Sounds great. Yeah I think the main things that have been most impactful is reading and commenting on others posts, and also joining communities that have discord where you can get to know people more.
And yeah I hear you there! Personally I feel like writing and engaging with others outside of your blog need to happen simultaneously. You just need to find the balance and how that works for you.
Oh and I cannot remember the name of that girl now! If I find her again I will let you know.