One of my newer young blog friends, Jennifer of JRU Studios made a post about Blog Reading Habits last week. I found it very interesting and have continued to pond-er (ha!) my own habits, while becoming more curious about other's. Jennifer is a wonderful and artistic soul. Please treat yourself to a visit.
It is no secret that I started blogging as a way for my daughter and I to keep up with each other's lives after she moved away. That remains one of my primary motivators. But, blogging has grown to mean more to me than I could have imagined.
My choice of blog reading is very eclectic. I enjoy a variety of types that range from far left to far right, from country to city, young to old, decadence to simplicity... my own interests and some I'm not at all interested in ever doing. LOL! I like photography and knitting and art. I love creating a home and all that means (though I am not a decorating person, I do like to watch others do it. ;) ). I love food for the soul and food for the body. Family is important to me; which can look many different ways, but you know it when you see it.
I asked myself what the common denominator was... and it goes back to a recurring theme throughout my life: the fascination with the human spirit and those who desire to live their best and fullest life. There are as many venues for that as there are blogs.
My dearest favorites are blogs (and the comments between the two of us) that have become a long conversation between friends... A place where I have come to know and appreciate this person as a part of my life. I stay engaged and continue commenting with people who respond and seem interested in developing that kind of connection. Though not always the case, I will most times disengage if that does not seem true.
My reading habits vary with my schedule. Most often, I read with my first cup of coffee. I will read anytime I have a moment to take a break and sometimes at the end of the day. Some days, none of that happens. I prefer blog posts that aren't too long (Ooops!) or too frequent. It becomes harder to keep up with everyone.
I enjoy commenting. That has deep roots in my marathon running days. I LOVED the encouragement I received from spectators on the sideline; that encouragement could lift me and give me new wind.
And, I discovered when I would finish my marathon and could go back to encourage and cheer for others, that I LOVED CHEERING OTHERS EVEN MORE!! After I stopped running marathons, if I was anywhere near one, I would go to cheer. To see a tired and almost spent soul's eyes light and their step get a little stronger as you offer them encouragement, well you should give it a try sometime. The gift will be yours to receive. I will tell you I have shed many tears of joy as I cheered runners along the sidelines. Oh, the beauty of the human spirit overcoming!! Simply breathtaking. Food for my soul.
A side note on that: The really fast runners never really seem to notice the encouragement offered to them. It is the mid-packers to back-of-the-packers who need that encouragement most. I keep that in mind, too.
My peeps are little different that Jennifer's. I would love to hear from you on this topic.
- What makes you choose a blog to read?
- What are you reading habits?
- What makes you leave a comment?
- Do you read without commenting (guess that one may be hard to get an answer for!)
- What does blogging mean to you?
blessings ~ tanna
63 comments:
Tanna I love your blog...love hearing about your projects and your little men...the blogs I read are a big varity also...and they have changed a lot since I started blogging...I really enjoy the blogs with a family twist...the animal blogs...I follow blogs from young women to not so young women...and everything in between...I try to comment on all I read....I have scaled back on the ones I follow....and I always feel bad when I stop following a blog...but it is important to me not to spend too much time on the net...and more time living....some weeks I don't spend much time reading other weeks I spend more...depending on the free time I have....great post...
I love reading blogs that speak to my season of life. I tend to read a lot of blogs of other moms. I also really enjoy reading blogs of people who have a really great faith. It inspires me. I probably read about 20 - 30 blogs of people I don't even know that I've just stumbled upon. And I don't comment. Just read. The common theme for me would be inspiration. I tend to keep coming back if I'm inspired by their words. Usually if it inspires me to be a better mom or Christian.
And of course I read all of my friends and family - and those often inspire me the most. :-)
I like the questions.
1) I pick blogs from the blog rolls of others whose blogs I read and I check out "Blogs of Note" from time to time.
2) By "reading habits" I assume you mean specific to blog readiing? I tend to skim alot but can become quite caught up in a meaningful story, poem or artistic posting(s). I tend to spend more time on political blogs because they are more in-depth with respect to their subject matter.
3) I leave a comment if I have an opinion about the content OR if I just like the person and want them to know I was there.
4) I do indeed read w/o commenting, particularly on political blogs. Some are so extreme I'd be afraid of backlash in print.
5) The opportunity to hone my writing skills, to explore what I'm good at with respect to writing, inotherwords, what subjects do I cover that elicit the most response, good or bad? I also get very into my political opinions, research, etc, which is why I have two blogs instead of one. Also, the friends I've made, you being one of my very first readers and you're still around...it's an incredible connection.
Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. I am loving reading these responses. Deb and CG started about the same time I did. Lord only knows exactly how we came across each other, but I'm glad we did.
Dana: family and friends and inspiration. nothing better. oh, and Jackson's newest 'sayings'. ;)
The title of your blog attracted me (from where?) because I live in a bungalow. You know I soon realized that your two precious little men and I are natives of the same southern city. I don't knit but I love that you do. I started my blog with encouragement from my daughter in law. I had no idea how "attached" I would become to so many in blogland. It is like having morning coffee with friends, a short afternoon visit and sometimes saying good night.
