Well, hello my friends. I have been meaning to write a blog post all week. This past weekend was Charlotte’s birthday party, and I have so much to share. But you know what? Life happened, as it has crazily been happening since around oh, September 9. I wonder what happened on that day? Anyhow, I’ve been meaning to address some things that are really important to me, so here goes it.
State of the Blog
sponsored work
For the past year, my blog has been running as a business. When M experienced a job layoff, I had to put my behind in high gear and really focus on the business-aspect of pushing out blog posts. I wanted to help out my family financially, and I have been able to do that by working my tail off. Thankfully, your support in keeping Seven Graces afloat has helped out tremendously.
Each page view and “click” on products that I link helps me fulfill my “work” obligations. I know not everyone is a fan of sponsored posts, but it helps pay the bills. As a reminder, I really pour my heart into each blog post that I publish, sponsored or not.
You might not see it, but hours of work go behind each post. From the creation of the idea, to the photography, to the editing of the photos, to the content written, it all takes time and effort. It means so much to me that you trust me enough with my opinion, and I’m happy to share.
I plan on continuing to share sponsored posts, and I really do hope you enjoy them as much as I do. I also am hoping to create a better balance of sponsored vs. non-sponsored content.
blogging schedule
Oh, my heart. Since Colin was born, I have yet to find a blogging schedule that works for me. When he was a newborn and taking really long naps, I could find time here and there to create a blog post. Then he grew and became more active, then I experienced postpartum depression, then I overcame that, then his non-existent schedule allowed me to do nothing, then I sleep trained him to get on a schedule, then Charlotte got really sick, then Colin stopped sleeping through the night again, and now we’re here. Do you see how blogging could be put on the back burner?
Just when I think I am finally getting it together, something big throws me for a loop, and blogging gets pushed to the side. But guess what? I think I’m finally turning a corner!
I am so behind on so many posts I want to share (Colin’s newborn pictures, newborn favorites, and Charlotte’s birthday details to name a few), but I guess you can say there is no shortage in content ideas, so I’ll be rolling them all out soon. My goal is to start publishing three times a week again, and I can’t wait to get back to those days. Thank you for being patient and continuing to come back to read whenever a new blog post is published, regardless of my inconsistent blogging schedule.
comments
I am so very, very appreciative for each and every comment sent my way. Whether it’s here, on Instagram or Facebook, I truly am so grateful for the community we’ve built. This past year, it’s been extremely hard for me to respond to each one though. I hate that, but I do try my best to respond to all questions.
However, I think when I get back into the groove of blogging consistently, one of my main goals is to start replying to as many comments as I can, even if it is just to say thank you.
If you ever do have a pressing question though, I am quickest to respond through my Facebook page, and then through direct messaging on Instagram.
a new horizon for Seven Graces
On March 10, I’m coming up on my three-year blogging anniversary. This space has grown into something more than I ever imagined possible. I have so many dreams for this space, and I’m excited to see which ones come to fruition.
A year ago, I had an inkling to write a Bible Study. That too has been put on the back burner, but know that something is coming. I don’t know when or if it’ll be a true-to-form traditional study, but I’m letting God take the lead on that one. We’ll see where He takes me as far as that goes.
Aesthetically speaking, this space has undergone some changes. In the past year, I’ve gone from Blogger to self-hosted on Word Press, and I’m currently working on a redesign for the website. If you stop to look around, you may notice some different fonts, different colors, and a new setup.
I’ll be walking you through all of the new features soon, but I’m still working out some finishing touches. I’m so excited about the direction that it’s going and can’t wait for the relaunch of this site!
Also on the horizon for the Seven Graces community are a Facebook group with exclusive chit chat and a newsletter for all the fun things that don’t make a blog post.
I think that gets us up to speed with where I’m at on all things blog related. I feel like I’m coming up on a fresh start, a reset if you will. I’m definitely a work in progress, and my blog is a direct reflection of that.
Thank you for joining me in this journey so far. I can’t wait to see where we go from here.
Be blessed, friend!
You can be sure to stay up to date with all things Seven Graces in these places:
Instagram // Facebook // Twitter
You can see where I’m linking up on this page.
I’m in the middle of switching over from blogger to word-press….a little nervous but super excited for a new look. Hang in there momma! You are doing the job that is most important right now.
Thanks so much, Shelly! So thankful for your support through the years. Word Press is definitely different, but I’m slowly learning the ins and outs and loving it. You will too!
Thanks so much, Shelly! So thankful for your support through the years. Word Press is definitely different, but I’m slowly learning the ins and outs and loving it. You will too!
Kudos to you sweet momma for everything that you do for your littles! You are so loved! It all gets easier and before you know it, they are big kids working on fraction homework! Enjoy it all, the messes, the craziness, the baby feet…it all goes way too fast! Love you!
Love the new design! Take all the time you need to get back into the swing of things! I love reading your posts and following along. God bless!