Jennifer @ Eighty MPH Mom

Our Mom Central VIP: Jennifer Regan
Kids: Son, Trevor is 21 and Daughter, Liz is 15
Your Blog URL: http://eightymphmom.com
Twitter: @EightyMPHMom
What year did you start blogging?  I started blogging at the end of 2008, but really didn't do much with my blog until early 2009.  I never dreamed it would grow into what it has become today.

In addition to blogging and being a mother, what other jobs do you have?
Being a wife, mother (to two kids and four cats) and blogger is my full-time job, and it is a job that I love!

Why did you start your blog?
I started my blog initially as a hobby. Little did I know how important it would become to me. One of the best aspects of blogging, for me, is the friendships I have made and being a part of communities. My world has grown so much because of blogging, and some of my best friends are people that I've met online. Bloggers are a unique bunch - and a group that completely understand each other.

What advice do you have for those starting out?
Be yourself and be confident in your blogging. If you are working with companies and PR Reps, be professional and friendly. Treat your blog as a business (hopefully one you love), and never sell yourself short. There will always be "bigger" blogs, but content is key - make sure you post frequently and make yourself known in the blogosphere by interacting with others, being active on Facebook and Twitter. Be respectful of other bloggers! Don't create drama - most of us don't like the whole "drama" thing.  
 
If you want to do product reviews/giveaways, give it your all. Use your own pictures when possible, put things in your own words. Communicate with the companies/PR you are working with! Companies will come back to you if you if they can see that you've put forth the effort for them.  
 
Create a system that works for you as far as scheduling. I use a combination of Google docs, Google Calendar, sticky notes (on my computer desktop), and email organization. Create labels for different types of emails/campaigns - it is easy to find just what you are looking for when you need it.

Name a few challenges you see or have experienced in the blogosphere:
Well, when my blog goes down (thanks to my host), it is very frustrating. I have spent countless hours on chat with them. Other challenges are learning things like SEO, HTML, etc., and keeping up with social media sites.

What are your favorite and least favorite part(s) about blogging?
My favorite part is that my blog is mine!  I can run it anyway I want to, and I take great pride in it. It was fun building it from the ground up to where it is today. I have met some people online whom I now consider to be some of my best friends - they are always there for me, and that is a comforting feeling. I love the press events I have been to, the parties, and working with and meeting some fabulous PR Reps. Another one of my favorite things about blogging is being part of a special group of women who all share the same interests. We are a tight-knit group!
 
My least favorite part of blogging would be the amount of time involved. Although a schedule is crucial, there are still times when it can be overwhelming (especially during the holidays). When the deadlines add up, I get a little bit stressed, especially because I want to make everyone happy.

What is the wackiest opportunity you have gotten since you started your blog?
Oh boy. I don't know if it's wacky necessarily, but I did a post for KY Intense and it was quite popular!

What are your top three blogging tips?

1. Only take on what you can comfortably handle and be consistent with posting
2. Don't get too personal on your blog if your close friends and family read it - you might hurt some feelings.
3. Join communities - they are full of helpful and knowledgeable people!

What are you hoping will happen for you and your blog within the next year?
I am hoping for more press events and trips (these are so much fun, and I love meeting other bloggers). I just look forward to it growing even more!

We love link back love! Please tell us 2 or 3 blogs you love, their URLs and Twitter names.
Slice o' Heaven, @MrsCox: Erin is not only a good friend of mine, but she puts such a fun twist on her posts. She is one of the funniest people I know!
Busy Working Mama, @BusyWorkingMama: She is so sweet and posts some fabulous recipes!

Thanks, Jennifer! We love working with you!