When I started My Cup of Cocoa almost a year ago, I did so without any thought to other blogs, blog culture, or my place in the world of blogs. That’s probably because I knew next to nothing about all that. I started because I wanted to put a little more positivity into the world. I was tired of all the negativity, anger, and hate I was seeing online. And so My Cup of Cocoa was born. A few weeks ago, it was nominated for the Sunshine Blogger Award. I am so honored! Thanks to No Happy Accidents for the nomination.
The Sunshine Blogger Award is given to blogs that are inspiring, positive, and creative. That’s exactly what I try to do with My Cup of Cocoa. It is so nice that the blog has been recognized. Hopefully, that means my messages of positivity are getting out there.
Here’s How the Award Works
Once nominated the blogger must write a post in which they:
- Thank the blogger that nominated them and add a link back to their blog.
- Answer the 11 questions asked by the blogger who nominated them.
- Nominate some new blogs and give them 11 new questions to answer.
- Notify your nominees and display the Sunshine Blogger Award logo in you post.
My Q & A
Kim at No Happy Accidents asked me some fun questions. Some of them were easy and some took a little more thought. Here ‘s what I came up with.
Who are you and what does your blog represent?
I am a wife, mother, teacher, blogger, photographer, creative genius-in-training, and daughter of God.My belief is that there is far more good in the world than bad. I love what Mr. Rogers’ said about looking for the helpers. He said “When I was a boy and I would see scary things in the news, my mother would say to me, “Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.” To this day, especially in times of “disaster,” I remember my mother’s words and I am always comforted by realizing that there are still so many helpers – so many caring people in this world.” My Cup of Cocoa is a blog about gratitude, happiness, and favorite things. I want it to be a place where people can come for a lift, a smile, and warm, happy feelings.
What is your biggest joy in life?
That’s a tough question because I have many joys. My three children are possibly my greatest blessings. My husband and I just celebrated our 25th wedding anniversary. I have two adorable rescue dogs that make me smile very day. I am a woman of faith and that brings me a lot of joy and peace as well. Smaller joys include spending time at the seaside, chocolate, the beauty of nature, and good books.
What is your biggest fear in life?
This one took some thought. I am a worrier by nature, so I’ve had a lot of little fears to deal with. My biggest is probably that something terrible might happen to one of my children that I won’t be able help them with. I guess that’s mom guilt for you.
Where would you live if there were no barriers in your way?
I would spend half my time on the Pacific coast of the United States and half my time in London. They are my two favorite places on earth. Unfortunately, they’re also rather expensive. But I would also travel all over to see if I have more favorite places. You never know what you might discover.
What is your most memorable vacation?
When my children were 1, 6, and 9 we drove from California to Denver and back. We had a lot of adventures and most of them were fun. We visited a few touristy spots along the way, but what I remember most was spending time together. I’m taking my first trip to Canada in October. Just me and my husband. I hope it’s memorable for good reasons too.
If you could travel anywhere, where would you go and why?
That’s a hard one. My list is so long. To quote Susan Sontag: “I haven’t been everywhere yet, but it’s on my list.” Traveling to new places, seeing how other people live, enjoying their local food, and learning their history are all things I would love to do. I’m not really picky about where. The only places I wouldn’t travel to are those that are dangerous for an American woman. Some highlights on my bucket list include: the Orkney Islands, Italy, Japan, Iceland, and the Netherlands.
What do you like to do in your spare time?
Spare time? What’s that? Does anyone have spare time anymore? When I get some, I read and spend time with my family. I also love doing puzzles, word puzzles, jigsaw puzzles, all sorts of puzzles. I guess I’m a bit of a nerd…and proud of it!
What type of books or blogs do you like to read?
I LOVE to read. I set a goal each year to read 50 books. So far, I’ve at 54 this year. My favorite genres include: mysteries, historical fiction, and middle school/young adult fiction. A favorite book from last year is “A Man Called Ove” by Fredrik Bachman.
My favorite blogs are pretty varied. Boho Berry is great because I’m a bullet journal enthusiast. Ahead of Thyme is a new favorite food blog. The Faithful Merchant has beautiful handmade items. Rocking Over 40 is inspiring for those of a certain age and those who haven’t caught up to us yet. Lady Boss Blogger highlights female leadership and entrepreneurship. A Book Lovers Adventures is right up my alley. I could go on and on. There are so many terrific blogs out there.
If you had an extra $2,000, how would you spend it?
My house is in desperate need of new flooring, so I’d put it towards that. We’ve had the same flooring for 17 years. It’s seen three kids, three dogs, and a whole lot of messes. Anybody got $2,000 for me???
What is your favorite social media platform and why?
I really like Instagram because I love the art of taking photographs. I’m pretty new to the platform, but am really enjoying it. It’s a fun place to share my creativity and my thoughts.
If you could have a do-over on anything in your life, would you? Why or why not?
I’m an almost-empty-nester. I have one child in middle school and two in college. If I could have a do-over, I’d spend more time having fun with my kids. Our time together has gone by way too fast. Other than that, no do-overs for me. I am who I am today because of my past, the good, bad, and messy parts of it.
Thanks Again
Thank to Kim at No Happy Accidents for nominating me. Be sure to check out her blog. I especially like her post on hitting the pause button. Read it here. I love her advice “During trying moments think: I’m going to miss this someday.” She’s absolutely right and it helps you get through those moments.
My Nominated Blogs
- It’s My Favorite Day
- Rocking Over 40
- Motivate Me Now
- A Book Lovers Adventures
- Page Flutter
- Pardon My Positivity
Questions for the New Nominees
- Why did you start a blog and what has been you best and worst experience with blogging?
- If you had three wishes, what would they be and why? (no wishes for more wishes!)
- What inspires you?
- Do you have any pets? Tell us about them.
- What is your favorite comfort food and why?
- What are three things you can’t live without?
- Do you believe in miracles? Why or why not?
- If you could live anywhere, where would it be and why?
- Describe the perfect day.
- What are your creative outlets?
- What advice would you give to a new blogger?
I’m really looking forward to reading everyone’s answers. Thanks for reading and please share!
