Nina’s Kindness
I started my blog in June, 8 years ago.
It’s seen me through 16 books, and I’ve made thousands of connections. I’ve met hundreds of bloggers I’m delighted to call “friends.”
Is that a hollow word? Not at all. It means that on some level I’ve felt a connection, perhaps brief, perhaps lasting for years, perhaps close enough that if I’m in your city or state or country someday, I’ll reach out and invite you out for coffee or wine.
For writers, blogging is essential, not for sales, but for the incredible encouragement, the cheers, the advice, the shoulder to gripe on or cry on. Bloggers are the ones who pat our backs, offer their time and talents, help us find resources, and support our marketing efforts. We get to showcase our reviews, our covers, our snippets, flash fiction, and poetry. We learn, we are challenged, we celebrate others and are celebrated.
But blogging isn’t only for storytellers, obviously. I’ve “met” artists, photographers, philosophers, jokers, wanderers, chefs, teachers and parents, historians, and thinkers. During these dark days of isolation, the kindness of bloggers has felt especially important. When I want to withdraw, bloggers remind me that the world is full of kindness.
I commented on a post by Nina of Method Two Madness that her painted rocks were beautiful as well as a wonderfully creative way to brighten the world when we so need beauty and light. The next thing I knew, Nina was sending me three beautiful pieces of artwork. They now sit in my garden:
Kindness in my garden
And she added in this beautiful card, which I’ll be framing from my writing room wall – a reminder of the many gifts of blogging and the kindness of very real friends.
Artwork for my Writing Room
Thank you, Nina. ❤
If you get a chance, visit Nina and Kerfe at Method Two Madness. They share a beautiful blog of artwork, prose, and poetry.
Does the kindness of bloggers brighten your world?
Coffee or wine, my friend?
How about coffee AND wine? 😉 What a lovely post, Diana, and no, I don’t think friend is a hollow word used in the context of our blogging community – what else could we call them, those kindred souls that were somehow drawn to ours and we to them? Let me know if/when you plan to visit Berlin! ❤
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You’re not the only blogger to suggest both! And when I get to Berlin (someday) I’ll meet you at the zoo, and then we’ll walk to a cafe. Sounds like a lovely day. Thanks for reading and have that glass of wine. ❤ ❤
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That’s a beautiful gift Thank you for sharing that and congrats!
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It was such a lovely gesture and really gave me a life, reminding me during these stressful times that there’s so much kindness and compassion and generosity around us. Thanks for the visit, H.S. Have a lovely and safe weekend. 🙂
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This blogging journey has been a magical one. As you said, through it I’ve ‘met’ some incredibly wonderful people – including you 🥰
Blogging has helped me find my creative side, something I wasn’t sure I even had! And through it all, the encouragement, support, humour, and kindness of fellow bloggers.
Nina’s artwork is beautiful. I can see why you would treasure it for a long time!
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Thanks for the visit, Joanne. It’s really a wonderful community, especially during this time of isolation and stress. Are you painting? Playing? Enjoying the trails? I love seeing your name pop up, my dear friend. Be well. ❤ ❤
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I am doing a lot of painting, but no trails right now. I had surgery on my foot a month ago and still in the healing phase. One more week! I can hardly wait 🙂
Hope you stay well too 💕
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Well, I do hope you share some paintings at some point. And start out slow on those trails and you’ll be up to speed in no time. ❤ ❤
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Blogging journey gets beautiful with kindness around.
Blessed to be a part of this community…
Wonderfully written 💖
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Thanks so much for the visit, Seli. It is a wonderful community and I feel grateful every day. Have a beautiful day and be well. ❤
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Very well put. I too have met so many writers and artists and having a support group as a writer is vital.
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Thanks, Marietta. I notice quite often how this WP community lifts me out of the doldrums, especially these days. Even the hermits feel isolated. I’m glad you stopped by and hope you have a wonderful afternoon. 🙂
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Do I get a chance to say tea, or juice? Please?
I was thinking about you the other day. Wondering how you were, though it’s my own fault if I haven’t had any news, I haven’t been visiting WP in such a long time!
I hope you are well.
