Hey Gals and Guys(?)!
No need to open the post up with the typical, “it’s been so long since I have posted” business. With the holidays and all the prep that goes into it, family time and all of that good stuff, posting and blogging has been in the back of my mind!
At this point I am officially on break (durr) and my first semester of nursing school is ovaaaa. At another time I am going to go into my thoughts on the past few months and how well… the semester really hurt me and wreaked havoc on my mind. I did pass but I did not do as well as I had hoped and my final grade certainly did not reflect the amount of time I put into studying and surviving the class. But yep, not in the mood to talk about that today and plan to elaborate in the new year… when I will have several days of natthinnnnn to do and back to blogging it will be!
For now though, I wanted to bring your attention to a piece I wrote for the Healthy Living Blogs website which is live on the site as of today! I was asked to contribute to “Blog Tip Thursday,” a weekly theme they have where other bloggers write in to add their own contributions to helping others in various blogging areas.
When this was proposed to me, I knew immediately what I wanted to do and what kind of message I hoped to pass along… my thoughts on Honesty in Blogging. Please go and check it out!
Before saying adios, I wanted to share some recent pictures with you from the last week or so 
Look what I made…. a 10 Layer Cake! (P.s. never again will I do this…. mucho frustration and annoyance during the process!) I will share how I did it and other recipes I made soon!
-What is your opinion on being honest with blogging? Is it something you do with y0ur blog and if you don’t write one, do you tend to read those that are more honest and sincere?
-How were your holidays?
-Any updates on your lives I should know about? I always ask this because I want to know! Share any and all
I’m going to try getting back here again before 2013 arrives… I am feeling a typical New Year’s reflection/goals post. Hmmm yeah! Enjoy the day my good friends and see y’all soon 
{ 35 comments… read them below or add one }
I believe that there’s either a whole lot of lying or a whole lot of starving going on when I see so many of the WIAW posts. It’s sad really. There are plenty of “healthy living” bloggers who claim to eat 2000 calories a day, but then you see their Wednesday posts and it barely looks like 1200. Or those who proclaim the importance of healthy fats and then top everything with peanut flour “paste.” Or say that holidays are times for moderation and enjoyment and then show plates full of vegetables and fruit in place of dessert. The bloggers who say “I don’t crave sweets or unhealthy food…” Really? Ever? You’ve never wanted a cookie or to lick Nutella off a spoon or dive headfirst into the plate of fries and a few glasses of wine after a hard day? I prefer the blogs that are real and honest, and the blogs of those who actually eat!
Ahh yes the WIAW posts can be really tough and of course those are when the focus of all blogs (or those who participate) are on FOOD. When there is contradictions all over the place, the side eye at them becomes a permanent facial expression of mine
Can’t wait to read your article, and I’m so glad you are done with your first semester! You may not have gotten the grade you wanted, but you learned a lot, about nursing and about yourself! I know you can do this!
I read blogs because of the sincerity- it’s nice to see people lead a healthy lifestyle in a way that’s realistic! I have had to stop reading several blogs only because it became apparent that the blogger was merely writing what she thought readers wanted to read! Looking forward to reading your article, Tess! Glad to see you had a fantastic week celebrating the holidays
!
Khushboo Thadani recently posted..The most wonderful time of the year
I just read the article and I definitely agree with you! I feel like I get much more out of my blog and my readers get much more out of my blog when I’m honest about what I’m going through at the time – I’ve been going through my Google Reader and getting rid of HLBs that don’t seem to have that element. If you’re only writing what’s popular or what you THINK your readers want to see, it’s obvious and it doesn’t make for a pleasant read.
I’m sorry that first semester didn’t go as well as you hoped – but remember that nursing school is NOT an easy thing to do! Don’t be too hard on yourself, love. <3
Sam @ Better With Sprinkles recently posted..Christmas in Pictures.
Can’t wait to check out your article beauty! I agree with honesty! I feel SO much better and get much more out of blogging when I’m honest with (firstly) myself and others too, then I can get the awesome feedback blogging gives back! Even if it’s negative, I still take great info out of comments from others. I’m happy to hear you’re done with the semester, now go out and celebrate:) xo
Lisa recently posted..Comment on Goodbyes and Changes by Sam @ Better With Sprinkles
I love your holiday pictures and your post
. It’s always great to hear from you and I still look forward to seeing your posts on my reader even though I know you’re busy- and totally justified that you’re taking a blogging break! I’m glad you got through the first semester of nursing school, and I think you’ll be an amazing nurse, regardless of grades. I think the most important thing is graduating and passing the NCLEX rather than having a 4.0 GPA anyway 
. Obviously I’m no nurse, but I’ve learned that in the so-called “real world” it’s more about what you can do than a number on a paper. That cake looks delicious and looks like one my mother-in-law makes, so tasty!
