People ask me all the time how and why I got into blogging. I can honestly say that I stumbled upon it over 10 years ago when I was looking for an outlet to house my ideas and opinions, and it has since become one of my favorite things to do!
My Love of Writing
Growing up I liked to write – I didn’t love it, but I liked it. I always wrote in a diary, some of which I still have to this day.
There was, and still is, something relaxing and therapeutic to me about sitting in front of the computer and tapping away at the keys. Next thing I know, a story is spread out in front of me. I add some imagery and press “publish”.
In the beginning, my mom was the only one that knew about my blog. She still is my biggest fan and I am so grateful!
I considered myself a repository of very useful “useless information”. Anything I’d read that I felt was interesting or of use to someone I knew, I would pass along. I came to be known to be the go-to person for answers to questions such as:
- Where should I take so-and-so to dinner (business, family, friends)?
- I need to get an outfit for XYZ event. Where would you recommend I go?
- I got a stain on my couch and I don’t know how to get it out. Help!
As time went on, I wrote here and there all the while researching about blogs. Maybe my “blabs” as I called my posts, would be useful to others – people I didn’t know.
A Leap of Faith
Although I was literally frightened to do so, I removed the password from my blog. I didn’t expect the world to wake up the next day and gravitate to it immediately, so I knew my work was cut out for me. After purchasing my own URL and hosting package via Hostmonster, I started building my website on WordPress.
I immersed myself in everything I could to make my blog represent ME and how I could get the word out.
Fast forward to today and I could never have imagined that my blog would be where it is. Now I know it is no WhoWhatWear or Cupcakes and Cashmere, but I don’t think I want it to be. I am so happy with the little space of the blogisphere that I can call my own.
Where Did I Get the Name “Pellerini “?
Some people ask me where I got the name for my blog. Well, my last name is Peller and I happen to be on the petite side – hence the “-ini”.
I’ve been told I should change the name of my blog to better fit what I write about, but I can’t seem to get myself to do so.
How Do I Decide What to Write About?
Great question! A lot of my posts are themed around the time of year, such as:
- Winter Family Fun
- Tried and True Spring Cleaning Tips
- Holiday Gift Guides
Some posts are reactions to what is going on in the news, although I steer clear of political or religious themed posts. Everyone is entitled to their opinion – ’nuff said.
Others are spinoffs of what I am currently experiencing as a mom of two (very active, super fabulous – did I mention very active?) boys.
I am gluten-free so I enjoy sharing truly delicious recipes with my readers. I have such an appreciation for street art, so you bet I’ll be searching for and posting about street art as I come across new installations!
I love to share with my readers what products or services I currently covet. Some posts are sponsored, meaning the brand or company approached me (or I approached them) and we collaborated. BUT by all means – everything I write is 100% my opinion.
If I receive a product to review and it isn’t something that I would personally use myself, I will tell my reader that or just not write about it. It’s that simple. This does bring me to a HUGE perk of being a blogger – I am exposed to new products all the time.
What Would I Change?
Absolutely nothing. I truly enjoy writing. I am basically transparent to my reader. What you see is ME. Do I get writer’s block sometimes? Yes. I can’t write for the sake of writing. It has to flow. It has to feel right. If it doesn’t, there won’t be an email in your inbox the next morning (and if you aren’t signed up to receive notifications of new posts yet, please do so HERE!).
Fast Forward to 2019
I recently won the 2018 Best Lifestyle Blogger Award by the Blogger Union and I couldn’t be more humbled. I am so thankful for all of you that voted for me, taking me into the semi-finals with four other amazing lifestyle bloggers.
The competition was fierce, so I went to the awards ceremony with an open mind, enjoying the beautiful day with a great friend.
When they called my name, I didn’t respond at first – I didn’t think I was going to win!
This award is yet another justification of why I do what I do! The satisfaction I feel after completing and publishing a blog post. The kind words I receive from my audience. And now this amazing award.
I’m over the moon!
Let’s Stay Connected!
If you aren’t an email person, I’d love to update you on my posts via Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Pinterest, YouTube, Google +, and LinkedIn.
There you have it – why I do what I do! If you are interested in blogging, please feel free to leave any questions you may have in the comments section below or email me at dana (at)
Susan says
You are the best
Dana says
You are the best! XO