Xx
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Tea or juice is just fine, Dawn. Thanks so much for dropping by, my friend. It’s always a treat to see your name pop up. It’s a strange time and for many of us our “normal” rhythms and routines are off. I’m so grateful for all the kindness on WP. It balances out all the bad news. 🙂 Take care and thanks so much for stopping by. ❤ ❤
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I always enjoy reading yours too 😊
❤️❤️
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Thank you for the reminder of what a beautiful community we have! I love the rocks, what an amazing gift;)
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Thanks for stopping by, Denise. Where would we be without these lovely friends, especially during these strange times? This community is the heart of blogging. Have a great week and be well. ❤
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Wow that’s really beautiful piece of art Di..and yes i have blogging friends too..its really wonderful to have them around as we get to share our creativity and support each other’s endeavours as well as encourage and push each other to take bigger leaps and breaking barriers so to say.
And i am very grateful to have you around WP, you are such an inspiration❤❤
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Thank you for the sweet comment! My day was brightened by the beautiful and unexpected gift. I wouldn’t have stayed with social media if I hadn’t stumbled upon this community. It really is one of friendship. Have a lovely day, Mich. ❤
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Absolutely! I’ve even done Zoom calls with some of my blogger friends to share writing advice! Those rocks and card are beautiful:-)
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We are yet to jump on Zoom over here. All that new-fangled technology. Lol. My husband is going to try set it up today. A great way to connect with other writers. What fun. Thanks for the visit and have a wonderful week. Be well. 😀
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Zoom is very easy to use—hope you get it set up! Be well yourself 😊
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It seems to be working well. My husband is doing a fantasy basketball draft. (He’s 10).
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🤣🤣🤣
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[…] Diana at Myths in the Mirror, I received reminders of the beauty and kindness in our WordPress community. Time after time, my spirit is refreshed here on WordPress. There is an […]
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Thank you so much for linking, Brad. That’s such a sweet thing to do. You, my friend, are filled with kindness. ❤ Have a wonderful Sunday and week ahead. Enjoy your beautiful outdoors. Be well.
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[…] doors around Ireland is always a treat – and this one is no exception…Blogging Kindness https://mythsofthemirror.com/2020/07/23/blogging-kindness/ Diana confirms what I’ve already known – the book blogging community contain lots of […]
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Thanks for the kind share, Sarah. What a treat to have a link on your site. Have a wonderful Sunday and week ahead. 🙂
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Happy June-O-Versary. 😀
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Thanks. I don’t usually celebrate blogiversaries, but celebrating this community is well worth it. No regrets and hopefully a few more years ahead. Have a great week and Happy Blogging!
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Congratulations Diana! Though I am very new to the WP community, I am delighted to be part of it after reading your post. Thanks for sharing 😊 Hope I would meet wonderful people like you in my journey. Cheers!! Ramya
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Welcome to blogging, Ramyu. Like any platform, you reap what you sow, so if you want to enjoy this kind and friendly community, just be kind and friendly (which you seem to have figured out already!) Thanks so much for the visit and the wonderful comment. Be well and enjoy your week. ❤
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Those rocks really are beautiful. And what a delightful, cheery surprise! (Not to mention what the shipping cost must have been.) Blog buddies truly do make the world a nicer place. 🙂
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I was a little worried about the shipping as well and gave Nina an out. But she insisted, and I wasn’t going to duke it out. I smile every time I go outside and see them. And blog buddies sure do make the world a nicer place. Thanks for the visit, Betsy! Have an awesome day. ❤
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They are definitely smile worthy. And when you stop seeing them there b/c you get so used to them, move them to a new place so you can see them and smile all over again. 🙂 🙂
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Perfect.
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Happy Blogoversary! The blogging community feels like a world of its own – the sense of community here is indeed amazing!
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When I wrote the post, I put 7 years and then checked and found it was 8. Time flies! Thanks for stopping by, Damyanti, and for being a part of this wonderful community. Have a lovely weekend and be well. 🙂
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Thank you for these eight years of blogging, Diana, and for your most treasured friendship! Your advice helped me improve my own blogging, your books expanded my world, and your example keeps me going when I am too close to giving up. ❤
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Oh, yes. I’ve had the pleasure of meeting many bloggers in person when ‘The Bloggers Bash’ was running. But even before then, I’ve always appreciated the help, support, advice and friendship of the blogging community. And, most important of all, it was all offered for free. If it were not for them, I’d never have carried on writing. It’s just a shame there is not enough time in the world to visit all those blogs, especially when your own writing also needs time.
Congratulations on the milestone, Diana.
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I had wanted to attend the bash one of these years, Hugh. It looked like such fun. But I will get to the UK at some point, bash or not. I’m not sure I would have stayed with writing this long either. Honestly, this community has been vital. And you’re right about balancing our time. We need clones! Be well, my friend, and have a lovely weekend. ❤
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Same here, Diana. Had it not been for the blogging community, I would not have continued with writing. Sadly, the Bloggers Bash is no more, but do let me know if you do make it to the UK in the future.
