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Welcome to our weekly BlogAnon meeting where we confess a particular blogging sin and turn to you for support, suggestions and that blogging bond so we know we're not all alone. Don't be shy. Read along and let us know if you identify with us this week.
When I started blogging, the only gift I was looking for was the ability to talk to others around the world about books. I then discovered the gift that blogging gave to me by rekindling my love for writing and sparking those long dormant creative juices. It was also something fun for Andy and I to talk about and explore together out in the vast blogosphere. Though there are lots of blogging "sins" that I share here from time to time, today I am reflecting more on the blogging blessings.
Because of this blog, I have added a strong collection of very cool people to my circle of friends. That is the best gift by far. Many conversations have been exchanged in private through e-mail, on Google Chat or in public through comments or in our own Bumble Town Live Chats. I've even had a conversation face to face meeting up with a blogging buddy while passing through their town on vacation. On a different trip I visited another blogger's family member at their shop and talked a little Red Sox. Some day one of you will find your way to the Boston area and we'll be happy to meet you and share our fine city.
The majority of the time, these friendships remain virtual - no live meetings. But that doesn't stop the kindness from coming through. Folks are always passing along helpful solutions to the day's problems, suggestions, tasty recipes, advice and answers to any random question that I can think to throw at them. I am also forever amazed by the thoughtful tokens that have arrived in the mail. Books of course. But also hand crafted gifts, treats, fresh garden bounties, beautiful photos and presents that are best kept as inside secrets.
Sometimes gifts are the introductory step to a new friendship. Organized swaps that encourage bloggers to send gifts to each other are certainly fun and exciting. But getting to know that new blogger in the process is truly the best part of the experience.
The blogosphere can be a frustrating place sometimes. It can be scary too. But the little corner that I frequent happens to be a very generous and honest spot. And for that, I am thankful. It is what keeps me going. Whenever I can do the same for you, just let me know.
What blessings has the blogosphere provided to you?
10 comments:
Looking at my various blogs as a group, I've found that they are an interesting way to find and talk with people about subjects of common interest.
I write a post about Glacier Park, and suddenly get to know a lot of other people who like going there. I read a book, write a review, and others say they liked it, too.
What fun!
Too manmy to count, Molly. As a new mom it is the one place I try to stay current with, mainly because it is the easiest. If I call a friend and Gage starts screaming, call over, but if I'm writing or reading I can walk away and come back when I have a few quiet minutes.
Plus, it keeps me involved in something not baby related. My mind can still maintain a grown up conversation and for a stay at home mom this is very important.
I think the book blogging community is such a wonderful one. And this post reminds me that I have something to send you :)
I agree with you. I've met some great people virtually through blogging (I've only met one blogger live), but value the conversations I've had with them.
It's also great to read how people live in different parts of the world. Sometimes to read their struggles, it gives me a whole new perspective on life.
I agree -- the friendships were totally unexpected. I have met many bloggers in real life, and I have yet to be disappointed. Who knew there was such an amazing group of people out there.
I am in total agreement. I know that there is some drama and upsets in the blogging world from time to time. I have steered clear of all of those and find my little part of it a very nice place to be. I can share my reading life with others and hear about theirs. I can share bits of my personal life and find my blogging friends very compassionate and caring people, even though I have met very few of them face to face. I'm not sure my real-life friends who are not bloggers would understand completely, but I know that you and others who have commented here do.
Aren't we lucky?? :-)
You are a blogging blessing, first and foremost. I hope that someday I get to meet you for real. I've had the opportunity now to attend a couple of events and meet up with groups (or individual) bloggers and it just still blows my mind that you can have a table full of strangers that can carry on a two or three hour conversation, and feel like you have known them forever.
I'm glad you are counting the blessings at this meeting. I have lots of them too. As you and others have mentioned, the people that have become my friends are first. Second, I'd have to list all the books I've read because someone else suggested it. Lots of hours of pleasure reading books I would never have picked up on my own. Third is the computer techniques I've learned. I think of you, Molly, every time I use that short link technique you taught me way back when. It works so well. So, thanks. I count you as one of my blessings.
When I first started my blog, I didn't have a clue. No goals, no game plan, no nothing. It was just a curiosity of sorts. Slowly it took hold as I read other blogs and got the hang of things.
The best thing about blogging is that I'm always learning something I didn't know before. The more blogs I find and the more posts I read, the more I see and hear things I didn't know. And of course, the friendships both real and virtual that have developed.
It never ceases to amaze me how giving my friends in the blogosphere are. Sometimes I am so busy with other things that I question why I keep blogging but all it takes is the right comment or email from someone and I am inspired to keep going. I haven't met anyone in person yet but I'm quite sure I will catch up with a few of my blogging friends at a festival or event in the future.
The blessings the blogosphere provided me are many and varied. It brought new friends into my life, it opened my eyes, and supported me through my fight with cancer, the death of both parents and the joy of meeting the one I was meant to be with all along.
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