Real Neat Blog Award

Guess what friends; I have been nominated for another blogging award. I am so happy that my blogging friend rniks24I14 nominated me.

According to the rules, I’m supposed to answer 7 questions. I will respond to the questions posted on https://rniks24l14.wordpress.com/2016/12/27/real-neat-blog-award/.

1. Why did I start blogging?

I have been journaling and writing for myself for many years until I stumbled upon blogging. I thought it would be great to share my life, passions, and love of writing with others.

2. Who do I love the most in my life?

My family as a whole they are important to me. My love extends beyond my immediate bloodline. I love ALL   people!!! We were left with one commandment, and it was to Love each other. What if you had no family? Would your love cease to exist?

3. Who is your oldest friend with whom you want to spend the most time?

I would also say myself… It’s important to me as I age to take inventory of my accomplishments and continue to re- evaluate myself. One of my fears is becoming stagnate. I want to reach all the goals I set out for myself and continue to grow as a person. I would hate to look back later in life and say… What if? I should have. I could have. If only I would have.

4. What are your extracurricular activities?

Writing, social media marketing, reading, cooking, shopping with my sister, continuing education. I would love to do more traveling in a few years.

5. In which country do I dream to live?

I have been to a few countries, but America is the place I want to be for right now. I always have wanted to live in Canada. So who knows, if our government can’t get their act together then Canada here I come.

6. What would I say about how the world treats women?

This question deserves a full post!!! (Laughing) It is definitely despicable the way women are viewed in American society. Despite the fact that women have come a long way from back in the 40’s and 50’s we are still not equal. Although, we also have to look at the way we present ourselves in society. When you offer sex as your self-image, then that’s what you will be seen as. When you sell yourself into oppression to the highest bidder than wear your chains with pride. If you are strong, independent and can carry the same load as your male counterpart than hold your head high and never fold. Society should and must treat us as equals, and we should all eat an equal serving from the same plate.

7. A few words to the person who nominated you.

Dear https://rniks24l14.wordpress.com,

I want to thank you for following my blog. It is a pleasure to accept your nomination for the “Real Neat Blog Award.” As I read through your acceptance after being nominated your words gave me insight into you as a person. There is nothing in life that you can not accomplish. You are on the right track! Remain confident and steadfast, and you will accomplish all of your dreams. The word “Can’t” should be erased from your vocabulary, and if anyone ever says otherwise, they are not worthy to be in your life. I wish you much success in your blogging and everything you set out to do in life. Always feel free to say hello!!! J

 

The envelope, please!!! My nominations are…

 

Solsbury Hill

 

Wendy Macdonald

 

Kristen Twardowski

 

Scribbled Verse

 

Congratulations to all the nominees. I look forward to reading your posts.

 

How You Decided Your Blogs Name?

I have been trying to keep up with the 30 Day Blog Challenge posted on “Life With Grace and Beauty”. Although, with work other writing commitments it has been quite difficult. Today’s topic is… “How You Decided Your Blogs Name.”

 

The title Live, Love, Share came naturally and is a mantra I hold dear. Here is a little insight into what it means to me.

Live because life has not always been a picnic for me. It has had its ups and its downs, but through it all, I always seemed to be optimistic. I live life to the fullest and appreciate each day because even in your darkest hour there is a glimmer of light. I want to share that light and encourage others to live and enjoy every moment.

Love is who I am. I like to spread the joy that is in my heart. A smile, an encouraging word, hugs, or a corny joke to make someone laugh are all symbols of love to me. In this cruel world, we live in today you cannot spread too much love. We need more of it!!!

Share is not about showing appreciation on social media. Unfortunately, that is the first thing that comes to mind for most people. Regarding my blog I share my love of writing, my views on different topics, my trials, and tribulations, things that make me happy and sad.

When it is all said and done, my blog is meant to be one that anyone can relate to. So far, I think I’m doing okay. I want to say “Thank You” to all who follow, like and comment on my blog.

Where in the World is Lydia?

“Hard work beats talent when talent doesn’t work hard.”

― Kevin Durant

 

Where have you been hiding? When is your next post? Is everything okay? The last two weeks has been a boxing match between talent and hard work. So far it has been a draw! Maintaining a work-life balance can be quite difficult. Juggling work and personal life are quite consuming. In my opinion; I manage pretty well considering! 

Work and the pursuit of…. More Work.

Most of my readers are old enough to remember the geographical game and show, “Where in The World is Carmen Sandiego?” Carmen traveled the world conspiring with crooks. I love being a virtual assistant, social media manager, and freelance writer it allows me to travel the world from the comfort of my home and network with entrepreneurs and fellow writers. I find enjoyment in being a gumshoe for startup’s, nurturing my client’s social media, helping them to develop their brand, watching the business grow, their baby becomes my child. They are often surprised and pleased by what I help them to accomplish. Needless to say marketing myself on Twitter, LinkedIn and freelance sites such as Upwork.com has been vital to keeping me busy.