Best,
Bonnie
I started my blog right after my sweet man went to live with Jesus. He had been ill for a very long time and I had somewhat lost who I was .I needed a life change.
In blogland I discoved so many peole just like me , doing so many of the things I wanted to do and
that helped me to become who I am today.
I am so thankful for my blog friends . I have learned so much from them.
I read blogs about
gardens, chickens
family, good food
Tanna I have watched your beautiful heart that is filled with such love for your little men.
Dottie
Great post, Tanna, and I agree with most of what you've said. I read blogs when I have time. It might be in the morning, or while eating a sandwich at lunch, or maybe late at night since I'm a night owl. I enjoy a wide variety of blogs and will comment on most of them unless I'm short on time. Most weeks, I do very well at keeping up. But there are a few times when I don't try to keep up and one of those times is when I'm on vacation or very busy with a project, etc. I admire those who will blog every day even when on vacation, but that is not for me. I really started blogging as a way of keeping an online journal with photos of my very ordinary life.
I enjoy your blog very much. You always have good posts and nice photos. Have a great day!
Dana: I forgot to mention that I so believe that those sharing our particular season in life offer us some of our greatest hope and inspiration.
Bonnie: ditto! LOL! Now, we may even have the chance to meet one day soon! Yea!
Dottie: you inspire me everytime I read you posts. You are shaping a life with the best of yourself and others. I love that.
Cheryl: Your 'ordinary' is extraordinary in its everyday magic. Truly an inspiration.
I realized I had forgotten to mention my love of Old Homes. ;) And, though I don't mention it often... sometimes that feels too sacred to speak of... my own faith and connection to God influences my visits. I will say that blogging has lengthened my prayer time daily. And, the prayers I pray for folks I only cross paths with in blogland, feed my own soul as I ask for theirs.
TMI. I know.
Tanna..such a great post!
I too have an ecclectic mix of blogs that I visit. When I first started blogging almost 6 years ago I read in successful blogging 101 that a blog should have a "focus" and stick to it but I'm just not built that way...my interests are varied and the focus of my blog can be too although it's honed into mainly creative, spiritual and my thoughts on life.
I love the connections I've made with other bloggers and like you, I'm facinated by people, their stories, what they do and what they too "wonder" about. I'm a great wonderer!
I usually read first thing in the morning with a cup of tea in hand...it's a wonderful way to come into the world each day...visiting with friends.
...and I posted before adding that I really love coming to visit your blog with all it's wonderful creativity. I'm not sure how I found you, but I'm glad I did!
Hey Tanna, blogging sure has opened a whole world to me that I never knew about. My cousin blogged for a year and although I read her blog, I never visited any others. It wasn't until she FORCED me to start my own blog, that I started visiting a few others and from that point on, I was hooked. I've done more crocheting than ever before and have tried new projects that I never even considered before. I would say that most of the bloggers I visit have some sort of craft that they share, but it is true that some sort of connection has to be there too. There are many blogs that I just visit without commenting because I've not once received a comment back no matter how many times I've left one in the past. And that's fine. There are blogs out there for every season and every reason you can imagine. It's still so amazing to me that even though many of us have never met, we still consider ourselves friends across this big wide world. :) "Encouragement is oxygen to the soul." I believe that's what blogging should be about. Wishing you a beautiful day! Tammy
Hmmm...ponder-ering an answer - always love a good pun! Love reading a variety of blogs and connecting with the interesting people behind them. Some days there just doesn't seem to be enough hours to do it all. But I do try to keep up otherwise I feel like I'm missing what's happening with new friends far and wide.
xo Cathy
kate i: please tell me where to find your blog! I would love to be able to visit and I keep running into dead ends! Thank you so much for taking the time to put your thoughts into words. Thank you.
Tammy: love what you said about there being blogs for every reason and season! Amen. And, I agree completely: "encouragement is oxygen for the soul." I am blessed by getting to know you.
Stitchfork: I KNOW about running out of time to keep up. There are days I just can't. Fortunately, there are times I can and I enjoy that. ;)
i'm totally eclectic in my blog roll also. i don't craft, but have a bunch of blogger pals that do. i don't decorate, but view a ton of blogs that have that main theme. i'm not a hunter/fisherperson but i subscribe to a bunch of bloggers that are. i tend to gravitate to those with great photos, not too wordy, humor, soul, love of wildlife/animals. i DO comment a ton. some days i run out of time or attention and i'll skip it, but 90% of the time, i try to say SOMETHING to say i've been there to visit and appreciate their post. i probably post too often for some folks' tastes. i did 2-a-days for a long time but have recently slowed down to 1-a-days mostly. hope i didn't bug you! :)
i use google reader now instead of dashboard. and i also subscribe to a couple of feeds thru internet explorer as well. my hardest thing is signing up to follow, then unfollowing later due to lack of common interests or a need to scale back my blog roll (which is too lengthy!)
speaking of too lengthy, this comment is becoming so! :)
You have pretty much summed up a lot of my feelings about blogging! I remember I discovered your blog on someone's sidebar or comment section. It was the picture of your house that caught my eye. It's very similiar to mine! After that initial "meeting" it's been uncanning the connection I feel to you--we have a lot in common! (Our passion for knitting is one.) I read blogs whenever I have an odd minute (never enough). Sometimes I go for days without looking at a blogs, then joining back in is always a pleasure.
