Busting the Newbie Blues

Busting the Newbie Blues is a creative event which is hosted by Small Reviews. If your interested in signing up, the event will run until the end of December. Both new and established bloggers can participate :) 

When did you start your blog? 
I officially started my blog in November of this year (2010). So I am definitely a new blogger.

Why did you start your blog?
To be honest, I had thought about starting a travel blog for some time now, but I always thought to myself, I haven't really visited that many countries (just a few here and there), I'll quickly run out of things to say. That was when I came across Jenny's blog over at The Supernatural Snark, and I completely fell in love. I thought to myself, why not combine my two loves?! I read a TON of books during my trips and I too wanted to express my thoughts and feelings. Books are my getaway! I wanted to blog about vampires, werewolves, faeries and about my obsessions with boys who were made of ink and paper :p Eventually, I even emailed Jenny a couple of times to see if she'd be willing to give some tips, she was so nice and willing to help! She answered some basic blogging questions and helped me get started. Thanks, Jenny!
 
What has been the biggest challenge you’ve faced so far? 
Since I've only been blogging for about two months, I can't really say that I've faced "big" challenges. Right now, my biggest dilemma is posting on a regular basis. I am SO behind on travel posts. I recently went on what I like to call a "mother load" trip; five countries in one month. It was insane! I'm working on my travel post and tips as we speak :)

What do you find most discouraging about being a new blogger? 
Sometimes when I'll surf other YA Blogs, I'll get discouraged when I see that they have 1000+ followers.... But then I'll remind myself that they've been doing this for a pretty long time. I'm a newbie :) eventually my time will come as well. I try and see the positive side to all situations.   

What do you find most encouraging? 
Everyone in the blogging community is so nice! I love getting comments when people agree with what I have to say, it reminds me of why I started this blog in the first place; to meet and chat with other bloggers who share my love for books.

What do you like best about the blogs you read? Have you tried to replicate this in your blog?  
I love how certain blogs have their own "memes" going on. In particular I love the blog hop and I just recently discovered the wonderful world of in my mail box. I'll definitely be participating in that :)

What do you dislike about blogs you’ve read? Do you try to avoid this?  
As of now, I haven't really ran into anything I dislike. I'll let you know if that changes down the road :p heyyyy, only time will tell.

Any advice for other new bloggers? 
If your thinking about starting a blog, please know it does take time and patience, but it is CRAZY fun! And hey, if you'd like any advice from a newbie - please don't hesitate to ask ;) Also, your blog design... as you can see, mine is still in the process- so don't get discouraged if setting up your blog takes more time than running it!

Anything else you’d like to share about your experience?  
If anything, organize yourself and keep track of your time! You have no idea how many times I've logged onto blogger with the purpose of posting a new review or travel bog, and next thing I know I'm surfing blogs and HOURS have gone by! Aye ya aye! I need to manage my time more wisely :\

Is there anything you’d like to tell us about your blog? 
Let me know what you think! What do you think I should add/remove.... any input is appreciated! Thanks so much for stopping by!