The Pomeroy Life

Happy Thursday everyone!  Today I have a special blogger to share with you - and she makes me want to be a better person, she is doing amazing things!

The Pomeroy Life is written by Devra, and I am quite certain that you will be clicking over to learn more about her by the end of this post.  

Devra's Five Things She Can't Live Without:

• the Sun - the first year I lived in KY I really thought I had mistakenly moved to Seattle because it rains a lot more here than it does in KS. I learned that I have to have the sunshine in my life.  I go for a walk on my lunch break pretty much everyday. 
• My Husband - He's is a faithful example of God's grace and love toward me.  He makes me better than I am by myself. 
• Snacks - I have a real "hanger" problem.  I never go anywhere without food. 
• Coffee - Both for the caffeine and the fact that I enjoy it. 
• Laughter - I love to laugh, and I love it when my house is filled with laughter from my husband and our two roommates.  Laughter is the best medicine, makes for the best memories, and can turn any day into a great day.

Devra's Five Things She Can't Stand:

• My raging sweet tooth... Will got me a shirt that says "I run because I really really love dessert." #truth 
• When my house is cluttered.  It's probably a good thing we don't have kiddos yet, lol.  I am not a clean freak by any means, but I am a neat freak. I feel so stressed when the house is cluttered.  For the record, I don't mind clutter in other people's houses, and I don't judge it either because I know how hard it is to keep up with. 
• How marginalized communities are stuck in cycles of poverty, poor nutrition, broken homes, and low expectations.  People are people.  Everyone deserves education, good nutrition, and also to be loved and believed in. 
• Unnecessary language, graphic violence, nudity, sex etc.. in movies and tv shows. The story lines would work just as well without those things. And sometimes it can honestly be difficult to find a movie to watch without that stuff. 
• Convenience foods... there are so many things added to our foods.  But almost more than the additives, I dislike how it caters to our on the go life style and enables our society's neglect of a slow, intentional time together in the evenings. 

These posts need to be checked out!

DIY Dining Room Table

Why We Bought a House

Grace Upon Grace

Want to get to know her better?  Thought so: Facebook || Instagram || Pinterest || Twitter

Meet Some Friends + Giveaway!

Today is a fun day because I get to share with you two special ladies.  Not only that, but I have a fun giveaway for you to enter as well!

These two ladies are two of my favorites.  I have been big fans of theirs for a long time, and I am so happy to introduce you all to them!

The first up is Lindsay from Bourbon, Lipstick & Stilettos:

Her favorite posts: Leading Lady, Perfection, and I Have a Big Butt (and That's Okay!)
My favorite posts: Beauty A to Z: W is for Winged Liner, Important Lessons I Learned from My Favorite TV Shows, and Recovering From Blogger Burnout


Next up is Rachael from The Rachael Way!

Her favorite posts: The Hard Parts of Being an Expat, #ChinaLife - WTF Edition and I'd Be Friends with Me
My favorite posts: My Move From Blogger to Wordpress, The ULTIMATE Moving Abroad Packing List and The Year of Self Improvement

Be sure to check out these two fabulous ladies - you won't be disappointed!

Who couldn't use a shopping spree to Anthropologie right now? Luckily, I've teamed up with a wonderful group of gals to bring you a wonderful $75 Anthro giveaway.  Don't miss out, enter below.

Brought to you by: 
The Nashvillian | All The Joys | The Lady Lawyer
Mrs. Collier | Because I Said So | Hel on Heels | Alanna & Company

a Rafflecopter giveaway

The winner will be contacted by email and will have 48 hours to respond and claim their prize before a new winner will be selected. Entries will be verified, so please be honest. This giveaway is open to U.S. and Canada residents only. Sorry, international friends!

Blogger Love v.45 & Penning Hope

Happy Friday everyone!  We made it.  It's the weekend and I am so looking forward to it!  This week has been a little quiet around here, and I promise I have a few good reasons why.  I can't share all of them (yet) but I was also in Iowa this past week celebrating my Dad's retirement, as well as working on two projects for work that happen to be due three days apart.  I hope to share my other (and biggest time consumer) with you all soon!

This week, I want to introduce you to a new-to-you blogger, Hope from Penning Hope.  Hope is a southern blogger that writes about life in the south, full hearts, her passion for helping others, and all things spiritual.

