MC VIP: Crystal @ Simply Being Mommy

Our Mom Central VIP: Crystal Reagan
Kids: Taylor 8, Rylan 5, Peyton 3
Your Blog URL: http://simplybeingmommy.com
Twitter: @SimplyBeingMom
What year did you start blogging? 2009

In addition to blogging and being a mother, what other jobs do you have?
I am the office manager for my dad’s insurance office.

Why did you start your blog?
I was searching how to make boutique hair bows when I stumbled across a tutorial on a mommy blog. I began reading some of her other posts and decided I could do the same thing. The next day I bought my domain and got to it.

What advice do you have for those starting out?
Be patient and work hard. If you want to be successful, you have to think of your blog as a business and not a scrapbook.

Name a few challenges you see or have experienced in the blogosphere.  
Unfortunately, there is so much competition between mommy bloggers. I keep to myself and therefore try to avoid any related drama.

What are your favorite and least favorite part(s) about blogging?
My favorite part of blogging is all the opportunities that I’ve received because of the blog. My family and I have gone to Disney (all expenses paid), we’ve received amazing product for review and I’ve been able to bless others who are less fortunate. My least favorite part of blogging is the huge time commitment that is required of me. In addition to my day job, I work about 40+ hours a week on the blog.

What is the wackiest opportunity you have gotten since you started your blog?
I’m not sure what you mean by wackiest, but my family and I were invited out to Florida to spend time at Disney -- all expenses paid! Such an amazing opportunity!

What are your top three blogging tips?
Be professional, be respectful and invest in a good camera!

What are you hoping will happen for you and your blog within the next year?
I’m hoping for more involvement with brands that I’ve developed a relationship with over the last two and a half years. I’m also hoping that I can increase my earnings to make the time commitment worth it ;)

We love link back love! Please tell us 2 or 3 blogs you love, their URLs, and Twitter names.
Liz, http://anutinanutshell.com, @blueviolet
Rachel, http://followinginmyshoes.com, @Rachel_L

Thanks, Crystal! We love working with you!