Today, I’m sharing memories of the beginning of this blog. Friday marked the 14th anniversary of my very first post.
If you’d care to read (or re-read ) it, the link to “This House Has My Heart” is here. From the time that I had even an inkling to start a blog, I knew the subject of my first post and what the title of that post would be.
But, what made me decide to begin blogging? I think there were two influencers: Ree Drummond (Pioneer Woman) was one. And a former co-worker and acquaintance of mine was also blogging at the time. She was a big help to me as I was starting. And looking back, even with her help, I’m surprised that I was able to put it all together.
One of the most difficult aspects was deciding on a name for the blog. I knew mine wouldn’t have a ‘theme’, that I just wanted to write about the everyday happenings in our lives. So “These Days Of Mine” seemed appropriate.
Little did I know that I would still be blogging after all these years. And, oh, the friends I’ve made! Many of them were fellow new bloggers. Several of those no longer blog, so we’re not in touch, but I often think of them. I became good friends with many bloggers, several I’ve met in person and, we’re now Facebook friends.
And my sweet friend, Pam, at Two Spoiled Cats.…. we email everyday and meet, along with our respective hubbies, once or twice each year. Pam began blogging around the same time I did. She blogs EVERY day, which I also did at first, but now I’m lucky to fire off three posts per week.
I’ve also been united/reunited with some long-lost family members, who found my posts because of a keyword connected to our ancestors and/or Bacon’s Castle.
For the boring stats: I’ve published 2,781 posts, and I have 1.42k subscribers. The vast majority of them must be very shy, judging by the small number of comments and likes. (Obviously, my reason for blogging isn’t for the number of reactions my posts get.) My posts have had a total of 235,839 views.
My favorite post was published September 22, 2011, (13 years ago yesterday). At the time, I subscribed to writing prompts each Thursday, and this post was written using a ‘template’ provided on that site. “Where I’m From” can be found here.
Motor Man has been supportive since the beginning, although I think I frightened him at how upset I got when things weren’t going well at first. And Marshall reads and comments on every post. They’re my ‘fan club’.
And thanks to all of you who are still along for this blogging journey of mine.
~These Days Of Mine~
these days of mine 
Congratulations and Thank you for bringing smiles from your life into ours – and the occasional tear. “Where I’m From” is probably my favorite too, although there are a lot that rank right up there. It’s hard to believe that it’s been 14 years. Looking forward to the next 14 years. It’s a blessing sharing life together.
Well my friend, blogging WAS how we met and I’m mighty glad of that. I too never EVER thought I’d blog for this many years but when you enjoy what you’re doing, it’s tough to stop. It doesn’t matter how many times you write during a week it matters what you’re sharing. You share your life – your past as well as your present…..and your family, hopes and dreams. It’s more “intimate” than my silliness (well…maybe other than SPARKS which is more intimate!). Anyway, I’m glad we met – I will ALWAYS be glad we met and I will always be your follower wherever you may go….blog or no blog!
Hugs, Pam
As a movie fan, I can say it’s always good to have an ‘origin story’ ; ) Almost 2,800 posts is an achievement, I’d say .. and I remember keeping track of your international readers when I was learning the ‘maps.’ .. I still have that somewhere ! Horses, beaches, barns, fences , flowers, family, sunrises and sunsets … and .. poetry … keep em coming !!
I don’t remember how many years ago that I started receiving your blog via email, but each one is important to read and reflect on. I don’t usually leave a comment because it is email. I just know when I see your address that something special is ready for me to see.
I have enjoyed your travels, stories, new friends, old friends, finds in antique stores or on the sands with the horses. I worry when I find storms are coming your way, or freezes, but I know you will find something beautiful to take a picture of and reflect on how wonderful life is.
Thanks for sharing your loves, joys, family and life, surprises in the back yard, out the window of the house or of the car. Stories and pictures of your growing up in Virginia as we realize that our families had the same values as yours.
Your friend – Susan, The Star Lady
I personally I’m so glad you started blogging and hope you continue for many more years. You certainly have a talent for it and have such wonderful and interesting subjects that I enjoy and and love to see pictures with. I could not remember but I commented on your very first blog and I read it again and loved it. You have truly blossomed in this field , my dear friend. You will have a very sad and disappointed fan!!!!!!! Congratulations on your 13 wonderful years ♥️🎉🥂
Congrats on fourteen years. That is a long time. I’ve been blogging for over twelve and it seems like a lifetime. I’ve never met Pam in person, but I feel like I know her well. She was an early follower of mine.
Yay for those 14 years! I’m right there with you and I’m so glad our blogging paths crossed and we became friends. Here’s to more years ahead!!
Congratulations on your blogoversary !