in the photography, write-up, and social media promotion. 🙂
HilLesha
I couldn’t agree with you more. Blogging is all about connections and that is what I love about it. Loved your perspective.
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