Best,
Susan
I've loved meeting bloggers and entering that community online. It's been so warm and supportive, it's not surprise that you (or I) have found it to be such a great thing.
Love that the post inspired you to ask your friends here about their blog reading habits! Such interesting answers. :) I love your pond! We have a garden pond too... still learning about it. I like your rocks on the bottom, but ours gets full of leaves and gets messy. Where/what kind of store did you buy your flat stone for the border? We bought some at a Menards last year and wouldn't you know it, they don't sell it anymore. We need more for our border. :)
I want you to know that when I see that you have posted - I know I NEED to read it.
So for me - it has to be a two way street - commenting back and forth.
I can have something in common like grandsons an other things not in common like knitting - but I love to see what you can do -and I can't do a stitch.
I love for real people. Someone who says real things. Not afraid to be themselves. Honest. Open. Kind. Loving. Trustworthy. Funny.
Positive, but not always.
I like flowers. Birds. And of course I love God.
Just about everything your blog has.
Love,
sandie
I love coming to your blog and seeing your wonderful photos, your projects, everything you are willing to share. I was first attracted based on your home (it is absolutely gorgeous) because I love classic, older homes. I would love to sit on your front porch!
I choose to read blogs that catch my interest, or there is a similar thread of interests. Many of the blogs I read are "foreign" to me in activity (homeschooling is a good example). But I am quite fascinated and enjoy reading how others do things. Plus it opens me up to parts of the world I don't know!
I start my morning when things are set for the day and it is still quiet in the house with a cup of coffee and blogs. I like to see how everyone is doing, add people to my mental prayer list if needed. I read off and on through the day when I have the free time (little did you know that I got up twice in reading your post and responding to check on scones and pull them out of the oven!).
I typically leave a comment when something interests me, if someone needs a pick-me-up. I do read a lot and sometimes wait to comment because I want to think of the right response. And sometimes I do read and not leave a comment. Sometimes I just don't know what to say.
Blogging to me is being able to connect with other people. I consider my blogger buddies to be friends, someone I could easily invite over for coffee, chat over the fence with, and perhaps lean on when I need a shoulder to cry on.
I want to just say DITTO to Dana's comment above...and she said it much more eloquently than I ever could have!
One other thing I'll say about blogging...It has become a bit of an obsession of mine since I realized the value of recording my day-to-day life with my family. I print my blog each year into a blog book and it is such a treasure for me and my entire extended family. And honestly, there are many stories I've written that have already been forgotten until I go back and read through the book! Oh, what I wouldn't do for a book like that of my own parents' daily lives as they were raising us so many years ago. Invaluable!
Treasures. Pure treasures, each and every comment!
TexWisGirl: this is the most I have ever 'heard' you say and I loved it! LOL! I never mind your frequent posts, they are brief and beautiful pick-me-ups throughout my day (not some long, drawn out wordy dang thing like this!) ;)
Susan: I think we may have been separated at birth (twins, perhaps!) I love your home and your addictions!
Lydia K: I am so pleased to have found you today in my search for kate i! A treat along the way. I'm still searching for her, so if you know the direction, please pass it on! Thank you for stopping by and I look forward to visiting with you again.
Jennifer: See what you have gotten started? LOL! You've had my mind pondering for days! Love your creative mind.
Chatty: We share lots of commonality and a love of trying to live a better life. Sistas.
Emily: You are a a pleasure to visit and get to know. I am so happy our paths crossed and I look forward to continuing to get to know you.
Lauri: You girls are my primary reason for being here. I am delighted to hear about your blog books and I think they will be something you will REALLY treasure at my stage of the game. ;)
Thank each and every one of you for reading through this long thing and giving such thoughtful answers.
I starting blogging because two freinds said "Wanda, you need to be telling your stories, and your heart for the Lord. It was a beginning, and now I continue to blog because my life has been so totally enriched by the friends I've met from all over the world.
At first, I just did my stories, but wanted to also share my watercolors and encourage other budding artists, so a year or so ago, I opened my Art Blog.
I had 2009 printed into book form as it was the year of my Cancer Journey, and I wanted to have that for my children and grandchildren to read someday.
Tanna ~ Years ago, I was was of those runner in the back of the pack. I only did the 2 mile fun runs, but I've never been so encouraged by people staying at the finish line, for the last runner, saying...you're a winner because you "finished"...love that. That how I want to encourage people in their Spiritual Journey.
