They say the best dreams are those that we work the hardest for and I agree ; since I was sixteen I dreamed of seeing my own little slice of journalistic heaven that would be as colourful and as thought provoking as I believed my character to be. When I finally plucked up the courage to create my own site last summer it was like a lightbulb had gone off in my mind and I knew that my future had been rewritten. It was my destiny to become a blogger and whether the world would like it or not I was ready to tell it how it was and I haven’t looked back since. I dreamed an impossible dream many claimed but look how far I have come…It seems unreal that here I am a year into blogging having already won two awards and just been nominated for my third award this week. Never in a million years did I think that I would get to where I am today and I am so thankful to you my readers for encouraging me and giving me the confidence to be myself. I spent so many years wasting time being hard on myself and refusing to accept change because I was scared of the unknown. When you spend so much of your childhood being told that you will never amount to anything it can be hard to get out of that mindset but there was one group of people who believed in me more than I could have ever have believed in myself and that was you guys, the readers. I never appreciated who I was and my differences until I started blogging because it was never seen as a positive and for the first time I felt acceptance. This was my destiny, this was my calling.
When I first received my third nomination I felt shame because I didn’t feel my site was good enough but rather than turning it into a negative it motivated me to completely change my site and spend money perfecting it until it became the colourful fantasy that existed so far only in the confines of my mind. And it worked, as more and more nominations were coming through I knew that I was finally ready to expose my blog to the world and let the media see it in all its new glory. Instead of feeling shame I felt elation and while I am scared to death there is no harm in trying. My blog is comparatively small ( and new) in comparison to the other blogs which are nominated and I can only feel honour that I am classed in the same league as these other brilliant bloggers. I might not win, I might not even get shortlisted but even to receive one nomination is an honour in itself. I am so grateful that I am finally receiving recognition for what I have achieved during my lifetime and cannot thank you , my readers enough.
It is because of you that I get up in the morning and work long shifts in jobs I hate because the promise of a brighter and better tomorrow is growing ever closer. It is because of you that I smile every time I receive a new brand email or a special Blogger package because by reading and commenting on my posts you are helping others acknowledge my teeny tiny blog too. And it is because of you that I sit here typing away with a smile on my face. because you my readers chose me to be entered into the public vote. And if I win the public vote then I can sit with a legion of other brilliant bloggers awaiting the judges vote in the hopes that we will be the ‘chosen ones’. Just this one nomination has given me confidence and made me feel happier than I have in a long time and I honestly cannot thank you guys enough. Someday when I have plenty of dollar I will treat you my readers to a wonderful meal and drink, toasting each others success but for now when I am still broke and fabulous I can only offer you my sincere gratitude and affection, I am nothing without you guys.
I have been nominated in three categories: Best ‘Lifestyle Blogger’ and ‘Best Fashion Blogger’ and ‘Best Fashion and Beauty and Lifestyle Blogger , it would make my day if you could spend a few moments casting a vote. I would be forever grateful.
Dean of Little Steps says
Congratulations! Off to vote for you now 🙂 xxx
Rhian Westbury says
Congrats on the nomination. The amount that you put into your blog and your posts should be recognised x
GiGi Eats says
Going to vote NOW! 🙂
Fashion and Style Police says
Wow congrats on your nominations. I hope you win them all.
Sarah Irving | The Urban Wanderer says
Well done on your nominations – it feels good to be getting recognised, doesn’t it?
Sarah - let them be small says
congratulations and good luck x I hope you win, you deserve it!
Kim Carberry says
Congratulations with your nominations.
I’m off to vote for you now!
Good luck x
Logan says
Congratulations, girl! You definitely deserve the nomination. I just voted for you! Good luck!
Angela Tolsma says
love this coat! Definitely will vote for you, that’s awesome your being recognized!
Melanie Smith says
Congratulations for this incredible nomination!! You totally deserve it <3
Blythe Alpern says
So excited for you. Three nominations is amazing. I’m happy to cast my vote for you.
karen says
WHooOoOo! Pop the champagne! Congrats on the nominations and good luck with it all! So happy this feels like a happy place for you and you are thriving!
