When blogging, we often hear how we should blog within our niche. You know, stay on topic so those who visit know what to expect when they land on our site.
But, blogs can be used for other purposes, too.
Often we’ll see bloggers participating in a meme (pronounced meem, rhymes with “cream”; usually some type of a factoid post such as “10 Things About Me”), or bloggers making announcements of other kinds, like when they take a sabbatical or are celebrating a milestone.
Today’s Lesson
Last week I unplugged from technology to catch up on work assignments and to spend time with family and friends. Although it was hard not to check in and see what was happening online, the break was just what I needed.
Can you imagine my surprise when I saw what had transpired during my absence. There on eleven blogs, fellow bloggers were dedicating complete blog posts which paid tribute to lil ‘ol me. The kindness extended to Facebook, as well.
The shock of it all left me speechless.
The words shared brought me to tears.
Although I left comments on all of the blogs and on Facebook, I felt that wasn’t enough.
Today I’ll again try to show my appreciation.
The bloggers who wrote blog posts are:
- Patricia of Patricia’s Wisdom
- Davina of Shades of Crimson
- Hilary of Positive Letters
- Lance of The Jungle of Life
- Tony of Trottersville
- Lori of Think Like A Black Belt
- Sara of A Sharing Connection
- Tom of Delightful Work
- Jannie of Jannie Funster
- Betsy of Passing Thru
- Cath of Cath Lawson
Those who shared posts on Facebook are:
- Vered of MomGrind
- Linda Brodsky Abbit
- Megan Bord
And other recent posts which mentioned my name can be found on:
- Linda of From Roses To Rainbows
- Karl of Work Happy Now
- Delia of Real Delia
- Talon of Talon…barely scratching the surface
To all you who used your blogs and Facebook to pay tribute to me, I am forever grateful. To those of you who shared your thoughts in the comment sections, your words will never be forgotten. And to those who link to my blogs, I am truly appreciative.
Although this post is about how others paid tribute to me, it’s a great reminder how having a blog can expand our reach, help others, as well as get the word out about issues which can affect millions.
Today’s Assignment
Do you see the potential a blog has to affect the lives of others?
Have you ever used your blog to start a movement, alert others of current events, recalls or an issue which needs attention?
Care to share?
~Barbara
P.S. If I’ve missed where you’ve linked to me, I apologize. Please feel free to add the link in the comment section so I can come by and show my appreciation.
P.S.S. If you don’t see me in blogosphere, it due to the fact I’m working behind the scenes on “Writers’ Blogk”. Hopefully those of you who want to participate by sharing a guest post(s) are close to having an article ready for publication. (And, don’t forget your bio.)
Barbara! It’s so typical of you to thank us for thanking you!
Sigh.
You’re amazing.
Thank you Vered,
What you said is very sweet. 🙂
Hi Barbara,
Glad we could repay your kindness, support, and online goodness with a big, happy surprise!
Thank you Lori,
A BIG huge surprise is exactly what it was. Like I said, I was speechless.
What a perfect time to be unplugged. Since you weren’t around to see (read) it unfold, it must have been a happy shock to go into the blogs and read them and the comments.
While I’ll occasionally have commentary on current events or issues on my blog, I don’t have the readers for that to be regularly effective. It’s more just a way for me to express myself.
Hi Mike,
Yes. It was a happy shock. And the words, they were so touching.
I know what you’re saying about a blog not being big enough to make a “announcement” post effective, however the way I see it is even if only one person reads it, our words can help.
Wow! What a nice surprise! I poked around the sites and it put a big smile on my face. That’s love, right there. Good for you Barb, and thank you for your wonderful blog. I’ve been unplugged for the last couple weeks myself, which is why I haven’t been commenting here lately. But I had to poke my head in and say “You go girl! Everyone loves you!”
Thank you Kathy,
You’re right. It is love and I’m definitely feeling it and sending it back out, as well. 🙂
You deserved every bit of it and then some, Barbara! I will never forget how you took us under your wing, as you have done with so many others. When we were featured as New Blog of the Week, I was thrilled to have arrived! 🙂
Bask in all the praise! You’ve done so many good deeds for others. I hope this exercise continues to inspire.
Thank you Betsy,
You know I still remember when I first landed on your blog. How could I not be interested with you writing about Alaska and Michigan. I’ve been hooked ever since.
I’m basking. 8)
Barbara,
It is such an honor to know you, sweet friend…
You have so selflessly helped so, so many. And you are a true gift in my life.
Big hugs,
Lance
Thank you Lance,
You have me blushing. Big ((hugs)) to you, as well.
Yes, I do see the potential a blog can have. Many I have read have lifted my spirits, made me think differently, made me aware of something. I have laughed and cried and learned a lot since finding the blog world.
Right now my readers are few but I hope they find something of value in one of my blogs–and that whether or not they like my thoughts that they will comment so I can learn from them.
I am relatively new to blogging and have a lot to learn and have enjoyed reading your blog, Barbara. Thanks for sharing your expertise.
You’re welcome Patricia,
Isn’t it amazing how a blog can move us? Like you said, sometimes it to laughter, other times to tears. And most times we leave a blog having learned something.
Hi Barbara .. I just thought what a wonderful thoughtful idea from Patricia of Patricia’s Wisdom .. and immediately ‘mucked in’ .. and as we found out who else was joining etc .. just made it so much fun .. a little coterie of bloggers – I must get on to FB as I missed those .. and catch one or two posts I see I missed!
You give us so much .. and offer ideas out that we can all draw advantage and learning from .. while keeping us grounded.
Actually I think my new name for your blog will be the ‘farmhouse’ .. as I always feel there’s lots going on .. blogging, ideas, family, friends, food and drink .. and now long walks around Bend, or up in the local mountains …
By the way did you spot Patricia of PsW .. lives on the Deschutes river lower down?
