If you’re not a blogger, you may find this behind-the-scenes ditty interesting. Or not. Each link in here will take you to a wonderful world of reading and/or images. Take a trip down the rabbit hole; you’ll thank me later. If you’re a blogger, you may find yourself nodding your head as you read. I know I’m not the only Bad Blogging Buddy (Yo! Shout out to the BBBs in the house!), or possibly tisk-tisk’ing because you’re a great blog buddy. I can only own my own shit. And yes, this is one mother f’ing long post. I know. It should be 500 words or less, but I can’t own my shit in that many words. (*You may want to bring some food and water though). So here goes…
When I started blogging it never occurred to me that I would meet people on-line, or that I might like some of them, and we might even become blogging friends. Really, I didn’t. Initially, I just wanted to get back to writing. Frankly, I was shocked when a few people I know, in real life, actually read some of my posts. Elizabeth F, you know you were the first. The start was lonely. I hadn’t told too many people I was doing this, and when I ran off to Yellowstone, only a couple of people noticed that I also mentioned something about a blog. That teeny tiny group of two people kept me company, as I struggled with my life and with this new enterprise called blogging. I didn’t know how to post photos; I didn’t have followers; I didn’t know how to do jack shit. In fact, it’s a wonder that anyone ever noticed me– least of all the Word Press Freshly Pressed Gods.
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But they did. They sprinkled their fairy dust on my post The Grass Is Always Greener On Someone Else’s Head… and voila! I had a few more people reading my post. For the record (and I know I’ve told this story before…) I was so new at blogging (six weeks in) that I didn’t even know something had happened, until others told me. I was only checking my blog every few days, if that… So, I was seriously shocked when there were comments (450 of them!) and that people were actually reading what I wrote! Well, I’d better write something more, I thought– hoping to hold the attention of a few of those people. Since then, I have often thought that I have written much better posts since then, but that is how the ball got rolling.
In the three years and three months since, I’ve worked hard to build my blog and its following. What started as a “platform” for getting a book published has become something I love and nurture, for its own sake. I love writing Tales From the Motherland. I love that some people read it (though, far fewer than the number who have hit follow). I love the comments that people leave– they challenge me to think about what I write, or they support what I’ve put out there. The comments make me think, and that’s part of why I write. The people who read my work and share their thoughts have been the icing on this cake!
Let me introduce you to some of my friends:
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- I met Mike first…
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- And went zip lining with Meagan, possibly in hot pink underwear?
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- Lisa and painted the city red… that’s NYC baby!
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- Jennie took me to a hidden room, behind a book shelf!
Some people stop by once and say hello, or tell me they liked something I wrote– or something they didn’t– and then they’re gone. I appreciate their feedback; I’m grateful they came. Others come back again and again, and over time we get to know each other in this strange little world of blogging– the blogoshere… And that is where the magic has been. I’ve gotten to know people in a very real and special way through blogging. This too is something I’ve written about; it’s been no secret that I’ve made an effort to meet some of the people who I’ve connected with on-line. Like a benign online dating site, I’ve had dates with Mike and Meagan, to start with. They were local, and having exchanged messages on-line, we took it a step further and met face to face. Pretty soon I was stretching further and meeting bloggers in other places. Heading to New York city? Then I should meet Lisa! we’d been online buddies for ages; I’d been in her anthology Tangerine Tango– so a face to face was clearly in order. In June I was off to North Carolina for a wedding. What better reason for dinner and drink with Jennie, who I’d long had a blog crush on. What a wonderful date that was! She let me sleep over and gave me toffee. My blog crush was officially love.
My son and I headed to Scandinavia this summer, and I decided to take a chance and reach out to Björn, one of my fellow Friday Fictioneers, and someone who has long intrigued me. My son and I had lunch with Björn and the lovely Charlotte, in Stockholm. I learned that he was that much more interesting in person, and oh how I wished for more time!
Me, Kylie, Emily and Amy… champagne dream date!
When I went to BlogHer14 I made sure that I got to hang out with one of my favorite blog crushes, Emily. Emily was there for me when I was in the hospital last December– quietly, tenderly helping me get through a hard time. Her heart and her dry sense of humor were twice as big in person, the Memphis accent was a surprise (um, not sure why ’cause she talks about home all the time!) and we had a grand time! When Amy, the blogger who turned me on to Friday Fictioneers (my weekly flash fiction addiction) said she’d be in town too, the icing was butter cream– which was consumed with the champagne that she, Emily and I had together. They introduced me to Kylie and what a grand night it was!
