My two year blogging anniversary is today. Blog years are like dog years— two must be at least six or seven, right? Because it seems like forever.
When I started out, I had no idea where I wanted blogging to lead, other than that I wanted a modern sort of baby book for my kids. I wish someone had given me a few tips, because I didn’t know a thing. Here is what I wish I had known, way back then…
1. Buy your domain. For the cost of a sandwich, you can own your very own dot com. It’s so worth it.
2. Know your worth. I had no idea that bloggers could get stuff… For free! I cringe when I look at the the things I sold out for in the early days. Is some soap worth writing a whole review for? Maybe, but if it’s not, you don’t need to do it. You can say no.
3. Never promote something you wouldn’t recommend to a friend. Hyping up a movie for weeks before seeing it is not the smartest thing. And, if all you can talk about upon finally viewing it is possibly giving the star lice? It won’t be so easy to get paid. Plus, you’ll feel like an idiot.
4. Bloggers aren’t weird old men living in basements. (For the most part.) They’re people just like you looking to connect with people like them. And they can become amazing friends.
5. But, mean people do hide behind computers. Toughen up and be prepared for people to call you a bad mother, poor writer and questionable person. And, you have every right to delete those comments.
6. If you’re serious about blogging, start on WordPress. Blogger is totally fine (and free! and easy!) if you’re just in it for a scrapbook of sorts, but if you want traffic and money and opportunities, WordPress is a better option. Once you start on a platform, it’s not so easy to move. Plan ahead.
7. Begin your blog name with an A. Everything is blog-world is alphabetized and those names that are lucky enough to start with an A, B or C get the most exposure on every list. Starting with an S? Kind of sucks.
8. Every blogger feels jealousy. So and so gets this or that and you don’t. It’s a crappy feeling, but we all get it.
9. Remember why you started. For fun, right? If it becomes stressful or overwhelming, step back and reevaluate. You are allowed to do that. It’s YOURS!
10. Should you stick with blogging for a whole year (which makes you a total veteran,) read this post on what to expect on your first anniversary from Ann’s Rants. Who was smart enough to start her blog with an A.
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{ 179 comments… read them below or add one }
Happy Blogoversary!
Melisa´s last blog ..Doomed.
Happy happy mama! It’s been quite a ride and we’ve all been happy to be there with you. :)
Congrats!
I always say I blog because it is fun, and when it stops being fun, I’m not blogging anymore. Because who wants to do something that is not fun?
jodifur´s last blog ..Through the Eyes of Love**
I related to so many points in this post – my first blogoversary is coming up in a few months and my blog has grown and changed so much since it’s inception. I’m proud to say I followed each one of those rules – well, expect for the name part. As a T, I guess I’m even worse off then you. :)
Happy Blogoversary – here’s to many, many more!
And as a side note, I so wish I could have attended Bloggy Boot Camp – any chnace I’ll get to meet you at BlogHer?
Yes! I’ll be there– we’ll have to make a point to meet up!
Wow, girl! Our blog-a-versary is so close together! I totally enjoyed your presentation at Bloggy Boot Camp. Crossing my fingers that the NYT article comes through! I posted a pic on my Facebook page for you.
And the lice thing… muwahahahaha STILL LAUGHING OVER THAT ONE.
JenniferG´s last blog ..Win A Sponsorship To Blogher 2010 From SEED at Hip As I Wanna Be!
I’m totally thinking about going to WordPress now…but I’m scared. I just mastered Blogger! But I guess I’ll learn WordPress, too!
Lynn from For Love or Funny´s last blog ..Beware of big dogs with grassy breath.
I feel like I’ve *known* you forevah! Had great fun with you this weekend and can’t wait to see you again! *mwah*
Trenches of Mommyhood´s last blog ..This One Time? At Bloggy Boot Camp?
Happy Blogging anniversary!! And wow, this is a great post. I can totally relate to some “I wish I’d known”s ;-)
You’re awesome – I’m really glad that you decided to start blogging and that you are still blogging :-) Mwah!
Elisa @ Globetrotting in Heels´s last blog ..Beauty & Shopping Event: Soirée Beauté at Manor Zurich (Bahnhofstrasse)
Happy Blogiversary! I’ve owned my domains for almost two years, but have yet moved to self -hosting, I’m such a coward about moving.
Best wishes for many more wonderful blogging adventures.
Tara R.´s last blog ..The report of my death was an exaggeration
What great advice! I especially like the one about knowing your worth.
Happy birthday! You don’t look a day over 1and a half.
Congratulations!
Good tips as well. As for me, d’oh!
Mwa´s last blog ..What I learned in the supermarket today
Happy Blogoversary! Great rules to live by – except now I wish I started my blog with a A or B, oh well! It was wonderful to meet you this weekend. You are such a sweet person and truly humble. I always enjoy reading your posts.
Happy Blogiversary. I’m so glad I found you – even though you do start with an ‘S’.
lceel´s last blog ..Monday Meanders 3-8
I wish we could skip over #8! I think that’s what I loved most about Bloggy Bootcamp, it seems you ladies went out of your way to operate in the spirit of sisterhood and not caddiness! Thanks for pavin’ that path!
~kristin
LoveFeast Table´s last blog ..Bloggy Bootcamp in Baltimore
–>Congrats on the anniversary. I hear you with WebSavvyMom.com and being at the end of the alphabet. ;-)
~deb
WebSavvyMom´s last blog ..Flashback Friday (Part 50) – You Know You’re a Redneck If…
Very cool. Thank you for posting this, as my 1 year is next month.
Kmama´s last blog ..A Renewal
Happy Blogoversary Jill! Love your blog and thanks for all of the tips!
Cybil´s last blog ..Emilio and Cybil’s Book Club
Great tips. I really enjoyed hearing you speak on Saturday. It was so neat to meet you in person.
I think i am gonna switch over to WordPress too!
Happy Blogoversary!!
Stephaine @ Geezees´s last blog ..Engagement photo with story,Canvas Unwrapped, Bloggy Bootcamp
Happy 2 years, Jill! From a moron who named her blog something beginning with a “T.” :)
TheKitchenWitch´s last blog ..White Trash Motherlode: Jell-o Squares
Thanks so much for plugging this post again! I agree with everything you said. I mean, if I was making money, I’m sure I’d wish I was on wordpress.
