A year ago today, May 10th, I launched this blog and it’s been a memorable year. I’ve learned a lot about blogging, social media, and discovering my voice. Writing this blog has also helped me develop “new core memories”, to borrow a term from the movie Inside Out. I’m learning about the back end of website management, SEO (search engine optimization) strategies, and the other aspects of blog improvement and growth. In the world of blogging, today is called a “Blogiversary” and I thought it was a good opportunity to reflect on my first year of blogging and share what’s on the horizon for year two.
So how did this blog get started? True story — LadyBug Blog, or at least the idea to start a blog, began while we were driving to Disneyland one day in early 2015. My husband mentioned starting a blog as a way for me to combine my interests in traveling, photography, and social media into a creative outlet where I could share my passion to explore, inspire, and create with others. We started blog development including what type of blog and brainstorming names. I knew I wanted to write about Disney topics, but also wanted to have options to write about other travel and lifestyle topics. After several days/weeks of list making and vetting, we selected a name and the blog was ready for the next phase – website design and setting up the internet infrastructure.
Why ladybugs? There’s something about ladybugs that equates with happiness. With the exception of the disgruntled ladybug, Francis, in A Bug’s Life, ladybugs are generally characterized as happy and hopeful. Have you ever seen a large gathering or ladybugs in one place? The first time I saw a group of ladybugs was on a hike in sixth grade while at Outdoor School. The image of seeing so many ladybugs in one spot was memorable. Growing up I’ve always liked ladybugs and in many cultures ladybugs are viewed as a symbol of good luck. LadyBug Blog was selected as the name for this site to signify happiness and hope, and my belief in living every day with intention.
What have I learned after my first year of blogging? Like anything worth doing, blogging and blog development takes time and perseverance. Some of the things I’ve learned during my first year of blogging include:
- Developing the back-end of a website is intricate yet interesting.
- Determining the best ways to promote your website and blog takes patience.
- Growing my audience and community organically is preferred.
- Seeking out new things and places to explore because it could be a great blog post is energizing.
- Having supportive family & friends is integral to this blog’s success and growth.
Year 1 LadyBug Blog Highlights:
- Initial launch on May 10, 2015 (5-10-15)
- Updated look to www.ladybugblog.com website on Jan. 18, 2016
- Blog readers from 40+ states in the U.S.
- Blog readers from 40+ countries
- 85 new blog posts written during 1st year
Image from WordPress.com Stats for LadyBugBlog.com
Top Posts of Year 1:
- How to Bring Home Customized Souvenirs from Downtown Disney
- Should You Buy a Balboa Park Explorer Pass?
- Downton Abbey Series Finale Viewing Party Ideas
- Top 10 Mickey Shaped Foods at the Disneyland Resort
- TOP GUN 30th Anniversary – May 2016
LadyBug Blog featured on:
- DLR Prep School (All About runDisney Races)
- Balboa Park’s Instagram account for Earth Day
- Balboa Park Explorer Pass Twitter Feed (April 28, 2016)
- Old Sacramento’s Instagram account (April 17, 2016)
- Disney Bloggers Daily – Disneyland (July 19, 2015)
On the Horizon for Year 2:
- Expanded coverage of San Diego places, events, & activities
- Travel & day-trip ideas for Orange County, L.A. County, & beyond
- Disney-related posts
- DIY gift giving ideas
- Memory making ideas & photography tips
Thank you for being a part of the LadyBug Blog community during its first year!
Shares of my blog posts on your social media pages, walls, boards, and the like are much appreciated – Instagram, Twitter, Pinterest, Facebook, etc. I’m looking forward to bringing you posts about many more adventures and new things in year two!
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Disclosure of Material Connection: I have not received any compensation for writing this post. I have no material connection to the brands, products, or services that I have mentioned. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
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