I think you'll agree that Hope is a blogger that you do not want to miss out on!  You can find more of her here:

Facebook || Twitter || Instagram || Pinterest

Are you a new blog that would like a FREE sponsorship?  Check out "New Found Joy" here.

For Blogger Love this week, I have just a few, but very important posts to share:

Christine and Cassie's "Speak Up for Silence" series.  Even you don't suffer from a form of mental illness, these stories are incredibly brave.

"I'm Failing at this Working Mom Thing" by (Bee)utiful Blessings.  If you are a mother, you need to read this - if nothing else to know that what you feel is normal.  Every mom can relate, working or not!

"The Parts We Choose to Share" by Ember Grey.  Spot on.  The comparison game is awful!

Do you have any posts by others that you'd like to share?  Please link up below!

An InLinkz Link-up

Blogger Love v.43 + Chits & Giggles

Happy Friday friends!  I hope you all had a great week - I know I did.  It's finally summer here and we have been taking full advantage of the sun and heat.

In blogland, I announced the beginning of Blogging: A to Z, which is a series I'm starting with tips on what has worked for me while starting and growing this blog.  I'm excited to hear what works for you too!

I also shared my exciting night with New Kids on the Block with you all - and I'm still in love with them as I was 25 years ago.

If you haven't entered yet, there is a giveaway going on for a Target giftcard!

Today, I have a special blogger to introduce you to - Kristyn from Chits & Giggles.  Kristyn writes about blogging tips to book reviews and everything in between.  Want to learn a little more?  Keep reading below!

You have some great book reviews on your blog.  What are some of your favorites, and why?

Reading is something that I absolutely love to do.  Just ask my husband...he doesn't understand how I can just read book after book.  List out my favorite books is going to be so hard.  I have reviewed so many books, but I think that some of my favorites are ones that I remember.  Either something shocking happens (like in Gone Girl), or the story just resonates with me (like in Firefly Lane).  

I also think that where you are in life can affect how you feel about a certain book.  There are books that I enjoyed, but probably would have loved much better if I had been in a different place in my life.

How did you come up with your blog name?  What were some of the other options?

My husband (boyfriend at the time) gets full credit for coming up with Chits & Giggles.  He loved that it was a play on words and that it was something memorable.  I just liked that he came up with it randomly one night.  My old blog name was complete BLAH and it needed to be changed.  I have stuck with my husband's suggestion ever since then. 

What's the best piece of blogging advice you've received?

I think the best thing I realized too late was that to be consistent doesn't mean you have to post 5 times a week.  I remember there were all these bloggers saying you had to post 5 times a week, and I'm sorry but that just doesn't work for everyone.  I can't come up with decent content that often, so I really suffered in that arena for a while.  Now, I post M-W-F and usually have my week's posts up by Sunday night.  That just is such a relief and something you need to do if you want to keep a home life/blog balance.  

If you could go back in time, is there any part of your life you would do-over?  When is it and why?

I think I would change high school.  I loved parts of it, but I was so involved in colorguard and winterguard that I couldn't really have a life in high school.  I was also so busy that I couldn't really get into trouble - I barely had time to breathe, let alone start drinking alcohol.  

 Thanks Kristyn!

I also wanted to share some of my favorite posts with you for Blogger Love!

"How to Manage Multiple Instagram Accounts" by Love the Here and Now

"Anyway." by Flowers in My Hair

"Facebook: The Beast Has Died" by Chits & Giggles

Link up your favorites below, and find some new to you bloggers this weekend!

An InLinkz Link-up

Introducing: Blogging A to Z

First things first, I'm the realest I'm not a blogging expert.  I don't think any of us are.  Each of us knows what works for our blogs, and know that those things vary from blogger to blogger.  With that said, I have found some things that work great for me over the past year, so I am here to share those with you!

Every couple of weeks, I will share a tip or two - making my way from A to Z.  With some help from Melissa, I've come up with a list of items to share, but I'm happy to share my thoughts on specific items you would like to hear about.  Let me know in the comments if you have any burning questions!

I've also changed a few things to my sponsor program, which will be in effect starting in June.  I am planning on a new way to highlight you, my sponsors, which I think will be fun!  If you'd like to be a part of it, check out all of the options here.

I can't wait for the first post in this new series - check back next week! 

Blogger Love v.42 & SEDiva Abroad!

