Sunshine Blogger Award Part 2 & #SpreadTheKindness Link Up #116
You may have already seen my post a few weeks ago when Rama nominated me for the Sunshine Blogger Award. Well, I have been nominated again by my dear friend Jess of Elegantly Dressed and Stylish! Thanks so much, Jess! I am honored. Since Jess has posed a different series of questions, I figured it was a great way to keep things interesting here on the edge by answering what she is interested in knowing as well. However, I am going to do it a little differently and I am not going to nominate anyone new in this post. Please check out my last Sunshine Blogger post to see who I have nominated along with my list of questions.
I also am sharing an outfit that I just shared on the blog last week for The Fab 40’s in Plaid and Floral. Same outfit but a different photo shoot. This was the first shoot for this outfit and the wind was not cooperating. At all. I figured these pictures illustrate real life blogger problems better than any, so why not share them on a blogger award post. I also didn’t want an entire photo shoot to go to waste! Hopefully, you get a bit of a chuckle from the havoc that the wind is causing!
In case you are not already aware, the Sunshine Blogger award is a peer recognition award given by bloggers to other bloggers for their work that inspires positivity and joy. It recognizes creativity in the world of blogging for those who spread sunshine throughout the community. If you have been nominated by someone for this award, there are a few easy rules to follow. And if you have not been nominated, then I nominate you right here, right now! Because I adore you all and am always happy to learn more about you. Again, just pop back to this post to find the questions to answer for your very own blog post.
And here are the rules:
- Give a quick shout out to the person who nominated you (with a link to their blog, of course)!
- Answer the questions drafted by the person who nominated you.
- Nominate some other blogs of your choosing and draft new questions for them to answer. (According to my research, the traditional number seems to be 11 nominees and 11 questions.)
- Be sure to let your nominees know they have been nominated. You can do this through social media, commenting on their blog, or an email.
- When you draft your post, be sure to list these simple rules and display a Sunshine Blogger Award logo.
And now to answer the questions that Jess has asked.
1.Why did you start blogging?
Since I already answered this question in my previous post, I am going to just copy and paste right here…
I started my blog in August of 2015 when my husband was deployed to Afghanistan. My kids were 2 and 4, I was a stay at home mom, and quite frankly, I was bored out of my freaking mind. I have always loved fashion and writing has always been a hugely important creative outlet for me. Since moving away from home due to my husband’s military obligations, I had given up my education (I was working towards my Masters in Mental Health Counseling). I was passionate about sharing my own mental health journey in the hopes that it could help someone but now that career path had ended. It was my sister who pushed me in the direction of blogging. I wasn’t even sure what it was all about until I started reading lots of over 40 fashion blogs after my kids went to sleep at night. I quickly found a community and some companionship during those late lonely nights and I thought I could absolutely do this blog thing. My sister found a Groupon for an online course on how to start a blog, so I completed the course and launched my blog. It was also at my sister’s urging that I combine fashion with my mental health story since they really do go hand in hand for me. And so Shelbee on the Edge was born…living on the edge of sanity, midlife, and fashion.
2. What do you love about it? What would you like to change about it?
My very favorite thing about blogging is the amazing community and the connections I have made because of it. I have friends all over the world because of this little internet space that I have created. I also love playing dress up every morning and I have so much fun doing my photo shoots. And it is all really just for the good fun of it. I find my creative outlet through my fashion and my writing. Blogging provides me with a forum where I can combine these passions and share them with the world. My goal is simply to inspire and empower others to live life to the fullest. Each and every day. Honestly, I can’t think of anything that I would change about it right now except simply wishing I had more time and resources to make it bigger and better. But I am fine working within the confines and limitations of my current lifestyle. That’s what keeps it real and genuine anyway.
3. How have you grown as a blogger?
I have always been pretty eclectic with my outfit combinations. Literally for as long as I can remember. I was very bashful when I was younger and this was my silent way to express my creativity. Even though I usually looked very different from the crowd, I still hoped to blend in. Well, blogging has helped me get over that insecurity. And now I just wear what I want with pride and confidence. Sometimes, even I think I look ridiculous, but that is half the fun of it. And I will still wear a ridiculous outfit with my head held high and a huge smile on my face. In fact, I pretty much revel in the ridiculous. It keeps life interesting. So I have definitely grown in self confidence because of blogging and have found my mission and purpose through it…to provide a safe place for others to share and express and come together to empower and support one another.
4. What was your favorite post to write?
Honestly, I have quite a few posts that I loved writing. My favorite ones are always the posts that get a bit more philosophical in nature or the ones where I have shared my Bipolar journey. I will list a few of my favorites below, but I have written over 700 blog posts in this space so I know there are plenty more that I loved writing.
