Embracing the Blogging Journey: My Double Liebster Award Recognition
When I first ventured into the vibrant and expansive world of blogging, I often encountered mentions of the “Liebster Award” circulating among new creators. Each time, I found myself wondering about its significance and whether my budding blog might one day be fortunate enough to receive such a cool recognition. The thought was always a distant, hopeful one, a testament to the aspiration many new bloggers share to be seen and appreciated within the community.
To my absolute delight, just a few months into my blogging adventure, the incredibly talented Ashley from The Grits Blog nominated me for this very award! I remember seeing the tweet early in the morning as I was preparing for work, and it instantly brought a huge smile to my face, turning an ordinary day into something truly special. That initial surge of excitement, however, was quickly followed by the usual hustle of life, and I confess that I kept forgetting to dedicate a post to it. The moment, though cherished, slipped from my immediate blogging calendar until, to my utter surprise and joy, I was nominated AGAIN, this time by the wonderful Jenni at Tales from Bottomley Cottage. This second nomination served as the perfect reminder and catalyst to finally celebrate these wonderful recognitions and share a little more about myself with my readers.
Both nominations came with a unique set of thoughtful questions, offering a fantastic opportunity for self-reflection and connection. I am thrilled to dive into all of them now, giving a glimpse into my world, my thoughts, and my journey.
Understanding the Liebster Award: A Nod to New Bloggers
For those unfamiliar, the Liebster Award is a truly special virtual recognition passed among bloggers, particularly those who are relatively new or just starting to find their voice in the vast online landscape. “Liebster” is a German word meaning “dearest,” “sweetest,” or “favorite,” and the award perfectly embodies this sentiment by helping new blogs gain visibility and foster a sense of community. It operates on a pay-it-forward system: a blogger receives a nomination, answers a set of questions from their nominator, and then nominates several other blogs, posing their own questions to them.
This award is more than just a badge of honor; it’s a powerful tool for connection. It encourages interaction, sparks creativity through engaging questions, and shines a spotlight on emerging talent that might otherwise get lost in the digital noise. For new bloggers, receiving a Liebster Award can be incredibly validating, signaling that their content resonates with others and that their efforts are appreciated. It creates a supportive chain of recognition, helping to build bridges between creators and strengthen the fabric of the blogging community, making it feel less like a solitary endeavor and more like a shared journey. It’s a beautiful tradition that underlines the collaborative and encouraging spirit of online content creation.
A Shoutout to My First Nominator: The Grits Blog
The Grits Blog by Ashley
Ashley’s blog, The Grits Blog, is an absolute treasure trove, brimming with a delightful mix of content that truly offers something for everyone. From engaging lifestyle posts to insightful personal reflections, it’s a space that consistently inspires and entertains. More than just a great blog, Ashley herself is an incredibly cool person, and I’m so fortunate that she has become my closest blogger friend. Having a reliable buddy like her, someone I can reach out to when blogging platforms decide to act up or when I simply need to bounce ideas around, has been an invaluable asset on this journey. Her support and camaraderie have made the sometimes challenging world of blogging feel far less daunting and infinitely more rewarding. Her nomination was not just an award, but a beautiful affirmation of our growing friendship and shared passion.
Ashley’s Engaging Questions & My candid Answers:
1) Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
This is one of those questions that always makes me pause and reflect deeply, as life often unfolds in unexpected ways. However, if I were to envision my path, I’d hope to be in a significantly advanced role within my career, perhaps holding an awesome promotion from where I stand today, still contributing my skills and passion somewhere within Tennessee state government. The idea of professional growth and making a more substantial impact truly excites me. On a more personal note, the question of whether I’ll have a child in five years is a bit more nebulous. While the thought crosses my mind, I’m currently embracing the present and not rushing into that significant life change just yet. The future holds many possibilities, and I’m open to whatever comes, striving for balance between career fulfillment and personal joy.
2) What’s your favorite makeup brand?
For a long time, my makeup collection was almost exclusively Mac. I mean, literally, everything from foundation to lipstick came from their counters. This loyalty stemmed from a transformative makeover experience I had years ago; the artist completely changed my perception of makeup, and I simply bought every single product he recommended. It was a comfortable routine, but more recently, I’ve really branched out and experimented with different brands. To my delightful surprise, I’ve absolutely fallen in love with Rimmel London! Their products offer incredible quality and innovation at a more accessible price point, proving that fantastic makeup doesn’t always have to come with a hefty tag. It’s been fun discovering new favorites and expanding my beauty repertoire beyond my initial comfort zone.
3) Coffee or tea?
