what i'm reading: eCourses on blogging

Now, I know this is usually a place reserved for books and I promise to get back to that soon. But reading a book a week is something I am currently behind on because I spent this last week reading two different blogging related eCourses. I mentioned one of them in my things I love post last week but today I want to really give you a review of what I love about these eCourses.

Blog Life eCourse from A Beautiful Mess 

Let's start with the big one: Blog Life eCourse from A Beautiful Mess. I was curious about this course because I had taken their previous eCourse on blogging and having seen how far they have come in just a few short years, I knew there was a lot they could share in this eCourse.

First off, the format of how this eCourse is created is really well laid out. It is very text heavy but they have the chapters organized well, it is easy to see where you left off, they included some gorgeous photos so you don't get too overwhelmed by text, and they have video included as well. It is always interesting to read the more personal views of those who are successful at their craft, A Beautiful Mess has had incredible success over the few years but in this course they are honest and insightful on where they may have made mistakes and that is not only beneficial to read and learn from but it makes it more comforting that there may be mistakes.

The price on this eCourse is a little on the higher end of eCourses out there. While it does have a lot of useful information and solid activities (or 'homework') to help you grow and develop your blog, it may not be the best eCourse for someone who is just starting out. I found this to be useful because I had a foundation in a lot of the subject matter already but if I was just starting out I think this course might be a little intimidating. I would say this is a great course for someone who has the basics down and wants to grow and develop from there.

Spark eCourse from Campfire Chic 

Be prepared: I am about to rave like a fangirl about this eCourse, if you can't handle that turn back now. Kam has long been one of my favorite bloggers out there, she has a solid newsletter for bloggers, has created an awesome app to help you stay inspired in writing and blogging, and now with her Spark eCourse she is giving you access to 30 days of tips and insight to rekindle your blogging passion or take your blog to the next level. 

Full disclosure: I am only on Day 6 of this 30 day eCourse and I plan on writing another post once I am done but I wanted to share my experience so far because it has been so positive. The course is formatted as daily e-mails that not only give you tips, tricks, and insight but also activities and lessons to help you dig deeper and resources to extend your learning. While some of the things she has you do in the lessons seem really simple and straightforward at times, you will realize that she is having you do them as part of the course because they are essential things you need to do that you probably have been putting on the back burner. I really love this course and cannot wait to see what that full 30 days has in store. While she markets this for bloggers who are in a rut, I think it is great for all bloggers and the price really can't be beat. 

Have you tried either of these eCourses? What did you think?

xoxo,

kat 

guest post over at campfire chic

Today you will find me over at Campfire Chic talking about tips for your first spin class. Even if you are already a spin class pro I would love it if you would check it out and maybe add your own tips to the comments!

Kam of Campfire Chic and I have been reading each others blogs for years now. I love her blog because it shows how to balance a creative and adventurous life with a 9 to 5. She has awesome posts on project life, adventures, and the National Parks, just to name a few.

If you landed here because you saw my post over at Campfire Chic - Welcome! A little bit about me, I am an educator who just finished grad school and decided to start blogging again. Right now I blog about adventures, crafting, fitness, and so much more. You can learn a little more about me here. Please feel free to explore the blog, maybe leave me a comment, use those pretty buttons on the side to find me on social media, or send me an e-mail!

xoxo,
kat

things i love: journals, coffee, and blogs

Lately, I have been waking up each morning to a big pot of coffee, my journal (see above), and some time reading blogs before getting ready for work. I used to read the news first thing but found it was getting me in the worst mood. Now, I listen to the news on my drive and read some articles during my lunch break instead. By using my morning time to write in my journal and read through my favorite blogs out there, I seem more inspired and focused throughout the day. It sets a more positive tone. Here are some of my favorite posts from recent weeks from just a few of the blogs I read.

I loved this book report from Lemon and Raspberry. There are so many books on my to read list and her list here gave me even more. It's also nice to see that someone else out there reads as wide a variety of genres as I do. While I know most people do, it's always nice to see a reminder of it.

This post from Campfire Chic about a blogger camping trip with SoCal Hiking/Adventure/Outdoor bloggers really inspired me. I keep telling myself that I am going to be more outgoing and social and try to meet people doing the activities I love, seeing this post from Kam gave me even more reasons why I need to stop being shy and afraid and just go out and do it!

I loved this post about writing from Scoutie Girl. It was such a sincere post and gave an intimate glimpse of her life as a writer (and so much more.)

And finally, a little bit of Spring inspiration from Selective Potential. I love this collection of her favorite Spring outfits. The polka dot dress at the end is my favorite! Especially with those shoes.

What is your morning routine? What are your favorite blogs to read?

xoxo,
kat