[insert "I shoulda had a V8 head thwack here]
Happy Blogiversary!
Love,
An old lady who lives in a basement (another A title)
Ann’s Rants´s last blog ..Ramona Age 36
Happy blog bday! Great tips….!
Kathy´s last blog ..Sundays In My City
Wow! Happy Blogaversary (I got that from Ann)! What great advice!
And I CAN’T believe that negative comment you displayed. I mean, I guess some people just want to hear about the wine and the roses…they don’t want to hear that sometimes the wine spills on your best dress (or pants…I’m not an old man blogging from my basement with women’s clothes on), and that roses can be thorny!
My blog is “The Web and You”. Had I been smart, I would have used my company’s name, Avelient, to start it (e.g. Avelient’s The Web and You).
Regardless, I found you now and it doesn’t matter where you are in the alphabet, I love reading your posts! And I regularly chuckle and send along several to my wife, who’s become a fan too.
Have a great year 3; you deserve much success!
Mariano
Mariano´s last blog ..Small Business, Big Voices, Episode 12: Michele Santo, WellPower Wellness Coaching
I’m actually furious over the mean post. I hadn’t seen that one and really want to beat that ignorant person up. No one insults my Bean.
amen. good sound advice.
you should see the negative comments i get. oh lordy. but now, almost a year later i have thicker skin and let them go….
dawn´s last blog ..sushi bowl
I just made the switch to WP this weekend. Started on Blogger, but it wasn’t that horrible of a transition. I did lose my original domain name for a few days (bought the .net version of it), but was FINALLY able to log back into my DNS manager and put a forward in. So now I have both! Still wish I would have started on WP, but lesson learned :-)
Oh oh, yeah…mine starts with a “U”!!!
Amber´s last blog ..Welcome Back
My first blog post was August 8, 2006. I had NO IDEA what I was doing, and for a long time, I had NO IDEA the kind of community that was out there.
Now that I do, now that I comment and participate and have random people visit my blog, it is SO MUCH more than just a place to type out all of their little milestones.
I don’t have sponsors. I did a few reviews/giveaways until I decided it just wasn’t for me. So now I just write. It took me a long time to find my voice and to make my blog truly mine–an accurate portrayal of our little life. And if that’s all there is to it, by golly, that’s good enough for me. :)
P.S. I <3 WordPress. Most days.
Sara´s last blog ..Two Girls At A Rock Show
Awesome! :) Congrats on two years!
Missy @ The Marketing Mama´s last blog ..The one where I officially announce I’m getting divorced
Happy Anniversary! Two years is a looooonnnng time. ;-) Great tips.
-FringeGirl
the domestic fringe´s last blog ..A Little Spring and A Lot of Nothing
Wow, love that you shared the comment. It’s hard to comprehend the lengths people will go to cut people down.
amanda´s last blog ..Shavasana
Oh, that’s a pretty mild one. What is wrong with people? Don’t like me? MOVE ON!! Geez.
Great tips! I remember when I first started on Blogger, another blogger gave me the advice to switch to WordPress sooner rather than later. I did not listen and lost over a handful of posts in the transfer…yikes!
Happy Blogoversary!
Courtney Velasquez (@theappleofmyeye)´s last blog ..Willing to Relocate to Arizona?
Oh how I wish I knew the advantages of WordPress BEFORE I started my blog. I began on blogger and while it was easy, It didn’t have enough options for me. So I moved over to WordPress BY MYSELF! Well, I guess I should give hubby some credit. It took me an entire weekend (Friday-Sunday) of no sleep before the move was complete.
Happy Anniversary. Keep Posting.
Yippeee!!! Congrats to you!
:) great list. Although I don’t do anything other than actually blog on mine, I am looking forward to starting reviews and such soon. :)
S Club Mama´s last blog ..when will it end??
I’d also like to add one to your list – make your name on the shorter sid because typing a long blog name (like mine) totally sucks. ~sigh~ I still haven’t put many of these tips to use and I’ll be blogging two years in May/June. ~another, much heavier sigh~
Happy two years to ya!
Brandy´s last blog ..Good News/Bad News revisited
Ohhhh, that’s a good one!!
Yay! Happy Blogoversary! I am very new to blogging, but am happy to know that starting on WordPress is a good thing. That is where my blog is. I haven’t bought a domain yet, but I am planning on it soon! Thanks for the tips and sorry about that nasty commenter. Boo on the haters!
Jayme´s last blog ..I Would Like to Thank the Academy…
Spell checking would be nice too. That was supposed to be “side” not “sid”.
Brandy´s last blog ..Good News/Bad News revisited
Hey! Happy blog-i-versary! I have had my blog for a LONNNNG time. I did a LOT of what you’ve said here… the HARD way. I bought my domain mid-way thru my journey, and just moved to WordPress last week because I had to. Good thing I have computer geek friends that are willing to help.
So ummm… I follow you on Twitter. I should probably link up to your blog. Because I read it all the time. Come visit mine. :)
And again, happy anniversary.
deb´s last blog ..teeth cleaning, toilet installing and treating Mom
Hiya, I got to your blog because I joined Twitter only the other day and immediately liked the look of what you are doin’! I wish you were here in the UK so we could come listen to you speak about this stuff! I’ve recently attached a wordpress blog to our site too and I just hope the people that visit us don’t mind reading about me and mine (mom of 4) rather than what my business does because just chatting is lots of fun! To be honest I don’t really know what I’m doing but your tips are great (thank you) and I’m learning a bit more every day. No wonder you have 14K twitter followers, your tweets are fab. Best of British to you today, Polly xx
Happy Bloggiversary!
I have heard so many things about wordpress, good and bad. I would like to try it, but I’m scared of losing ALL of my work in the process!!!!!
Nicole´s last blog ..A very short vacation
I went from Blogger to WP in just a few hours (though I had some issues getting the domain transfered). The actual importing of the blog was the easiest part. If you’re using Blogger, WP (self hosted at least) had a function to import your Blogger posts and comments with just a click of a button!
Amber´s last blog ..Welcome Back
Yes! That’s totally the easy part. And if you backup first, you’re protected.
