Time flies when you’re having fun! Six years have passed since I published my first post on April 9, 2012. I really had no idea what I was doing! And, I had I no idea what this blog would bring into my life. I’ve made countless friends and connections, had amazing experiences and found tons of awesome products, services, fitness classes and events.
Three years ago, I wrote my lessons learned and they all still hold up very well. The most critical ones are to write about what you enjoy and share enthusiasm and, as Marcia says, “keep your eye on your own paper.” Comparison really is the thief of joy! I may not have the biggest following, or the highest traffic, but I have a great following and tons of awesome opportunities.
Since last year, I’ve continued my finding in Chicago and beyond. I’ve met more amazing people. I’ve attended a ton of fun events, races and fitness classes. I’ve met terrific companies/people at the Chicago Sweets and Snacks Show, GF & AF Expo, Expo East (Day 1 and Day 2), Expo West (Day 1 & 2 and Day 3 ) and the Good Food Festival. I’ve taken tons of exercise classes and have continued as an A Sweat Life Ambassador. I finally started doing Instagram stories (better late than never!) I’ve eaten all the foods and drank all the drinks. I’ve learned that it never hurts to ask to try a new product or service and for every “no,” I get three “yeses.”
There’ve been times over the last year where I’ve felt burned out or tired of blogging. People often ask me if I’m “still at it” or if I “still enjoy blogging.” It seems like whenever I feel like the blog has run its course, I find something great, have a new opportunity or have strong engagement on something I’m excited about.
So with gratitude and joy, I am celebrating turning 6 with what I do best… a giveaway. These are some items I’ve received from my ambassadorships or with deep discounts from companies I’ve worked with. I’m sharing the love and #bloggerperks to thank you for following my blog.
The Prizes:
1. Faves gift pack! Winner Rachel B. Items from some of my faves and ambassadorships! These include Honey Stinger buff and chews/waffles, Peanut Butter & Co. peanut butter, SOS Rehydrate Bottle and drink mix, Redd Bar and Run Gum.
2. One item from Janji – you pick! Winner Lisa N.– (up to $75 retail value) Janji is an awesome running clothes company that donates a portion of every sale to provide water to areas in need. The colors and styles are amazing. I’m in the Janji Corps Ambassador program and I love this company. [Here is my original review post.]
3. RuMe Bags Gift Pack Winner Kayla K. I love RuMe bags so much that I’m an affiliate. [Get 20% off all of your orders with code RRErica654 online. If you use this code or my link, I get a small commission and access to specials and new items.] I’m sharing a tote, folding All tote, 4 pack organizer pouches and more.
4. A pair of CEP Compression No-Show Socks or Sleeves Winner – Nicole P– I’ve been wearing CEP Compression since before I started blogging! They were also one of my first giveaways years back. I’m their biggest fan.
5. A $50 gift card for The Feed Winner – Georgette C.– I love The Feed for trying one item or flavor from new brands and brands I love. They have an amazing selection and I always find new brands/products there!
6. A $50 gift card for Whole Foods Winner – Alyssa N.– Whole Foods has so many of the great brands I love and have reviewed over the last 6 years.
How to enter: Please use the Rafflecopter below to enter. The giveaway is open to US residents, 18 years of age or older and is void where prohibited. The giveaway will be open through 4/23. Winners will be selected and notified on 4/24. Winners may choose a prize in order of the draw. One prize per winner.
Thank you for reading my blog! Your comments and feedback make me so happy. Please let me know what you want me to find in the year ahead and I will do my best to make it happen.
Please note: I was provided some of the prizes at no cost from these awesome vendors. I was not compensated for this post. I’ll purchase some items at a discount due to my relationship with the companies. I purchased the gift cards. All opinions are my own.