Is the Blogging World Going Downhill?

Blogging is hard. I've always known that. You have to really love it in order to keep up with it. I've loved using my blog to discuss reading and writing in depth, but now I'm noticing a new trend. The blogging world is quickly becoming less active. Blogs are becoming inactive, readers aren't pouring over sites like they used to, and it seems like gaining followers is harder than ever.

I follow a lot of different blogs. Some are by well-known authors who have thousands of followers. Even last year it seemed like with every post they would get fifty comments. Now they're lucky if they get fifteen. It's not that their posts aren't as high quality or that their blogs have changed, they just aren't being read anymore.

So where is everyone? Are there just too many blogs right now? I feel like I get a lot more interaction from readers and writers on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. What do you think? Is the blogging world going downhill?

This week: Writing, Barnes & Noble, and Instagram.

I LOVE when someone reads The Shapeshifter's Secret and then asks, "So when does the sequel come out?"

I usually grin really big and say "I'm working on it." And it's true. I have been writing my little tail off to complete the next book in Julia's adventures. I've been staying up past two in the morning writing, constantly scribbling outline notes while I'm at signings, and I've been practicing dialogue out loud while I drive--And can I just tell you, I get funny looks. I'm pretty sure people want to laugh at the girl who talks to herself while she drives. It just helps me get the dialogue right!

Anyway, in between my writing schedule this week I've had some fun moments that I've captured in pictures. And I'm okay admitting that ever since I've started Instagram (a photography app), I've caught myself behaving as if I'm a photographer (DISCLAIMER: I am in NO way a real photographer, it's just for fun).

I'm sure it's annoying to real photographers, all these wannabes (ME) who are suddenly snapping photo's right and left, trying to be artistic. That being said, here are some of my shots from this week.

I was at the Barnes and Noble at Gateway mall and had to take a picture of this. Seriously, this always makes for one happy writer! The Shapeshifter's Secret + Barnes and Noble + Downtown Salt Lake City = YES!

 I saw this Snapdragon growing in front of my mom's house and fell in love instantly. I thought of how determined this perfect, little flower was, growing out of the concrete. I posted it on Instagram with the caption:
per·sist·ence: Firm or obstinate continuance in a course of action in spite of difficulty or opposition.

I also found a moment or two to indulge in a Meg Cabot book. (Aaahhhh.....)

And finally, I took a picture of this this little beauty. My adorable mother gave this to me and said, "I just couldn't help myself. It's Julia!" 

Mom you are so cute. 

So I hope that you are documenting all the little moments in your life that make you smile. If you're on Instagram let me know! My username is @Hezface. Or if you are sharing your photos through a blog, website, or another account, leave the link below. I always love seeing other's fun, creative, shots!