Writing and a writer’s life.

My blog writing has been very limited, but my writing has not stopped. Before blogging, I did content and article writing for clients websites. Freelance writing is also a wonderful way to get recognized and make money. Although, lately I have been working on my memoir, fictional novel and compositions for Two Drops of Ink.  The literary blog voted one of the “100 Best Websites for Writers” for the second year in a row. Thanks to The Write Life for recognizing such a great site, team and all of its contributing authors. Guest blogging is also an awesome way to get exposure to the writing world. Two Drops of Ink is always accepting submissions.  I have so many ideas dancing around in my head, some have been jotted down, and some are begging to be released. It would take a lifetime to give birth to every idea or maybe quit my day job. So I devote at least two hours daily in need of releasing creative pressure.

Life at home.

We have been back home for two months. Well, at least I have! My dear Jimmy took a month off before heading back out. Which was not a part of the plan! That is the problem with passions. They can be an addiction. It is hard to live without or break free if it. Truck driving is his passion. Throughout the week he is out on the open road continuing his service to his country delivering freight and the weekends are for us. Our understanding the others need to do what we love for a living is what makes us work. Eight days to bond a month and four hours of phone time a day, I often miss my best friend. Two weeks ago we took a four day weekend together which was wonderful. Jimmy is my soul mate and so much more. In an attempt to make sure our beautiful union does not go lacking we promise to escape to the world where only we exist when we are together. It works.

For my friends and followers who have inquired about me, I say thanks. I am here. Grateful to have such caring friends and supporters. Honored that my clients trust me with their businesses.

Images courtesy of Pixabay

 

 

Tips for Marketing on Social Media.

“Social media spark a revelation that we, the people, have a voice, and through the democratization of content and ideas we can once again unite around common passions, inspire movements, and ignite change.”

― Brian Solis, Engage: The Complete Guide for Brands and Businesses to Build, Cultivate, and Measure Success in the New Web

 

I find the quote by Brian Solis regarding social media to be relevant on so many levels. Social media managers, marketers, gurus and enthusiasts can attest to the validity of the citation. When used a user sets out to rally others in hopes to gain customers, support their cause or to spread information; carried out the correct way they will grab the attention of many. Are you attempting to inspire a movement? Are you confused about how to market your brand? My advice to you is to keep reading. This post will briefly unveil the first steps of building your social media marketing skills.

Where should I start?

Start by asking yourself who is my customer base. Who is interested in my brand? The answers are indicative of where you should focus your marketing efforts. Although it does not stop there, these are just the first of many questions that will build your marketing strategy. Discovering your audience is imperative to gaining loyal followers versus fair weather connections.

Content is critical.

Your content should be compelling and sought after by your followers.  Make sure it is relevant and what’s trending for your brand and among your community of followers. This is where paying close attention to your followers is critical. They know what they want and will share what interests them. Once you have honed in on this information, share it frequently but be careful as not to become a nuisance. Cycle out data shared, you do not want your posts considered as spam.

Engagement or Relationship Building techniques.

The ability to engage your followers in conversation is excellent. These conversations can indeed prove to be fruitful. Moreover, relationship building is by far more valuable. Relationships built upon a common interest are more likely to be sustainable and increase your tribe. Genuine and consistent engagement with your fan base not only shows appreciation, but it makes your brand more personable.

Caring is sharing.

Show those who share your content you care by sharing their content in return. When you are marketing your brand, you can lose supporters by not being supportive. “One hand washes the other.” This saying is true in the world of social media. It can also be your golden ticket. Taking time to visit the pages of others and share their content is time-consuming, but it is worth it in the end. Devote a little time each day to ensure your social media success.

Social media marketing is not an easy task but is well worth the challenge. Research, patience, and persistence are qualities that are beneficial to marketing success on social media.

 

Images courtesy of:

QuietQuitter on Pixabay.com  

Johny_deff on Pixabay.com

Geralt on Pixabay.com

 

A Shout Out to My Blogging Comrades.

Many bloggers are avid readers and faithful followers of other blogs. As a blogger and social media coordinator, reading and commenting on the content of other bloggers is a natural part of my daily operations. I often share the posts of bloggers which consists of informative and entertaining information, authors of books and those who write about their lives. As we follow many blogs, there are some that we frequent more than others for one reason or another. Today, I will list some of my favorite blogs and a little information about the blog.

