I like writing a blog because I started off enjoying reading other blogs. And I still like reading other blogs. I enjoy getting a peek into someone else’s life, hearing someone else’s perspective and learning new things to try out in my life.
A few of those things have stuck along the way, such as…
Grace is famous for her witty musings of life with 5 kids, but several weeks ago she posted a two-ingredient body scrub that sounded simple enough for even me to try.
Coffee ground straight from a K-cup, mixed with 1-2 Tbsp of coconut oil.
I’ve been using it in the shower and LOVE it. David isn’t as wild about some of the leftover grounds he finds, but I remind him how much we are saving from me not buying fancy, expensive body scrubs (that’s a lie, I’ve never bought a body scrub since 7th grade when I loved the St. Ives apricot version).
Ashley once showcased a darling memory book that I keep in our kitchen to jot down all the adorable and funny things Hailey says. I’m going to buy another one for Kaitlyn because I think it’s such a cute keepsake.
I’ve learned countless cooking tips, one of my favorite being using a mixer to shred chicken.
You can find my other favorite kitchen hacks compiled here.
I’ve learned several fun little kids’ activities for learning through Katie, like this manipulative math game that I will be doing soon with Hailey.
And sometimes, it’s just inspirational words that resonate with me, like this from Sarah.
And it’s not limited to blogs either. I’m finding periscope (find me! ahealthyslice) quite entertaining and informative.
Char did a “scope” (what the cool people call it I’m learning…) the other day about tempeh, a fermented soy protein that I’m not very experienced with.
She shared that steaming the tempeh for 15 minutes before cooking with it helps get rid of the bitterness.
Well, well, what do you know, it works!
Speaking of periscope, Lindsay did a kick-butt scope yesterday where she shared 5 things she wishes she’d known when she started blogging and it was packed with good info. Check it out before it expires fellow scope lovers!
Those are just a few things I’ve learned from reading blogs among many, which leaves me curious to ask you this…
Do you prefer reading blogs that are stories of people’s lives?
Do you prefer blogs that share helpful information on specific topics?
Have you ever learned a really cool trick/tip/hack from a blog?
Katie says
I mainly read blogs that follow lives, such as yours. I don’t write quite like that, but maybe some day.
Andrea says
I like blogs that are a mix of following their life and sharing information/tips. Maybe that’s why I like yours so much because it does seem to have a healthy balance. Because of your blog I started brewing my own kombucha and bought an Anova precision cooker. I love both!!
Beks says
I just did the #NectarChat last night on Twitter, and discovered Periscope. I’d just heard about it that morning on the radio. Now I’m hearing about it everywhere! Kinda funny. I signed up (martinbeks), and maybe I’ll eventually get the guts to do a broadcast myself, one day.
Erica {Erica@EricaDHouse.com} says
I’m watching Lindsay’s periscope now!
I love tempeh, and that body scrub looks amazing! I’ve been looking for great DIY versions to start using post babe as I’m sure my skin will need the help.
Kate says
I really like blogs that provide both – a peek into someone else’s life and information.
The best tip so far was when you recommended to use some breastmilk to heal sore nipples. Sounded unconventional at the time, but worked like a charm when my son was born…
Katie @ Mom to Mom Nutrition says
I love that idea for a memory book! I mainly read blogs because I don’t read actual books anymore! And I love that it’s a virtual way to connect with people all over the US 🙂
Brynn says
blogs that offer an insight to their lives and are genuine are my personal favorite. I find this style lends to learnings and great tips- just like your blog! I’ve learned so much about feeding my child and the ins and outs of parenting.
Parita @ myinnershakti says
I like reading blogs that share life stuff with a healthy dose of topic based posts. Ironic, because my blog is much heavier on the topic side! But that’s only because my day-to-day is not all that interesting!
Brittany Dixon says
I like your topics though! I am going to try coconut oil as eye makeup remover soon! I always have the toughest time with mascara 🙂
Lindsay (Sincerely, LMS) says
I really need to try Periscope!!! I know that I’ll love it. I resisted Instagram for the longest time, and now it’s my favorite form of social media. Who knew? Now I just need to figure our how to ‘scope so I can be cool like you all 😉 Haha!
Morgan @ Morgan Manages Mommyhood says
I like blogs that follow life and mix in information. I have a short attention span haha I feel like I have learned SO MUCH about kids and raising children from reading blogs. As someone with zero kid experience, it makes it a little less scary!
Heather says
I have a variety of blogs I read that range all over the place, so I have no preference when it comes to being informative or more personal. Even better is when it’s a combination of both. It’s fun to get a peek into someone else’s life and you can feel some kind of connection.
Natalie @ The Ravenous Mommy says
Those are some great tips! I’ll have to try that chicken hack asap. I microwave my tempeh with some honey on it and that works great for me, I’ll have to try that steaming method too.
Sarah (SHU) says
awww, thanks for the shout out! i hope we get to have a big playdate some day – i feel like we (and our kids!) would get along so well <3
christina says
oh so many good tricks! i love the body scrub one!
N @ Clean Eating Recipes Blog says
Good tips! I really like the “shred chicken in 30 seconds.” It will be useful as we eat a lot of chicken in clean eating. Thanks for sharing!
Alyssa @ Renaissancerunnergirl says
I enjoy reading blogs that are a mix – recipes, running, fun tips, and just stories of people’s lives! Which is basically what I do on mine.
Niki @ Life With Niki says
The shredded chicken thing blew my mind for some reason :P, do you think it is possible to do the same thing with lamb or beef? Bones may or may not ruin the mixer though….
I too have stumble upon many interesting life hacks and just advice in general reading different blogs!
Megan says
I love reading a mix of daily life and practical tips. I really enjoy posts about your daughters and all of your baby led weaning posts (and book) have helped me immensely. Funnily enough, I refer to you in my blog post today. Don’t worry, you don’t have to read it 🙂 Basically, I’m amazed at all you do. Love the blog!
Drneene says
I love DIY stuff for new ideas and to save money!! I’ve tried the shredded chicken hack and it works like a charm!!
I like blogs that have a blend. I like having bloggers that I feel like are “friends.” 🙂
Maria says
I LOVE that quote. I am this close to printing it out and putting it in my cube at work. I give myself short panic attacks all day long that do no one any good 🙂
TMI, but I don’t think I ever would have found out about menstrual cups if it wasn’t for blogs. Not really a trick, but a life changer for sure!
Cassie says
I like blogs that have a little mix of everything.
Emma @ be mom strong says
I love blogs that give info! Something I don’t have to read a lot of but can take something away!