One year ago, on Mother’s Day, I hit ‘publish’ on a post to start sharing my gift ideas and other heartfelt thoughts from time to time. While I did not post as often as planned for the first year, I stuck with it. And I’m so happy I did. Quality over quantity, right? Yes, that sounds true to me.
I set 2 goals for the blog. First: to create a collection of gift ideas (special somethings) that help express thoughtfulness and bring joy. Second: have fun doing it. I am happy to report that I’ve achieved both, and I’m excited to keep going!
So cheers to one year!! I am so grateful for every person who has visited the blog and read my posts. Thank you! Thank you! I hope they’ve helped you gift well or introduced you to new brands for thoughtful gifting.
Below, I’m sharing a few highlights and what’s new for year 2!
tingum—the blog
A Few Blog Highlights
1. Your Favorite Posts – The two most-viewed blog posts were “Creating A Thoughtful Bible Reading Gift Bundle” and my 2025 Holiday Gift Guide. Both of these are extra special to me, so it’s cool they were your favorites! I thought about the Bible reading gift post while getting ready to start a Bible In A Year reading plan with my Mom. I put together several of the items and sent them to her as a Christmas gift. She loved it! The Holiday Gift Guide was the first one I’ve ever put together. I’ve always wanted to create one, and receiving several sweet emails from some of the brands I featured made it all the more rewarding.
2. Gift Markets – I attended my first gift market last year, and oh my! The creativity and product mix blew me away. I had no idea what to expect, but it was more than I could have imagined. While I’ll stay local again this year, I’ve got the Dallas, Las Vegas, and New York gift markets on my bucket list. And if Oprah ever has a behind-the-scenes tour of her Favorite Things process, I’ll be in line!!
tingum—the blog
What’s New For Year 2
1. Social Media – For year 2, I’m going to give Instagram a try. It’s another way to share what’s here on the blog and connect with brands I love. No promises that I’ll be on Instagram long-term, but let’s see how it goes.
2. The Newsletter – I’m excited about this one! I’m officially launching my newsletter, GIFT (Gifting Inspiration From Tingum). Here’s what you can expect:
- A free Gift Tracker download each month, with a list of that month’s special holidays (and fun days) to consider for gifting
- A short brand or shop feature paired with a gifting idea from me
- Giveaways! Occasionally, I’ll give away an e-gift card surprise to one lucky subscriber (randomly selected)
If you’re not already on my newsletter list, sign up below. I cannot wait to bring the joy of gifting to your inboxes!
Join The GIFT Newsletter
don’t forget!
Three words that say it all—just do it! Whether it’s blogging, speaking, coaching, starting a business, pivoting….whatever is calling you, just do it! Three more words—and have fun!
