FACING A FEAR IN GREECE AND ITALY

I kept something from you guys for a while. I’m in Europe. I didn’t want to say for sure that I was going because, well, I wasn’t sure. As I’ve mentioned a few times now, I’ve been struggling quite badly in the past few months with generalized anxiety. Traveling has caused me anxiety in the past, so given this new delightful bout of generalized anxiety (and my new-found fear of flying), I really didn’t know if I could do it. I know fearing a vacation might seem bizarre to some, but I tortured myself for weeks leading up to the trip. The decision of whether or not to go in and of itself caused a heck of a lot of panic. I didn’t actually decide for sure if I was going until the day of the plane ride. But, as I'm sure it’s become evident to you guys, I decided to do it.

GROWING AN AUDIENCE THROUGH BLOGGING

BLOGGING BUILDING BLOCKS: GROWING AN AUDIENCE
Whether you’re working towards making blogging a full time job or it’s simply a hobby, having a community to share with is incredibly rewarding. Personally, it makes me feel as though I’m a part of something bigger. Chaitra and I thought the subject of growing an audience would be fitting as the final pillar in our Blogging Building Blocks series. I’m more comfortable discussing how to grow an audience through blogging means, so that’s what I’ll be taking on today. However I’m fairly useless when it comes to utilizing social media. Luckily Chaitra is a pro in this matter and she’ll be giving you guys some tips. Here’s what I’ve got for you today.

HOW TO CREATE WELL WRITTEN BLOG CONTENT

BLOGGING BUILDING BLOCKS: CONTENT CREATION
Beautiful photography and a pretty template are undeniably important. They're what will initially draw me to a blog. However, good writing is what really what drives me to stick around. Ultimately, this blogging thing is about finding someone that we connect with. Writing has the power to do that. So for the third installment of Blogging Building Blocks, Chaitra and I had divided up the topic of writing into two sections – tips on writing from a structural/grammatical standpoint and tips on creating good content. I'll be taking the former. Grammar lovers unite!

THE PERFECT KYLIE JENNER LIP

It's odd that I'm writing a post with this title because I am so not a Kylie Jenner type of girl. I've never been into the Kardashian makeup style and I doubt I ever will be. I still don't understand this “famous for being famous thing.” Still, I find myself enjoying this rebirth of the 90's lip that Kylie Jenner has brought about. It's something different to the light nude lip that's been in style for so long (not that I don't love that look). So I started looking out for something that would hit the spot.

AFFORDABLE AND FANTASTIC SKINCARE

It can be all too easy to get sucked into the hype of fancy skincare. When you see gorgeous packaging and luxurious ingredients, you want to believe you'd be doing your skin a favour by investing. But sometimes the best thing that you can do for your skin is keep it simple. There are loads affordable and fantastic products out there. They may not generate the same level of excitement, but they can deliver excellent results.

PHOTOGRAPHY TIPS FOR BLOGGING

BLOGGING BUILDING BLOCKS: PHOTOGRAPHY
Next up for Blogging Building Blocks is Photography. Photography is a powerful tool. It's something that can really grab viewers and draw them in. Social media sites such as Instagram and Pinterest are a true testament to just how powerful imagery can be. With this is mind, Chaitra and I have decided to tackle two different aspects of photography – tips for taking photographs and tips for editing them. I get the exciting task of covering the former today!

MARCH FAVOURITES

March was a very minimal makeup month. I really didn't reach for too much outside of the usual mascara/concealer/powder type of business. However there were a few makeup bits I particularly enjoyed this month, as well as something for the hair and for the body.