Lyndsey O'Halloran says
Congratulations. Good luck to you! Hope you win x
Allison says
Congratulations! This is awesome! It looks like you’ve put a lot of hard work and time into your blog–so you deserve this!
Brittany says
That dress is so cute! Congrats! Three nominations is a huge deal! I can’t wait to hear which ones you get! Congrats on all the hard work!
Joanna @ Everyday Made Fresh says
Love that dress and bag! Wow, three nominations, that’s great! Congratulations, you deserve it!
Chloe says
Congratulations on your nominations! That is great!
Kerry Norris says
Congratulations. Very well deserved in my opinion x
Adaleta Avdic says
Congratulations on your nominations! There is something so ridiculously invigorating and awesome about being nominated, especially for multiple categories. I just love it and I wish you luck! I am heading over to vote now! xx Adaleta Avdic
Tara Pittman says
Congrats on being nominated. It is so true that are readers help us succeed.
tara pittman says
I also voted for you!
Tara L says
Nice fur over top vest/coat. I love the color.
Brittany says
I voted for you! Best wishes to you!
Kira says
Definitely voting! I say this a lot in your comments but I love your blog so you definitely deserve it!
Amy Jones says
Congratulations on these nominations, you truly deserve these and more! <3
Krystal // The Krystal Diaries says
Congratulations on being nominated! That’s so amazing and I’m heading on over to vote for you now. I hope you win 🙂
Carolyn says
Such an honor. You should feel proud of yourself your blog looks nice and clean and professional. I can see why you were nominated.
Debra says
Congrats, that is so very wonderful! And you look absolutely amazing, what a great combo!
Celeste SunDragonLady Burgess says
Congratulations on your nominations. Your blog is always a treat for me to read. Your pictures are always amazing as well as your wardrobe. Like the photos in this post are ‘fierce’ ;). I voted and wish nothing but luck and great things for you. 😉
Sarah-Louise Bailey says
Congratulations, and I may say that you deserve it. Gotta cast my vote now.
Christina Aliperti says
Congrats! That moment where it all becomes clear and you know exactly what to do is such a great feeling. I am so happy for you and love your site.
Elizabeth O. says
Oh Ana! You definitely deserve the nominations that you’re getting especially since you’re good at what you do and you publish quality posts that you rarely see lately! I love the outfits as well, we can see all your hard work from the contents of this blog! Congratulations!
clairejustine says
Oh wow, congratulations on the nominations. How lucky are you to get in all 3!! Your blog and pictures are beautiful, good luck in the awards 🙂
Lachicadelamaleta says
Wow! I just have discovered your blog! Great pics great looks, great write!
Deborah Nicholas says
Congratulations, off to vote! (love the photos, you look amazing as always!)
Sharon says
I Voted!! Fingers crossed that you win hun you deserve it xx
Jon says
Congratulations! You deserve to win this looking around your blog! Will go off to vote for you now!
Talya Stone says
Congratulations darling! You’ve got my vote 😀
LaaLaa says
Awww congratulations. Such a beautiful and touching post, it’s so lovely when you’ve got something to go for! x
Pauline Luxmoore-Ball says
Congratulations on your nominations!! Xx
Amber Myers says
Yay congrats!
You look amazing. I just love this hat.
Chloe says
I’m absolutely loving the dress. And this is really a very heart warming and uplifting post. I look forward to seeing you grow as a blogger and become even bigger and better.
Mandy Carter says
Congrats! I love the look of the dress and the purse together. Such a glam outfit!
Glenda says
Congratulations! By the way, I totally love your fabulous outfit! You look absolutely fierce!!! 🙂
Sarah Bailey says
Congratulations on your nominations! It is so hard to overcome those things we are told as children, but I am glad you believed in yourself and are putting yourself out there and are working towards your dream!
Julie says
First of all, congratulations! Second, I love seeing people not just dream big dreams (because lots of people can do that!) but also work hard to pursue those dreams…and you’ve definitely done that!
StressedMum says
Congratulations on your nominations, have just voted for you x
Azlin Bloor says
Congratulations and good luck! Voted.
Love your whole ensemble, especially the coat!
