This morning, my Google Photos reminded me of what I did on January 15, 2012. Eleven years ago today, I leaped into social media with my Age of Grace blog.
I didn’t need Google to remind me because I launched my blog eleven years ago on Martin Luther King Day. Perhaps because I usually took off that day to observe Dr. King’s contribution to African Americans. Even though former President Ronald Regan signed a bill making the third Monday in January federal holiday in observance of King’s legacy, The holiday was first observed three years later on January 20, 1986. In 2007, only 33% of employers gave employees the day off.
That launch was my intentional goal-setting platform for middle-aged women determined to age gracefully. You may recall when women reached 50, many adopted a particular look that screamed I’m a retired grandmother. Oprah’s term, “Shlumpadinka.”
The word “Shlumpadinka” Oprah made up a long time ago to describe slumpy housewives; the types are wearing the same sweats they wore yesterday and the day before. I say the term is for women who give up on themselves. We know society doesn’t always recognize us. But we are not going anywhere.
I determined before age 50 that I refused to accept that I had to adopt a particular look or fashion for middle age. Social media is where many other women connect, not just about fashion but other passions.
I’ve had my say about fashion; not to discourage anyone, but blogging is not for the faint of heart. Once you master something in social media, the algorithm changes, and what once worked is now irrelevant.
Then, let’s talk about cost.
Secure the domain name, rent the domain space, and secure your site. My technically advanced adult children are helpful, but sometimes, it’s necessary to pay for assistance for updates over their heads.
But I’m determined to continue what I’ve started, with over 500 blog posts. And I never paid for followers on Instagram. Posting more than once a week will help me grow and connect more. But right now, this is doable. I don’t want my life to be consumed by social media; I’m looking for balance.
I would be remiss if I didn’t highlight what I am grateful for in my eleven years of blogging here at the Age of Grace:
Vogue Burberry $2000 King of Prussia Shopping Event
AARP Sisters Essay Winner/ $500 and Stay at Akwaaba Bed & Breakfast in Brooklyn
InStyle Magazine 25th Anniversary Photo
Who What Wear
Laura Geller 25th Anniversary Celebration at NYC Laduree
Laura Geller x Wheel of Fortune NYC Beauty Launch
EpicLight Lip Flip Treatment Balm NYC Beauty Launch
PA Christmas + Gift Show
It looks like a short list of highlights, but I neglected to mention the friendships made through social media connections that started with a Fierce 50 Meetup in NYC that I organized with Chico’s. And some of my opportunities to partner with brands:
Always Discreet
Awe Inspired
Estée Lauder
Boom by Cindy Joseph
Mojo Wellness
P & G Products
Smile Brillant
OMFG Gummies
Thank you for following my blogging journey as a self-care is sacred, garden enthusiast, fashionista, and museum lover.
