MC VIP: Brandy @ Not So Average Mama

Our Mom Central VIP: Brandy
Kids: Morgan, who is my teenager. She’s 13! Lauren is 7 and Emma is 5!
Your Blog URL: http://notsoaveragemama.com
Twitter: @stitchblade
What year did you start blogging? It was either late 2003 or early 2004. I’m a bit too senile to think back that far. I had several blogs I started and dropped before finding myself where I am now. My current blog was started in 2007.

In addition to blogging and being a mother, what other jobs do you have?  
I am a retired Tattoo Artist and Body Piercer. I also work as a photographer.

Why did you start your blog?  
Well, I moved to Texas 9 years ago. None of my family lives here and I felt very lonely. Blogging helped me feel connected somehow. I have made some great friends through blogging!

What advice do you have for those starting out?
Own yourself! From the beginning choose to own it. Don’t set up a blog on a free platform. Blogger blogs are being deleted left and right and people are losing their content. Buy a domain, buy hosting and start it right.

Name a few challenges you see or have experienced in the blogosphere.  
Jealousy runs rampant. You shouldn’t be jealous of what others have accomplished…you should however use that to drive you to accomplish what you are aiming for. I don’t play the numbers game either. I see people investing so much time in things like that. I want this to be fun. I don’t want to spend all my time trying to raise my stats. Yes, I love traffic…but who cares what those other numbers are.

What are your favorite and least favorite part(s) about blogging?
My favorite…I love when people really want to read what I have to say and the comments I get on my photos. It makes me feel pretty great! I love the support I have received with my illness (RSD). I have really made some great friends. I love that I can use my blog to help others as well, like Baby Darby! The least favorite? Sometimes I get too wrapped up into things and spend too much time on it.

What is the wackiest opportunity you have gotten since you started your blog?
Hmmmm…nothing really wacky that I can think of. I would love to add some more wackiness to my life so I am open to it!

What are your top three blogging tips?
Own your blog, Blog for YOU and don’t wrap yourself up into too many things.

What are you hoping will happen for you and your blog within the next year?
I would love to bring in even more income so that I can help save for us to buy our own home as well as pay for my medical care. I would also love to attend some more events. I’ve been to a few and really had a wonderful time.  

We love link back love! Please tell us 2 or 3 blogs you love, their URLs, and Twitter names.  
Annie from http://paintthemoon.net/blog / @paintthemoon
Holly from http://www.junecleavernirvana.com / @texasholly
Erika from http://www.largefamiliesonpurpose.com / @ErikaShupe

Thanks, Brandy! We love working with you!