Friday's Five Facts: Why I blog

I am so happy to be blogging on the regular again. I only posted 12 times in August, and it was sad. I actually shocked myself with how much I miss blogging when life gets hectic. So I figured, what better to focus on for my first Friday facts in September than the reasons I blog in the first place?

1. I needed a hobby.
I used to work in a campaign environment. My job as a recruiter required that I consistently work around 55 hours a week, sometimes as many as 70 hours. When I transitioned to a transitional 40 hour work week I found that I got really lazy. I felt like I needed something productive to do with the extra time. Starting a fashion blog was a great choice because I didn't need buy any equipment or learn any new skills (besides awkwardly posing in front of a tripod). I was already reading fashion blogs, shopping and having fun with clothes, so why not document it?

2. To challenge myself to step out of my comfort zone and to build confidence in myself.

I have loved clothes for as long as I can remember, but after I gained weight in college I definitely started falling into the "dress for your body" trap. (I think that's total bullshit, but that's a story for another day) In other words, I avoided selecting pieces that would draw attention to the parts of my body that I was insecure about. I didn't always select items that I liked as much as items that were "flattering". Documenting what I wear challenges me to try new fabrics, colors, cuts, and combinations. An example? Red corduroy pants. Blogging is also challenging me to go to events and feel comfortable talking about myself to strangers. 

3. To present my point of view/ something a little different.
My point of view is something that is evolving everyday. I guess I market myself as the everywoman? I love to shop, but like most people I have limited means. As a result most of my pieces are thrifted or from affordable major retailers.I have a day job, a personal life, and responsibilities outside of blogging, so that comes through in my blog as well.  I'm approximately the "average size" for American women. I'm not glamorous at all! I take my pictures with a point and click, and I blog from my living room on a beat up Dell laptop that is literally on it's last leg, and I don't know HTML or have fancy editing software. I'm hoping to start infusing a little more of the feminist/ activist side of myself into the blog, but I haven't yet found a way to bring those things up organically.

4.  To connect with other awesome women!
This wasn't one of my goals when I started, but making online "friends" has been my favorite part of blogging. Reading your comments and your blogs makes my day. I am still discovering new blogs and bloggers that amaze me, and of course I have mad love for my non blogging readers too. (I used to be you!)

5. Did I mention that I love clothes?

Why do you blog/ don't you blog?

Have a great weekend!