Getting to know you… Tonya and I
Then there were the blind dates at BlogHer14– the people I’ve read, but hadn’t really chatted with online. I’ve left a comment there; they’ve left a comment here, but we haven’t gotten to know each other. It was indeed a surreal moment to be in a small hotel room, doing Jello shots with Hedia– even more Geisha-exotic in person– and Aussa looking on! Tonya was a total blindside– a ball of instant dynamo that I am so glad I met, and wish I lived closer to. Chloe snuck up on me in the most delicious and surprising ways, and has left me with a blogger boner that Julie (who was pure delight) predicted. The three of them were part of the first night’s dinner blind date, which ended up being one of the true highlights of the weekend for me. Julie, Chloe and Tonya, thanks for that! I may not have known them when I left home, but now I watch for their posts and I delight in their updates. And of course the mother of all blind side hook ups, The Bloggess. Yes, I know I was just one of the bazillion women (and four men) cheering for her at the BlogHer14 conference, but when I had my book autographed and my picture taken with her, I know she felt something too… aside from me stepping on her pretty red shoes. And admittedly, my heart skipped a beat when she Liked one of my Tweets… but I have no doubt she quickly realized how boring I am on Twitter and flew south. Oh, but the thrill, for that brief, shiny moment in time. (And don’t think I won’t post this treasured photo over and over and over and over… again!)
Me and The Bloggess… clearly a bigger thrill for me, but she was delightfully fun.
Perhaps you are now wondering… how does this make Dawn a BBB- Well, because despite all the exciting hook-ups, in the day-to-day I’ve really dropped the ball. Despite all this face to face connecting, I’m actually not a big dater. I’m not that good at the consistent nurturing of blog relationships. My intentions are good, but I get overwhelmed easily. If I hit that follow button on your blog that’s what I do: I follow you. I feel a sincere commitment to read the blogs that come to my in-box, and while that was initially not such a hard thing to do, over time– with so many of you writing really great stuff, I’ve fallen way behind. Recently I had nearly 3,000 emails in my “blogs I follow folder!” (Yes, I really have that) Those waiting posts were making me crazy, and I knew there was no way to read them all! I spent several days, finally, reading what I could (which was a lot of reading!) and guiltily deleting the others. Being away so much this summer, having had a few rough bumps in the spring (to say the least), I’ve dropped the ball, and that ball involves people I really enjoy and care about. For real.
Recently Samara told me not to feel bad, not to apologize, but I do feel badly and I am apologizing. Samara I love your writing and I should engage more, because you’re true blue and you say incredibly nice things like “Please, never apologize! Are you kidding? That you find the time to visit at all is a gift.” Hello? Such gracious kindness! I feel the same way about so many of you who read my blog, but how wonderful to hear that from another blogger! That comment really got me thinking about so many of you who I have not made as much effort with as I’d like– including you Samara!
It is not personal; it’s not you. It’s me. There are lots of excuses: I often feel not cool enough for your witty comment sections (honestly!); I get busy outside my blog and I forget to touch base; I mean to read your work, leave a comment, say that I care (because I do)… and I miss the boat in follow-up– to name a few excuses! I’m sorry for that, even if I don’t have to apologize. Many of you deserve better from me, but I am just over extended.