It's Friday - can you hear my excitement?!  Another week has flown by, another weekend to enjoy.  Before we get to enjoying the (hopefully) nice weather, let's look back at the week in blogland - I have some great favorite posts for you!

Also, I have a blogger I'd like you to meet - Sarah Elizabeth from SEDiva Abroad.  Sarah Elizabeth writes about life abroad, how she got her name, and other fun adventures.

To get to know her a little better, Sarah Elizabeth is answering some fun questions for us!

In your opinion, what is the best part of living in Ireland? How long have you been there?
Irish people - like Americans, actually like most people - are a little full of themselves. It’s been expressed to be by several Irish that I am the luckiest woman in the world to be allowed to live here and to experience the truly wonderful hospitality of the Irish. Perhaps the way I have phrased that sentence has given you some inclination of my feelings toward this sentiment. However, Ireland really is wonderful, and you don’t need anyone telling you that to realize it. Living in Cork City feels like a small town with a larger than life atmosphere, and from the corners of town, you can see the green hills rolling up and surrounding the city. A good walk will bring you straight to the countryside and a good frolic in the fields picking daffodils will always brighten your day. Oh and an Irish sunrise after a good rain? Epic. And don’t even get me started on the chocolate. I moved to Ireland semi-permanently on August 28, 2013 and have been here almost nonstop since. But I first came to Ireland in August 2010, and really haven’t left spiritually since. Guess those Irish people are right. I am super lucky to be here again.

What do you miss most about the United States? Psh, the most things. I wrote a whole post about this once. (see here). There are certain foods I miss (though it’s probably a good thing Peanut Butter M&Ms are hard to find here honestly). I do miss a little variety in the drink department. Ireland’s only just getting into craft beer, and since it’s so trendy, everywhere seems to be copying each other, making something that should be super exciting, super boring. It’s very steady and comforting that everywhere has the same beers, but I was hoping the craft beer revolution would help that. But now all the pubs just have the same craft beers! Oh, and the coffee’s weak. But food and drink are superfluous really. (Except coffee. Coffee’s not superfluous). I definitely miss my adorable little puppy, Angus, and mostly, I miss my family and friends. Though I’ve made some wonderful friendships here in Ireland, you can’t replace those people you’ve known for ages who get every Boy Meets World reference you make. It’s funny because there are so many little, ridiculous things I miss, but I suppose generally I miss the way Americans do and talk about things. I often find myself saying things like, “that’s just Irish people” as an excuse for something that I find odd or rude. But the truth is it’s just people generally. It’s hard to separate the culture from the people sometimes. It’s difficult to remember how stupid we Americans can be as well. :)

Where can we find you on a typical Saturday morning? Nowhere like the blogger’s Instagrammed coffee date with the boy or morning jog through the sunshine. These I save for my Sunday mornings. For as long as I can remember, I’ve worked on Saturday mornings. I spent a year back home in Virginia after graduating college and before coming back to Ireland, and I worked full-time at a dance studio that I had worked at for years. Saturdays, as you can imagine, are the biggest days for recreational baby-princess ballerinas, and I’d be at work from 8:30AM! These days, I’m back in a dance studio, but luckily Irish people don’t get up too early, and I only have to work from 10. Saturday mornings you’ll find me frolicking around with my little princess ballerinas, singing Disney songs and learning pliés. After work, I love a good long stroll through the city, grabbing a coffee and working on the blog. And there’s nothing better than snuggling up for a few cozy pints in the local pub with the boy after a long, dancing Saturday.

What is the best piece of blogging advice you have had or given? The best blogging advice I’ve got for you and your dear readers (because let’s be real, Meagan, you don’t need any blogging advice xx) I have both received and given in relation to blogging and everything else in life. (Epic-sounding enough?) Here it is: do what you love. We all started blogging and writing because we love to write, we love the community, and we love having our own personalized piece of the Internet to speak with those around us. So do what you love. I mean, apply to your writing - write about what you love. Apply it to your blog design - make sure it’s something you adore and are excited to see every day. Apply it to your days - blog because you love it, take a break and a walk because you’ll love it, go back to school because you’ll love the work and where it takes you. Apply it to your life in general. There are so many career paths, college programs, travel destinations, life milestones, and just general options in life. Don’t choose something because you feel like you’re supposed to. Don’t continue to do something because you said that you would. Don’t treat blogging like another item on your to do list (unless you’re already filling your to do list with only things you love!) Think about all of your choices and choose the ones that bring you joy.