Love this….so very true…so I guess I should change to A Spoiled Mommy!? haha
melissa – spoiled mommy´s last blog ..I’m so behind
I’m glad you’re here. :)
Blogging IS such a learning process. And many times we jump through all sorts of hoops before we know exactly what it is we want to keep. I tried to care about SEO and reviews and how to grow a readership for a long time. Then I realized that what I really love is the community and the opportunity to write. That’s all I really want out of it, so sometimes I wish I wouldn’t have spent time on the other stuff because it just added stress to something I enjoy most in its purest form.
So my advice to people (not that I’m an expert AT ALL) is to only do posts that you really enjoy doing. If you love reviewing things, DO IT. If you simply l0ve to write, DO IT. If you love community, be in it for that. Don’t try to fit any other mold but yours. Write for YOU and the people who are like you will show up, feel connected and stick around. That happens over time, quite slowly…and that’s OK.
Heather of the EO´s last blog ..Heat rises
Happy Blogoversary! I thought this was a great post. All of what you said resonates with me as I think about what direction to take my blog as it grows and how much time I want to put into it. I also struggle with the moments of jealousy and also confusion. I have made some mistakes in my first months too – some things one might reconsider posting on the blog or as a comment. I learned that one. UGH!
Love your blog and your blog lessons posts.
Brittany at Mommy Words´s last blog ..All Cleared, But We Are Not Taking Off
I just bought myself a domain but I’m still trying to figure out how to point my blog to it :op I suck at technology. Still considering the whole WordPress thing BUT I have just gotten used to Blogger and now that I found a template I like I hesitate to move…plus I’ve been having SUCH hassles just trying to put Disqus in, I can only imagine transferring my almost 400 posts to another system entirely!!
Carrie´s last blog ..I’m no expert
Happy Blogiversary. I love blogging, but see it as more of an outlet and a hobby. But I think it is awesome that some people can make money or get free stuff.
Jennifer´s last blog ..Talking with Baby Girl
Well, happy blogoversary! So I did one thing right and one really wrong – my blog starts with an a (so I should thank my mom for naming me amber) but I’m on blogger! Dang I hate blogger…
amber´s last blog ..Nearly Silent Sunday.
Great advice!
Erin´s last blog ..Sorry, I forgot.
I so hope that is not a real comment someone left on your blog. That is so horrible to think people post nasty comments to other bloggers. I’ve been reading about it.Why would someone be compelled to leave a message if they’re in disagreement? Why can’t they just move on to the next blog on their list? I just don’t understand it. My blog is all the way down the alphabet T. I am actually surprised with the traffic because I truly didn’t expect any when I started blogging. I have no idea how the advertising/giveaways work. Do companies contact bloggers to promote their products? Happy blogaversary!
Suzicate´s last blog ..Sinful Cyber Schemes
Oh, yes. Quite real. And I totally agrre– just move on!!
And, it can go either way: Companies approaching bloggers or the other way around. Lots of opportunities.
Happy blogging anniversary!
Great post!
Courtney´s last blog ..Memphis Zoo
Happy Blogoversary! That’s a great post! And for the record, I enjoy that your blog isn’t all sunshine and roses. It’s nice to know that you get frustrated too, if you know what I mean….
jen´s last blog ..ch,ch,ch,changes
Blogs starting with S. Nope. Didn’t think of that. I’m right behind Scary! (My sister would call my blog AsinineStageMama.com because I forgot to call her on her birthday Saturday which would then put me at the top of the alpha, but would make me feel bad most days.) Cheers and Congrats!, Julie
Julie@StageMama.com´s last blog ..Video Of The Week: It’s a Rap, Elphaba!
Happy Blog-a-versary!!
I have to admit, I am not an avid reader of your blog (yet!), but when I do stop by it is always great stuff!
I will be coming up to my first year anniversary in June…and I am afraid I am still stuck in all the “newbie” ness of blogging….maybe I should start planning now to move from Blogger to WP!!
Congrats again!
Kelly´s last blog ..The Olympic Memory Bank is Full
Congrats on your blog anniversary! I think I may be the only person who is glad she started out on blogger. To do anything else would have kept me from starting my blog. Also, there was something about making the move to self-hosted – kind of like birth work – I grew up as a result of it and really “owned” my blog.
Tiffany´s last blog ..Menu, Grocery List, Recipes – Week 31
Wow, you really nailed it. I wish I’d known all of that too way back when. I learned a lot of it the hard way, but number 7, I never thought of that. I’m down there at the bottom of the list too. It does kinda suck.
Congrats on two years!
Happy Blogoversary!! Wow two years. I know what you mean by it’s like dog years. It seems so long ago that I started blogging too. In fact, my weekly meme “Friday’s Feast” turns One on Friday.
Hoping you have many more blog years to come.
Christopher (AKA: CaJoh)´s last blog ..F2: Corned Beef Hash
I wish I could have read this before I started my blog. Wonderful advice. I would recommend this post as reference to anyone starting a blog. I am almost 5 months in on mine and I don’t feel like it’s been that long. Couldn’t imagine 2 years, congrats. :)
Kel´s last blog ..Luuuuucy, you got some ’splain to do!
Congrats on your blog anniversary. Not sure about the A thing though. :) You can also choose a domain name based on the topic and whether people are looking for the words you use as well. It is fun, and it’s important to step back and reevaluate regularly.
Jackie Lee´s last blog ..How Judgement Is Throwing Your Life Out of Balance
Happy 2 yr bloggoversary!
Thanks for visiting my blog. Now following!
shanilie´s last blog ..Pregnancy Update – Week 22
Congrats! On your bloggoversary! I havent been at it very long, and don’t know if I plan to keep it up or not. Time will tell.
Thank you so much for sharing your experience.
I must say, that I do love that my blog name starts with a ‘B’.
I am about to have my 3 year anniversary, I wonder what I have learned?
Anything…..
Jen´s last blog ..Sorry, I Didn’t Get That, Please Try Again.
Dude if there is a special place in hell for moms like us, I have beach front property right across the bay from Lucifer himself. Good night! Ha.
I like your two-year tips. I wish I’d thought of ANY of those things when I got the blogging bug. *sigh*
It does seem like forever, doesn’t it?
And I still don’t understand getting your own domain and switching to WP. Enlighten me again…
Shannon´s last blog ..I ought to make her pay for my next visit to the hair salon.
It depends on what you want: More pageviews to get better ad rates? WordPress. Community and fun blogging? Blogger is totally fine.
