One Year Ago I Started A Blog

It's true, after spending years reading other people's blogs and contemplating if I could do the same, one year ago today I started Carey On Lovely. And oh how the year has flown.

I'm guessing many of you may not realize that it's been so long. In fact, I didn't tell anyone about the darn thing until June. When I started, I wasn't sure I would have the time to do it well or the mental inventory write when not at work (I spend about half my day writing on the job). But even those few short weeks taught me a lot, so you can imagine what I've learned in the past year.

Passion
We're so encouraged when we're young to have hobbies and extracurricular activities, but it is all too easily lost in adulthood. Jobs and real life happens, making routine inevitable. After a year of wedding planning in my spare time, I realized that I had nothing to do after work or on Sundays. I needed to engage my mind in something that I loved.

I'd been passionate about cooking since I was a child and kept up with it as an adult. I mean, who doesn't love a delicious meal? But to start writing about that felt scary. Would it feel like work? But most of that melted away, because you know what? I was doing something I LOVE.

When you're working from passion, it doesn't feel like work. Its the freedom of doing something because you want to, not because you have to. In the safety of this space, you can express yourself without boundaries. Its okay if it fails, you're just having fun -- no pressure. We have so many things in our lives that must succeed, let your hobby be something that doesn't have to.

Challenge
If you can't try something new, what's the point? I was never a strict follower of recipes, but often looked to my favorite books and blogs for guidance. I definitely still do this (but vow to always tell you when I do), but Carey On Lovely has challenged me to CREATE.

I have a new view of the food world... there is inspiration everywhere. That had always been there, but I have you guys to share it with. Now there's a reason to take risks and really push myself.You guys are the ones who challenge me.

Confidence
I have a job that requires a lot of confidence. You can NEVER let them see you sweat, no matter how badly things are falling apart. I had this part down, but composed-organized-PR-maven is a part to play. To put my real self out there for friends, family, coworkers and internet strangers was completely terrifying.

Would I be a strong enough writer? Would my pictures be good enough? And most importantly... would anyone even care? But you guys do. Every single click and comment is a pat on the back and your words of encouragement mean the world to this gal. It's all just made me realize, when you're doing something you love, people will listen.

I may have more deep thoughts this week, so bear with me. If I could have this blog child dig in to a cake shirtless, I would. You've come a long way in one year!