Two Drops of Ink a literary blog that provides informative writing advice for aspiring and established writers. I love that Two Drops of Ink is devoted to all types of literature. Publishing contributing posts from writers looking for exposure seasoned writers and authors. The vote of the 100 best websites for writers is evident when you visit the blog. Subscribe, contribute and ‘Like’ Two Drops of Ink on Facebook.

From Addict 2 Advocate the title of this site describes it’s primary purpose to the letter. Informative articles about dealing with addiction as an addict or a family member or a friend of an addict. As we all know addiction is a growing epidemic in the U.S. Marilyn Davis, counselors and recovering addicts take a serious topic and simplifies it for all people to grasp and understand. She sprinkles a little humor in her posts as well. You can join in on conversations via the blog or on Facebook.

A Disciples Journey, a new blog by Scott Biddulph.  It is about the trials and tribulations of living a good Christian life. He brings it to the forefront through scripture and referencing his personal struggles. This amazing writer shows his followers that we are not alone in our pursuit to live a life pleasing to God. Scott Biddulph is also the creator and editor of “Two Drops of Ink”.

Poetic Parfait is a ‘Poetic treat for the mind’. This site is great if you are a lover of poetry, looking for inspiration or wish to talk about poetry. She states, “This site is a haven for you to gain insights through poetry about love, connection, endurance, inspiration, health and more.” I bear witness that this is a true statement. Christy first started Poetic Parfait as therapy to get her through a dark period in her life. The site gave birth to two books. I have also had the pleasure of writing a piece for her When Women Inspire blog.

Opinionated Man/ Harsh Reality attracted me to the blog because of the title. I am very opinionated and reality at times can be quite harsh. I had to take the time to read what the ‘Opinionated Man’ had to say. J.C.C is a man that has a voice; he is not only opinionated, poetic and enlightening but inspirational. The opinionated man is worthy to be read.

On GobbledeGoox by Peter Giblett, you will find a mixture of posts about the subjects such as writing, social media, and blogging. The site is very informative. Peter shares his knowledge of these subjects in hopes of assisting others. If you are seeking advice as a blogger or social media, there are some informative articles to get you started.

Kitschy Chic Couture is for the ladies who love handbags. These are not just any handbag! If you are into handcrafted leather and fabric bags made with TLC, then this blog is an awesome site for you. Kitschy Chic blog takes you into the day and life of a designer. She also displays a wide variety of her creations.

Shehanne Moore is an author of ‘smexy historical romance’. Romance novels are not my first choice when I sit down to read, but the compelling story lines including jewel thieves and vikings are what grabs her readers. The unique way Shehanne Moore promotes and markets her blog and books is what sparked my interest. Every email notification of a blog post, interview, and new novel is a treat.

As bloggers, we should support each other. I not only love what I do, but I am also passionate about it. To pay homage to my craft, I support those who do what I do. Tweets, Facebook Likes, reblogging and comments are just a few ways I show love. Social media marketing/ management and writing are my main sources of income, but life is not always about the almighty dollar. How many writers or bloggers have you given a shout out lately? Where does your true passion lie? In the art or the pursuit to become the next famous author or a well paid blogger? The next time you sit down to create your next post, I encourage you to think about your fellow bloggers and take ten minutes to read and comment on their work.

 

Every new Reader is a Milestone to Treasure!

Useful Tips to gain new readers by Peter Giblett

Time to Write!!!

It has been a while since I have “Shared” from the heart with my followers. Lately, everything has been work related with a some tidbits of “Life”. Today, I decided it’s time to “sit on the couch”. LOL!!! I think I have said before blogging here is like therapy for me. My followers are like family and psychiatrist!!! When I visit the blogs of my followers, I have the ability to be educated, escape, collaborate and laugh.

I want to thank all of my followers for all the likes and tweets. Due to your support I gained another client for my virtual assisting business. As many of you know writing and virtual assisting are the love of my life. Writing is my first “Love”!!! I have had a void in my life over the last two weeks due to being so busy with virtual assisting. Writing satisfies my creative side and is very therapeutic for me, no matter what type of writing I’m doing. Don’t get me wrong… I love what I do! I just have not had a writing assignment which I love. Christy Birmingham of “Poetic Parfait” and “When women Inspire” requested a guest post for her “When Women Inspire” blog. That filled the void for a few days. Monday another dear friend Marilyn Davis, an editor and writer requested that I write about “Writing”. I’m currently working on that now and I’m having fun creating the post for the blog “Two Drops of Ink“. I guess what I really needed was to reach out to my followers. I felt as if I was neglecting my blog and my followers. Although, my following is small I cherish you all.

I’m happy to have such loyal and dedicated supporters. I’m also happy to share the news of a new client due to my followers. My business is growing and that makes me even more happy.