The idea of this award is to spread the blogger love and get to know each other a bit better.

The Rules:

1. Link to the person who nominated you.

2. Add the award logo.

3. Answer the questions your nominator has asked.

4. Nominate a few other blogs and let them know.

5. Ask your nominees 10 questions.

Well–here it goes.

Tarynn asked: (auto correct changed her name to Terrain…sign.)

1. How did you come up with the name of your blog? This was a tricky one. I had a blog that I kept for personal purposes while my husband travelled 4 of 7 days of the week called “Teaching Travelers Wife.” That one was easy. I taught and my husband travelled. I thought this would be a unique perspective; and it would have been, although I didn’t really write about the challenges of keeping your marriage strong while your spouse is thousands of miles away most of the week.

I digress.

Fast forward to April 2014, about a month after we had our firstborn, my husband moved into a new position and began to work locally. I decided I had to change the title of my blog and focus my content: a teaching traveler’s wife no more, I began collecting ideas. I’ve got to tell you, changing my blog made the reality of a live-at-home spouse so very exciting.

Fully anticipating a return to work in the fall, I knew I wanted to keep in touch with my passion for teaching literature while I stayed at home with my newborn son. I love word play and I love writing about teaching, general housewifery, current events, and, of course, being a new mom. So, while perusing Pinterest for a solid pun to use as the title of my blog, I realized that I was overlooking what I loved the most about writing–puns (a.k.a. cheesy dad jokes…). Thus, I prefer my puns intended. Never unintended.

2. Post the last picture on your phone.

Not entirely shocking that my last photo was of my green-eyed baby.

3. What is something people may not know about you?

I really, really, really hate squirrels. Let’s be real, they’re overgrown rats with furry tails. They’re not afraid of humans. As far as I’m concerned, they could be taking over the world as we speak and no one would know it.

You will never hear me say, “Look at the cute squirrel,” EVER.

Also, I’m terrified of owls. And bats. And cats.

It’s safe to say that I have a general aversion to many animals; except dogs. Bring me all the puppies.

4. What’s your daytime drink? Coffee, tea, energy drink?…

I just spent about an hour of my life trying to French Press some coffee after trying to grind my own coffee beans with the blunt end of a can opener. Word to the wise–don’t ever try that. Invest the $20 in your own coffee grinder. Or, you can try what normal people do and buy pre-ground coffee beans.

I say all of that to say that coffee is my go-to in the morning. Also, I am a self-professed La Croix junkie. Water and Coffee are the only two things I drink every day.

5. Have you gone to, or are you going to, any blogging conferences this year?

I haven’t been, but I was recently asked to volunteer at a local conference as a special events coordinator. That makes me feel like I’ve made it. EVEN IF IT IS A VOLUNTEER POSITION. Sheesh.

6. How long have you been blogging and why did you start?

I’ve been blogging at IPMPI for nearly a year, but I’ve had a few blogs before that for memories-sake. I started to try to make a little income, but I’m continuing because I love to write and it is a solid creative outlet for me while I stay at home with my little boy. It is so much fun connecting with other new moms as well. When other moms ask me questions–it is surprising and flattering. Surprising because I have no idea what I’m doing and flattering because other moms think I have some idea…we’re all just trying to fake it till we make it–right?

7. What is the most valuable blogging advice you have gotten? Bonus-who gave it to you?

I vented with some other bloggers in a secret blogging group about the lack of financial incentive earlier on in my blogging career. One blogger said, “Take a break and come back to it when you feel inspired again.”

Another said, “remember why you started blogging in the first place. If it wasn’t for money, don’t expect that to be your inspiration.”

It seems really simple, but those were the two best bits of advice I’ve gotten. Writing has never been about the money, and I’ve found no greater satisfaction than putting thought out words to my very strong opinions. Fun fact #2–I’m a terrible on-the-spot orator. Writing helps me organize and sort through my thoughts.

8. What is your favorite post and why? (post a link!!)

I think the most important piece I’ve ever written was an article called, “Why Men Can’t Afford to Teach.” I’ve certainly written more since then, much which I am incredibly proud of. Still, if I had one soapbox to stand atop, it would be fair compensation for hard-working teachers. I wish this was a cause that more people could rally behind.

9. Where is your favorite place to visit, in your area, with your family?

I am complete when I am near the water. Give me a lake, beach, aquarium, pool–and I will show you a happier version of myself. Give me water and coffee-and you’ve got a recipe for the best possible version of myself. Especially after a run.

10. When do you write most often? Do you have a set schedule everyday?

I like to write in the morning, although having a young toddler has stolen much of my energy. He is such a good boy–but it is much harder to keep up with him now that he is into just about everything. Amirite Mamas?

Ok, that was so fun. Thanks Tarynn!

I nominate:

1. Tammy of Blithe, a Blog

2. Leslie of The Sweet Midlife

3. Jessica of The Newly

4. Stephanie of Skinny Latte Mommy

5. Kelsey at The Blonder Side of Life

Here are your 10 questions:

1. What is your favorite movie of all time?

2. If you could have one job and not have to worry about money, what would it be and why?

3. Which recent photo helps you remember that you’ve still “got it?” Put that bad boy here.

4. Do you have an author that helps shape your writing style? Who is it and why?

5. You have a chance to spend an afternoon with any celeb/public figure alive or dead–who do you choose and why?

6. If you were a cartoon character, what would your outfit be? (In other words, if you had to wear one thing for the rest of your life, what would it be?)

7. Other than your wedding day/birth of your children, what was the best day of your life?

8. Five years ago, where did you think you’d be today?

9. Where do you think you’ll be five years from now?

10. What is your take on faith? Necessity, commodity, or frivolity?