I glance through my special friends in the morning after we have given Aunt Trula breakfast. I try to comment, but usually never very long comments.
People like yourself, Tanna and Betsy and Martha, keep me blogging, and so many more!
I really like this post and was just checking in after not leaving any comments for a while.. LOL.
Sometimes I just like to get a glimpse into my blog followers posts with out commenting depending on my mood...not their post.
That pond is beautiful!
I read blogs written by people like me. Bloggers who love family, home and making life good. I don't read the top rated blogs from sites like blogrankings or blogtopsites...except Kim at Savvy Southern Style. I do read her and consider her a friend. I think those top rated bloggers have lost touch with real blogging and real people. I occasionally look at other blog rolls and get excited when I find a new blog to follow. I seem to blog all the time. I'm always checking in. I do sometimes read without commenting. Although I enjoy commenting, it tends to weigh on me. I sometimes feel obligated to return visits. I started blogging out of sheer boredom and too much extra time. Well I'm not bored anymore and there is no such thing as extra time. It's been good for me. I have learned so much and met great people (like you!) A win-win situation.
Wanda: you absolutely encourage people (me) in their (my) spiritual walk. Thank you!
Carol: So glad to hear from you. There is never a dull moment with you!
Ann: I agree with all that you said. Sometimes blogging, as all other endeavors, can become a drudge. I find those times pass, as they do with almost everything.
Thank you. Thank you.
I really love this post because I have been thinking lately about other folks and what makes them blog, but more than that what their blog "habits" are.
I might just write a post now.
In short, I tend to read an eclectic mix because it is (for lack of a better word) a spirit that seems to draw me to a blog more than certain content.
Because of that, I can get just as much out of a post about a beautiful hat (or a grandson all knitted up like a lion, or...) as I can from a beautiful devotion or a guided tour of someplace wonderful.
I follow the spirit. It's kind of as simple as that.
And, I guess I might as well say it: I am turned off by anything that I feel is staged or not genuine. When I set a table for invisible people, for example, I'm OK with everyone knowing that I'm just wasting an afternoon playing with dishes and not planning a real meal.
When I'm not good at something, I'm OK with yakking it out. Shoot. No one is good at everything.
Rats. I just typed a whole wonderful comment and it went away.
I don't even remember how I found you or you found me, but I am happy that we did.
I am called to blogs of passionate people. Passionate people of faith and creativity. I love the conversations...commenting back and forth...that happen here.
I probably would be scared to meet you in real life because you are so many things that I am not....yet, but here it is safe and I am happy to get to know you more with each post. Thanks. A lot.
If both of these came up...delete one, OK?
This is a good one!
I blog for myself - I have a need for a little expression - but I also blog for the connection with others. It's a wonderful thing when we connect across miles and continents. I follow blogs that 'speak' to me in some way; make me laugh, make me think, challenge me, make me feel really good. I read blogs early in the morning and late in the evening and I leave comments most of the time.
Tanna, your blog is food for my soul. I read it and many of your "guilty pleasures" each morning with my cup of joe. I am fascinated with the flow of your words--they connect with something deep within me. Many times, I think to myself,"Yes, that's it exactly!," but you put it so much more eloquently than I ever could...and you know I am one of those "non-commentors"
Debbie: You hit the nail on the head about following the spirit for me, too. And, I can't wait to read your post because you tell your story like I only WISH I could!
Donna: We are all so many things that our friends are not; but, we are also so many things that are the same. We are bound by a strong common thread and I love that. BTW, YOU are the one building a house on your own, having your art show, forging a new life. I should be scared to meet you! But, I am glad I have through this strange world of blogging.
Pondside: We are new in our connections, but I can tell ours will be a fine and enjoyable one. =)
Jean: I am so glad you join me with a cup of joe visiting around these guilty pleasures!! And, I am MOST grateful that I get your commentary in realtime!! {hugs} You are way more eloquent than you know.
Tanna, this is a wonderful post! I think blogging has reached a point where people are thinking/evaluating, etc and your post expressed it all well. I first came to your blog because of your house (!!) and wondered why you hadn't listed old houses as a love! (you corrected that). Yours is one of my favorites--such a warm and loving place.
I started blogging after my dad died. It is a hobby for me combining my love of writing and photography. For a long time I didn't have many readers, but it was a place for me just to say what I wanted to say ... it was like a little room in my life to tend to. I sometimes wonder about quitting but hate to give it up. I think because this summer has been so busy I haven't had the emotional energy to be creative, plus, after 1000 posts how much more can there be to say? (I usually don't have a problem with that everyone tells me. LOL)
I usually always comment as I do it to let someone know I read it and because I usually have a response. Writing is so easy for me it is not hard to jot a note. Also I think it encourages someone, which is one of my life callings--being an encourager. Also, as you say, it develops a friendship as you talk back and forth.