Find Sarah Elizabeth:

Blog || Twitter || Facebook || Pinterest || Instagram

I also have some great posts by others to share with you today for Blogger Love!

"Lessons" by Bourbon, Lipstick and Stilettos.

"26 Amazing Things About Having a Sister"  by The Lady Lawyer.

"A Love Letter" by Southern Komfort.

"Do You Want to Play with Me?" by Dancin' with A Dolly.

"Printable Packing List for Travel" by The New Wifestyle.

Want to share your favorite posts by other bloggers?  Link up below, and find some new to you bloggers!

An InLinkz Link-up

Blogger Love v.41

Happy Friday, friends!  We've made it through another week, and for that I'm very grateful.  This weekend will be somewhat relaxed and very much needed.

This past week, I've felt like I was being pulled in ten directions - which is still accurate - but I've made "me time" a priority in the last few days.  Even the smallest things like a glass of wine, chocolate, or a few minutes to blog or read have done wonders for my state of mind!

I also shared with you my latest Stitch Fix, which was less than exciting.  Here's hoping June's fix is better!

I have three special posts I want to share with you for Blogger Love today!

"My Move from Blogger to Wordpress" by The Rachael Way.  I'm not going to lie, Wordpress freaks me out, but I feel like I would love it once I figured it out.  All of the fun plug-ins, and my itching for a new design have me leaning towards it.  We'll see!

"Twelve Months of Bliss" by Ember Grey.  This came at the perfect time for me.  Check it out - you'll want to join!

"The True Meaning of Mother" by Love the Here and Now.  Yes, to all of this.  Anne reads my mind, I swear she does!

Want to share some of your favorite posts by others this week?  Link up with us below, click around, and find some new-to-you bloggers!

An InLinkz Link-up

I hope you all have a great weekend - what are you up to?  Check back next week, I'm making some additions to my sponsorship program!

Blogger Love v.37 + The So-Called Homemaker

There is one thing I know for sure - blogging is special to me because of my blogging friends, whom I've quickly learned are more than just "blogging friends".  Christine just wrote about our tribe, and today I wanted to introduce you to her!

Where can we find you on a typical Saturday morning?
Since it's Six Flags season, you can find me at Six Flags on most Saturdays AND Sundays.  My husband and I love to take our daughter.  We have so much fun!

Dogs or Cats?
Both!  Is that a cheating answer?  (sort of...) I think they are both fun, but I will say that I don't like aloof cats.  Only cuddly cats.

Tell us more about your childhood dream of being an exterminator! (My worst nightmare).
Haha.  I really don't remember much about it.  I think I just wanted to be like my dad and that's what he did, so there you have it!  I do remember having rubber spiders that I would keep in my room after they were used for my exterminator Halloween costume.  (Noooooo!)

Being in real estate, what is your biggest piece of advice for someone buying and selling?
Work with an agent!  I swear this isn't bias... never try to buy or sell a house by yourself.  There are so many complicated parts of a real estate transaction that only an agent can really understand.  Bonus points: work with a Realtor.  They are usually far more knowledgeable than those who aren't a part of the National Association (because more classes are required of them).

Find more of Christine here:

Blog || Instagram || Pinterest || Twitter || Bloglovin

I also have two favorite posts to share with you today for Blogger Love!  Want to link up?  We'd love to have you!  Please share at least one post by a blogger other than yourself in your post, and link up below.

"He's Not a Baby Anymore" by Southern Hope.  Whitney writes about how emotional it is to watch your little ones grow up.  YES.  My baby A is turning two this summer, and I have been struggling with how she isn't a baby anymore.  Don't even get my started on E starting kindergarten this Fall.  Ouch.  And all the tears.

"You Are Not Less than a Woman" by Becoming Adorrable.  Becca writes about how we all have different roles in our lives, and not one is better than another.  No matter if you work, stay home, are a mom, are not, you are not less of a woman.  Great message for all of us!

An InLinkz Link-up

Don't forget about these two great giveaways I have going on!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

$25 Kate Spade Gift Card

Blogger Love v.36 and Two New Blogs!

FRIDAY.  It's here!  This weekend we have some fun family things planned - waterparks, to be specific, and I can't wait to see their little faces while having splashing around!

But before I shut down the computer and turn off my phone, let's recap the week, shall we?