But, the domain is so cheap and easy that there’s no reason not to. You just prevent someone else from snagging it!
Hey thanks! I’m a new blogger (about two months) and wow! Our blog starts with the letter “A”! Which was not intentional. So, um, yeah, your point in number 7 makes up for our first experience in point number 5. I suppose it is a right of passage of sorts. . . we just got our first TOTALLY EVIL AND DISGUSTING COMMENT. Congrats on the anniversary.
x
P
adhocmom´s last blog ..You Have a Penis, Can I Have a Few Rights?
Happy Blog Anniversary!
I’ve been tempted to move to my own domain but I wouldn’t even know how to do it. I paid someone to set up my current blog because I was all ????.
Amber´s last blog ..Things That Make Me Go Huh
Thanks for the tips. I’m a newbie goin on 2 months. I enjoy it but don’t really take it to seriously. I am interested though on why WordPress is better than Blogger? I’m on Blogger and it seems so simple to me. Should I switch now?
Oh yea….
Mean people suck! They are the ones that need to get a life! If they don’t like…DON’T FREAKIN READ!
Megan´s last blog ..The Queen…In All Her Glory
Nah, you don’t need to at all. It just depends on where you want to go with it– it’s totally fine to stay forever on Blogger!
One more question…what is the difference of buying my domain name on Blogger or anywhere else? I mean…how could I get more traffic if I bought it on WordPress vs. Blogger?
Can you tell I know NOTHING about all this? I’m sure I can figure all this out on my own eventually. It’s okay if you don’t want to go in to it. :-)
Megan´s last blog ..The Queen…In All Her Glory
Wordpress.org (which requires you to also have a hosting acct through GoDaddy or Bluehost etc) has a lot more options for you to personalize your site, its tags and make it completely SEO friendly.
Wordpress.com— I *believe* is actually pretty much the same as Blogger.
But Maybe Jill knows better?
Complicated Mama´s last blog ..What does your Toddler’s Purse say about her? -Mine says “Mommy better watch me, I’m gonna be a handful”
Yes, you need WordPress.org. The other is no better than Blogger.
happy blogaversary…or however the heck you spell it!
xo
melissa´s last blog ..Bloggy Branding Bullshit…
Happy Blog-anniversary Jill!
Great tips and you are spot on with all of them! … wish I had these tips when I started too.
You truly are a veteran blogger and an inspiration to SO many (including myself).
PS- who left that comment?? I will hunt them down I tell you! HUNT— THEM— DOWNNNNN!
Complicated Mama´s last blog ..What does your Toddler’s Purse say about her? -Mine says “Mommy better watch me, I’m gonna be a handful”
And you are too sweet. I dunno know about the comment. Some prick.
Great post! Happy Anniversary to you! I just realized my 2-year mark is fast approaching.
I’m still hesitating on taking the domain name plunge. I’ll probably be the last kid on the block to do it.
threeundertwo´s last blog ..Makes My Monday: Superior
Happy Blog versary! Haven’t purchased my own domain–perhaps with time.
Loved this post though.
i have lasted for a year I think, but when I first started my posts were REALLY lame. i think i have quite improved since then.
I started with an O. One CLuttered Brain. OR One vlogging mama on wordpress.com.
NUTS.
Ahh well. I’ll work my blog name with what I got.
Twitter helps a TON in promotion. That and blogger conferences. Someday, I’ll have 60-70 comments on a blog!
WOW!I am in awe.
One Vlogging Mama´s last blog ..Heck yeah! It is FRIDAY!
I can’t even believe that someone wrote that nasty comment to you. Clearly they are not a parent and if they are they only have one child who listens to everything they say!!
Sadie at heyMamas
Sadie at heyMamas´s last blog ..Brunch
Wow…2 years of straight blogging! I think mine’s technically been around a little over a year…but not consistent enough to actually have an anniversary yet. Wish I’d read your advice about blogspot before I started really investing more time in the blog again this year.
If you buy your own domain, do you also have to know how to set up your own website? I’d love to be “indpendent,” but until my kid can lay on his back for longer than 5min. w/o thinking he’s falling and Freaking out, not sure I have enough time to learn web design!
Domesticated Gal´s last blog ..The Oscars…aka…How to Gain 2 Pounds in 3 Hours
You can have someone help you set it up and changing things around is super easy. There are lots of templates out there– just google which platform you’re on!
Awesome post :)
Would you believe I’ve been blogging for almost 6 years?
Priscilla-wheelchair Mommy´s last blog ..3-8 Mingle
Awesome tips, Jill. It’s so sad that we start out so many things in life (like blogging and parenthood….) completely naive, and only learn those lessons after it’s too late to benefit.
Lolli´s last blog ..Bloggy Boot Camp Top 10
Happy Blog Anniversary! So glad I found you! :-) Have a great week!
Pres. Kathy´s last blog ..Some projects I have been working on
I would love my own domain, but hubby would never condone it. I’d probably have to have 500 followers before I could talk him into it and -that- is never going to happen. Because of number two— I’m not PR friendly. I don’t do giveaways or any of that business and I just know that unless I do I won’t get a big following. Everyone wants an incentive. Seems like reading just isn’t enough of one, they have to be winning something too. :( Makes me sad.
And I can’t believe that comment! I would never tell anyone they’re a bad mother! You just don’t know anyone situation, no matter how often you read their blog or not, to say that sort of thing. Wow. Thank God for the option to moderate/delete. How bitchy.
Oh! I wish I had read this before starting out. I have been blogging for about a year, and there is a ton I wish I could go back and change!
Happy Blogaversary!
Cheryl´s last blog ..I did it! I conquered Bloggy Boot Camp!
Happy Anniversary!
Great Post!
i’m gonna be thinking of the that start the blog with “a”…Too later for me too bought my url this year :)
Happy Blogaversary! Great tips you listed.
Renaming my blog ‘A Luke, I am Your Father’.
Seattledad (Luke, I am Your Father)´s last blog ..Life and Taxes
Happy Anniversary! Amazing how much you have done in just 2 short years! You’re a ROCK Star!
Wish I had known that who alphabet thing WAY back when, considering my blog starts with a “w”. Oh well. What’s a mama to do?
SO great getting to meet you in Baltimore!
debi9kids´s last blog ..One Time, at Bloggy Boot Camp….