When I started blogging I never dreamed it would be such a community. I always feel like I need to keep up with blogging friends, and if they are absent for awhile, I do wonder if things are "ok."
I enjoy an assortment of blogs--from young to old. Decorating blogs are fun to look at but only in small doses. I like blogs that talk about life as it comes, whether it is what you are cooking (Bonnie) or what you are thinking (pondside) or what you are knitting, refurbishing, thinking about your sweet little men, (you). It certainly has opened up a new world to me!
Which is why I keep blogging--I feel I would really miss this world!
OMG! I'm a new blogger, but a VERY old blog reader/lurker! I think I read blogs even before my sister and now she's been blogging much longer than me. I used to rarely comment on blogs because I treated it as reading a magazine for decorating inspiration. Now that I'm a blogger, I'm looking to interact more with people that I can relate to and participate in all the blogging fun. I tend to follow blogs for reasons of compatibility with my own; a shared common interest.
Tanna what a thoughtful post. I love it! I read blogs that have a warm and welcoming feel. I enjoy decorating, cooking, weight loss and family blogs. I leave comments almost always since I tend to talk alot in real life. *Smiles*. I truly enjoy the blogging friends I have made. I can't believe I have been blogging for almost three years this coming November. It goes by fast. Whew!
Warmly, ~Melissa
Tanna, what a great post. You know I call you a blogging buddy. I started not long after you and of course we had a connection with the pond and then the grands. I always love your posts, even though I don't knit, but we are artistic creative souls that just connected. I usually keep up with the blogs that I have formed a connection with. I am like sweet Ann(what a compliment in her comment) and feel the really big bloggers have lost the connection. I do understand that their blogs have become there money making business. I pray that I don't lose that connection. I do not always leave a comment. Just not enough hours in the day. I wish I did have more time. This is so darn addictive!!
Your blogging bud,
Kim
I love this post. I am envious of your way with words. My reading habits have certainly changed since Lila! I read when I have a minute and usually as soon as I go to comment I get a sticky hand grabbing mine saying "Commere Momma"
My favorite thing about blogging is finding someone, like you and Amanda, that I feel a kindred spirit-ship (?) with!
Beautifully said. I too am surprised by the relationships made here... as I thought that I was just recording a bit of nostalgia for the family. It's become such a place for sharing and gleaning, inspiring and encouraging...
Blessings to you Tanna, Debbie
I love this post Tanna. You have such a way with words. Your beautiful thoughts are so heartwarming and I so wish I could express myself as you do.
1) I like blogs that I can relate to in some form...be it food, grandchildren, flowers, beaches (ha), photography....
2) I read anytime I can find a spare minute and those seem to be few and far between. When I miss days, I long to sit down and catch up with my friends.
3)Comments.....I try always to comment, short or long. I appreciate comments and think everyone must.
4)very seldom do I not comment...if it isn't worthy of a comment I probably don't frequent the blog
5) blogging means so much to me. Not working in the public removes you from contact.....blogging replaces that contact 10 fold! I love, love having friends all over the country!
P.S. Great, Great Pictures!
I popped in before going to pick up the kiddos from school Tanna. I love this post and its topic. I will be back to read again and comment!
I never read a blog without commenting on it..or at least 99.9% of the time I comment. There have been a few along the way that I read once, and never again, and don't comment there as I knew they were on a different page than I am and it would be better that way.
That said, I feel bad as sometimes I don't have a chance to respond to 100% of the comments left on my blog! I can find myself in my pajamas at 5 PM having been lost on the internet all day. I know that is not healthy so I've had to cut back quite a bit. I always try to go back and catch up whenever I am able.
I first visited you when I read your comment to Nanny, about it never being easy living far away from a grandchild, so I knew right away we shared that bond! I've enjoyed reading all your posts since. I started my blog five years ago never dreaming anyone would read it--I was just looking for an outlet and a way to remember the cool things I found on the internet, and from walking around town. It has evolved since then into more of a photogrpahic journal of places I visit in NYC, and elsewhere, with a few other tid- bits form time to time.
I've learned so much over the years from other bloggers so all in all it has been an enriching experience!
Oh sorry I am laughing out loud....do you know now long it took me to scroll down to make a comment? Now that should tell you something!!!
I have to say...I can't add anything to what you said...and I haven't even read the other woman's post.
You have written my heart out in the most beautiful way. I have been thinking about writing a post that explain how I felt and to be truthful I could just copy yours....you have said it so well...and no I won't do that.
I am still amazed by this blogging world....I have been here a little over a year and I had no idea. Some how God must have grinned when I entered this world...He knew what would happen and how He would work on my life through it each day. How I would learn to love the Body of Christ all over the world...enter into prayer with them and for them...and feel that I have meet a friend.
Great, great post....thanks so much for sharing...I was so deeply touched.
OH, MY GOODNESS! I am amazed by the thoughtfulness in these responses. EXACTLY why and who make me enjoy blogging so very much.
