Editor’s Note: This is not my usual blog post. For my readers who are not bloggers themselves, this post may not make a lot of sense. Suffice to say that this post is written as a personal thank you to friends within the blogging community. Often, bloggers recognize and encourage one another. I have been so honored this week. And I am truly thankful.
T.R. Noble of Peeking Beneath and Inside Cup has greatly honored me with the Blogger Recognition Award. She is both a thoughtful and thought-provoking writer, and she and her blog are much loved! I have truly enjoyed getting to know her through her authentic and insightful writing. I truly look forward to her posts.
Part of blogging etiquette for this particular award includes telling a little about how one’s blog began and offering advice to new bloggers in order to encourage them on their writing journey.
Obviously, I can adequately fulfill the first part of the etiquette equation. But as far as advice goes, I’m not sure I have a lot of wisdom to impart. Even so, I’ll give it a try.
Okay… So let’s roll with the blog’s backstory…
Through Ink & Image…a bloggie is born
Next to the Bible, the children’s classic, Uncle Arthur’s Bible Book has influenced my life more than any other book.
Perhaps, you’ve seen it in a pediatrician’s office. If you have, you understand how I first became enamored with its beautiful illustrations and Bible stories.
In fact, as a nine-year-old, I couldn’t get enough of the series. And so there was no help for it. My mother smuggled an abridged copy into our home.
Why the subterfuge? At the time, my Dad vehemently professed atheism.
The necessity of secrecy made it all even more exciting. But the stories and illustrations themselves captured my heart for the long haul. And that’s probably the reason, I still connect Biblical truth with fine art.
Quite honestly, I am fascinated by the people who grace the pages of the Bible. I identify with their struggles and admire their faith. And I suppose I relate to them because despite the fact that they were ordinary and flawed, God loved them.
Whatever the case, I like to think of this blog as an illustrated Bible story book for adults.
Without a doubt, the foundation for Through Ink and Image was set long before the blog began. After personally battling cancer in 2007 and losing my Mom to ovarian cancer in 2008, I began chronicling my faith journey through art.
In emails to my closest gal pal, I often described the spiritual inspiration for my paintings.
Of course, she’s a saint…reading my 
ramblings as well as encouraging the progress of each related painting. She put up with my lengthy emails for several years before she suggested I take my reflections public via a blog.
And so, Through Ink and Image was born.
My Thoughts about Blogging
I think that T.R. has already identified two of the most important things to keep in mind as you begin a blog: identifying the purpose for your blog and recognizing that blogging is about being a part of a community–connecting with others.
But if I must add anything to her wonderful wisdom, I would say that any blogger should pace himself/herself to avoid burn-out. Find a posting schedule that works for you, and then, maintain a routine. That will make blogging easier for the long haul.
For example, since I am a professional artist, I must fit my blogging into a very intense work schedule. In fact, many bloggers not only work full-time but they also manage long commutes.
So, think long-term. Although you may feel extremely enthusiastic about posting, recognize your time limitations and establish a reasonable schedule for yourself from the outset. Your future self will thank you!
My Nominations for Blogging Recognition
And now, my favorite part of this award business… I am privileged to recognize a variety of blogs by wonderful blogging friends!
Anchored in Christ, Adopted to Kingship
And a brand new blog by a friend who battles Lyme Disease, My Own Unexpected Journey
Blogger Recognition Award,
a “Mission-Not-So-Impossible” if you choose to accept it…
Tag, you’re it.
The Rules:
Write a post to show your award
Give a brief story of how your blog started
Give two pieces of advice to new bloggers
Thank whoever nominated you and provide a link to their blog
Select 15 (or less) other blogs you wish to Award
Through Ink & Image 