I’m also:
And so, Sincerely:
KZ, your horror stories are incredible! I should have done more to promote your super scary new book, because you’re a truly gifted writer. Helena, could you be more prolific and amazing? No. Before your self-deprecating self answers that… No. You are so incredibly talented, and I don’t spend nearly enough time basking in your glow. I ordered your book (Volume 1), but I haven’t had the time to read it yet. That said– I need to make the time because I know it’s good, if your blog is even a hint of what’s in there. Rara, I loved your energy and good heart, from the start. If truth be told, certain unpleasant events in our tight blog world rattled me last January and I pulled away from anything I couldn’t be totally sure of. Let me be clear: I’m not stirring that pot again, but it left a scar. I realized that I didn’t really know some of you, as much as I thought I did, and it’s made me a bit more wary when I read. The mere idea of the Rara I like so much in jail is horrible beyond horrible. The only thing more horrible is that I don’t believe everything I read anymore, and I’m just not sure what to think about this whole turn of events. If that doesn’t make me a truly BBB, I don’t know what does. I’m sorry for that. If you clear your name and come back, I hope you’ll understand that my intentions are good, but my guard is up. Twindaddy, I drop by; I love what I find, and then I drop off. Sorry, you deserve better. You’re such a great blog buddy to so many, you are indeed “genuine” and I enjoy your posts. Even more, Toby what a loser of a friend I’ve been to you! You never fail to tweet my posts; you are such a lovely, loyal buddy! You are truly a Fearless Leader, and I have not been there for you. I try, really I do. I stop by and read, but dumb people piss me off, and while I also laugh a lot, I also get irritated by their… dumbass’ness. Clearly thousands (literally, that’s an understatement) of other subscribers know a good thing when they read it; I’m just… lame. You are too good for me, sticking by me the way you do. Forgive me! Cyn, your Cynking Feeling is one I had a million times when my kids were little, and now when they come home in the summer… and I am not dealing with autism. You do it so beautifully, and write about it with candor, humor, and heart. I should read more, but: a) you’re seriously prolific, and I can’t keep up, and b) my babes are grown and I while your writing always pulls me in, I don’t read as much about little ones anymore… just as my older ones are probably very foreign to you as well! Jen, oh how much fun it would be to have a Tonic (with a wee nip of vodka in it) with you! Given geography, I hope it happens one day– sooner than later!
^^^ I apologize for not making more effort to be consistent with all of you! ^^^
Amy, Sara, Annie, Guapo, Susan, Alicia, Claire, Susan, Björn, Adam, Dana, Brenda, Katrina, Heather, Shavawn, Audra (Where have you gone? I miss you!), Eleanor, Nicole, Cindy, Karen, Kat, Deanna, Rochelle, Lesley… All of you, I have enjoyed so many of your stories and posts! Your blogs are the ones I keep going back to over and over– but I acknowledge that I’m terribly inconsistent and annoying in my efforts. For all I know, some of you barely notice when I’m there (or not), and are now wondering why I tagged you, and why am I sniveling away about commitments. But, this is my shit I’m owing here. My inconsistency is not for lack of sincere interest and the real enjoyment I get when I do visit. I love your work; I tell my friends about your blogs, but I get pulled in other directions and I don’t visit as much as I should and want to. Again, that’s me, not a reflection of the great writing I find when I do visit. Those of you who are prolific (posting every day, or multiple times a week), it’s that simple: I can’t keep up! I get overwhelmed–> then I feel guilty –> then I avoid visiting–> then I fall behind –> and it circles back to–> overwhelmed and lame.
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Cathy, Jennie, Susan, Melissa (Lyssa), Carrie, Jen, Meagan, Emily, Lisa, Kelly, Mike, Julie (please come back!), Pam, Jolene (you make me break out in song, I mean really, that song was written for you!)– Guys, I’ve got mad love for you and pretty much anything you write or publish. Your words and images have made me cry; made me laugh– until I lose the little bladder control I have; they’ve made me think. When I don’t visit for a while, because I’m busy being a wound-licking mom in the real world, or an over-extended friend/wife/volunteer– I miss you. Really, I miss YOU. It’s not just about your writing anymore. I feel a connection, and when you’re not around, I miss that. I want to hear about your babies; I want to share some coffee or a drink and laugh– put our heads close and share thoughts. I want to go on second and third dates. Ok… maybe I’ve taken this metaphor to a creepy place, but hopefully you get my point. You’re great, and I’m grateful for our connection. Your blogs rock, and your posts have moved and impacted me!
The platonic kind… that isn’t creepy… (nilrix.com)
I’ve been a BBB for lots of reasons, and I’m sorry for that. But my heart is sincere and anything I wrote here is because I really feel it. I’ve gotten so much more from this world of blogging than I’ve given. Whether my blog ever ends up being part of that “platform” for getting my book(s)– because yes, there are now two– published, it doesn’t matter anymore. I may not have as many Facebook likes as I want for Tales From the Motherland; I may not be wildly followed on Twitter (and let’s face it, I’m boring there… except for when I’m not); and my blog may be growing but not anywhere near the 10,000 followers that publishing says you need, to be a platform. (Sinks her head and groans) This blog has come to mean so much more than I ever imagined, and so much more than the illusive platform can provide. If it weren’t for this blog I would not have met any of you! Of course I’m glad that some of my posts have resonated with people, and that my writing is appreciated, but let me be clear and say this again: I have gotten so much more in return. And for that, I am very, very grateful.
