Meet my other friends Monday

I figured it was high time I start my Meet my other friends Monday posts back up. The friends that are featured in this post appear in no particular order. I've started with those bloggers who have visible email addresses. Once I work through all of those then I'll start contacting others through the comment section. You could be next.

This week we'll be visiting with Donna from Cottage Days and Journeys. I'm not positive but I believe I discovered Donna's blog back when I was doing the Brenda Photo Challenge. If you want to see gorgeous photos and go on exciting journeys from the comfort of your own computer chair then Donna's blog is the place to be. She amazes me with her photography skills every time I stop by. Aside from that she is just one of the sweetest people out there in blog land. Enough from me, lets turn it over to Donna.

1. How long have you been blogging and what made you start?

I started blogging January 1, 2008. I had visited various blogs for a while, thoroughly enjoyed reading them, and decided to start one of my own a couple of months after I retired.

2. What is one piece of advice that you would give to new bloggers.

Take photographs and include at least one with every post! Blogging isn't just about writing. Part of your sharing and storytelling is also done through photos! Images help to keep your reader's interest.

3. Do you have any hobbies or special talents?

Whistling is not one of my special talents, that's for sure. I am probably the world's worse whistler. I can make grown men cry and dogs howl with my off-key rendition of Strangers in the Night!

Seriously, I have had several hobbies over the years. In my youth, I used to be a pretty good pianist and won many competitions. I gave it up quite a while ago and don't own a piano today. I've also done quite a bit of needlework, fiber arts, and beading. Those pursuits have tapered off in recent years because I can't see up close very well anymore and arthritis is in my hands.

My latest passion is photography, with specialties in wildlife and landscapes. My long-time blogging friends have seen my work progress over the years and cheered me on! And I credit blogging for pushing me to be a better photographer.

4. Of course you love all the blogs you visit but share a link to one of those and tell us why we should check it out.

It's so hard to chose just one! But if your blog readers aren't familiar with A Haven from Vee, then they are missing out on a real treat. Grace, wit, character, humor - Miz Vee has it all.

5. What is the one things that totally makes you crazy?

It drives me bonkers when people walk right into me. I can't tell you how many times I have to dodge people when we go shopping so that they don't literally knock me down. They aren't looking where they are walking. I sometimes wonder if I am invisible or whether there are that many people who are rude!

6. Give one random thought.

Here's one to commit to memory, stitch on a pillow, or print on a sign: Success is a decision.