Seven years (and one day – oops) 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.
Four 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 is the thief of joy – see one of my fave posts from my 1st year on this! 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 NCA Sweets and Snacks Show, Expo East (Part 1 – Days 1 + 2 and Part 2 – Days 3 + 4). Expo West (Day 1 recap, Day 2 and Day 3 recaps and trends) and the Good Food Festival. I’ve taken tons of exercise classes and have continued as an A Sweat Life Ambassador.
I’ve upped my Instagram game some (and finally broke 5,000 followers) and stories. I’ve run all the miles, eaten all the foods and drank all the drinks. I did my first fundraiser fitness event and was blown away with the response from friends and awesome sponsors. It will not be my last. I’m also trying to get more clicks and purchases from my Amazon page (to defray blog costs). So please check it out. I’m trying to link to my finds.
There have 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 7 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:
Winner Keri 1. A $50 shop card from Athleta – I’ve been working with Athleta for the last year and am now leading the Tuesday night run club at Southport. Join us! It’s an awesome brand and a B Corp so it’s good for the environment and the community!
Winner Sarah N. 2. A $50 gift card for Whole Foods – Whole Foods has so many of the great brands I love and have reviewed over the last 7 years.
Winner Jill S. 3. Janji – [Re] Run hat and Nepal gaiter – 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.]
Winner Maryann D. 4. Run Gum 10 pack + Hoo Rag and Honeystingers fuel – I love my Run Gum to power my runs and am a member of the Honeystinger Hive!
Winner Michelle J. 5.RuMe Bags Gift Pack 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 RuMe All foldable tote, Gear Bag, Baggie All + cClean screen cleaners.
Winner Heather R. 6. Jaybird Tarah PRO Wireless Headphones – I’ve had the opportunity to work with Jaybird and to test out a bunch of their awesome wireless headphones. I have a NIB pair that I’m going to send to a lucky reader.
Winner Tabitha 7. A pair of CEP Compression No-Show Socks or Sleeves – 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.
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 4/20. Winners will be selected and notified on 4/21. 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.
What should I find this year?
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.