Dotsie: You are one of the most thoughtful bloggers I know. I treasure our friendship (and our love of our grandbabies!).
Solar: What do I say? You and Nanny feel like family to me. It has been a great joy for both Amanda and me to get to know you two (AND a certain Little Miss!). We would have missed out on that without blogging.
Debbie: Girl, I can tell our souls sing similar songs. I look forward to years more of getting to know you better.
Nanny: Ditto everything I said to Solar... and the added connection of sharing the season of our lives. I am so very glad to have come across your path. {hugs} You have brought much joy to my life.
Jill: My young inspiration! I can't wait to see what else you have to say. You always challenge me; and, I love that!
Pat: I know just exactly what you mean about the grandmother connection! You have such a very big blog, I feel very special to connect in such a warm way. We grands have to stick together! ;)
Kelly: I am so happy to have you come out of lurker-land and join us!! I am very much looking forward to getting to know you, though I do feel I do a little just from Kim.
Melissa: Thank you so much for your input! Time does go by so very quickly. You are a wonderful inspiration.
Kim: I feel like you are one of my 'oldies, but goodies'! One of The Rat Pack. ;) You make me tired just watching your energetic activities! LOL! Even as big as your blog has gotten and as busy as you must be, I still feel that wonderful connection... of creative grandmothers and pond lovers. I love that. You ARE one of my buds. ;)
First off, I don't know how the order of the last comment got mixed like it did, but that's okay.
Janette: You and I must have been typing away at the same time. I believe He must smile alot about the unexpected blessings that we enjoy. You are definitely one of mine!!
Hi Tanna - Looks like you've got some excellent responses here already! I'm late to the party!
* Choosing a blog to read and follow - people with similar interests, lives, things they're dealing with - these came first. Then I started branching out to see how other people lived and went through their daily lives that were totally different from me. That has been interesting and eye-opening to me! I also tend to gravitate to blogs that are REAL, real people, real lives, real problems, real everything - and they're not afraid to speak their minds. I love inspirational blogs, too, for I find that it lightens my day and lifts me up - there are some really gifted people out there that have a way of making the rest of us feel edified! I hope I can somehow give a little of that back!
Also on this subject, there have been many new things I've learned on others' blogs - about gardening, farming, crafting, you name it! You can find a blog on just about anything! A great networking tool!
*reading blogs - I read nearly every day. I'm nearly always going to comment unless I'm in a great hurry, but I figure if people go to the trouble to blog (and most always we have something to say thats important to us), and I'm going to read, then I should comment. Everyone needs encouragement and acknowledgement!
*commenting - Occasionally I might not comment if there's an extremely sticky subject matter of which I know nothing. Otherwise, I usually have something to say even tho it may be silly.
*why did I start a blog -I decided to create a blog at the insistence of a friend of mine. It started as a sort of self-journal of what was going on in my life, and I told myself that it didn't matter if anyone commented or not. Then, when I did finally get some followers and was following others, I realized just how much I would have missed out on if I'd not met these new friends! There are some that I think I could absolutely not live without now! When I started blogging I was going thru a tough time in my life, and blogging became an outlet for me to get my mind off myself for awhile.
Sorry this was so long. Good questions and I look forward to reading more bloggers' comments on this!
Dear Tanna, I think this post is very heartfelt. It brought me to tears. To answer your question 1. I don't know what makes me read a blog post. As a go through blogs something just catches my eye and I begin to read. I like to think that the Lord directs me there. 2. I try to catch up on my friends, and I do mean friends, at least twice a week. I would love to have each day, but time is brief at this moment in life for me. 3. I just feel drawn to the person writing the blog and leave a comment. 4. I must say, I don't leave a comment without reading the post. I just don't feel right doing that. I suppose my mom always said, "don't do to someone something you don't want for yourself".4. Blogging has turned into friendships for me. I must say, it is a blessing that I began blogging.
I am grateful I stopped by your blog that day and we became friends. Blessings, Catherine xo
Vickie and Catherine: I look forward to every one of your posts and every one of your visits. There is a wonderful sense of encouragement and support that has enriched my life here and I thank you two for being a part of this circle of friends. Vickie, we are STILL going to have to visit along with Tara and Debbie one of these days! Thank you both!!
1. I randomly visit blogs from blogs I already have a "relationship" with! I feel I KNOW many of these people! I think about them and wonder how they are...if their trip to Italy was enjoyable...etc. :)
2. I often read blogs when I take a break from my work. Early a.m. and late at night I peek at blogs if I can!
3. I ALWAYS leave a comment. I love them so figure others do too.
4. Blogging is a creative outlet for me...I enjoy putting thoughts down and taking photos of things that interest me.
LOVE this Tanna! I enjoy all your posts (the knitting amazes me) AND your beautiful grands too...so cute! You have a lovely heart.
Oh, Jill: You blog is a wonderful expression of your creative and thoughtful self. I am so glad to count you in my circle of blog friends. A joy!
