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I started following blogs – then called online journals – in 1995. They were a glimpse into another life and even their mundane seemed more interesting than mine. Some of them were really well written and the authors went to publish successful books. Some went viral for a short time (remember the woman who cataloged her debt-free journey, including having readers donate to her solvency?), but a lot just disappeared after a while.  I even started a few of them, myself!

The thing is, I’ve always found personal blogs way more interesting than the more modern blogging sales model. That’s not to say that I’ve never read a “how to” blog post or purchased something that was recommended, but I regularly follow blogs that are much more focused on their story than on how to create something or how to shop. Those personal blogs are harder to find these days as more people move into social media platforms and video.

Initially, Hedgetoad Cottage was going to be one of those modern “look at me create something AND buy all the stuff” blogs. I admit it. I would love to be able to stay home full time and write every day… who among us wouldn’t? Taking care of my two kids, instead of 150 other people’s kids? Sign me up!  The problem is… that just isn’t me. I’m not all creative every week. Some weeks, I’m barely holding on by a thread. I like reading about real life. I like reading about kids growing up, authors finding new friends and hobbies, the arguments and the struggles. And I know others enjoy it too… but would my life be interesting to others? I guess I’ll just have to publish and find out.

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