Happy 2nd anniversary. I guess I started out correctly somewhat (1,3,6). But my original intention was simply to share my family photos with my family members and friends who refuse to use FB, but it grew into a blog simply because I felt like I always had something to say. I work full time and am working on my master’s so I don’t have much time for my blog but I try to update several times a week. I feel like I would have a lot more traffic if I actually did one or two updates per day. So maybe I would add #11 saying that update blog frequently to keep up with the traffic.
Congratulations Scary Mommy!
Thank you for openly and candidly sharing all of that stupid, trivial, wonderful stuff with us all!
A “special” place in hell, huh?
Well, when you say it like that… :)
Love your layout! Gorgeous :)
Peace ~ Rene
Not The Rockefellers´s last blog ..thirst quencher
Happy Blog-a-versary! Great meeting you this weekend at Bloggy Boot Camp.
Congrats on your anniversary.
Great tips.
angie´s last blog ..{A little letter to my laptop}
This is some great advice. I wish I could go back in time and read it to myself before I started my blog.
Mocha Dad´s last blog ..Demi Lovato and The Jonas Brothers: A Concert Review From a Dad’s Perspective
Congrats on 2 years! I found your blog recently and somewhat follow on Twitter as well. I just don’t really “feel” Twitter, though. Maybe I don’t get it.
Do blogs have to have ads and product reviews to get traffic? I’m avoiding monetizing mine (and it’s on blogger) because I’d rather it be about the content vs. ad clutter. And I work in advertising – imagine that.
I’d love to get traffic like you do… but I also don’t know if I’m interesting enough. I’m enjoying my blogging experience. And I’m totally overwhelmed at the same time. Thanks for this post.
-Julie
blog: http://three-moms-in-one.blogspot.com/
Julie K. ´s last blog ..Monday Monday. La, La, La, La, La…
No, they don’t need ads at all to get traffic. In fact, you really need traffic in order to get the ads. So, just write the way you want to and people will come!
A great post–and yes, one I wish I would’ve read sooner. I’m just getting ready to jump the Blogger ship to WP–fingers crossed. Always enjoy your posts. (And PS–my stomach lurched reading the comment from that internet troll. Cowards hide behind anonymity. ) Thanks for the great insights.
denise´s last blog ..A Divine LIFT–My Interview with Kelly Corrigan
Great article. Good things to think about. I’ve only done one thing right so far though and that is beginning my blog with a “C”. ;)
I never would have guessed that you were only blogging 6 months longer than me. Where you following blogs for a lot longer. When I started reading your blog you already seemed to have such a huge following.
It was so terrific to meet you this weekend. I look forward to seeing you again at BlogHer!
JulieBouf´s last blog ..Letting it all hang out – Part 2
Alloha ~ thanks to @SITSGirls for letting me stumble you
Happy Anniversary ~
Wish I’d known my exact date when I started my blogging career wahaha
the only ONE thing I’m sure about is WORDPRESS are the best ;)
Great ideas! I started on Blogger and won’t be switching now so I definitely agree with choosing carefully before you begin. I love meeting other bloggers IRL, it is so nice to connect with those that get you. Silly me had my blog labeled “A Box of Chocolates” which put me right up there and of course I went and switched it to Mel’s Box of Chocolates. Was going for more personal, but just realized I bumped myself down the list!!
Mel
Mel @ A Box of Chocolates´s last blog ..Don’t Forget the Kids – Census 2010
Excellent post, and congrats! I could only hope I am as successful of a blogger as you are after 2 years! And that comment, the terribly rude one—awful!!
First of all, that cake looks so good.
Second, great post. I really need to remember that blogging is supposed to be fun, and not feel like work.
Third, I totally started my blog with the letter A and never realized until now how great that is.
And fourth, happy anniversary!
Allison´s last blog ..Flax Seed Bread, Whole Wheat and Wheat Germ Bread
HAPPY FREAKING BLOGVERSARY LOVED ONE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
You’re pretty damn swell. (And not just because you linked to me. Hee!)
xoxoxoxooxox
Loralee´s last blog ..Far Away Face Girl
Congrats. You’re a blogging veteran these days! (And I hear you on the S… LOL)
SquiggleMum´s last blog ..Learn To Sing – Sing To Learn
Congrats!
Totally agree with #5. It’s not fun to delete comments — especially if you’re just starting out and comments are hard to come by. But some comments are inevitably going to cross the line. You shouldn’t feel obligated to approve/publish comments like those.
Nancy´s last blog ..Namestorm #6 – Baby Names for Sports Lovers
Happy Blog-a-versary!!! Jeeze I never thought to keep track of how many posts I have done or how long I’ve been blogging. And where were you when I first started? I could have used your advice then! =)
Love what you write, and can’t wait to read more and more and more!
Erin´s last blog ..Parking Ducks
When I was deciding between Big Piece of Cake and THE Big Piece of Cake…yeah.
But I have a question. Why does WordPress get you more traffic and money and opportunities. Just curious since I use Blogger and don’t really know what the difference is other than more control over your format. My blog anniversary is in June and I’m still such a newbie!
It’s just much more SEO friendly. So, if you write a post about baking the best birthday cake, for example, there is a better chance that it will show up sooner in searches. Leading to more traffic and because of that, opportunities. More traffic = more pageviews = more potential money.
Happy Blogaversary! Awesome post! Great points and advice…I am 4 months in and obsess over everything and have meltdowns now, is this a little premature? Thanks so much for sharing!
Yours is a blog I’ve admired for a while now, so it’s always great to hear feedback from a veteran.
The Pursuit of Mommyness´s last blog ..5 Blog Post Mommy Must Reads
Rats, I have an awesome blog idea but it’s at the end of the alphabet! Happy blog-aversery!
Safire´s last blog ..QOTW: Divorce and Multiples
You’re freaking old. That must make me a pretty good friend because I still think you are funny and hawt and damn entertaining even though you are practically 82 in blog years.
God help me if we are still doing this in another 2 years. By then, I will be expecting for us to have annual spa trips together.
xoxo
Mayhem and Moxie´s last blog ..Doing Blog Conferences Right: A Helpful Guide
I’m coming up on my first, and I appreciate your frank hindsight. It’s been interesting…
I can only hope that I have as many loyal followers as you do at two years! I’m glad you kept going…
KellieS´s last blog ..Bucket List, Brain Training, and Beautiful Women
Congrats on two years!