Traveling by plane soon?  I shared some of my favorite ways to stayed entertained in the airport.

Charlie, my pup, posted a dating ad.  He's gotten some responses, but is still single.

Late last week, I shared the results of my reader survey and announced some new things to my sponsorship program.  Quick recap:
*There is a new spot, Sprinkle of Joy
*All sponsorships include the option to participate in a giveaway - hosted four times a year.  (Including button swaps!)
*There is a new, free sponsorship for new blogs (less than 100 followers on Bloglovin').

Speaking of the New Found Joy Sponsorship - I have two new blogs to share with you today!

FIt Girl by Nature, written by Melanie , is a blog about her weight loss journey - including how she stays in shape exercising outdoors and shares delicious recipes.  Some of my favorites include these brussel sprouts with bacon and balsamic, and this Sweet Potato Chili.  My Pinterest is loving Melanie's recipes!















The Lady Lawyer is written by Brittany.  She is a lawyer by day and enjoys writing by night.  Even though I am on a spending freeze, I have been loving her posts about current trends for less and fun ways to spend your tax refund.  Brittany's tagline captures her blog perfectly: "Finding my balance between work and play while always being a lady".



I hope you check out both of these new blogs - I think you'll like what you find!

Interested in being featured?  Check out all sponsorship opportunities here.







And now for this week's favorite posts!

"Making Pinterest Work for You" by Love the Here and Now.  Anne strikes again!  I've always used Pinterest for personal reasons, and never really utilized it for my blog.  Anne is starting a new series to teach us how to use as a blogger, and I'm so interested to learn more!

"Favourite Childhood Books" by The Kay Times.  So many memories here.  I spent my summers at the local library reading these same books.  And I'm fascinated by the reading competitions she participated in!

"5 Shows to Binge Watch on Netflix with Your Spouse" by Macaroni & Mascara.  We don't often agree on shows, so whenever there are new suggestions I always give them a shot.  A lot of these are new-to-me, so I'm excited to give them a try!

Want to link up?  We're happy to have you!  All you need to do is share your link below.  Your post must include at least one link to a blogger other than yourself.  Check out some other faves and find some new blogs to follow!

An InLinkz Link-up

Blogger Love v.35 & To the Moon and Back

Happy (Good) Friday!  I don't know about you, but I had a productive week.  I cleaned out some more clutter in our house, forced myself on a spending freeze for the month of April, reflected on the results of my reader survey and added some new features and opportunities to my sponsorships!  Not only that, but I got to know Charissa from To the Moon and Back a little bit more.  I am in love with how in love she and her (new!) husband are.  She takes great photos and loves to be outdoors, which is reflected in her photos.

Why did you decide to start blogging?  How did you come up with your name?
Originally I started blogging as a keepsake for all memories the husband and I would make together over the years.  But over time it has become so much more than that.  It's a new way for me to express myself and to meet other people.  The name of my blog is "To the Moon and Back".  When I began blogging I wanted something that represented my husband and I and at the time one of my favorite things we would say to each other is "I love you to the moon and back", so it just kind of stuck!

Where can we find you on a typical Saturday morning?
Since the week can be such a busy time for us our Saturdays are our relax days.  I love my sleep so after we sleep in until at least 9, we move out to the living room and I watch my husband's favorite shows with him that he missed during the week.

Cats or dogs, and why?
I have always been a huge cat lover!  Ever since I was little and I got my first cat princess for my 8th birthday I have always wanted another cat.  My parents currently have two cats Grace and Riot that I basically consider my own, and they might as well be my babies!

How did you meet your husband?
My husband and I actually met in Junior High.  I was the new girl at the Junior High and one of my friends wanted to know if this guy liked her so I sent a text to his friend (which was Kimball), and we started talking from there.  We started dating the summer before our sophomore year of high school and we have been together ever since!

What is your go-to accessory?
I LOVE jewelry.  So definitely I will always go with a pair of earrings!  A pair of studs in my opinion can make any outfit complete!

Find more of Charissa:

Blog || Facebook || Twitter || Pinterest Instagram

This week also brought some favorite posts!

"Furkids and Family Unite" by TexErin.  It's no secret I love my pup, and I love meeting and seeing others too.  Cue this cute link up!  Share your furbabies!

"Promoted Pin Experiment" by Dancin' with a Dolly.  Have you ever promoted a pin?  Jenny did, and I was fascinated by the results!