Keep staying safe and have a lovely weekend.
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It won’t be for a while with this pandemic. But I’m hopeful that I’ll be there in a year or two…or three. 🙂
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Coffee😍
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Lol. Sounds wonderful. Outdoors in a little cafe in the morning sun. And pastries, of course. Thanks for the visit. Have a lovely weekend!
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You tooo…have a lovely weeeekkk
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Happy blogging anniversary, Diana! I spent more time conversing with blogger friends like you, than with many of my family members. This community is so dear to me. Nina’s rocks are absolutely beautiful. She created the card also. The rocks brighten your garden and the card, you writing room. ❤
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Same here, Miriam. I chat with my blog friends more than my friends in town. I know more about you than I know about my neighbors! Lol. Nina’s gifts bring me joy every time I see them. Sending you love and peace. Be well, my friend. ❤
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Happy blogversary! I’m so happy we crossed paths is blogland. Co-creating community is the best part of blogging. Love Nina’s painted rocks and artwork!! My blog has a new name! Woot! Blessings, MW 🧡
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And blessing back to you, MW. With all the division in the world, it’s lovely to know that there is a community here where people are kind, generous, and loving. When I feel bleak, this is where I come. Thanks so much for the visit and for being part of virtual hugs. Happy Weekend and Be Well. ❤
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Hi, me again. Your link isn’t working with the new blog name. Here’s a post about how/where to update your address, so we can visit you. ❤ https://mythsofthemirror.com/2019/04/06/7-steps-to-a-user-friendly-blog/
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Thanks! I’m here – just opened it up. 💜https://sacredsoulsongs.wordpress.com/
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Perfect, your links are updated. You are all set! And I love the new name of your blog.
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I’m so happy you’re vibbing with the name! As a person with OCD, I agonized quite a big over the name and cycled through a bunch before it felt right.
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My husband says I’m OCD but he calls it Excessive Impressive. I laughed my head off.
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I love that!! 😅😂
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Great tips and info, Diana!
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I can see that you made the fix. You’re all set!
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Whew!!
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Is it working now? I think I did what I needed to do, but not sure it’s all systems go.
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You’re right, blogging isn’t just about finding readers, it’s about finding a community that supports each other and that connects people from all over the world. I had no idea I would “meet” so many amazing people when I started my blog, but I’m so very grateful for it!!!
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I was completely clueless when I started blogging, Ann, and like you the friendships have been amazing. It’s a small world, isn’t it? With kindness in every corner. We are blessed. Thanks for the visit and have a lovely weekend, my friend. Be well.
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Diana, I love this wonderful and positive post of yours. Congratulations on your blogging anniversary, that is staying power.
I do totally agree with you about friends you make . They become so important in your life. I see it as a village where you get to know all.
We might, as you say, create different things. But the word is create. The desire to do so. The understanding.
Miriam
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Thank you for the lovely comment, Miriam. I have a tendency to get down with all the stress and grief in the world, so the support and encouragement from this wonderful online community is doing double-duty. I’m so grateful. Be well, be creative, and continue to spread around your beautiful poetry. ❤
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The kindness and connections with bloggers absolutely brighten my world, Diana! What a cool gift to receive. Such thoughtfulness. Thank you for sharing, and I’m happy you are one of my bright light blogger ‘friends!’
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Thanks so much for stopping by, my friend, and joining in the love fest. Lol. I can’t fully express how this community has not only helped me grow, but has helped me through these dark times. Be well down there in Texas, and Happy Blogging. I’m sending love your way. ❤
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This post is so beautiful, Diana, and Congratulations on 8 years of blogging. I’m in my 9th, but took a long break a few years back. You spoke of this blogging community and the benefits of getting to know each other online so eloquently. And Nina’s gift to you speaks to the true meaning of the special connections, not to mention, the rocks are gorgeous. I appreciate the introduction to her blog and will visit her soon. When I took my break, it was greatly needed, but I literally returned in the beginning of Covid because I wanted the online interactions due to the restricted in-person communication . I have stayed in contact with some special blogging friends via Facebook and email, as well, so I wasn’t totally out of touch. And for the record, I’d love to meet you for coffee sometime, but I guess we have a little bit of a wait time. 🙂
Anyway, I’m so grateful our paths have crossed and I’m in awe of your book collection, too.
