I started this blog in September of 2012. In four months I’ve learned so much. I learned how to use WordPress, a little about photography, and I have a basic concept of SEO.

I title my posts better, try to use lots of links within my blog, try to Pin, Twit, and Facebook regularly. (I dont tweet…I twit.)I use natural lighting for my photos, try to center them, and keep my negative space balanced. I even made a header.

I have about 20 hits a day, and 20 followers. Most of them are friends of mine, several who have no interest at all in sewing. (They just love me!) 70% of my hits are new visitors. My bounce rate is between 65-68%. I’m not thrilled with the layout of my blog or the header. I’ve posted 68 posts. Most of the posts I did in the first couple months embarrass me, because of poor photography and writing.

The purpose of this post isn’t to beat myself up. I want to read this post at the end of 2013 and see how far I’ve come. I also wanted to be honest about my insignificant stats because sometimes when cool bloggers post their numbers, I feel like the kid in high school eating lunch alone. I’m hoping some other blogger who is just starting out will read this and feel like they aren’t the only tiny fish in this big, big sea we call Blogland.

Here’s the thing though. I never was the big fish. Not in high school, not in college, not in the work force. I never had thousands of friends. I’ve always had a small group of awesome, loyal friends. They could care less what size of fish I am. My friends stay my friends- forever. I never tried to be the biggest or best, just the best me I can be.

So that’s what I’m going to continue doing. I’m proud of how far my blog has come in such a short time. I know what things I want to improve. And I will continue studying, learning, and growing. On my terms, and in my time. I won’t measure my success based on other blogs. (Amy Andrews taught me that. She blogs about blogging.)

Here’s my resolutions for 2013:

More tailored, professional garments
I’ll be taking my time, doing things right. Proper cutting, correct seam allowances, fancier embellishing. Even if it means less posts. It’s quality vs. quantity.

A professional header
Computer stuff is my least favorite part of blogging. I know. It doesn’t work. But I’ve got to spend a day messing around and getting something I love.

A streamlined site
See above. Yup, I hate this part of blogging. Perhaps I should bite the bullet and pay someone. I really love blogging, and I don’t tend to do a lot of things I don’t enjoy. So if I don’t commit myself to spending some time on the layout quickly, I’ve decided I’ll get someone else to do it.

SEO
My friend Parnuma at BeMyGoth explained how to use a plug in to babysit my SEO. Sounds extra boring to me. But I’ll be doing it behind the scenes, so that I can get more google hits and traffic. I’ll be studying more so I can actually understand this crap.

Making more garments that can be worn day to day

I’d like to make more basics. For me and the kids. I love wearing things I make, especially if someone asks where I bought it. My best mornings start when Bella gets dressed and chooses to wear something I made.

That’s where I’m at. I’m ready for the New Year! And without further ado, here’s my top 5 favorite projects in 2012!

Zoe’s John Deere Tractor Dress

SpongeBob Hair Bow

Bella’s Christmas Dress

Sophie’s Birthday Outfit

Pirate Costumes

I think I even just learned to link photos. Maybe not. But I’m sending this post to Blogland either way…fingers crossed! Have a great year everyone!