I love your list, especially the alphabetical bit, said The Shopping Mama with a T. Clearly I should have been A Shopping Mama.
Kate @ The Shopping Mama´s last blog ..Tutu Pour Mon Deux Tutu Shirt Review + Giveaway
Great list especially since I am just 2 months into my blog. While I feel for you with the “S” I feel worse for myself with my “W”. Giggle.
Why is wordpress better? I’d love to know more about that…The Curious Cat…hmm…’T’ – screwed on that one aren’t I? Oh well…I still get enjoyment out of it all so…but maybe if I was doing this whole thing for a professional organisation I’d bear this advice in mind. Thanks! You obviously are a wise guru – by the looks of your comments! :) And happy 2nd birthday! xxx
This is a great post that sums it up! http://www.mamakatslosinit.com/2009/12/tutorial-time-wordpress-vs-blogger/
First, congratulations on your 2 year anniversary! I hope to make it that long!
Second, this post is what I love about Blog World and the wonderful bloggers I’ve “met.” Their generous spirit. You were so kind to share your experiences and advice. Not every blogger is like you (surprise, surprise) — but that’s why I’m here, reading you and not them.
Jane´s last blog ..Hey, I Can Do That! Or Can I? Wait. Scratch That…Or Will I?
Such great advice! I wish i would have thought about the blog name. Mine is so boring now. I didn’t have any idea what blogging would turn into for me. I agree about the soap commercials also. Truth be told, i get sort of annoyed when i go to visit a friend and they are toting something… i love how you do it at your other blog. you rock!!!
*gasp*
Mean people, suck. You, however, do not.
Love this list and reading your words of wisdom. I’ve only been blogging for about 6 months, but I’m glad I somehow knew to do some of these things. Like use WordPress and buy my domain. And start my blog with the letter “A”. Good to know I’m doing a few things right!
-Aimee
Aimee @ Ain’t Yo Mama’s Blog´s last blog ..Mental Monday: In The End
I, for one, am glad you are a blogger! I can’t even believe anyone would put such nasty comments on your blog!!! Remember the old saying, if you an’t say something nice… DO NOT take any of those nasty comments and give them a second thought!!!In a face to face situation do you have to find manners even if you don’t agree with the other person?! You are a great mother and don’t ever let those unkind people gt the best of you! Just look at how many positive comments you already have on this post.
Happy 2nd blogaversary! And thanks for the great advice. I’m six months into my blog experience now and I appreciate the tips from a veteran.
Danielle from A Few of My Favorite Things´s last blog ..Your Lucky Day {GIVEAWAY}
Good List. And good tip on the A thing. Problem is I really like my blog name and because I put “the” in the front, I’m WAY down there! Oh well! Happy Blogivesary!! :D
Elaine´s last blog ..Happy {Laundry} List
Congrats on two awesome years my friend – you’re amazing! So glad I met you this year, and discovered your blog! Always fun to read.
Now, should I really move to WordPress? But my comments will all go away, and my followers… I cannot handle the thought of that!!!!!!
Loukia´s last blog ..I can see clearly now
You don’t NEED to at all, but it is fun over here. And you shouldn’t lose comments or posts. But, I think you can totally live a long and happy life in Blogger. :)
Wow, you have kicked butt in 2 years!! Congrats and Happy Anniversary. These tips are fantastic. I have been dragging my heals to buy my domain…not sure why. I guess the thought of transferring everything gives me anxiety and I don’t want to shell out any cash. I should just GO for it! You are awesome and sooo appreciated! Thanks for all the advice. Cheers.
Jodi´s last blog ..Princess & Knight 3rd Birthday Party!
Congrats on two years of blogging! I’m about to celebrate one year, and I mourn the memories I didn’t blog before starting it. I made the “mistake” of starting with Blogger and cannot bring myself to change. I’ve put a lot of work into the site I have and sweet-talked my way into free artwork, so… Happily, seems Blogger has noticed it’s been losing people to WP in droves and has been making some changes. Just today I learned there’s now a gadget to create static pages, so I went right to it to clean up my sidebars a bit (though not enough). I’ve also got another “S” name, and a made-up word at that. I love that it’s creative and on-target with my general theme, but it’s difficult to pronounce and spell–but makes a fantastic scapegoat for my less-than-stellar traffic. I’m still waiting for someone to tell me how to promote effectively without feeling like a jackass. :)
Deb´s last blog ..Bullsh*t duty
Congrats on two years!! Love your blog, you are one of the bloggers that I have learned the most from. Keep up the great work :)!
helen´s last blog ..Journaling For Fun
Congrats on your two year blog anniversary! Great advice, and I’m so sorry you’ve had to deal with mean people. You’re one of the nicest bloggers out there – those jerks should just be ignored!!!
christy´s last blog ..On missing my love…
You and your advice rock! Thank you! I’m so excited to know I will be a veteran in a mere seven months.
I’m on WP too…do you have specific advice on increasing exposure, etc? What are your thoughts on the “possibly related links” that you can have auto-generate after your posts? I ok’d that option at first, but it looked cluttered and started to irritate me.
Liz
Liz @ Peace, Love & Guacamole´s last blog ..Growing pains
Just realized that sounded like I hadn’t read your other very helpful posts. I have and they are great. :) Mostly I was wondering about some of the WP-specific options offered, but perhaps I should get my butt over to the WP help section…And then the twitter bandwagon!
Liz @ Peace, Love & Guacamole´s last blog ..Growing pains
I thought the same things about Related Posts. I tried them all and they were totally cluttered looking. Drove me crazy. But they are good for pageviews!
I relate very much to #9 this week. I felt myself getting stressed out about posting. I have a lot of post ideas written down but no time to actually type them up. I finally got one up tonight but it wasn’t even one I had written down it was something funny that happened tonight. Anyway, it made me think I am not doing this for a job. It is for fun and I need to have fun with it. I think it is so easy to get caught up in the numbers/stats of it.
But this was a great post. Thank you. I stumbled it for ya! Oh and tweeted it ;)
This Mama Works It!´s last blog ..Real Men Buy Tampons For Their Wives!
Happy 2nd year! How quickly it flies!
Great list of advise, too. Where were you 5 years ago when I started my blog…and then 3 years ago when I started it again?