Tanna, if you click on my name in the comments it will take you to my Blogger profile page. Under my profile pic on the left hand side you'll see "my website"...click on that and it takes you to my Typepad blog. I don't have a "Blogger" blog but commenting is easier with a Blogger profile and a link from there.
I chose Typepad when I started blogging as it was the only platform available where I could easily do my own designing...but things have changed so much since then!
Hi Tana...I absolutely love visting here...Always so refreshing!
Blogging has changed me into a totally different person...It fills a part of me that I had really been longing for...a part of me that was longing to create..
I have enjoyed the friendships that I have made and I love to leave comments and for others to leave comments for me...I think this is very important, because this is how that relationship becomes real...
I read a mixture of blogs...and I love to read about the experiences of life in other parts of the country...We are all so different, but yet alike!! I admire those who are great in the artistic fields...I do enjoy art and I am always looking to learn something new...
The best thing of all are the new and beautiful friends that I have met...
Enjoyed this post...
Shug
I enjoy reading your blog and seeing all the beautiful photos. I actually have two blogs. One for my store and a way for friends and family to keep up with that. The other is more anonymous. No friends or family to hinder me from saying what I really feel. You can find that blog at www.halfoverjustbegun.blogspot.com.
kate: Thank you! I did finally figure that out! Ugh. I'm slow on some things. ;)
Shug: Blogging does tap into a dormant side of ourselves. Pretty cool I think! Thank you so much.
karolee: Yea! New spot to check out!! Thank you.
Thank you to everyone who has taken the time to respond to this one. It is not a quickie and I know time is short for so many. Thank you.
I'm late! : )
And, I don't have the time to respond as I would like this morning.
I began blogging as a way to offer a Lenten study for women at the church who do not have time to come for a personal encounters with a real live group. However, for the most part, the women at my church are unfamiliar with blogs. They ended up reading....and then getting off line.
Still, I have continued blogging. One reason is that it holds me accountable to sit and journal some of my thoughts and my questions. My blog has become my online journal. Journaling has always been a great spiritual practice for me, but I stop for a day...then four...then twelve. Those who pass by, even though they don't leave a comment, keep me faithful to this discipline.
My reading choices are all over the place! I enjoy reading blogs that give me a smile, make me pause and think, offer me something new, tease my secret longings like photography and knitting! : )
But, like I said, I've got to get busy since I am heading out early!!!
Blessings for a wonderful day. Sandi
Sandi: you know you touch my soul with your words everytime I visit. Thank you.
Oh Tanna,
When I first started blogging a few years ago I did it just to keep myself, I guess distracted, you might say. My youngest sister had been diagnosed with breast cancer and it hit me pretty hard. Blogging was a way of keeping myself posiite, strong and sane...for her. By blogging about only the positve things in life and the things that made me happy and sharing about them, even though at first I didn't think anyone was reading, it kept me focused, thankful, hopeful and faithful. I have always looked for blogs that are uplifting, creative, and friendly. I have always tried to acknowlege everyone who passes through my blog and try to show my appreciation by always commenting back or following back. I consider myself a pretty reserved person so never in a million years did I think that through blogging I would have made such beautiful friendships. Friends like you that encourage me, lift my sprits, support me and send tons of lovin' my way. I feel truly bless. I do love blogging. I am very happy to say that my sister is now cancer free...Thanks be to God!...And I want to beleive that blogging was a tool that God sent my way to help me stay strong in Him for her.
Much Love,
♥Ana
I love how you said this... "I asked myself what the common denominator was... and it goes back to a recurring theme throughout my life: the fascination with the human spirit and those who desire to live their best and fullest life."
Those who desire to live their best and fullest life...oooh that is good!! WIthout being able to have said it as eloquently, I would totally have to agree that is what I seek in a blog. I love to read people who are real and authentic. When I leave their "home" I feel I have gained something... deeper understanding of who they are, head knowledge, uplifting words and encouragement, etc.
Lately my reading habits have been sporadic. And my own poor blog has been poorly neglected. I have been taking quick peeks through my reader, but haven't been doing a good job of leaving comments. I usually am trying to 'catch up' on everyone's recent posts before the girls wake up, which doesn't leave a lot of time.
I have connected personally with a handful of other bloggers. It is on these blogs that I try to leave comments. There are many other 'BIG' name blogs I read that I never comment on. I guess since there are hundreds of comments and thousands of followers each day, that I wonder what my own little comment could possibly add.
I started my blog several years ago and didn't tell a single person that I had one. It was a place for me to record my thoughts in a bit of a different format than just a paper journal. Once I finally told some family and friends it became a place for them to keep up with the daily antics of our family in addition to some rather serious and insightful posts about what really goes on in this busy head of mine.
I guess blogging has been part therapy and part scrapbook for me.
You have been a huge encourager for me personally as well as with my running. I can vividly picture you standing on the 'sidelines' of my blog and cheering me on. Thanks!
