Happy Two Year Blogiversary to The Shopping Mama!
Two years ago today I wrote my first little blog post about how much I like shopping for handmade things for my kids on Etsy. (Maybe not all that much has changed in two years?) When I started the blog I had no idea what it would become, and I certainly didn’t know how fulfilling it would be for me. It has really turned into a job, but a job that I LOVE and don’t know what I would do without – particularly at difficult times like now when my husband is deployed.
The last year has been a big one for me and the blog. Traffic has literally tripled in the year (Thank YOU!), I was awarded an amazing sponsorship to BlogHer (Thank you, Energizer!), and The Shopping Mama team has grown to five strong (Thank you Amy, Monica, Malia & Shannon!). It’s been really amazing having some good friends contribute to the blog – and they do so much more than write posts: they’re smart, creative and a great sounding board for all my crazy ideas.
But, I have to say the coolest thing that’s happened in the last year was totally behind the scenes – and much bigger than the blog. I wrote a Tutu Pour Mon Deux review and giveaway last spring and mentioned that the owner Erika’s daughter had heart surgery at the Children’s Hospital of Boston. Turns out a reader, and friend from college, read the post shortly after learning her son had to have heart surgery at Children’s Hospital of Boston. The reader contacted Erika and turns out her daughter had the same surgery performed by the same doctor my friend’s son was scheduled to have. They emailed back and forth and Erika was a great resource and support for my friend. I know I didn’t really have much to do with it, but I do get chills knowing I had a hand in getting them in touch and making my friend’s experience at a very scary time a little better.
There are big things in store for the third year of The Shopping Mama, including behind the scenes business moves (like forming an LLC and applying for Trademark protection!) and hopefully entertaining and enjoyable posts for all of you. I know the this year is going to be even bigger and better, and I hope you’ll join us for the fun!
Andrea
January 23, 2011Congrats on your two year anniversary! I’ve had mine for 4 and haven’t had near the amount of success — you should be so proud of what you’ve accomplished!
Shop with Me Mama
January 23, 2011Happy 2 years!!!! Yeah
amy
January 23, 2011I’m so proud of you Kate. Your dedication and desire to make TSM all it has become is so inspiring! Can’t wait to see what year 3 holds!
Aleksandra
January 24, 2011Congrats on the two years! I enjoy following your blog! I’m approaching my first anniversary – crazy how time flies.
Sarah
January 24, 2011Congrats on a big milestone! I always look forward to seeing your latest finds.
Melinda
January 24, 2011happy bday and good luck on year 3
Felicia
January 27, 2011Congratulations to you sweet lady! So glad to know you