Today, we are talking about blogging, participating in the Pet Blogger Challenge hosted by Go
1. For those who may be visiting your blog for the first time, how long have you been blogging and what is your main topic?
We started Paws for Reflection about 9 years ago to promote become known as a credible cat writer, with a goal of getting published in cat related publications, notably Cat Fancy magazine. We have also had several articles in CatTalk. With very few traditional publications still in existence, our goal is now to promote cat tourism and ‘getting your cat fix’ on vacation, on the road and at home.
2. What was your proudest blogging moment of 2018?
Last year, 2018, was not a good blogging year. I took on a second job which zapped the limited time I could spend on my blog. I was also struggling with how to re-focus. I think my best moment was being part of a mastermind class where I was able to clarify how cat tourism fits into Paws for Reflection without giving up what I have accomplished over the past several years. I have about 10 posts that generate most of my blogging traffic.
3. What was the biggest blogging challenge you faced in 2018, and how did/will you tackle it?
Time and focus were the biggest challenges faced in 2018. Paws continues to do well with SEO, and while we struggle with social media, we have a better grasp on it than in the past. We also struggle with staying connected, and this is a big reason why I wanted to participate in this challenge.
4. Which of your 2018 blog posts was your favorite and why? (Please include a link.)
One of my favorite blog posts of 2018 was Cats are good for us – for our mental and physical health because the world should know just how awesome cats are! One of my struggles for 2018 was to continue to blend the ‘cats good for us’ theme into the tourism angle.
I also really liked the guest interview post with Gwen Cooper, Best Selling Author Gwen Cooper tells how cat tourism & events
5. Which of your 2018 posts was most popular with your audience? Why do you think it does so well?
My most popular posts date back before 2018. As 2018 was such a dismal year, I don’t think much did that well, but 2019 is a whole new story. The interview with Gwen Cooper did get quite a bit of traction, as did the stories about PopCats and CatCon.
6. Did you implemented a new series, feature, or practice on your blog in 2018 that you’re enjoying?
I am in the beginnings of implementing the get your cat fix while on vacation, on the road and at home, and I look forward to continuing this series, and hope to incorporate these posts into a book.
7. As the social media landscape changes, how are you promoting your blog posts and connecting with new readers?
The majority of my traffic has come from SEO, and I am working to build my Pinterest engagement to bring more traffic to my blog. I will definitely be using more Instagram and Facebook groups in 2019.
8. Looking forward to 2019, if you accomplish only one thing through your blog, what do you hope it is?
Our goal for 2019 is to put a real focus on the cat tourism and use the blog as a way to promote my book about all the cool places there are to visit worldwide where you can get a big dose of cat. We also plan to incorporate a whole lot more video and start a Facebook Group that will feature some improv humor about cats.
What steps are you planning to take to ensure you reach your goal?
My life will be changing dramatically. As of March 31, my full-time job that takes 13 hours out of 4 days every week will evaporate. I plan to write a weekly post that focuses on part of the info for that book. I plan to take my blog to another level, as I will have the time to really focus on making things happen.
10. Areas where I could use some help.
2019 Pet Blogger Challenge, time to refocus, and work towards my goals. Book publishing and video will be a huge part of 2019. I also need to redesign my site so it is more professional. Any links on how to best accomplish this would be greatly appreciated.
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