~Lauren 💕
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Thanks so much for stopping by, Lauren. Coffee sounds wonderful. 🙂 I think blogging breaks are fine. Life changes, new opportunities arise, and our needs/desires evolve. But I’m glad you’re back and agree that during this strange, sad time, the online love and support seem especially vital. They are for me. And thank you for admiring Nina’s addition to my garden. They’re bringing daily spurts of joy. Be well, my friend, and have a beautiful weekend. ❤
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I use my blog to explore ideas. Having an audience to write to improves the quality of thought and the expression of ideas. At the present time I’m working on a poetry manuscript about what happens to gardens when homes are abandoned. Before I write a poem, I blog about the subject matter. It helps me shape ideas, find better words and choose between alternatives.
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I agree, Jane, blogging within this community makes us better at what we do. It’s wonderful practice. Several bloggers mentioned finding inspiration from others and their posts. I love the inspiration behind your poetry. How beautiful. Thanks for the visit and Happy Blogging. ❤
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How wonderful, Diana! Your gifted rocks and art are examples of what our blogging community does. We are a caring family in the best of ways. I couldn’t imagine being without my fellow blogging friends- like you. Lovely post!!
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Thanks so much for the lovely comment, Jennie. It is a supportive family in many ways, especially these days when we’re physically distancing. I think of you often as we near the school year. Take good care and be well, my friend. Have a lovely Friday and Happy Blogging. ❤
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You are most welcome, and my very best to you, Diana. 😍
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Many congratulations on this anniversary, Diana. We are, indeed, all richer from the experience of sharing and learning from one another. Many more years ahead, I hope. 🙂
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Thanks, Steven. Well said. For me, when I look back over my books, the learning has been huge and most of it attributable to the skill and advice of other authors. I pay close attention to what I love. And everyone I’ve connected with is plain old friendly. Kindness abounds. Enjoy a beautiful day and weekend, my friend, and Happy Writing! ❤
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I think we learn best through the work and generosity of others, and then by sharing what we have learned, Have a great and production (and safe) weekend, Diana. 🙂
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Happy Blogaversary, Diana…and a latte would be lovely thanks. 🙂 I too was thinking about my online friends today. The people who stop and chat are as real to me as any I used to meet in the real world. My blogging friends keep me sane and connected and happy. Thanks for being one of them. -hugs-
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One latte coming up. You share my sentiments exactly, Andrea. This community is rather wonderful and as close as any I have in real life (which is rather thin during this strange time). When I start wanting to cocoon, the friendships here draw me out and make me happy. 😀 Happy Blogging, my friend, and be well. ❤
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Cocoon…yes, that’s exactly it. So easy to slip into, esp. for people who live inside their heads at the best of times.
Your post also made me think about how /little/ I’ve used the phone to stay in touch, so I made an effort to uncocoon a bit. -hugs-
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What a wonderful gift from Nina. Gorgeous and yes without the blogging community where would we be Diana…
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Isn’t it wonderful? I was so touched, Marje. It’s hard to say, but without this blogging community, I don’t know if I would have even kept writing for all these years. The support and encouragement is a treasure. Happy Blogging and Happy Writing, my friend. Be well. ❤
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Yes, I agree. It feels as if you have a huge bunch of writing friends all over the world who are their to support you. It truly is a wonderful feeling. Stay safe and well. x
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Wonderfully stated, Diana. Blogging, for me, is simply connecting with other people. 95% of the time, it is a positive place filled with kind and supportive people.
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Thanks for stopping by, Pete. I had no idea what I was doing when I started my blog and just stumbled into this lovely place. It’s never disappointed me. I’m glad you’re part of it. Have a lovely Friday and weekend. Be well and Happy Blogging. ❤
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I’d LOVE to have a coffee with you, lovely! Bit tricky though 🤗 so here, have a virtual one ☕️🍩🍪
I’m blown away by the kindness of bloggers, the friendships I’ve formed through WP, and the generosity of our community. Especially in such bleak times, it’s so refreshing to be among kind, open hearted people ❤️
Lovely post, and beautiful presents from your blogger friend – you deserve them!
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Can you imagine writing and publishing and marketing without this community? It would be nearly impossible as an INFJ (lol). Well, have a virtual coffee on me and enjoy your day, Jess. Happy Blogging!
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I think without this community, I wouldn’t have moved one copy of GoP. Actually, I’m sure I wouldn’t.
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