Krystyn´s last blog ..Mommy and Me Monday-The 3rd Edition
Damn it! I did this thing all wrong, didn’t I? Well, except for the jealousy part. I’m awesome at that. Oh, and I’m not bad at making friends with people who are gorgeous and sweet and smart and fun-ny. I posted a pic of us at Bloggy to prove all the above…hope you don’t hate it:)
parenting BY dummies´s last blog ..Am I a Dumb Mom Blogger?
Happy Blogversary. Here’s to 40 more.
DCUrbanDad´s last blog ..I am for sale
I love your blog! Thanks for the advice. That nasty email made me pause…I can’t believe someone would be that offended to write such an message.
Mrs.Mayhem´s last blog ..Enjoying The Warmth
As a new blogger I LOVE this! It took me about 3 months to settled on a name for my blog– so glad I chose Adventuroo without really meaning to be an “A” blog name.
I’d also add to categorize and tag from the very beginning! Makes it much easier than going back and doing it!
Melissa (adventuroo)´s last blog ..Wordless Wednesday: The ubiquitous “showing off my kids” pictures
YES! That is such a good point– I so wish I’d done that from day one.
I can’t wait until I am seasoned after one year of blogging. Hope it’s not curry or tarragon. In celebration I will marinate my self in a nice Pinot Noir!
Stacey H.´s last blog ..Sandra Bullock’s Oscar Speech Sets the Bar High for Moms(3.10.10)
Wow, 2 years. Mine is coming up next week I believe. That link to what to expect at the 1st year is hilarious. We really do go through some ups and downs and doubts after doing it for so long.
Congrats. It’s been a pleasure reading you for so long. And that nasty comment back in 1/10 – I don’t recall that. Yikes.
Live.Love.Eat´s last blog ..Veggie for Your Thoughts?
PS–Do you have a specific place you recommend to buy a domain?
Jodi´s last blog ..Princess & Knight 3rd Birthday Party!
I’ve used Go Daddy, but I think they’re all pretty much the same!
I just celebrated 5 years of blogging last week; when I started, I was a newly wed who didn’t understand blogging. I treated it like a diary — which wasn’t a good move since, as a child, I was never able to keep a diary going more than a month or so.
Finally, though, I “got it.” Two years ago, I started really “blogging” For me — recording stories, the fun times, the bad times, and everything in between.
How I WISH I’d known what I was getting into — things would be different.
But, “Que Sera, Que Sera.”
(at least, that’s what I’m telling myself as I start the process of moving from Blogger to WordPress . . . I can build followers/readers back up, right? Surely moving won’t cause a total loss of readership. (so nervous!))
Rachel´s last blog ..Is It Ever "Right" To Have An Affair?
I didn’t see any men posting but I thought I’d just tell your previous commentator about name domains. hostgator is good I think you can like 5 for the same price. I haven’t checked lately but I do know they have a nice affiliate prograhttp://www.scarymommy.com/starting-a-blog/m where you make a few bucks.
Jake Jacob´s last blog ..Part One: Trends in Social Media for the Coming Year
Congratulations on your 2 year anniversary! Purchasing my .com name is top on my need-to-do-list! Thanks for the insight:)
maryleigh´s last blog ..Divine Re-Design on My Heart
Hmmmmm. I suck at taking advice.
Well. Congrats on two years. I don’t quite know how long I’ve been at it. I do know that it has been very rewarding. That I’ve met oodles of like minded folks. That there are so many who appreciate a well placed F-bomb. And that I don’t now or ever plan on making a single red cent off of it.
Cheers!
cristin´s last blog ..It’s Called A Sense Of Humor, You Should Get One, They’re Nice.
Thanks for the info. I am contemplating the switch to wordpress just afraid to dive into it just yet. Congrats on a successful two years!
I stopped by because of the chicken salad recipe and stayed for the fun posts and handy tips! Also for a quick minute I thought the name of your blog was “Scarry Mommy” and I was confused and a little scared… : ) Thanks for the recipe and fun read!
ModernSauce´s last blog ..SPF gloves and poncho.
I can’t thank you enough for your generosity in sharing all of this wonderful and valuable advice. My and my fledgling little blog thank you. I find myself visiting your site multiple times a day to soak up your words of wisdon. If you are getting more hits than usual that would be me. 8D
I am working with Blogger right now and have just bought my domain name. I can’t believe it was so cheap. Here in NYC a sandwich is more than that domain cost me. I am waiting for the transition, as Blogger calls it to be done with and then I plan to move to WordPress on your terrific advice.
I was even more pleased this weekend to see that you made it into the Times. Kudos to you. I was so excited to see your name their and I immediately called my mom and told her that you were my blogging guru and to run out and get the paper. OK…now I am gushing. Thank you again and I will be back tomorrow. Peace,
Jeanie
Jeanie´s last blog ..My New Favorite Show!
I’ve just purchased a domain using a new blog name (Manic Mommytasking) and am setting up my blog on WP Thesis and plan on importing my old blog from Blogger, my question is, how in the heck do I go about changing all of the “tags” created in Blogger and converting them to Categories / Tags in WordPress? As in, what would be the easiest or most-efficient plan of attack in your opinion??
Oh, I wish I could help you there! I never tagged anything when I was in Blogger so I didn’t have to worry about that. Try googling it? You can find the answer to pretty much anything there. :)
Oh yeah, I wish I had read this before I decided on my blog name and purchased the domain because M is pretty far down on that alphabetical list too, ha!
Charlotte´s last blog ..A Change Is Gonna Come.
This is perfect & just what I needed today. Thank you!
I am finally at the place of #2 and #3, although it sucks to get there. Because sometimes you DO have to promote soap & feel silly, but in a little bit, you’ll be doing stuff that you REALLY believe in. & that’s an awesome feeling.
and #5…so true. I write about my PPD. Skin would crawl if I posted half the stuff that was sent to me via Twitter or Email. It makes me want to vomit. But I finally realized the power of moderating assholes.
mwuah. You are the best.
Blair@HeirtoBlair´s last blog ..Better Living Through Modern Chemistry.
