Just Call Me Chaviva is a blog about all things Judaism, from an academic, personal, religious, and cultural perspective. Chaviva writes about her experiences converting to Judaism, living presently as a convert, and what it means to be a convert in the greater Jewish and global community. And, of course, every now and again there are giveaways for books, Oh!Nuts candy, and hair coverings!
I am a graduate student at the University of Connecticut in Judaic Studies, although I also freelance edit and am a full-time blogger. Basically, blogging is my ultimate passion!
I started blogging in April 2006, on the eve of my conversion to Judaism under Reform auspices. Before this, I’d been LiveJournaling since about 1997. I started my blog because I wanted to be more focused, and I wanted to write on a specific topic: Judaism. Since 2006, I’ve moved, converted Reform, gone back to school, traveled to Israel, converted Orthodox, become engaged, and more.
Since April 2006.
On average, I get about 150 visits per day and about 200 page views!
My income comes largely through freebies that I get through hosting giveaways for companies like Oh!Nuts, CoverYourHair.com, and other groups. I’ve gotten a lot of free clothes, books, and goodies in exchange for writing about them, so it’s more a bartering of goods than anything. Right now, I’m okay with this, but I would like to have a true income from my blog. I write, and writing is my passion. Why not get paid for it? The balance is finding a way to have income without bogging your blog down with ads.
Anyone who is interested in Judaism, Jews, or Israel, especially those who are thinking of converting or who have an interest in the politics and lifestyle of converts. But in reality, my blog is read by just about everyone and anyone — Jew and non-Jew alike!
I write *really* fast, so I spend a few hours a day blogging.
My blog offers a unique and informed perspective on what it means to live in a global society, as a Jew and a general member of any community. Every topic I write about I have researched or experienced, and I write with a passion and devotion that reflects who I truly am. I am forward, honest, and forthcoming with just about everything in my life.
My advice to bloggers is to pick a topic and focus on it for 93 percent of your blogging. The other 7 percent? Write on whatever you like! But you must stay focused and devoted; starting a blog is a big thing, so don’t let it fall to the wayside if you want to keep readership.
This blog can be visited at http://www.kvetchingeditor.com
