Seventeen years! It’s hard to believe how quickly the time has passed since I first clicked “submit” on my very first ActiveRain post back on October 31, 2008. What began as a way to pivot my business during the uncertainty of the 2008 financial crisis has become one of the most rewarding and consistent parts of my real estate journey.
Back then, I knew I needed a fresh way to connect, share, and stay visible in a shifting market. My son, John Dunham, and my dear friend and marketing rep from Austin Title, Roxanne Ford, gave me the encouragement I needed to jump in. Roxanne sat with me, helping fill out my profile and guiding me through those first nervous steps into the world of blogging.
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I still remember that Halloween day when I posted my first three blogs, full of excitement and nerves! The silence that followed was humbling: no comments, no fanfare, just me learning by doing. But I didn’t give up. I kept writing. By November, I had posted 23 times and earned three comments. By December, 41 posts brought in 119 comments, progress that felt like gold! |
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In those early months, a handful of kind souls, George Souto, Kathy Streib, Barbara-Jo Roberts Berberi, Claude Labbe, and Sharon Tara, took the time to read, comment, and encourage me. Their engagement meant more than they could have known. It reminded me that community is what makes ActiveRain so special.
And then came the big realization: blogging wasn’t just about posting, it was about connecting. Once I started commenting on others’ posts, sharing ideas, and learning from professionals across the country, everything changed. Mornings spent on ActiveRain became my daily “mini masterclass,” a mix of inspiration, humor, new perspectives, and valuable insight from people who shared my passion for real estate.
Seventeen years later, this platform continues to be a place where I grow, learn, and build relationships that extend far beyond the screen. Thanks to John and Roxanne for their early encouragement, and to the countless members of this incredible community who continue to inspire me.
As I celebrate 17 amazing years (and hold steady at #2 of the Texas Leaderboard!), I do so with gratitude and joy. Blogging on ActiveRain has shaped not only my business but also my perspective on collaboration and connection.
Here’s to continuing the journey, sharing stories, learning from one another, and celebrating the power of community.
Cheers to 17 years on ActiveRain! Happy Anniversary to me! ♥
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