Thank you for having all this information… You seem like one of the nicest bloggers out there (not saying all you bloggers reading my comment are NOT nice – HI! I’M NEW HERE!). Thanks for the info. And I’m pretty annoyed that I TOTALLY could’ve started my blog with an A since my name is ALEX but I didn’t. For no apparent reason except I love the Mary Oliver poem: The Journey and named my blog after that. Bummer (although awesome poem)
Your blog name alone made me smile! Thanks for the great tips on the blogging world I am slowly navigating through. Sometimes it feels a little lonely typing in the dark :) Loved your photos of your children too. They made me miss my boys being little again (and I would trade a three year old grump for my almost fifteen year old’s hissy fits in a heartbeat!!)
that’s fantastic post. I actually like your writing, I infact linked up some of your guest posts on daily blog tips to my site, fully referenced of course, and I really like your blog.
Keep up the great work.
Linn´s last blog ..Back to the Blog
Wonderful post and happy anniversary!!!!
This is very generous of you to do, set up all these blog tips for us. I just began less than 90 days ago, and already there are days where I see how much more I have to learn. But, I’ve loved it so far. The favorite for me, is the inspiration I feel everyday, since I have a place to go with my thoughts. I love that part of it.
I love your blog. I think it looks neat, clean, organized, professional…does it sound like I have a bit of a girl crush going on? Cuz I do…one hour old, true, but the feelings are real, nonetheless.
Thank you for the blog tips section, so very nice of you.
Alexandra´s last blog ..Verrry Interesteeng….
So, yeah…I’m kinda screwed since my blog name starts with an ‘S’! Oh well. =)
Great post.
And who was the loser that posted that horrid comment? Sheesh. And I thought MY recent mean, anonymous comment was bad…ouch!
Thanks for the pointers. Although, I’ve heard several times that WordPress is the way to go for making $$, I have never really heard “why”?
MandyP @ Suburban Stereotype´s last blog ..Friday Follow
Point number 5 is one of the hardest, yet most crucial lesson to learn. I was completely devastated when I got my first negative comment and it almost made me quit – it’s just like fear of rejection in sales. But I’ve since learned that if you DON’T get negative comment is when you really need to worry.
But even so, I’ve always wondered why people have the need to verbally abuse others.
Andre “Brain Fitness Coach” Auerbach´s last blog ..The Psycholog of Coaching
man, i’m pretty much doomed then. i haven’t blogged in ages AND i started mine with a Z. a freaking Z! oi. now, if only i had something to write about that wouldn’t get me in serious trouble with so many people. *sigh* OR didn’t bitch about the co-worker constantly.
zeghsy´s last blog ..This is so NOT fair
You are my hero.
Pretty sure I already told you that.
Thank you for sharing these tips, we newbies really appreciate the fact that you are willing to share what you have learned.
Dumb question: where (or from whom?) do I purchase my domain? Who can be trusted?
I bought mine from GoDaddy, but you can purchase them in a bunch of different places. And, you don’t need to host with where you purchased from.
Crap. My blog starts with S, and I’m on blogger, and I don’t own my domain. Wish I came upon this list a year ago. :)
TornadoTwos´s last blog ..Note to self
wow. I know this is an old post, but I wish I would’ve read it a week or so ago. Great advice. You are so the cool kid at school.
donna reed´s last blog ..I hated high school the first time around
Hi, I found your blog on SITS Girls. First congratulations on your 2 years, and thanks for all the great information on blogging.
Nancy/SpicieFoodie´s last blog ..Camarones Al Mojo de Ajo- Mexican Garlic Shrimp
I love your blog tips. I am so glad I found your website through SITS! Happy SITS day!
Thank you for the wonderful tips!! I found you via Twitter and I’m so glad I did! I recently started my own blog http://beautifulspitup.com/ amd found your advice super helpful. I started on blogger (actually it’s still live although no longer in use) and just today I moved to WordPress and purchased my domain. Love your blog and hope to keep mine going too….I’m at 2 months and counting!!
Eve´s last blog ..Oh Bumbo!
Hi! I am interested in starting a blog, and I have taken your advice in starting it with the letter “A”. You mentioned to start a blog on WordPress, yet you did not distinguish between wordpress.com and wordpress.org. Which site are you referring to? Also, I want my title to be catchy with a picture and cool font.. How can I do that? Thank you for your blog- as an aunt to 2 rambunctious boys (nearly 6 yrs and 4.5 yrs old) I enjoy reading and laughing along with many of your posts- as do all my mommy friends and family…
Hi! wordpress.org- you really need it to be self-hosted to have some options. As far as the cool font/image, start googling free fonts and stock photos- there is a ton out there!! And, thanks!! :)
p.s. you mentioned buying your domain… so if I were to do that, would I do that first then start my blog on wordpress? Thank you for your advice!! :)
Buy the domain and then start the blog- easier that way.
hello, it’s me again! I am not sure whether or not I should apologize for asking so many questions or thank you for all your help, so consider this email a lovely merging of the two. I have now purchased my domain name, and have downloaded wordpress 3.0.1, however I have absolutely no idea WHAT I am supposed to do with that. It looks like a lot of html code or something.. So, then I looked on the website and it suggests for one to utilize a web hosting website if you don’t know what to do with all that code (that’s me!).. So, after purchasing my domain name, would you suggest that I go through a web hosting site or just set up my account on wordpress.com. Any suggestions, or insights? Thank you thank you thank you. I can’t express my gratitude for your help in this. I make a mean batch of peanut butter chocolate chip cookies, if you would like a thank you in baked goods… :)
Peanut butter chocolate chip cookies sound really good.
Honestly, I’m pretty much no help here– I had someone else set all of my stuff up for me, so I am clueless. I bet if you google how to set up a WP blog you can get really good directions! Or, get in touch with Jen from Blue Yonder Designs- link is at the bottom of my site- she did all of my techy stuff. :)
Michaela and Jill-
Before I sound kinda stalkerish and creepy, let me say that I subscribed to the comments for this post AGES ago and just happened to see this in my inbox. :-)
Anyway, sorry to butt in but I may have a tip for Michaela… when I set up my blog, I used this website immensely: http://www.becomeablogger.com. On their home page, they have free videos that show you EXACTLY how to set up your blog. I had no idea what to do before finding their site and I actually watched a video, paused it and went to do what they said and kept going back and forth until I got my blog set up. Anyway, I hope that helps!
You’re the best, Melissa! I hate not being able to answer questions well– thank you!!