I would like to explain how this came to fruition. Hubby and I were having a discussion about the old days, (for the young’ens reading this..a little history lesson) but before the dark age. When Sundays were special and had traditions and rituals. Sunday mornings Church, come home to a big gravy (sauce) cooking on the stove, a big Sunday dinner, then either off to visit relatives/friends or wait for relatives/friends to drop by. We would spend the afternoon sitting around the table, talking, catching up, having coffee, pizza, calzones, etc etc, dessert. And now, how sad, all those traditions are gone. And then I got to thinking, why not have something similar here on my blog. This past year, I have met so many amazing and wonderful people through blogging, and how I am in awe of what they do and accomplish. How much respect I have for them, for their honesty, integrity, credibility and so enjoy when a bit of their personality shines through. So every Sunday, here at my place, the coffee will be on, the dessert is on the table and friends will be stopping by. And I will be rolling out the red carpet for my Sunday Shining Star Blogger guest.
I used to read a couple of personal blogs on a fairly regular basis and as I would read them, I would think to myself that I could do that. I mentioned it to my son when he was home on his summer break in 2008 and he encouraged me (or should I say pushed) me into doing it.
*How and what made you decide on the name of your blog?
Well, when my son was pushing me, I told him I couldn’t start a blog because I wouldn’t even know what to call it and he came up with the name.
*What would you say is the main content of your blog?
Books and book related posts along with a few movie reviews and food posts.
*If books, what genres do you mostly read?
I read a variety of genres, but I would guess I’m heavy on literary fiction, memoirs, and YA. I’ve never really taken the time to evaluate it, though.
*How often do you post?
Daily.
*What are some of the things that you love about blogging?
The people and the discussions about books! I’ve met so many wonderful people (bloggers, authors and publicists) and learned so much about publishing. If someone had told me 5 years ago that I would become friends with people I met online, I never would have believed them, but it’s true!
*What are some of the negatives?
There is some drama from time to time, but overall, the only negative thing for me is the pressure I put on myself.
*Name 1-3 favorite items/postings that you have/do on your blog?
That’s a tough question! I guess I would say author interviews and posts about author events I’ve attended.
*Any advice you would give to new bloggers?
Don’t be afraid to ask questions! Most bloggers are more than happy to answer them.
*What draws you to follow someone’s blog?
I love blogs with personality. A blog doesn’t have to be about the same kind of books I like to read, if the blogger’s personality shines through. I enjoy reviews that include the reader’s reaction rather than an analysis of the book.
*Do you have any “pet peeves” that other bloggers do?
I don’t like it when I click on a blog and music starts playing – it generally startles me.
*Would you plase share 5-7 things about the person behind the screen so that we get to know the “real” you!!
My favorite color is red.
I love college sports, particularly football and basketball (Go Hokies!).
I am petrified (scared is not strong enough) of heights.
I love to sing and dance but don’t do either one well.
I was 16 when I graduated from high school.
The longest I’ve lived in one place is 12 years.
*Any other info you would like to share.
Not that I can think of, but I do want to thank you, Cheryl, for thinking of me for this feature!
I loved reading Kathy’s answers as I was preparing this post. I learned so much more about her, except the one secret I think she is keeping from us. I think she is a triplet lol. She amazes me!!!. How does she read so many books, writes such fantastic reviews, comments on so many blogs, I love to read about her lunch dates with authors, her book club, her weekend cooking, her family, and oh yes, lets not forget, life in general. And then to find out that she graduated from High School at 16…what an accomplishment…definitely something to be very proud of. One thing you mentioned, made me personally feel better because I truly thought I was the only one who had this reaction, was being startled when music starts playing. I was a bit surprised, however, when she mentioned “drama” because when I think of and picture Kathy in my mind, I think of a kind, soft spoken, and genuine caring person. I think you will all agree, Kathy is definitely a SHINING STAR!!!