Without a shadow of a doubt, coffee, all the way! My devotion to coffee is unwavering. I’ve honestly tried to cultivate a taste for tea countless times—at least a hundred different varieties and brewing methods—but nothing has ever managed to capture my heart quite like a rich, aromatic cup of coffee. There’s something about its comforting warmth, invigorating aroma, and the ritual of brewing it that makes it an indispensable part of my daily life. Whether it’s a strong espresso to kickstart my morning or a mellow latte for an afternoon pick-me-up, coffee is my constant companion and truly my preferred beverage.
4) What is your favorite part of the day and why?
Hhhmmmm. This really depends on the day of the week and my schedule. However, more often than not, my favorite part of the day is the morning. There’s a unique sense of quiet and calm that pervades the early hours, a peaceful stillness before the day truly gears up and the inevitable rush begins. I cherish those moments of tranquility, whether it’s enjoying a cup of coffee in silence, catching up on a bit of reading, or simply taking a few deep breaths before diving into the demands of work. My only wish is that I had more uninterrupted time to fully savor this peaceful interlude before I need to rush off and face the responsibilities of the day.
5) Do you enjoy partaking in frozen yogurt (or fro yo as I call it)? If so, what’s your favorite flavor and topping combination?
I absolutely LOVE fro-yo! It’s one of my ultimate treats. Normally, when I go to a restaurant, I’m the type of person who orders the exact same thing every single time. A part of me craves novelty and wants to try new dishes, but then the more practical, comfort-seeking part whispers, “You know what you like! Don’t risk disappointment.” However, this rigid rule goes completely out the window when it comes to fro-yo. With frozen yogurt, I almost always experiment with a different flavor combination, piling on a diverse array of toppings. I largely attribute this adventurous spirit to the fact that I can sample all the flavors before making a commitment, allowing me to indulge my exploratory side without fear of regret. It’s a delightful freedom!
6) If you could travel to any place in the world, right now, where would you go?
Egypt! Sometime relatively recently, the idea of visiting Egypt firmly planted itself in my mind, and ever since, it’s practically all I can think about. The allure of its ancient history, magnificent pyramids, and rich cultural heritage is incredibly powerful. I’m fascinated by the stories of pharaohs, the mysteries of the Nile, and the sheer grandeur of its historical sites. It’s not just a fleeting desire; Egypt has even earned a coveted spot on my “101 in 1001” list, signifying it as a truly significant goal I intend to achieve. The thought of standing before the Sphinx or exploring the Valley of the Kings fills me with immense excitement.
7) Which would you choose: great hair or perfect makeup?
This is a tricky one, but I think I’d ultimately have to go with perfect hair. While I appreciate well-applied makeup, I often feel like I can manage a decent makeup look on my own. However, achieving truly great hair, consistently, feels like an elusive art form I’ve yet to master. My hair often has a mind of its own, and despite numerous attempts and various products, I remain skeptical that I will ever consistently achieve that effortlessly perfect hairstyle. So, if I could magically be granted one or the other, perfect hair would undoubtedly save me a lot of daily frustration and give me a confidence boost that makeup alone often can’t provide.
8) If you had to decide between music or literature, which would you pick?
Literature, without a doubt! As a philosophy major in college, I’m practically obligated to choose literature. My academic background instilled in me a profound appreciation for the power of words, the depth of human thought expressed through writing, and the countless perspectives that literature offers. While I certainly enjoy music and find it incredibly impactful, the ability to delve into complex narratives, explore philosophical concepts, and connect with profound ideas through written works is something I couldn’t live without. Literature challenges, inspires, and offers an endless journey of discovery, making it my clear preference.
9) What’s your favorite guilty pleasure TV show?
I’m currently on an absolute binge-watching roll with the show “Don’t Trust the B—- in Apartment 23.” I honestly have no idea what prompted me to click on it when I stumbled upon it on Netflix, but it has turned out to be so delightfully dumb and incredibly fun! It’s the perfect blend of absurd humor and quirky characters that allows me to completely switch off and just enjoy some lighthearted entertainment after a long day. I’m almost completely through both seasons available on Netflix, and I’m genuinely sad that there isn’t more to watch. It’s become my go-to for a good laugh and a much-needed escape from reality.
My Second Nominator: Tales from Bottomley Cottage
Tales from Bottomley Cottage by Jenni
I can’t quite recall how I first stumbled upon Jenni’s lovely little blog, Tales from Bottomley Cottage, but I’m incredibly glad I did. It’s a truly wonderful dose of creative inspiration and chic aesthetics that brightens my feed. Jenni possesses an amazing talent for painting the most stunning watercolors – a medium I absolutely adore. Her artistry is captivating, and her work beautifully showcases her unique vision. Beyond her blog, she even runs her own charming Etsy shop, where you can find her beautiful creations. I highly recommend checking it out; you won’t be disappointed by the exquisite art she shares with the world!
