As you most likely know, I have been blogging for just over a year now.

This time last year, I will admit, I had a goal number of followers I was hoping for and did not come even close to reaching.

I was disappointed, but it help me get refocused.

Whenever I find myself getting focused on “the numbers”, I try to focus away from that and try to just focus on doing my best work.

This year, I am not saying I won’t peak at the numbers from time to time, but I want to focus on the rest of the community of blogging that I love so much.

The blog world has given me a place to find like minded people who have encouraged me, inspired me or both.

So, over the next few weeks, I am going to share some of those blogs with you.

I am sure you will be familiar with most of them, but that doesn’t mean they don’t need a shout out.

So, today, I want to start with Beth over at Home Stories A to Z.

If you haven’t already been there, it is worth your time to make a visit.

I love her Christmas mantel

atozmantel

And her photo tree

atoztree

She has a ton of great tutorials and hosts a great link party each week.

But, what I like best about Beth, is her heart and her personality come through on her blog.

If you stop by, tell her I said hi!

Enjoy your weekend.

December 09, 2011 — Laura Putnam