Thing #12 - Creating Community Through Commenting

1.A. Profile name vs. Real name

I have been reading and commenting on my friend's blog for a number of months now. When I make a comment, I have used my real name. This trend started by mistake actually, but I never made the change. When I enrolled as one of her readers, I entered my e-mail address and my name. It didn't occur to me at the time to enter a different name. Now, when I respond to posts on my blog, I always use my profile name. Again, this just happened, but in order to stay consistant I didn't change anything.



1.B. Responding to comments

I always feel the need to respond to a comment someone leaves on my blog. It makes me feel like I am letting the person know I am listening and validating their comments, but don't always post them publicly. If a question is posted, I can provide an answer in this manner, in case other readers have the same question. I like the fact that Draper defends those who do not respond on their blog to comments. I don't think it is necessary to respond to all comments because some of them are simply fluff the reader feels the need to show their appreciation or personal view point. In the same manner, not all comments need to be posted for the world to see. I have set up my blog so I can moderate the comments. If I don't feel it is an important / valid comment I do not publish it on my blog.



2. I responded to the following blogs : Life Long Learning, Paddy Whack, Texas Gal Talks, Kinder2:), Library Lion .



3. My favorite blog to read is my elementary best friend's blog. I try to read it every day. It helps me keep in touch with her and know what she and her family are doing in Thailand (her husband was transferred in January). I love the pictures and her posts are just like talking to her. It really is like sitting down to talk to an old friend. Well, trying to find another blog that I would read for personal interest was a little more difficult. I love so many different things and to limit it on this post to just one was not easy. However, I did find the blog of one of my favorite authors to be most enjoyable. I fell in love with Outlander in the early 90s when my sister-in-law introduced me to them. I love the characters so much that I have been reading the fourth book in the series for the past 7 years. When I pick up the book, I limit myself to only a chapter or two. I don't want the book to end. I know this sounds crazy, but I am very involved in the character's lives.

Thing #2 - Life Long Learning

Let's see, the hardest habit...hmmm...I think I would have to say "viewing problems as challenges" would have to be the most difficult habit for me. I usually look at problems as roadblocks instead of challenges. I figure, hey, I'm not on Survivor! I don't need any challenges to stop me in my tracks. Let me keep running with the ball and don't tackle me!

I have to admit though, I also have a difficult time with confidence in myself. If you know me, I guess most people would say that can't be true, but believe me...if you were inside my head you would know that there is such a jumble of "stuff" up there it's hard to believe I can keep anything straight! I am constantly second guessing myself. This blog for example. Who in their right mind would want to read this? Come on, I tend to ramble...see!?!

For the past eight months, I have been reading the blog of my best friend from elementary school. She and her family were transplanted to Thailand recently. I love reading all of the things they are doing, learning, exploring, etc., but it makes me think ... who would possibly want to read about my adventures, or lack thereof?

Oh, well. I am determined to entertain someone, even if it is only myself. Hey, I'm going to Disney soon. Maybe I will invite Mickey and his firiends to create a post!

Bye for now...going to go play!