Jenni’s Thought-Provoking Questions & My personal Insights:
1) Who is the most famous person you’ve ever met?
This is a fun one! I actually had the incredible opportunity to meet Barack Obama a couple of times when I was interning in Washington, D.C., back when he was still a relatively unknown Senator. It was before he truly rose to national prominence, and the atmosphere was certainly different then. Looking back now, considering his journey to the presidency and global recognition, I’d say he’s pretty famous, right? It’s quite surreal to think about those encounters and how significantly his public profile changed shortly thereafter. A memorable experience, to say the least!
2) If you could play any instrument, which would you play?
Without a doubt, I would choose to play the piano. The sound of a piano is inherently beautiful, capable of evoking such a wide range of emotions, from profound melancholy to exuberant joy. There’s a timeless elegance to its melodies, whether it’s classical compositions or modern pieces. Beyond just the auditory appeal, I also find the visual aspect of someone playing the piano incredibly graceful and captivating. There’s a certain artistry in the movement of the hands across the keys, creating intricate patterns of sound. Learning to play the piano would be a dream come true, allowing me to express creativity in a whole new dimension.
3) Where (& what) do you most often find yourself singing?
My primary concert venue is definitely my car! It’s where I feel completely uninhibited and free to belt out whatever tune is playing on the radio. But the singing doesn’t stop there; it often continues right after I get out of the car, carrying the melody with me into my next destination. Whatever the last song was that I heard and sang along to in the car is almost guaranteed to be the one I’ll be humming or quietly singing to myself until I get back behind the wheel. It’s a spontaneous and joyful habit, a little soundtrack to my daily movements.
4) What’s your favorite thing to do on a rainy day?
On a rainy day, my ideal activities involve a perfect blend of productivity and comfort. My absolute favorite things to do are catching up on photo editing, transforming raw images into beautiful memories, and indulging my culinary side by making something delicious in the kitchen. There’s something so satisfying about the cozy ambiance a rainy day creates, making it the perfect backdrop for creative tasks like perfecting photos or experimenting with new recipes. Whether it’s baking a comforting treat or preparing a hearty meal, these activities fill the home with warmth and provide a wonderful sense of accomplishment.
5) What’s your favorite childhood TV show?
While it might not be a traditional “TV show” in the episodic sense, I was utterly obsessed with ALL of the monthly Disney Channel Original Movies (DCOMs) throughout my childhood. Each new release was an event, eagerly anticipated and watched countless times. The DCOMs of that era truly shaped a significant part of my youth, providing endless entertainment and memorable stories. To this day, I still surprisingly know all the words to the theme song and many of the lines from “Zenon: Girl of the 21st Century,” which just goes to show how deeply ingrained these movies were in my formative years. They hold a very special place in my heart.
6) When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?
Ever since I was about ten years old, I had a very clear ambition: I wanted to be a lawyer. Who precisely put that idea into my head, I have absolutely no idea, but it stuck with me for quite a long time. This dream persisted through my early schooling, envisioning myself passionately arguing cases. However, sometime during college, this aspiration underwent a significant shift. I began to realize that law school, with its intense demands and specific curriculum, might actually be the death of my creative spirit, and more importantly, that I could achieve my desired impact and career goals without necessarily needing a formal law degree. This realization was quite liberating, allowing me to explore other fulfilling paths that aligned more closely with my evolving interests and strengths.
7) If you could live in one city for the rest of your life, where would you live?
This is an easy one for me! Without a doubt, I would choose Nashville. I absolutely adore living here; the vibrant music scene, the delicious food, the friendly people, and the charming Southern hospitality all combine to create an incredible atmosphere. It truly feels like home. However, Washington, D.C., would be a very, very close second. My experiences interning there left a lasting impression, and I deeply appreciate its rich history, diverse culture, and intellectual energy. Both cities hold a special place in my heart, but Nashville has that undeniable pull that makes it my top choice for a lifelong home.
8) What is your favorite thing about the blogging community?
My favorite aspect of blogging, hands down, is the community itself. When I first started my blog, I never could have imagined that making wonderful new friends would be such a significant and rewarding outcome. Through this platform, I’ve had the immense pleasure of connecting, chatting, and collaborating with so many incredibly wonderful, supportive, and inspiring people from all walks of life. The sense of camaraderie, shared passion, and mutual encouragement within the blogging world is truly special. It’s a testament to the power of online connections, proving that even in a digital space, genuine friendships and invaluable support networks can flourish. I am SO incredibly thankful for these unexpected and cherished relationships.
My nominations for the next round of the Liebster Award, along with a fresh set of questions, will be coming later this week. Stay tuned to discover more amazing blogs!