"24 Things I Learned in my 24 Years" by Rebecca Chapman.  #7, Yes.  All of these items on the list are so thoughtful, too.

"Brides Across America" by Brianna Leigh.  This act of kindness needs to be shared.  And I love this idea, if I hadn't done something else with my dress (I will share someday!)

Do you have any posts that you absolutely loved this week?  Grab the button and link up below!  Please post at least one post by a blogger other than yourself!

An InLinkz Link-up

Reader Survey Results & An Announcement

Since celebrating my blogiversary last week, I have been reflecting on what I want to make of this space moving forward.  I love where I've been, what I've shared, who I've connected with.  But what else could I do?

I got to thinking about my first couple of months as a blogger last year.  I started not knowing what in the world I was doing.  And in a lot of cases (specifically technology and all things computer), I still don't.  But I think that's a big reason why I still love doing this - there is always something to learn.

Your feedback was important to me because I want this to be a place that my readers want to come to each time I post.  I appreciate all of you who took the survey - it provided a lot of information, and a few laughs!  Let's get to it.

Question 1: How long have you been reading All the Joys?
43.5% "I'm new! Less than three months"
28% "At least six months"
20.5% "At least three months"
7% "Since the beginning"

I'm guessing that "I'm new!" got the most responses because of the giveaway, but I'm hoping they'll stick around.  Also, thank you to the 7%!


Question 2:  How often do you read All the Joys?
48% "Every time there is a new post"
38% "1-2 times a week"
13% "A few times a month"
1% "Hardly ever"

I'm glad that the 48% and 1% weren't reversed!  I was expecting most of the answers to be either "every time" or "1-2 times a week", and I'm happy that the results reflected that.


Question 3:  How do you find out about new posts?
72% "Bloglovin'"
14% "I go to www.allthejoysblog.com"
8% "Twitter"
2% "Email updates"
2% "Facebook"
2% "Feedly"

No surprises here.  I use Bloglovin' the most as well, as I think most of us do?


Question 4:  Which posts are your favorites? (of total answers, more than one answer per respondent)
19% "Random Life Posts"
14% "Crafts/DIY"
13.5% "Link Ups, including Blogger Love"
13.5% "Recipes"
10% "Blogging"
9% "Travel"
8% "Mommy Related"
7% "Reviews, both Sponsored and Not Sponsored"
6% "Sponsor Highlights"

I expected "random life posts" to be number one here, since that is where most of posts fall.  The one that surprised me?  Crafts and DIY!  I do have some ideas in this area, so I will give the people what they want!


Question 5: Which posts are not your cup of tea?  (of total answers, more than one answer per respondent but not everyone responded)
31% "Sponsor Highlights"
29% "Mommy Related"
9% "DIY/Crafts"
7% "Link Ups, including Blogger Love"
7% "Blogging"
5% "Reviews, both Sponsored and Not Sponsored"
5% "Travel"
2% "Recipes"
2% "Random Life Posts"

The good news here is that these responses were pretty consistent with what your favorites are.  Sponsor Highlights and Mommy Related posts are not the favorites.  Good for me, they don't happen too often!


Question 6: How did you find All the Joys? (This was an open-ended question)
Most responses either fell in to "I don't remember" or "Another blog".  Those other blogs that were mentioned were Amanda Moments, Knock on Wood, Love the Here and Now, and Ember Grey.  (Go get your ad space now!)

There were a few responses that included Pinterest and Facebook, which I was pleasantly surprised by.  It also reaffirms that I need to step up my game in these areas!


Question 7:  Do you have any suggestions to make All the Joys better? (This was an open-ended question)
You all are too sweet.  I didn't receive any negative feedback!  Most of you encouraged me to "keep doing me", which was awesome to hear.  I had one very specific message - and I'm working on the kitten thing ;)

One piece of advice I got was to add more sponsorship opportunities.  This is something I've been thinking about for a long time.  Today I'm happy to announce two new sponsorship opportunities, and an addition to the Full of Joy spot!

Sprinkle of Joy gets you an ad on my sidebar, under the Full of Joy spot.  It includes social media shoutouts for both new and archived posts.

