Busting the Newbie Blues!

This is such a great idea!!  Busting the Newbie Blues is hosted by Small Review.  It was created to help new book bloggers (like me!) by giving us a way to interact with more established book bloggers.  

SO here are my answers to the questionnaire:

1.  When did you start your blog?

A:  About a month ago.

2.  Why did you start your blog?

A:  I was reading book blogs for a few months before starting my own.  I was reading a lot and wanted to be able to discuss the books I read.  Sadly, my family doesn't read as much as I do (nor do they read the same types of books as I do), and my friends don't read as much either.  So I pulled an all-nighter and created Bon Bons and Reveries.  

3.  What has been the biggest challenge you've faced so far?

A:  Hmm, well, I guess that would either be (1) trying to write reviews on books I read a while ago or (2) trying to figure out a way to improve the look of my blog (layout, etc.) with my limited to nonexistent knowledge of CSS.

4.  What do you find most discouraging about being a new blogger?

A:  I don't really find anything that discouraging.  Sometimes I feel like my blog will never be as good as the blogs I read but I know it will come with time.

5.  What do you find most encouraging?

A:  When people comment on my blog saying they love/like it.  Makes me feel all warm and fuzzy inside :) 

6.  What do you like best about the blogs you read?  Have you tried to replicate this in your blog?

A:  Yes, before I made my blog I visited all the blogs I read and I made a list of everything I liked about each blog.  I used that list when I created mine.  I still do that, even now, as I try to improve my blog.  My favorite things about the blogs I read are: easy to navigate, colors, nice blogger, organized, and content.  My top favorite thing about the blogs I read is their passion-if I can see how much effort and hard work they put into their blog then I know they are dedicated and I can count on them.

7.  What do you dislike about blogs you've read?  Do you try to avoid this?  

A: I don't like blogs that are completely blank (white background, etc.) with no header, and messy sidebars that post about once a month and don't seem to care.  

8.  Any advice for other new bloggers?

A:  Blog about what you like/love.  Let your passion and love for reading, writing, or anything you blog about shine through because that is the real reason for blogging-to share what you love with others.

9.  Anything else you'd like to share about your experience?

A:  I've probably said this a million times already but-  I love the blogging community.  Everyone is so nice and supportive of each other.  I don't feel that competitive pressure to beat anyone-because there is no one to beat.  We all share the same interests and want to share that with the world.  

10.  Is there anything you'd like to tell us about your blog?

A:  Books + Food + Music= Bon Bons and Reveries

Also, those of you who don't know- I'm hosting a holiday giveaway called Happy Holly Jolly Holidays Giveaway, click here for more info.