Gennifer Rose says
Love the sequins! Perfect for a holiday party 🙂 Good luck with the voting this week xx
xo Gennifer
http://www.GenniferRose.com
Jennifer Marx says
Congratulations on your nominations! It’s nice to see your hard work pay off. You deserve it. I hope you win!
Elodie says
Congratulations! It’s the third of many award nominations for you, I hope! 😉
Jessica H says
Congratulations! You are totally rocking that outfit. I love that hat!
Anne Yedlin says
Congrats! I’ll be voting for you for sure.
Tina B says
Congrats on your nominations! I am in LOVE with your dress and that bag, both are just stunning!
karlyn cruz says
So happy for you.. Congrats on your nomination.. Wishing you a good luck. I will also vote for you.
Danay says
Congrats on the nomination. Voting for you now.
Natasha Mairs says
Well done hun!! I love reading your open and honest posts and you always look so fab in your photos. I have voted for you xxx
Aish Das-Padihari says
Love that sequin dress. Very chic.
Kimberly Lewis says
I love this outfit! You look beautiful in it!
emma white says
Well done and so happy to see you being nominated off to vote for you now
Keely's Nails says
Congratulations on the nominations! And your mermaidy blue and green bag is do both
Keely's Nails says
*divine!
Tyler says
Awe I love these pictures!! Your lip color is super on point.
Congratulations, too!
Kiwi says
Congrats on all the nominations. You deserve it, and I always tell you you dont just provide fashion you share real depths of yourself so these nominations are justified. Good luck!
Nazma Iqbal says
I love your outfit.Especially that purse is so beautiful.That green colour is amazing
Renna says
Aaaaaah Anna, you deserve each of those awards. You have worked hard and put your heart and soul into your blog. It’s amazing as are you. Well done Girl !!!
Travel Pockets (Crystal) says
Congrats on all your success! Voted for you – good luck!!
Kathy says
Congrats to you! I’ll make sure to vote as well. I also have to say that I love your outfit in this post.
krystal says
I had to vote for you! Not only are you rocking it in blog land, you are very supportive of your other bloggy buddies. Grateful for your support!
Mihaela Echols says
wow congradulations! I’m glad you have fans to help you live your dream and not be stuck into the 9-5 life.
Theresa says
I voted for you. What a kind letter this blog post is, I really enjoyed reading it. You have such interesting visuals and an interesting perspective.
Krystle Cook says
This is so awesome! You have definitely earned the nominations.
Hey Sharonoox says
Congrats! I’ve already voted for you. All the best.
Chelsea Damon says
I love the reds and greens in this outfit! It’s just very mermaid-y which is something I love!
Jordanne | Thelifeofaglasgowgirl says
Congratulations! It’s such an amazing feeling isn’t it?! I’ve gave you a vote! Fingers crossed for you, good luck!
Jordanne | Thelifeofaglasgowgirl.co.uk
Kecia says
Congrats on your nominations! Your blog is a wonderful read, different from most of what’s out there these days.
Angela says
Going to vote now….HUGE congrats from me! And good luck, lovely!
Dawn McAlexander says
Congratulations on your nomination! That is really great news for you. It’s really nice to be rewarded for all your hard work. Good luck on your awards.
Cecilia Cannon says
congratulations!!! you deserve it all and love your style. 2017 is only going to be better for you
Rachel Catherine says
Congratulations on all your nominations! You’re so open with your life here and shed light on issues many people face. You deserve to be recognized.
Lois Alter Mark says
That outfit is fantastic! Good luck with the contest – going to vote for you right now!
Debra says
Congratulations – – This is great! Love that you are living your dreams! Way to go girl!
Eileen Kelly says
Congratulations and I think very well deserved! I am now voting for you!
Ashley J | ashleyj.org says
Voting and sending you all the love in the world for bravely staking out your own space on the interwebz!
Carol Cassara says
You’ve been through so much and you’ve achieved a lot along the way! These nominations prove that your hardwork and determination are worth it!
Carrie says
Congratulations! It is so great whenever your hard work pays off. Im going to vote for you now!
Jayne @ Sticky Mud and Belly Laughs says
Aw congratulations Ana! Off to vote 🙂 Good luck! (Not that you need it) xx
Sara says
Congratulations on the nominations and on fulfilling parts of your dream.