Amy Lauren recently posted..A Very Charleston Christmas Weekend
Yessssss! So excited you’re back blogging again, even if it’s just for awhile
I love your honesty, you always have told it like it is and you’ve never sugar coated things. It has a more “real” feel to it which I think is important with blogging since many times it is more like an online diary than anything else. I understand your frustration with school not reflecting how hard you worked- that happened with me and biochem this year. My grade absolutely didn’t reflect my efforts, it just didn’t make any sense to me.
That cake looks delicious, by the way
Sarah @PickyRunner recently posted..Family makes the world go round
I got your article in my inbox this morning and seriously loved it. I couldn’t agree more about the importance of honesty in blogging. I think it not only helps the blogger work through some of his/her own struggles, but it really allows the reader to feel more connected to the person behind the screen. I honestly can’t stand reading blogs where the person seems to be putting up a front, or pretending that everything is sunshine and rainbows when they’re clearly struggling with something. That’s why I’ve always loved reading your posts
Amanda @ .running with spoons. recently posted... thinking out loud #12 .
I always love hearing from you so I was seriously overjoyed when I saw this in my reader. You look so happy in all the pictures and I hope you are celebrating a tough first semester donzo. I agree so much with honesty in blogging, I think it is so easy to see beyond the facade that bloggers try to build. Thanks for sharing your article!
Alex @ therunwithin recently posted..Number Me Captain.
Loved your post on HLB – I think honest, authentic blogging is key. Otherwise, what’s the benefit to yourself and to your readers? We’re often so fake in front of “real life” people, part of the benefit to blogging is being able to be yourself in a safe network! My thoughts on the topic. Everything I write I stay as true to myself as possible.
Glad you could relate to it Alicia and thanks for providing your own opinion on it
Yeah…but what’s the point if you can’t say it in ‘real life ‘. It’s not hard for peole in real life to eventually find your blog and figure it out. And what I fear the most is that – where do you draw the line. Some things that are blogged should be written in journals or Aiken to counsellor a, therapists, caring friends/family in real life. What bloggers don’t seem to realize is how much they influence their readers. And while it can be therapeutic for you to write about “me me me” it can be super triggering for others.
First, your hair is absolutely stunning. I went over and read your blog ad honesty is such an important factor. If you cannot be true to yourself, what exactly is your blog? Is it a fake version of you? Then why are you doing it? For comments praising you that isn’t you? (Does that even make sense?). LOL, anyways that is such a great Tessa and seriously, honesty is such an important component (if not the very most ) of a blog.
HollieisFueledByLOLZ recently posted..2012 PMB
Glad to see you’re back!! And–you made it through your first semester!! You should be proud of yourself girl! Nursing school sounds as brutal as law school was for me–lol.
Seriously–I’m becoming more and more fed up with the “HLB” scene everyday. I don’t even think “honesty” is the issue–it’s more a denial issue. Bloggers claim to be healthy and committed to recovery when really we are all committed to staying skinny. That’s the crux of it. The eats and workouts all HLBs post are for the most part not balanced and most of the time cause severe injury. Hello 100-burpee workouts. I’m kind of sick of it and actually am suffering from a stress fracture in my ankle for the past 6 weeks because I pushed my body way too hard with HIIT and Tabata workouts. It’s just not worth it. Life is too damn short.
I think all bloggers lie–except you–lol
You’re lucky Tessa that you are embracing life and have stepped out of this crazy blog world.
Congrats on being featured!!! I’m going to go check out the article
Liz @ iheartvegetables recently posted..I’ve Moved!
I think honesty and blogging is a critical thing when it comes to gaining a true readership, but I understand if some bloggers want to keep certain things private and choose not to share some personal things.
That cake you made though…awesome! I love multi-layer cakes
Tessa!
I’ve missed you,girl,so glad to have you back!
I know what you mean saying nursing school is kind of frustrating sometimes,especially regarding exams and stuff,but in the end,you are giving your best and that is all that counts. Honestly,if you were such a lazy ass like me who only studies when it’s really really reeeaaally necessary,you could be disappointed,but this way? – Nope,no reason to beat yourself up! Alright?!!
And onto the honesty-topic… Personally,I only read blogs of people I feel like they’re truly honest about what they say. There’s nothing I hate more than pretending and lying in this world,that is for sure. Unfortunately,some bloggers seem to be caught up deep in their disordered way of thinking,so they often don’t even notice they’re lying to themselves and their readers. I wish I knew how to open their eyes in a way that doesn’t sound offensive or unfriendly.
Kat @ a dash of fairydust recently posted..And so this was Christmas…
Glad you are back! Passing is the most important thing even if yo udid not ge the best possible grade, you still did well because you PASSED! Great job!
I try to be as honest as possible on the blog. What is the point of lying? I want people to see the true me. I try to keep a nice balance between personal life and blogging. If there is something super personal or something I don’t want to disclose to the world, then I just don’t write about it.