New Found Joy is for new blogs - less than six months old that have less than 100 followers (determined by Bloglovin').  This gets you an ad on my sidebar, under Full and Sprinkle, and includes social media shoutouts and introductory post.  (All New Found Joy's will be in one post).  The reason that this spot is for new bloggers only is because it is FREE.  When I first started, sponsoring blogs was an overwhelming process for me - but completely necessary to connect with other bloggers.  I want to pay it forward!   

Also - ALL sponsorship opportunities includes the option to participate in a quarterly giveaway!  Even if the giveaway takes place after your sponsorship ends, you will have the option to participate.

You can find all opportunities here.

This was a long post full of information, but I wanted to say thank you for taking my survey and helping me make this a great space.  I love coming here and hope you do too!

Blogger Love v.33

Happy Friday Everyone!  I normally really love Fridays, but this one I needed.  The first week after vacation was a rough one.  My mind was still on the beach, but I had so much to do both for work and home.  This weekend is very much welcomed, even if I will be working part of it.

This week for Blogger Love, I have a very fun co-host!  Lindsay, from Bourbon, Lipstick and Stilettos is here with us.  Have you visited her yet?  She has the best reviews of all things makeup and skincare, some of which I have purchased for myself on her suggestions.  I've asked Lindsay to share some thoughts with all of you, enjoy!

Where can we find you on a typical Saturday morning?
 On a typical Saturday morning, you can find me in bed until 8:00 or 9:00. We don't have kids yet so I take full advantage of being able to sleep in! I usually make breakfast, have a few cups of coffee, and we watch a home design show (currently obsessed with Fixer Upper). I start weekdays at 5:00 am, so lazy weekends are the best. 

You write a lot about beauty products.  What are your top three and why?
My top three products will change from time to time, but as they stand now:

-Maybelline's Falsies mascara: I've tried a million brands of mascara, and this drugstore find remains the best in my book. 

-BareMinerals Complexion Rescue: this is a relatively new product, but I'll never be without it again. It moisturizes and smooths skin for a flawless complexion. 

-NARS Orgasm blush: other blushes will come and go, but this is forever. It's the perfect color for everyone and always gives me a gorgeous, healthy glow.  

What's the best piece of blogging advice you've ever received?
The best piece of blogging advice I ever received was to build a community and befriend other bloggers. I thought I could do it on my own, but I'd be buried in the internet wasteland without the support of others. 

Spill it!  What's your favorite guilty pleasure tv show?
My favorite guilty pleasure tv shows are House of Cards and The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills. I am so happy Lisa Rinna and Eileen Davidson are now on RHOBH because I'm also obsessed with Days of our Lives...  editor's note: I LOVE me some RH.  And I surprisingly really like Lisa Rinna!

You can find more of Lindsay here:

Blog ||  Facebook || Pinterest || Instagram || Twitter

And now it's time for Blogger Love!  Join Lindsay and I, link up below and share your favorite posts by other bloggers for the week.  Grab the button if you'd like and check out some new-to-you bloggers!  I am still catching up on posts from last week, so my faves are a little sparse this week, but you should check these out:

"Overcoming Our Insecurities - Motherhood" by Anne via Life with Mrs G. and the Artist.  Faith is hosting a whole series on insecurities, and this post by Anne hit home.  With two daughters myself, I completely relate to this!

"We Made the News... in Ohio?!" by the Florkens.  Imagine your surprise to find your photos in a news article in a state you don't even live in!  This post just reaffirmed my decision to not share photos of my littles on here, you just never know where they might end up!

An InLinkz Link-up

I hope you have a great weekend!  I can't wait to share some fun things with you on Monday!

Lot 48: Starting Sponsorships

I am thrilled to have my week of guest posts start off with this topic - Sponsorships.  Lauren is here to give you some advice on this tricky subject.  These are great things to keep in mind, whether you are new to sponsorships or have been offering them for awhile.

Stay tuned next week for an announcement regarding my Sponsorship Program - I think you'll like it!

hello all the joys readers!! i am so happy that megan has allowed me to take over the blog today!! i'm so excited!  i'm lauren and i blog over at lot 48.  i blog about life, films, entertainment, really whatever pops into my head as i am drifting off to sleep at night.  what you won't find on my blog are recipes, fashion posts, beauty posts, or diy posts.  i so not crafty, clueless about makeup and fashion and don't like to cook!

today i wanted to talk about what i wish someone had told me when i opened my blog to sponsorships.  as i have had my sponsorships open for a while now, i think i have found some good and bad things about the process and tips to know before you open your blog to that.

