Y’all, I have some exciting news—something I’ve been itching to share for a while now. After what feels like forever, the monthly giveaway is officially coming back at the end of this month! That’s right, your girl is dusting off the prize box, fluffing the tissue paper, and planning some fun surprises for my loyal readers. If you’ve been around a while, you know how much I love hosting these little monthly giveaways. They’re my way of saying thank you for showing up, reading, commenting, and being part of the Rita Reviews family.
But this time around, I want to do things with a little more intention and a whole lot more connection. So starting now, comments and community interaction are going to earn you extra entries into the monthly giveaway. Not just because it helps the blog (though it does), but because I truly value the conversations we have here—and I want more of them.
So let’s talk about how it’s all going to work and why your voice matters more than ever.
Why Comments Matter (More Than You Might Think)
Blogging can sometimes feel like shouting into the void. You pour your heart into a post, hit publish, and then… silence. But the moment someone leaves a comment—whether it’s a “Thanks for this!” or a detailed story about their own experiences—it breathes life into this space. It turns a blog post into a two-way conversation, and I don’t know about you, but I much prefer chatting with friends than just monologuing to the internet.
Your comments also help shape what you see here. I notice what topics get the most feedback, what recipes y’all love, what stories make you laugh, and what ones get a little tear rolling. When you chime in, you help this space grow in the best possible way—authentically.
How to Earn Extra Entries
Starting July 1st and running through July 31st, every meaningful comment you leave on a blog post will count towards the extra entries into the giveaway at the end of the month. I have not yet worked out how I will be doing that. I may be something like 1-5 comments get you 1 extra entries, etc. Again I just haven’t made that decision.
And don’t worry—I’ll be keeping track! Every week, I’ll check comments and tally entries. You won’t need to email me or fill anything out. If you’re commenting, you will be able to simply select that entry on the Rafflecopter form. You don’t have to tell me what posts, just the name you comment as if different from your entry name.
A Few Commenting Tips
If you’re new to blog commenting or just want a few ideas, here’s how to get the most out of your connection:
- Be honest – If something resonated with you, say so. If you disagree, kindly share your thoughts.
- Be curious – Ask questions about recipes, products, or topics I write about.
- Be you – I’m not expecting perfect grammar or long-winded essays. I just want to hear your voice.
- Be kind – We’re a warm, welcoming bunch here. Let’s keep the Shady Pines porch vibes alive.
Let’s Make This a Real Community Again
I know blogs aren’t always the shiny new toy anymore, what with TikTok and Instagram being the big things these days—but this space matters. It’s cozy, calm, and filled with stories and recipes and real talk that’s hard to find elsewhere. I don’t take it lightly that you spend part of your day here.
By bringing back commenting as a core part of the monthly giveaways, I’m hoping we can build that sense of community back up—the one where we cheer each other on, laugh about Ma’s latest misadventures, swap kitchen secrets, and talk about life like we’re sitting at the same table with a glass of sweet tea.
Mark Your Calendar
Here’s what you need to remember:
- Comment on any blog post between July 1 and July 31
- Giveaway will begin as always the last week of July
- Giveaway winner will be announced at end of August
- This will be ongoing for all future Month in Review giveaways
So go ahead—grab a cozy corner of the internet, find a post or two, and share your thoughts. I’ll be there reading every word, replying when I can, and cheering you on from behind the scenes.
And thank you—from the bottom of my heart—for making this space feel like home again. I’m so glad you’re here.
Let the commenting begin!
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Thank you for this. I can understand why you have implemented this. I think it’s a great idea. I get so frustrated when I comment on author blogs to win a new book. All everyone writes is “Sounds like a good read” or “Sounds like a great book”…then they win.
I know what you mean. I just felt this was a great way to engage and get some additional entries.
This is a great idea to connect more with your readers. Looking forward to your content. Hope you have a great month, Rita! 🙂
Thank you Nina! I am still working out what the giveaway prize is going to be but I know that many of you loved the ones I did in the past.
I can’t remember how I found your blog, but your posts drew me in. The honesty and humor made me think: if this girl lived in my area, she would be in my circle. For sure! Thanks so much for putting forth so much effort into your blog.
Thank you so much Regina! I would certainly be in your circle. I always worry with every post I write if people will find the humor in it or if I am over sharing things. To know that y’all enjoy it makes me so happy.
Happy to see you back Rita! I understand the lack of commenting being frustruating – you never know if your posts aren’t being read, aren’t interesting or if they are of interest/being read if no one pipes up. I really can’t recall how I came across your blog – though I know I have been a long time reader!
I’m glad things worked out! It’s fun to get to know fellow commenters as well as a host in comments…
This makes good sense! So many times, people leave comments just for a contest and the comments are hollow. I have enjoyed your blog for many years, and I worry when you don’t post for a while!