Shelbee Says…”Trust the process”:8 Steps for Managing Bipolar Mood Swings / A Bipolar Battlefield / Shelbee Says…”It is up to you how you respond to your fear.” / Shelbee Says…”the only choice you have is to survive…or don’t.” / The Midlife Sex Conundrum / 39 Things I Have Learned on my Journey Out of the Darkness into my Happiness / Strong Like Me / The Evolution of Love / A Girl Walked into a Bar
5. What makes you happy or “walk on sunshine”?
Well, I am a love junkie and a joy addict! Connecting with other human beings on a deeper level really ignites me from somewhere deep inside my soul. I find inspiration all around me…in nature, in my community, in the people I encounter every day…and that inspiration makes me walk on sunshine. I get the biggest rush and the greatest high from forming these magical connections that seem almost ethereal and mystical in a way. Listening to what the universe is telling me and fearlessly following her lead really is like walking on sunshine straight into a utopian existence.
For more inspiration, head on over and read Jess’s answers to the questions posed to her by Anna of The Glam Adventure.
My Jord watch giveaway is still going on as well. You can read all about it here or go directly to the giveaway entry form here. It will be ending soon, so get your entries in now! It only takes a minute and an email address!
And now your featured favorites from last week’s link party.
Rena of Fine Whatever shared her post, Last Week, This Week: In the Midst, March 18-22, where she showcases her weekly work outfits. Always perfectly styled, Rena gives amazing outfit inspiration with these posts.
Mireille of Chez Mireille shared her post, From basic to interesting, showing us different ways to style a basic black dress. Definitely check it out for ideas to make your basics more versatile.
Keeping it on the edge,
Shelbee
Linking up with these Fabulous Link Parties.
49 Comments
Kellyann Rohr
Well no wonder you keep getting nominated, you are the epitome of the Sunshine Blogger Shelbee – always spreading positivity and joy! You are accomplishing your mission my friend!!
xo,
Kellyann
shelbeeontheedge@gmail.com
Kellyann, you are so sweet! Thank you so much, my friend, for all of your kindness and joy! Keep shining bright!
xoxo
Shelbee
Tamar A Strauss-Benjamin
Such a fun outfit with the two plaids!
shelbeeontheedge@gmail.com
Thanks, Tamar! Have a great day!
xoxo
Shelbee
Julie | This Main Line Life
Thanks for sharing. I love these posts where we get to learn a little more about each other as bloggers. Congrats again!!
shelbeeontheedge@gmail.com
Thanks so much, Julie! These are as much fun to write as they are to read, I think. Have a wonderful day!
xoxo
Shelbee
Kathrine Eldridge
I love the mix of textures with this chic look! It’s so nice to hear about your blogging journey. Thanks so much for the link up!
https://www.kathrineeldridge.com
shelbeeontheedge@gmail.com
Thank you so much, Kathrine! These posts are super fun to write as well. It interesting to see what others want to know more about! I hope you are having a fabulous week.
xoxo
Shelbee
Jill
Congrats! I love reading your Q&A for the Sunshine award! I’m also loving this chic mix of plaid! Thank you for the linkup!
Jill – Doused in Pink
shelbeeontheedge@gmail.com
Thanks so much, Jill! I hope you have the best day!
xoxo
Shelbee
Michele Morin
Plaid skirts always remind me of the little girls walking to Catholic school from my days of living in Portland.
Very dressy, but somehow youthful.
shelbeeontheedge@gmail.com
I do love the youthful vibe a plaid mini skirt! Today I styled a plaid pencil skirt which is less youthful and a bit more sassy! It should be on the blog next week some time. Thanks so much for stopping today, Michele! Have a fantastic day.
xoxo
Shelbee
mireille
Shelbee, thank you for featuring me on your post! I always enjoy reading everyone’s blogging journey as we all have similarities and differences in our stories. Your boots are to die for! Trying to pull out the sandals down here in the South but still in the 30s and 40s in am so it is not working so well for me, lol!
http://www.chezmireillefashiontravelmom.com
shelbeeontheedge@gmail.com
Mireille, thanks so much! I love following your blogging journey as well! It is so much fun to get to know every one better. These boots were an absolute steal 2 winters ago for around $20. I have gotten so much wear out of them. And we are a long way off from sandal weather here in the north. It is still in the 20’s and 30’s during the day! Although today it is supposed to reach 50 and I am super excited about that! Have a fabulous day!
xoxo
Shelbee
jodie filogomo
You’ve written 700 blog posts. That wears me out just thinking about it!!!
It’s so fun to learn more about you this way, my friend!
XOXO
Jodie
http://www.jtouchofstyle.com
shelbeeontheedge@gmail.com
Thanks so much, Jodie! I mean some of the posts were just wish lists, but according to WordPress I have published 763 blog posts to date! That is kind of a lot. You have probably published as many!
xoxo
Shelbee
Stephanie S
This outfit is very early 2000s brittany. You look like you are having so much fun!
shelbeeontheedge@gmail.com
Thanks, Stephanie! I am always having fun. Tee hee. I never even thought Brittany, but it seems everyone else has!
xoxo
Shelbee
Patrick Weseman
Looking very nice and you are a piece of sunshine. Thanks for hosting and I hope that you have a wonderful week.
shelbeeontheedge@gmail.com
Patrick, thank you so much for that! I appreciate it from the bottom of my heart! I am so glad to have met you on this wonderful journey! Keep shining, my friend.