be dedicated to spending A LOT of time blogging. when someone spends their good hard earned money to sponsor my blog and i promise then a sponsor highlight, giveaway, guest post, social media love, whatever, i want to deliver.  i don't want to waste anyone's money.  so when i get a new sponsor, i put them in a separate list in my bloglovin account.  i check that list first each morning and then schedule out tweets about their posts every day.  this is a very important part.  i promise my sponsors plenty of social media love, so i want to be sure that i am tweeting, pinning, facebooking every awesome post they have.  it takes a lot of time because you want to be sure to write frequently, schedule your own social media, and then spend time reading all your sponsors posts and schedule social media for their posts.  it takes a lot of time.


be organized.  it's really easy to let sponsorships slip through the cracks.  each sponsorship gets a different perk.  that could be a guest post, highlight post, etc.  i organize everything in my calendar so i know that this sponsor gave me her responses to the sponsor highlight and what day it will run, etc.  and to make absolute sure i don't forget, i go ahead and try to create their photo immediately and put their answers in a blog post and schedule it for that day.  when i see on my dashboard that it is scheduled, i know that i need to write an actual post with their sponsor highlight.  it makes things a lot easier. the most frustrating thing is when a sponsor doesn't respond when i ask her the questions!

ask for testimonials!!  it really helps when you have testimonials on your sponsor page.  that shows a potential sponsor that other sponsors liked you and shows that you are a good sponsoree.  (is that the right word?)  i know that i always look for testimonials when i consider sponsoring someone.  i want to know that i won't be wasting my money!

do giveaways!  some sponsorees (?) are afraid of hosting giveaways, but giveaways are the best way for you and your sponsors to gain followers! they love it! and i love it too!! i was scared the first time i did it, but it went so well! we got so many entries!! do giveaways! do it!

thanks for reading!  hope it helps you as you open your blog to sponsorships!
  

Blogger Love v. 30 with Lot 48

I can't believe it has been thirty weeks since I began this link up.  Thirty!  Some sort of large celebration needs to occur when we hit one year, but until then, let's keep sharing our favorite posts by others and spread the #bloggerlove!

This week, I have an awesome co-host, Lauren from Lot 48.  Lauren is the type of blogger that you would want to hang out with for a day - she's sweet, genuine, and doesn't hold back.  She shares stories and emotions and really lets her readers get to know her.

Speaking of getting to know her, I've some questions that I think you'll like:

Where can we find you on a typical Saturday morning?
In bed!!  I am a champion sleeper and usually sleep until noon on the weekends!! Then I run errands and spend the whole day reading and cuddling with my husband.

Dogs or cats?  Why?
Dogs!! Dogs dogs dogs!! I am so allergic to cats and also, I don't like cats.  Their tiny little skeleton like bodies are really creepy to me.

What was the biggest lesson you've learned during your first year of marriage?  
Give service to each other.  My husband is an expert at this but I am not so much so I have been trying to do better.

What's your biggest guilty pleasure?
Keeping Up with the Kardashians!!  I LOVE them!  Whenever I feel like my life is falling apart, I watch their show and I just think "Wow this is so messed up! I have it so good!" Best comedy on tv, the Kardashians.

Where is your dream vacation?
Travel all over Europe.  Hit the big cities like Paris, Barcelona, Athens, Rome, Amsterdam, Germany.  All those countries and cities.

What's the biggest piece of blogging advice you've received?
Respond to comments!  It really makes readers loyal.  I always try to thank them for reading the blog and thank them for commenting.

You can find more of Lauren here:

facebook || twitter || pinterest || bloglovin' || instagram

And now on to my favorites from this week.  I don't have as many as usual, as I'm still playing catch up from my whirlwind of a week.  We might just have to add a few extra next week!

"Tips for Prepping a Recipe Post" by Wetherills Say I Do.  Food blogging isn't something I do often, but when I do share a recipe, my pictures are horrible.  No shame!  Maybe these tips can help me make the food look a little better.

"Eye Opening" by Simply Complex Mom.  The eyes say so much about our souls - Liz perfects this.  I loved reading this, and felt happier while doing so.

So, what are you favorites?  Link up with Lauren and I below!

An InLinkz Link-up

And in case you missed it... here's a great giveaway!

ashley | sierra & faith | amy

penny | sara | meagan

a Rafflecopter giveaway