The “Guide to Duluth-related Blogs” was published in 2022 by Perfect Duluth Day, which is itself a blog, along with an events calendar and a section called “Saturday Essay,” where I’ve had three essays featured over the last couple years. But until yesterday, I hadn’t known that I’d been recognized as an active area blogger. This isn’t a prize or a big coup, but it made me smile like a red-carpet celebrity anyway.
In the photo to the right, I’m the blogger in the middle, standing in front of Lake Superior in Two Harbors, Minnesota, wearing my favorite raincoat, a raspberry red, flannel-lined Pendleton that I bought while shopping with my favorite aunt. My granddaughter took the photo.
I’ve been blogging since fall 2020. One Hundred and ninety-five people follow my blog. But out of those 195 followers, a certain percentage are hustling products. For example, I write about my dogs a lot, so occasionally companies who use blogs to market canine merchandise will “like” and “follow” my blog. Most likely an algorithm does this for them. And while I don’t write about makeup, skin care, or fashion, I have some followers who sell beauty products. Again, probably an algorithm, however misguided because I don’t wear makeup or use skincare products.
I don’t want to know how many of my 195 followers are companies trying to hawk products. Instead, I enjoy the people who interact with me via likes and comments. It’s heartwarming to know that something I wrote resonated with someone out there. So, thank you to all my readers. And thank you to Perfect Duluth Day for recognizing that I’m an active blogger in their area. As someone who knows she should get more exercise, it was nice to be labeled as active.
In an effort to hit 200 followers, I’m posting this picture of my standard poodle, Ziva. She had a bath and a haircut today at the doggie spa. She’s wearing a crystal and faux leather collar my mother bought for my first standard poodle, Bailey. As you can see Ziva is a reluctant, humble diva (but only when I take her picture). So, if there are any companies out there selling glamorous dog merch, turn on your algorithms. Ziva might be in the market for a glitzy coat, fur-lined booties, or specially formulated dog shampoo.
Writing Near the Lake 
I have not been recognized as you have, but I spoke to someone on the beach a couple of weeks ago. She knew about my blog! “Are you the one who has the blog about Arch Cape?” It was pretty chuffed even by that acknowledgment.
LikeLiked by 1 person
That is so cool! I have yet to have anyone approach me in public about my blog. Way to go!
LikeLike
Glad you’re getting some recognition! It can often feel like we’re writing to a vacuum.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Writing is often a lonely occupation. Sometimes I like that and other times I don’t.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Ziva looks lovely! That’s Russ’s back in the blog photo, funny. Keep on writin!
LikeLiked by 1 person
I was wondering if it had been a bashful blogger!
LikeLiked by 1 person
A fun discovery, Vickie! I think congratulations are warranted:)! You are right about the “product” people that “follow.” I once deleted several hundred. (I’ve been blogging about 15 years.) it’s obvious from the daily stats that much fewer are actually reading the blog. Like you, I enjoy those that are actively engaged. Good luck with the numbers!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks. I don’t really worry about getting higher numbers. I really like writing my blog. It’s a nice switch from short stories and essays. But I put a lot of work into my blog pieces. My biggest kick is having blog followers who enjoy reading my pieces. I hope you have a happy New Year!
LikeLike
You go active blogger! Ziva looks awesome, bet she’ll get you those extra followers, lol!
LikeLike
What fun to be noticed! And Ziva is a diva!
LikeLiked by 1 person
I get some odds and ends as well from ‘out’ there and much as I try, my increase is very slow. But I do so enjoy reading my favorites, likes, comments to and fro. Thanks Vickie!
LikeLiked by 2 people