I’m coming up on one year of blogging and as such have been reflecting on my new life on social media and as a blogger. First of all, getting used to the word blogger or saying “I have a blog” is still – different. “Blogger” “influencer” “content creator” – it all feels like loaded language with various sets of values and assumptions attached.
I plan to share a lot more in the next few weeks about my decision to put pen to paper, or hands to the keyboards, and finally get back in the blogging game after 10 years away simply in the event there are a) those just interested and curious or b) for those considering making the blogging plunge for themselves and who might be grappling with the same hurdles I did.
At first I didn’t see blogging or social media as a way to make friends. I’d enjoyed the writing and content of many talented women as a long-time reader and follower, but new friendships weren’t necessarily on my radar. I wasn’t sure what kind of culture I was stepping into as I pressed publish on the blog and went public on Instagram.
But I was wrong to think making friends wasn’t at the top list for possibilities.
Our parents were definitely right to keep us scared of weirdos online and in spite of warnings I’ve encountered a few creeps here and there as many of us have. BUT – this past year I have gotten to know some of the most incredible women who despite our different states and area codes have been a constant source of kindness, encouragement, and inspiration.
Elsa Massey is one such woman! The beauty and brains behind www.simplyelsa.com and a treat to follow via @simply_elsa. The uber talented and sweet Hanna Matthew shared her account one day and I remember seeing Elsa’s collage of photos on the grid and was so drawn to her smile! Shortly after I followed she shared a blog post on how to shop Tuckernuck on extended sizes and I was hooked! This is exactly the kind of style content I was eager to read – a helpful resource on how to find classic, preppy (with a twist) clothing in my size. As I followed along longer I enjoyed her writing on body positivity, I connected with her vulnerability and willingness to share everything from the tough to the fluff, while constantly styling looks I want to have instantly appear in my closet.
Over the past few months it has been wonderful to get to know her heart and to connect with her in this space. Women like her have me feeling confident in my decision to be here. What an opportunity to intentionally engage in and be a part of building a community of like-minded women who enjoy sharing and connecting, who seek out ways to lift each other up, and who are downright fun and stylish.
From our love of these raffia Tuckernuck earrings to our drive for size-inclusivity, and everything in between, getting to know Elsa has been a gift! And I’m approaching my big one year anniversary of blogging with a great group of women I’m lucky enough to call my friends who I made on the internet.
Speaking of the earrings, we’re thrilled to give a follower a pair! To enter, you can do so on my Instagram post according to the directions listed there, which are:
- Follow @simply_elsa and @gracehamlin
- Like the giveaway post
- Tag a friend and comment where you’d love to wear the earrings
Must be 18 years of age to enter and a US resident. This giveaway is not endorsed or sponsored by Instagram or Tuckernuck. By entering you are agreeing to Instagram’s community guidelines, void where prohibited by law.
