Eight Years of Reading, Writing, and Finding My Voice
Eight years ago—on January 26, 2018—I published my very first post on this blog.
It was a review of a knitting book — the very first post I ever published here.
Today marks eight years of blogging here at GinaRaeMitchell.com, and I wanted to pause and reflect.
At the time, I had no grand plan. I wasn’t thinking about branding, SEO, blog tours, or long-term consistency.
I just knew I loved books, liked making things with my hands, and wanted a small corner of the internet where I could write things down and share what I was enjoying.
That first post was simple. Honest. A little rough around the edges.
And somehow, that was enough to begin.
Back When This Blog Was Finding Its Feet
In those early days, my posts were a mix of life updates, recipes, knitting projects, and book reviews that were… let’s call them enthusiastic but unpolished.
I wrote the way I talked. I shared what I was reading. I didn’t worry much about structure or expectations.
Looking back, those early posts feel like a snapshot of a person figuring things out—both on the page and off it.
I didn’t know then that this little blog would grow into something steady. Or that books would become the thread that held everything together.
How Things Slowly Shifted
Over time, the blog changed—because I did.
The reviews became more thoughtful. My voice grew more confident. I started paying attention to what I really loved writing about and quietly let go of what no longer fit.
Books moved to the center. Not just bestsellers or buzzy releases, but indie stories, overlooked gems, complicated reads, cozy comforts, children’s books, and the kind of stories that stay with you longer than expected.
If you’d like an example of the kind of thoughtful reviews I love writing now, this post is a good snapshot of where my voice has landed.
I learned that it was okay to say, “This wasn’t perfect, but here’s what worked for me.”
I learned how much I value kindness in reviewing.
I learned that consistency matters more than perfection.
And somewhere along the way, this blog became a place I’m genuinely proud of.
What Has Stayed the Same
Even with all that growth, some things haven’t changed at all.
I still read because I’m curious.
I still love discovering books that don’t quite fit into neat boxes.
I still believe there’s room for warmth, encouragement, and honesty in bookish spaces.
Most of all, I still write this blog for connection—whether that’s with readers, authors, or someone who stumbled across a post while looking for their next read.
Where I Am Now
Eight years in, this blog has become a steady part of my life.
It’s home to thoughtful reviews, Friday Finds roundups, indie author spotlights, blog tours, cozy extras, and the occasional recipe or creative detour.
It’s a place where I get to support authors, share what I love, and keep learning as I go.
I don’t take that lightly.
The fact that you’re here—reading, commenting, sharing, or simply stopping by—means more than I can ever fully say.
Looking Ahead
I don’t feel the need to make big promises or bold declarations. What I want moving forward is simple:
- More honest reviews
- More support for indie and under-the-radar books
- More space for curiosity, comfort, and creativity
- More moments of genuine connection
If the past eight years have taught me anything, it’s that showing up—again and again—really does matter.
Before You Go
I’d love to hear from you: how long have you been reading along here — and what kind of posts do you enjoy most (reviews, Friday Finds, indie spotlights, or the occasional creative detour)?
Thank You for Being Part of This
Whether you’ve been here since the early knitting-book days or found this blog last week, thank you for being part of this journey.
Eight years ago, I hit publish without knowing where it would lead. I’m very glad I did.
Here’s to the next chapter—one post, one book, one quiet moment at a time.
— Gina 💙
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[…] Eight Years of Blogging […]
Happy Blogoversary!
Congratulations on your blog anniversary. I first came upon your blog about four years ago when I was researching reviewers for my independently published book. What a lucky break! I enjoy perusing it each week because it's so friendly and full of joy. It's like a comfortable friend. To be honest, this is the only blog I read! I don't know how you fit in the time to do all that you do, but it is much appreciated. Thanks.
[…] has its charms (and I have years of experience with it). But maybe I could try this once or twice. Eight Years of Reading, Writing, and Finding My Voice—I don’t remember not seeing Gina’s posts floating around. So 8 doesn’t seem […]
[…] Eight Years of Blogging […]
Happy 8 year blog anniversary! I've been visiting your blog for about a year. I really like the Friday Finds. I hope everything is going ok for you. Blessings!
I can't remember how I found you, Gina. It might have been through my author friend Jessica Adams?
Anyway, I did, and so glad I did.
Your "Friday Finds" are my favorite, but I check in on all your book reviews, as well.
Your blogs are fun, relaxing, and informational.
Thanks always and keep up your hard work.
~Rosie
Hi Gina. I ran across your blog about six years ago while trying to publicize my first book. You were one of my first reviewers for Weapons of Remorse. Since then you've continued reviewing books and helping me find readers for my other works. I appreciate your diligence and kindness, especially since you do all this without expecting any compensation for it. You are an angel to writers like me!
Congratulations on eight years, Gina💜 You’ve a lot to be proud of with your blog. I especially like Friday Finds.
Congratulations on eight years and I'm glad you still enjoy blogging as many leave it behind by the 8th year. I wish you all the best for the future and hope you continue to enjoy blogging, reading and more ❤️☺️
Thanks
Beautifully expressed! A lovely and thoughtful reflection, Gina! I’m thrilled we’ve connected in the blogosphere! Happy blogiversary and wishing you many more to come! 📚🙌🥳🎈🥂
Thank you, Carol. It means a lot coming from you. You were one of my first book blogging friends!
I think we connected early! I’m at 8 1/2 years. I know you helped me early on getting a couple of things figured out!
I’ve leaned on you for help many times, too. Nothing about this journey is really solo. It takes our entire Book Blogger universe.
💯
We’ve also commiserated over our eye troubles! 😂
True, nothing is more of a nightmare for readers than “eye trouble”!
Are you ok now?
I am, I have to wear glasses every waking moment. I’m still getting used to that! How are yours doing?
My eye is about as good as it’s going to get….sight in that eye is a bit wonky….but I’m grateful! 🙏
A friend’s daughter had a detached retina right before Christmas. She’s trying not to tilt her head sideways all the time, but her vision in that eye is also a bit “wonky.”
Detached retina surgery causes cataracts, so after I had cataract surgery on that eye my vision (clarity) improved. Straight lines are still wavy and letters don’t sit straight on a line…,permanent retina damage I assume. My good eye takes over and I don’t notice it unless I cover my good eye. But, grateful for sight! It’s good enough for the DMV which is a relief!
She’s only in her 40s, so I hope it all goes well for her.
🙏🙏🙏 it’s such a shock! Who knew your eye could fall apart! 😂 so thankful for modern medicine!