Tanna, I have been pondering your post for two days. I was so struck by the things you said and wanted to comment but I it was getting late and I was very tired. Then the next day I read all the comments. Just wanted you to know I want to comment later- this week I am working hard helping my sister with her daughter's wedding. I relax a little reading blogs at night but I wanted to spend some time answering your questions. Love the kitty looking into the pond quite intently
Hope you are having a great week.
Ana and Stacey: you two have just got me sitting here with tears streaming down my face. I think God must be very busy in this blog world (and smiling to Himself). Ana, I am so thankful for your sisters clean bill of health!! And, I believe you are right about the purpose of blogging in your life at that moment in time. Now, I'm thinking you help out some of the rest of us with your positive joy. Stacey, I keep you on my sidebar because I know you will be back. Maybe a little sporadically, because having a young family takes so much energy and time (you'll note my own daughter rarely comments anymore and her own posts are when she can find a moment when both boys are down and she doesn't have a pressing chore). Your posts, when they do come, delight my soul in their heartfelt honesty and love of God and your family and your never ceasing to live your best life. You bless me richly. And, you betcha, I'm cheering.
Bonnie: I am so glad to be learning more about you. I can tell the treat is going to be all mine! Thank you and I will be looking forward to hearing more. Enjoy those hectic wedding preparations!
A.M.A.Z.I.N.G!!
Tanna, just popping in to say hi. I'll have to come back later and visit a while. It's 1:22 a.m. - too late for me to be up -- but just wanted to stop a minute to say boo! :) XOXO
I loved reading your post. When my daughter went over seas a few years ago, I opened a Facebook account. That was to be our way of communicating while she was gone. People were blown away that my 18 year old daughter allowed me to view her Facebook. During that year I never commented on the photos etc. Today, while I don't comment publicly, I will tell her when I see something that makes me shudder LOL.
Well Tanna Banana - I have pondered this post for more than a day now. It has really made me think. You are a very insightful, delightful person and I bet you are the same whether blogging or in person. I loved your thought process here. Anyway - I'll answer the best I can:
What makes you choose a blog to read? Sometimes the blog name draws me in at first. Like The Brick Street Bungalow. I couldn't wait to see the beautiful house I was sure would be posted.
What are you reading habits? I wish I could read more regular books, and more cookbooks. If you mean my reading habits as they have to do with blogs, I have an ever changing regular list of blogs I try to visit daily. I do work full time so my computer fun-time is limited. I try to read the entire posts and don't like skipping the meat of the message.
What makes you leave a comment? I leave a comment to show gratitude for the enjoyment I received reading the post.
Do you read without commenting (guess that one may be hard to get an answer for!) All the time. Mostly on blogs that have no interest in the stuff I post. For instance, there are a lot of healthy eating blogs, filled with exercise and young childless people who probably think my desserts filled with sugar and butter are disguisting. I hang in the backround on those blogs and pick up healthy tips and learn about foods I may not have ever tried.
What does blogging mean to you? I love the blogging community. There are so many wonderfully nice people (like you) who provide encouragement and acknowledge my efforts to provide an appealing product. I love learning more about photography and trying new dishes. I would have never stepped out of my comfort zone if I didn't have a platform to present my happy results. Blogging means learning, sharing, experimenting, and making people happy with delicious treats.
Sorry to be so long winded! Thanks for the opportunity to share. I love your blog and your writing and your photos! I'll be back :)
Debbie: thank you for stopping by to boo! LOL! Keep after your busy schedule, girl!
Audrey: So nice to *meet* you! I had to laugh about the kids and the facebook thing. I RARELY ever get on my facebook account (long story) but if I haven't heard from my son in awhile, I do go to check to see what he's up to! LOL! I don't write on his wall, figure it would embarrass him to death. LOL! It is nice your daughter enjoys FB with you. thank you.
Tricia: LOVE your thoughts about all this, especially the part about lurking on healthy blogs. LOL! I LOVE your recipes. If I weren't working so hard to lose some poundage, I would be enjoying them in my own home instead of just by looking at them on your blog. hee hee. I do figure with the Little Men coming, there is going to be a need for some special treats! ;) Thank you!
Tanna, I love this post! I feel such a connection to what you are saying! I started blogging as a way for family and friends to keep up with us, but blogging has grown to so much more than that. It is definitely one of my creative outlets. It has helped push me out into photography and writing. I love it!
I also love the conversations that happen in the blog world. I find it fascinating that I can feel like I'm such good friends with someone whom I've never met. I guess it's through that connection that happens as we share personal parts of our lives.
I am definitely less likely to read a post if it's long and no pictures. If a post is like that then I'm more likely to skim or pass it over. I'm so glad we've "met!" And if you skim this very LONG comment, I'd totally understand! :)
LOL! NO way I'd skim over that comment after you got through the blog post!! It is very nice to meet you, Jen! Thank you so much for your response!!
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