Sonya Kolodziejska says
Congratulations on the nominations, that’s quite the achievement. Pretty dress too by the way 🙂
Annemarie LeBlanc says
Congratulations, Ana! You have a good chance of winning! Wishing you all the best and.. I voted for you!
Reesa Lewandowski says
Congrats on being nominated! Be sure to update us with the results! Love your look, reminds me of something for a party!
Rosey says
That’s awesome that you got nominated for three categories. Big congrats to you. I’m headed over to vote.
Yona Williams says
What a cool honor to be nominated for something like this – I hope you win. I did go and vote. I have always loved seeing your photos, outfits and learning about your interesting childhood.
Myteenguide says
Wow! Congrats for you girl i hope you can win in your competition. Goodluck and Godbless!
Bismah says
Huge congratulations on the nomination! I have voted for you and I wish you all the best!
Echo says
Congratulations! You definitely deserve it! Your fashion is impeccable and your writing is beautiful!
Roxanne says
This is awesome news! You work so hard crafting your story and your blog! Nice job! (And I voted!) Good luck!
Shirley says
Congrats! You look absolutely amazing. I have already voted for you. All the Best.
Rain says
that coat is pretty hot and wish i had that dress to wear to our holiday party today.
Lisa Backsnbumps says
Well done. You have a great blog and should be really proud of all you’ve achieved in the past year. Off to vote 🙂
Katy {ashadeofteal} says
Congratulations! That’s so amazing to be nominated for 1 award let alone 3! You definitely deserve it.
Nikki says
You are rocking this look! I love the color and texture combination here. I think it’s great how you write from the depths of your soul and are unafraid to be real. That’s what I want to read more of because I think we are all looking to connect! <3
Taylor Mobley says
This dress is to die for OMGGGGG. I love anything sparkle and sequins for the holidays, so this is RIGHT up my alley. I would love this for NYE!
Emmie, Unsigned says
How many comments does this post have alone?! I think that’s a clear sign of how amazing you are so definitely be proud of how far you’ve come, what you’ve achieved and what the future holds!!
Well done on your nominations. I don’t think I fit into a particular niche to ever be nominated for anything ha!
Emmie xo
http://www.unsignedmeblog.co.uk
five little doves says
Congratulations!!! I shall be voting for you, it is much deserved! You write so beautifully and your honesty is inspirational. Good luck!
Natalia Molinero says
wow! congrats! You deserve winning all the categories, best of luck! xxx
Anosa says
You’ve done really well in the last year Ana and you deserve the nominations you’ve received
Kusum says
Glad you spent time and effort revamping your blog, it of course looks amazing! Congrats on the nominations babe, just voted! Good luck and I am sure you will win!!!
xx, Kusum | http://www.sveeteskapes.com
Angela Milnes says
oh I hope you get lots of votes Ana and well done. It is great to be nominated. Well done. Angela
Candace says
Congratulations Ana. Lovely to see all of your hard work paying off.
Tiina A says
Congrats on the nomination! It’s a great achievement and you have made it with hard work!
Tabitha Shakespeare says
Wow that awesome! Congrats! Kudos to you for chasing after your dreams and not letting anything stand in your way!
Ella Ivoire says
Voted honey! Hope you’ll win! xx
CourtneyLynne says
Omg congrats on the nomination!!!!! I will definitely take a moment and vote!!!
Amber Nelson says
It has been a lot of fun reading your blog this year. A lot of fun to see your progress!
Krystel @ Planning The Magic says
Congrats! I definitely voted for you. This is so exciting, I wish you much success.
Holly says
Such a great outfit. I love the sparkle.
Jennifer says
Congratulations on your nomination! I submitted my vote!
Sandra Crespo says
How awesome ! Congrats!! I literally just set a goal and have been passionately working this past week towards my blogging goals! Ty so much for the inspiration !!
Sudeepta Pradhan says
Congrats way to go girl 🙂 Your story and blogging journey inspires me to continue my blogging journey. Being a newbie blogger at times we feel if anybody is even reading our blogs but this made my day and gives me the motivation to strive on.
Style With Tina says
Congratulations! Love the pictures. I hope you win.
