Meet Andrea Deckard of Mommy Snacks

Me: What is your blogs name and what is it about?

Andrea: My blog is Mommy Snacks.net. I share money-saving tips: coupon advice, store sales, menu plans. I also share about my attempt to lose the baby weight...9 years later! You might also hear about a little piece of my life from time to time too.


Me: What do you think about the new Mommy Blogger title changing to Digital Mommy?

Andrea: I think this makes sense. It's very inclusive and covers a broader group of women.


Me: What kind of cell phone do you own?

Andrea: Iphone 3G. I just got it too. Believe it or not, I didn't have a high-tech phone before last month! When I left Corporate America 3 years ago, I left my phone there too! Blogging has pushed me to return to one.


Me: What do you use your cell phone for besides talking on?

Andrea: Bloggy business. I love using all of the applications: twitter, facebook, wordpress, skype. Plus, it's my Ipod and my mileage tracker for my runs.


Me: What is your favorite social media website?

Andrea: Twitter for sure! I was reluctant to join because I didn't want to remember one more password. I am so glad I did! I have developed some amazing relationships/friendships that I am so blessed by!


Me: What are the three blogs you read on a consistent basis?

Andrea: Mommin' It Up, Money Saving Methods, Bring the Rain


Me: Do you shop online? If so, what are your favorite online stores?

Andrea: Oh, I definitely shop online! My favorite online stores: Amazon.com, Old Navy, QVC, Skinstore.com.


Me: What is your online schedule like on a typical day?

Andrea: I spend an hour each morning checking email and chatting on twitter. After my youngest is down for a nap in the afternoon, I work on time-sensitive posts, all while tweeting/facebooking too, of course! I try to schedule as much work as I can in the evenings or on the weekends so our week days are uninterrupted.


Me: What blogger do you feel you have learned the most from?

Andrea: A few: Maria Bailey (BSM Media) and Carrie Koors (Money Saving Methods).


Me: What is the one piece of advice you would give to a mom that is just starting out in the blogging world?

Andrea: Never lose sight of why you started: your passion! It's so easy to get caught up in traffic, earnings and pitches. Stay true to your voice and forget the other stuff! Remember that YOU are the reason people are reading - don't compromise that in anyway!


Me: I heard you’ve been on TV! What was that all about?

Andrea: It was a local segment about saving money. Of course, I did walk the red carpet with Brook Burke too :) Honestly, I am really proud of the work I do that doesn't get all the media attention. Sharing tips with others as they manage through these difficult financial times is something I am honored to facilitate!


Me: What is your favorite snack?

Andrea: Tough one. Again, there are a few. I'm trying to watch my weight so I really am loving the Kashi Cereal Bars. They are loaded with fiber and good stuff! I also love Special K Bars, Baked Lays or yogurt.


Me: How do you balance your online life and your offline life? (or do you?)

Andrea: It is challenging. I try to schedule as many posts as possible. But, I also love getting on twitter or skype and talking to everyone! So, I just know I have a few days a week where I limit my scheduled time online. It's so interesting because we have a local group of bloggers that meet regularly (#bigdealmoms on twitter). These girls who were once online acquaintances have become some of my best friends offline!


Me: What kind of car do you drive?

Andrea: Honday Odyssey. I'm a proud member of the minivan brigade! I never thought I would be one of *those moms.* But, I am and I love it to pieces!


Me: What cool features does your car have? What cool features do you wish it had?

Andrea: Since I have 3 kids, I think the DVD/TV combo is awesome!!! I also love the heated seats - great for not only keeping your behind warm in the winter but also keeps the pizza warm! I joke that I don't need a GPS system because I'm married to one! And, well, now my Iphone does that so there's no need! Yeah, I have an app for that :)


Me: Do you make money with your blog?

Andrea: Yes. I use several affiliate marketing companies and I also run an Ad network. I have posts I outline many ways to earn online - for bloggers and non-bloggers. My philosophy is to pay it forward when it comes to stuff like this!


Me: What gadget are you crushing on at the moment?

Andrea: An Apple MacBook. They are so pretty and precious! Oh, and functional and stuff. I guess that matters too :)


Me: Why do you think you influence so many people?

Andrea: I am who I am (someone really awesome said that too :). I don't try to be anyone else. I try to be kind to everyone. I stick up for my friends. I like to laugh. I really just want to enjoy life and my little piece of the internetz with as little drama as possible. Maybe my *influence* is because of my character. Oh, and that I've been known to make people giggle a little - their judgement may be compromised because of the laughter :)


Me: What projects/events/contests do you have going on that you’d like everyone to know about?

Andrea: I have a Begin to Blog series slated to run in early June. Also, many cool giveaways!


Me: Do you feel like your kid/ kids watch too much TV?

Andrea: I'd say their television viewing is about right for their age. During the nicer weather, inside watching TV is the last place I would find them!


Me: What talk show host or news anchor would you love to be interviewed by?

Andrea: Well, since everyone says Oprah, I'm going to be different (but Oprah would be pretty cool) :) I'll say Al Roker. I think Al is hilarious. He is always so respectful to guests. He makes me smile every morning because of the joy that he exudes! So, Al, if you're reading this, call me :)