WordPress informed me this week, it’s the first anniversary of ML Reads. When I started the blog, I did it on a whim. Just a fun way to share books with friends. I had no idea how much it would enrich my life; nor how it would evolve.
So 217 posts later with over 10,000 page views. . . this is what I’ve learned.
- I’ve created a wonderful journal of ML’s reading and important events in our life. Most make me smile; but the one about her friend dying hurts my heart every time I read it.
- Authors and illustrators of children books are amazing. Not only do they provide high quality books for children, they are kind. A month or so into the blog I decided to contact authors and illustrators when they were featured. I receive responses from the vast majority. Some send ML copies of their books. Others provide a sneak peak to artwork from an upcoming book. A few even follow my blog. I didn’t expect any of this when I started the blog. All the authors and illustrators are gracious and appreciate learning how much ML enjoys their books.
- People from all over the world view my blog… 78 countries and counting.
- Writing is hard work. 211 posts are in some sort of draft yet to be finished.
- I’m a better librarian for keeping this blog. It’s renewed my enthusiasm for helping children find books they may enjoy. I love it when they let me know if they like it or not.
I plan to continue posting for another year. As ML grows I know the blog will continue to evolve. With my love of picture books and ML’s interest in art, sharing about new picture books will be a permanent feature. I anticipate ML’s reading skills to ramp up exponentially in the next year. Maybe I’ll have her write posts on the chapter books she loves.
And I thoroughly enjoy each and every post, my friend. As do my children WITH children! What an accomplishment. Congratulations!!! Blessings, Nancy Dickson
May joy be in you, today and always!
Date: Thu, 22 May 2014 20:36:15 +0000 To: nandickson@hotmail.com
Thank you, Nancy. Nothing like a Nana that read stories via skype to grandchildren far away. You’re the best!
I’m happy to hear you plan on continuing your blog, I just “found” you but already we’ve got so many new books from the library (our library is TINY so we do lots of inter-library loan when we’ve got suggestions like yours) that have been great! Happy Anniversary! 🙂
Thanks for the kind words. Love the fact the blog is getting books into kids hands.