Stellina @ My Yogurt Addiction recently posted..My Favorite Moments of 2012
Thank you Stellina, you are right I should remember that passing is okay too!
Ooooh can’t wait to go see the article!! And I have to say, I am in love with your family…is that creepy? You guys are just so adorable and happy!! It looks like you had a wonderful Christmas!
Alexandra recently posted..A Swimmy Snowy Christmas
Hahah NOT creepy at all! I feel the same about your family, you guys look like so much FUN
You look gorgeous as always girl! I really enjoyed your honesty post as well. I’m a firm believer in telling the whole truth and I don’t hide anything at all; I find that the more honest I am with myself and others, the better results I get!
Great to see that you are doing well
And even though some semesters don’t go as well as we hope (my sophomore year of undergrad cough cough), there is always hope that the next will be better, so keep your chin up 
Hey Stranger! Hope you are enjoying the holidays!
Michelle @ Blogitness recently posted..Long Overdue, But I’m Back!
Wonderful to see an update from you! Hope you are enjoying a restful holiday break. Can I just say how healthy and glory you are looking in your recent pictures.
Congratulations on getting through the first hurdles in your Nursing
Studies. Just passing the first semester is an achievement to be proud of. Having a focus outside of food is also an achievement in itself and one of which you should be very proud.
Tessa your honesty in blogging is what sets you apart. I know my favourite blogs are ones where the writer has a healthy relationship with food – including admitting to treats consumption – which is all part of balance. One must live in more than apples, oatmeal and chia seeds alone! I think the only real treats a lot of “healthy” bloggers allow themselves is stolen licks of almond butter. Nothing wrong with that at all in a balanced diet (love my almond butter!) but it makes me sad to see vibrant young women “confessing” to a teaspoon of almond butter after dinner, which to me often goes hand in hand with the fat free meal consumed beforehand.
Thank you again for your honesty. You are making so much progress on your journey. Best wishes (from Australia
Michelle
To clarify, I love oatmeal, apples and almond/chia butter! However what worries me is the evident guilt that occurs when some HLB’s have a day where they stray away from consuming these kinds of foods alone. Balance is healthier than guilt IMO!
And you’re looking ‘glowy’
Aww well goodness Michelle, thank you for the compliment!! Oh gosh I couldn’t help but laugh out loud at the “treat” some bloggers have of going at it with a jar of nut butter… yeah, that is so not a treat. Thank YOU for continuing to read Michelle and for the helpful words you continue to offer!
Hi Tessa, I recently sent you an email (not sure if you got it or not). But anyways, that layer cake looks cool and yummy:) As far as reading blogs go, I try to stay away from the ones that come off as too fake and try to make themselves look good as far as healthy living goes. I wanted to start my own blog but i think that its better that for me that I don’t. Happy New Years!
Hi Christine! Yes I did receive your email and am going to respond today
It was so lovely to receive such a nice message! Only start a blog if you truly think it would be beneficial for you, otherwise wait for the right time if you chose to! I know you know this already, but just wanted to reiterate ha 
Hey lovely, it’s great to read an update from you! You look gorgeous
I hope you have been having a fantastic break! I think that despite the term being really difficult and your results not being quite what you wanted you should be super proud of yourself.
I’ve always really admired and appreciated your honesty on here. Since starting my blog I’ve tried to stay open and honest with my readers because I think it’s important and it makes your blog more accessible and easier to relate to!
Sophie @ Love Live & Learn recently posted..A Cheery Catch-Up!
Thanks a lot Sophie dear! You have always stayed honest on your blog and a major reason that I continue to read yours!
I really only read blogs that are honest. There’s nothing worse than reading a blog written by someone who claims something, but acts different. That’s why I love reading your blog – you’re so honest and open.
Sarah @ Blonde Bostonian recently posted..WIAW #38: Travel Eats {What I Ate Wednesday}
Hiii
I miss you! I’m back to blogging now (well hopefully)
You can tell when blogs are not honest- to me they stick out like a sore thumb. Nobody is perfect but if people are choosing only to show a certain side of their lives that’s their choice- I just don’t want to read something that’s too perfect.
xo
Jocelyn
Jocelyn @ Peace Love Nutrition recently posted..80-20 Rule & Laurent-Perrier Champagne!
Happy Holidays to you! And congrats on getting through your first semester of nursing! Massive achievement. I always find first semester the hardest.
I definitely prefer honesty and I think
Over time it becomes apparent. That is why I always enjoyed your blog! Youre true to yourself and your readers!
Jess recently posted..What holds you back…?
Well, congratulations on getting through your first semester! Simply not failing nursing school seems like a huge accomplishment to me (don’t think I could do it!). I definitely like reading blogs that are honest and sincere more than ones that seem like the writer is promoting themselves in a “showing off” way, which seems to be the theme among social media these days. Loved what you wrote in the article on the healthy living blog site, awesome!
Kelly@ShapeDaily recently posted..Good Nutrition for Menopause
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