Small world! Have a brilliant week .. and thanks so much for this Thank You … everyone had such a happy time .. and we love you and what you do … big hugs from here … Hilary
Thank you for your kind words Hilary,
I witnessed in the comments of the posts how much fun you all were having with this. That warmed my heart and made me smile. 🙂
I saw how Patricia also lives on the Deschutes, but I haven’t had a chance to look at a map to see how it flows up her way. I’ll have to check that out.
“Farmhouse”. I like that. I was raised next to my grandparents farm so the term brings back wonderful memories.
((hugs)) to you and your Mum.
Hello Barbara,
You deserve it! Every word of support, praise and encouragement. You light up the blogosphere!
With love,
Evelyn
Thank you Evelyn, that’s very sweet of you to say that.
I’m very appreciate of your support. That means a lot to me.
What Vered said; typical, just typical of you 🙂
It was a wonderful opportunity, as Lori said, to give something back in response to your kindness and support. I believe blogs can affect the lives of others, whether or not they are aware of it. There is always something to learn or ponder, to agree or disagree with. Lots of reflection and watching the interaction of others. As long as there is a balance between that connection and the connection with real people in real life.
There was one other blogger I can recall who “toasted” you at the beginning of her post. That was Talon at this link: http://tinyurl.com/38vm8pw
Thank you Davina,
I hear you. Blogs can be VERY beneficial. With all of the information bloggers are sharing, those who are searching are bound to land on one (or more). Even though readers may not know it’s a blog and that they can comment, I think we’re often helping others with what we post, but never know it.
Thank you for the heads up on Talon. I read her post and added her name to the list.
Barbara:
Testament of your personality and warmth. Cheers to you always!
Hope the time spent with your loved ones was refreshing and wonderful 🙂
Joy always,
Susan
Thank you for your kinds words Susan,
Yes. During my time off I made sure I took time to make memories with loved ones. And I took a lot of pictures, too. 🙂
Joy to you, too.
Hi Barbara,
I loved reading the posts out there about you and your prowess. I read most of the posts you linked and nodded my head along with all of them. You deserve the praise, Barbara, I hope you’re truly letting everyone’s words soak in and basking in your own light.
I’ve learned so much from you. Keep up the great work!
Much Gratitude,
~xo
Thank you Lori,
I truly appreciate your sweet words and continued support.
It warm my heart knowing what I share has helped you. If you ever have any questions, please don’t hesitate to ask.
xo
Hi Barbara
Always think of your blog as a meeting place for everyone.
I’ve got to know most of the faces so I always feel in good company and at ease.
Glad you enjoyed your break and if you let me have your address I’ll send you a hanky to dry those tears.
Thank you Keith,
I’m so pleased this blog has turned out that way. I agree. We’re all in good company and everyone who comments have fabulous blogs, well worth taking the time to visit.
Thank you for the hanky offer. 🙂 That’s sweet.
Blogs definitely have the potential to change lives, and I know I wouldn’t have the desire to grow, and be financially independent w/o the help of other bloggers.
Hi Henway,
I agree. Even though we could have a successful blog all by ourselves, having the support of other bloggers makes it so much more enjoyable and fun.
I’ve used blogs to check in on friends, especially those going through some rough times. I like to cheer people on and offer congrats. My time has become so tight of late, I’ve slipped a bit, now and then. Mostly, though, I have email addresses and send blogger friends notes and cards. Just so they know they’re thought about today.
Glad to see you getting support back.
Bloggers are truly giving and wonderful people.
Thank you Sia,
That works great, doesn’t it? With blogs we get to stay updated on what’s going on with friends and give them words of encouragement. And also, with written words, they can always go back and reread the messages.
I like you idea of sending emails to blogger friends to let them know you’re thinking of them. That’s very thoughtful of you.
I agree. Bloggers are TRULY giving and WONDERFUL people. 🙂
Barbara, the recognition is well-deserved. I do see the potential a blog has to affect the lives of others. One such example would be my friend Renee’s blog, Circling My Head. Those who found her there read, cried, laughed, and stayed until the end, and she made each and every person who visited feel as though they were the most important person in the world. I suppose it takes a very special person to be able to do that, and Renee was that and more. Even now, after her passing, her circle of friends continue that bond. Her impact was astounding for just one person and her love lingers in her written word. So yes, I believe blogs are a powerful form of expression. I’ve had a few posts which I’ve used as public service announcements, but the spotlight isn’t a place where I’m comfortable. thanks for another interesting assignment Barbara!
Hi Miss Becky,
It sounds like Renee was a beautiful person. I’m sure she’s missed by her readers, but how wonderful it is they still continue to bond.
That’s a perfect example of how one person affected many lives.
Barbara – I have just read the same thing the other day on a blog: “Don’t go off topic and stay in your niche.”
At that time I was thinking – this person is right. You must stick to whatever the blog is about. But now you even gave me clearance on that. There’s nothing wrong with mixing and matching your personal content with blogging and seo or whatever your blog would be about. Because at the end of day: Isn’t that why there are categories??
Hi Jason,
Staying within our niche is suggested, however like you said, mixing and matching can easily be accomplished by using different categories.
I think we also have to remember, it is our blog and often our readers enjoy when we share a little about us, too.
Haven’t been in a while…. it was great to be in your space again! I’d spend more time catching up, but I’m in the middle of getting a project finished……. hopefully soon! I know there’s lots to catch up on.
It’s great to see you again Brenda,
I hope you’re project is going along as planned. Like you, I’ve also got another project on my plate and know exactly what you mean about playing catch up.