Sondra Barker says
Congratulations honey! You’re so lovely and totally deserve this!!
MELANIE EDJOURIAN says
Congratulations Ana on the nomination. You work really hard and write beautifully and really deserve to win.
jolene says
such a well-deserved nomination, I’m off to vote now!! you work so hard on your blog and are an amazing writer.. i wish you every success
Joanna says
Congratulations! I think it’s been more than a year since I have been reading your blog and I have seen it grow. It’s a great achievement to be nominated not to one but three categories!
Susan says
Congratulations!! Working hard at something you love and are passionate about always pays off!
Dreammerin says
Congratulations! I voted for you! Good luck! Well deserved dear! All the Best!!! <3 <3
Dana Vento says
Congratulations! I’m with you. Just make sure you can win in the last! Goodluck! 🙂
Belinda says
congrats Love. I voted for you. Let us know how it goes
karlyn cruz says
This is so great to know your nomination. Congratulations Ana! I’m off to vote you now. Goodluck!
Lalia Frolick says
How exciting! Congratulations to you at this exciting time. The outfit you are wearing here actually made me giggle. It is remarkably similar to the outfit my friend put together for a party she attended JUST LAST NIGHT!
Jean says
Congrats on your nominations! I’ve only just recently found your blog, but it seems great 🙂 I only started blogging around 6 weeks ago, but like you I feel I have found my calling. I love it!
Kara Guppy says
Voted……..Good Luck 🙂
Tough Cookie Mommy says
I can completely relate to your journalistic aspirations since you were a teenager. I’ve been writing my whole life and it has always been such an outlet for me. I’m very excited for you that you have been recognized in this way. Good luck.
Chloe Ciliberto says
Congratulations. It’s so well deserved. Your new blog design is fab and really reflects your vibrant and interesting self! Off to vote now x
Stylooo says
Your outfits really looks awesome 🙂 Congrats on the nomination 🙂
Laura H says
Congrats for all the nominations! Your blog is awesome, you definitely deserve them all. The new layout is great too 🙂
Stephanie Merry says
Congratulations on the blog award nominations – you deserve it! x
Keith Haney says
Congrats on the nominations. You earned it. I voted for you. Hope you win.
Tauyanm says
Your outfit looks aamzing as always. Goodluck for thr awards! Voting for u! For my experience, winning an award is really a good memory!
Natalie Redman says
Good luck gorgeous! You certainly deserve this!
Zena's Suitcase says
You should be very proud of what you have achieved with your blog and well done on the nominations. I think there are only great things ahead for you
Lisa Rios says
Congratulations for getting nominated to those three categories and I am sure it is a wonderful milestone to have achieved by you. I have voted for you right away & good luck to win everything!
Eugenia says
Ana, congratulations on all these nominations, you really deserved them! Already voted for you, hope it helps! Just believe in yourself and keep swimming! Good luck! :-*
Fatima says
You’re welcome, and it’s amazing to have watched you grow. I started following your blog about a year ago. Your photos drew me in, but what amazed me about you is how you are able to express yourself freely. Keep up the great work!
Jasmine Eclipse says
Congrats!! This is so awesome. Just voted for you. Good luck!
Dawn Gibson-Thigpen says
congrats on the nomination. you so deserve it. also feeling that hat. super cute.
Coralie says
Congrats! It is always fun when you reach a new milestone. Great work! Keep it up.
Enricoh Alfonzo says
Felicidades EPICA ana!!! I’m so so happy for you and all that you’ve accomplished. You’re an amazing blogger, person and fashionista. I’m thrilled I came across your blog and have loved reading each and every one of your posts. You totally deserve to win all the awards. Ganbatte/
katrina gehman says
congrats. i seriously love that jacket! it looks awesome
Sainab says
Wow congratulations! I will definitely vote for you!
http://www.stepinsidemyhandbag.blogspot.co.uk
Lily Travella says
Congratulations! Must feel so proud of yourself 🙂 Well done. I’ll definitely be voting!
ALi Rost says
What a beautiful thank-you to your readers. I’m always amazed by how many bloggers rarely acknowledge their followers. Good job and so many congratulations on your nomination!