It’s Been A Year!
A year ago today, I sent my first blog post of Life at Bella Terra. It was an intimidating moment, because I thought “who would ever want to read this?” I don’t consider myself a very good writer and I’m really trying to improve upon that. But your words of encouragement have brought me back to the computer to post again and again. If it wasn’t for your kindness and support, it would have been easy to just quit. Thank you for your loyalty and feedback and comments. Truly. From the bottom of my heart.
Each time I send out an email letting you know I’ve created a new post, I am praying you find it interesting, enlightening or even motivating. I try to share a small piece of loveliness in hopes that I can brighten your day. As I look out into the world, I believe we each need to find sources of joy and create our own beauty. Whether it be feeling the warmth from a freshly picked tomato, or the scent of a homegrown flower, these moments of perfection can only help feed the soul.
Blogging for me, is a chance to stop and capture a sliver of time, an exquisite photo or a recipe that bursts with flavor. Plus it is forcing me to attack those cluttered corners of the house or undone projects while showing you my progress. But I can honestly say, I am still a long way from feeling confident about creatively illustrating that to you. But I will keep trying.
So here is a look back at the year and some of my favorite photos and posts.
My very first blog post was about the New York Times Bestselling author, Rhys Bowen and the fundraising English tea we had here at Bella Terra.
And other events we happily hosted here…..
Recipes shared…..
My Renovations and Restorations….
Travel and leisure…..
Decorating and Design…
The holidays….
Cleaning, Organizing, and Updating…
Sharing our home and yard….
My attempt at art….
Flower arranging..
Our pets…
And a few DIYs….
My online store….
There is still so much to learn, especially better photography, writing and getting my watermarks the same size on every photo. So thank you again for following me and sharing my blog with others.
PLEASE send in your comments~~What area of interest would you like for me to expand? What are your favorite topics? How often should I post (trying to do a maximum of twice per week)? What can I do to be better for you? My goals for the next year are to do a contest or giveaway and conduct a real survey into your likes and interests.
Here’s to one year and onto the next!! I couldn’t have done it without you.
Just a reminder that any words that are italicized bring you to the source. If it is a product on Amazon, please note that I am an Amazon Affiliate. If you purchase something through my website, I receive a small (very small!) stipend, which doesn’t affect the price you pay at all. My goal is to make sourcing the items easy for you. Thank you for your continued support.
WOW! It’s already been a whole year? Man! Time flies! I remember all of the posts you featured in this article though…especially the sofa, the patio and your art…loved all of the posts equally!
Here’s my feedback:
Q:What area of interest would you like for me to expand?
A: It would be cool to see a little more of Bella Terra in the way that you and your family use the space. For example, perhaps a Series “Today in the living room…” or “Time in the kitchen…” Show off Bella Terra while you and your family use it.
Q: What are your favorite topics?
A: I like the decorating topics and reveals of Bella Terra. I also like the recipes and DIYs such as the flower arrangements.
Q:How often should I post (trying to do a maximum of twice per week)?
A: Twice a week is a pretty decent goal for posting; If you don’t make this goal though at least once a week. If the article is good (which your posts always are) then you really shouldn’t stress yourself too much. A blogging tip that I had to learn also…
Q: What can I do to be better for you?
A: Show more of Bella Terra! Also, I like your garden…it would be cool to see a garden section of Bella Terra…with tips!
I love the idea of the contest give-away! Hope I win already! LOL
Thanks for sharing Bella Terra with us! I have enjoyed it since Day 1 and will continue to do so! Keep up the great work!
Mary, Your blog is truly a happily-anticipated treat. Wonderful vignettes — beautiful to see and read! — and always leaving me wishing for a little bit more. Keep them coming!! XO
Mary, your blog puts a smile on my day!
another neighbor, Karleen
So glad we are just enjoying our neighborhood vs. the challenges of last year’s zoning battle. Much more fun focusing on lovely things!
Mary, Your efforts are impressive. The photography is so good it makes you feel you are there. I have enjoyed it so much. Neighbor, Linda
Well, I couldn’t have done my very first post without your gracious generosity in lending all the English china! Miss you in the hood!