xoxo
Shelbee
Lisa Richardson
You should have totally taken these pics in a high school hall with lockers. I swear I think you’re channeling your inner Brittany Spears. You are a Sunshine Blogger for sure, even on a cloudy day.😉
shelbeeontheedge@gmail.com
Oh my word, Lisa, I just laughed out loud! But now I need to find a way to take photos in a locker lined hallway! Thanks for the idea, oh brilliant one!
xoxo
Shelbee
Kim
Good decision not wasting this photo shoot, the pavement is amazing! It’s always nice to learn more about you and your journey, Shelbee. Congrats on the Sunshine Blogger Award X2.
shelbeeontheedge@gmail.com
Kim, thank you so very much! I do love that location for photo shoots! We went there again today!
xoxo
Shelbee
Lanae Bond
Congrats on your blogger award! I always loved how you included mental health in your blog posts!
shelbeeontheedge@gmail.com
Thank you so much, Lanae! It is where I have found the purpose in my own pain, so I feel an obligation and responsibility to share it in order to help others. Have the most wonderful day!
xoxo
Shelbee
jess jannenga
Hi Shelbee
I loved reading more about you. I agree about blogging being a wonderful community, and I am sure I was looking for that as well, as a diversion, and now, as a wonderful way for friendships to evolve. I Love that you want to help people through mental health issues, as I struggle sometimes with depression and anxiety and know it can be hard.
Love your outift hon, red is a great color on you and I love the plaid! I hate when there is so much wind in the photoshoots, but you look cute! I love your spirit 🙂
jess xx
http://www.elegantlydressedandstylish.com
shelbeeontheedge@gmail.com
Jess, thank you so much, not only for the lovely nomination, but your wonderful friendship over these past few years. It has been quite a joinery and so rewarding in so many ways! Hopefully, we can meet up when I come to Asheville this July!
xoxo
Shelbee
Cheryl Shops
Congrats on your double nomination, Shelbee—you truly are sunshine material!
Cheryl Shops | http://www.cherylshops.net
shelbeeontheedge@gmail.com
Aw, Cheryl, that is so sweet! Thank you from the bottom of my heart. Keep shining bright!
xoxo
Shelbee
Jacqui Berry
Well deserved Shelbee, nice to read more about you and I agree about sharing with the blogging community – it’s the best thing having the support of fellow bloggers. Jacqui Mummabstylish
shelbeeontheedge@gmail.com
Thanks so much, Jacqui! It was fun to share more. Have a great day!
xoxo
Shelbee
FancyBoy
So cute and just lolol at the wind!!! “Revel in the ridiculous” —– love it and same!!
shelbeeontheedge@gmail.com
Thanks so much, Becky! The ridiculous is what keeps it all interesting! Have a fantastic day.
xoxo
Shelbee
Maria | passion fruit, paws and peonies
It’s incredible how many posts it all adds up to Shelbee – congratulations on your resilience! This post is a lovely read and insight into your blogging world. I’m not sure how much longer I will blog for. But, if I did stop there are so many aspects I would miss. BTW cutest outfit so far! xx
shelbeeontheedge@gmail.com
Maria, thank you so much! The words written really do add up to immense proportions. Now if I only could get back to working on my little book idea. I do hope you continue on your blogging journey. I always enjoy what you are sharing! I can’t imagine my life without it at this point.
xoxo
Shelbee
jade
love that skirt – amazing photoss
Jadieegosh
shelbeeontheedge@gmail.com
Thanks so much, Jade! Have a wonderful day!
xoxo
Shelbee
Maureen
Congratulations once again for being nominated! Very well deserved! Blogging is very fulfilling and I love it for the men, women that make it so rewarding. Your boots are beautiful and the embroidery makes it unique. A very cute outfit!
Maureen | http://www.littlemisscasual.com
shelbeeontheedge@gmail.com
Maureen, thank you so very much! It really has been more fulfilling than I ever expected when I began this journey! I am so blessed to have made so many amazing friends like you. Have the most beautiful day!
xoxo
Shelbee
Laura
Congratulations on your Sunshine Blogger Award x2! I love how the questions change so they are always interesting to read!
shelbeeontheedge@gmail.com
Thank you, Laura! It is fun to see what questions different bloggers want answered! Have a wonderful day, my friend.
xoxo
Shelbee
Paul
Looking sexy and edgy. Congrats again for being nominated a 2nd time. Over 700 amazing. Keep spreading your beautiful sunshine
shelbeeontheedge@gmail.com
Thanks so much, Paul! I have been feeling a bit sexier and sassier than usual! Perhaps it’s all the love coming my way! Have the most wonderful day.
xoxo
Shelbee
anne m bray
Hey, Sunshine! You keep the world a brighter place!
xxox
shelbeeontheedge@gmail.com
Thank you, Anne! You keep shining your light out into the world as well!
xoxo
Shelbee
Shugunna Alexander
Congratulations on the award!!
shelbeeontheedge@gmail.com
Thanks so much, Shugunna! Have a wonderful weekend.
xoxo
Shelbee
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