Final note: It is inevitable– so inevitable that it gives me a knot in my stomach, that I have forgotten someone who I really like. Who knew that there were several hundred-thousand blogs out there (on WordPress alone)?! I haven’t skimmed the surface, and I’m overwhelmed with the great writing I’ve found and enjoyed. So, if I did miss you in the epic Oscar worthy acknowledgement, I am sorry. Truly. Please don’t take it personally; my intentions are good, but Yeah, I’m a Bad Blogging Buddy.
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What do I want? I’d love to see my Tales From the Motherland Facebook page reach 500 likes in 2014. Have you stopped by to spread some fairy dust? Follow me on Twitter, it’s where I try to be brief. Most importantly, if you like a post hit Like, and leave a comment. I love to hear what readers think. Follow along; you’ll get each new post delivered by email, with no spam. If you see ads on this page, please let me know. They shouldn’t be there. © 2014 Please note, that all content and images on this site are copyrighted to Dawn Quyle Landau and Tales From the Motherland, unless specifically noted otherwise. If you want to share my work, please give proper credit. Plagiarism sucks.
TALES FROM THE MOTHERLAND 
This awesome post shows exactly WHY you are not a BBB! You are a wonderful blogging bud. No one can be expected to read every post every blogger they follow writes, and everyone needs to step away for a while. Don’t beat yourself up over it. Just post when you want to, visit other blogs when you can, and spend your day the way it makes most sense for you. When I step up with the writing, I step back from the blogging. I doubt anyone notices or cares. We love your words, Dawn. You always move us. In fact, if you change the first word to Beautiful, than you are a BBB indeed!
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Oh, and thank you for the mention, by the way! I can’t imagine how much work it took putting in all those links!
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Yes, it took a little while. My eyes may be a bit blurry… and inevitably I missed someone I really like. Alas.
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So Carrie pretty much covered my thoughts. See, I’m too busy to come up with an original comment, so why beat yourself up for not reading every single word from your fellow bloggers?
Amazed by the effort and care that this took. Thanks for the mention.
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I’m gonna do this more often, just to get us all on the same page… so to speak! What fun, reading so many lovely comments, and hearing from some folks I don’t often hear from. And welcome to Tales From the Motherland… I really do appreciate your feedback Cynking, original or borrowed. I know your time is very busy! Thanks for taking this time to stop by. xo
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Aww, thanks Carrie. But sincerely, I do drop the ball a lot. I accept that that’s just who I am, but I now it can leave some blog buddies wondering about me. You’re right, probably people don’t notice, but I do. Glad you’re getting your writing done! But I do miss you… 😉
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I’m still around. 🙂 I post on Mondays when it suits me. Today didn’t suit me. 🙂
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I love your boundaries. 😉
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Yea what Carrie said. And thank you as well. You missing me, made me feel pretty good. I’ve been lurking :), starting fresh, shedding an old shell. Thanks Dawn. Your words mean a lot. Audra
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Oh my. I’m SO glad you stopped by! I have wondered where you are, and have worried a bit too… lurk away dear Audra. I’m happy to have you around! xo
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I’ve got a new home. Click my gravatar. I always read your posts,Dawn. Wouldn’t miss one 🙂
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Please tell me you’re not living on a train? 😉
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Ha. Wouldn’t that be fun? A little adventure for wayward moms
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Amtrak had that cool writers special for a while… ride the rails and write, for free… I was so into the idea, but of course it was far too good to be true! Your work was their property; you agree to let Amtrak have your name, your money and your kids…well, so part of that deal still sounded good. 😉 So glad I’ve found you again. You must have moved while I was off galavanting this summer. And then, I just got nothin’. I hate when blogs I love just disappear. Good thing I put your name in there anyway… which btw, is a testament to my sincerity. I did consider taking it out: “Oh, she’s not blogging anymore; she won’t see it; people will wonder why I have a name with no link…” but something told me that “if I built it, they would come.” 😀
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I took a break and now I’m slowly letting myself out again. Thanks again, Dawn.
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Oh duh… am I so clueless about technology! I just found your new “home” and I’m now stalking your again. 😉
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PS) I hope you know that your link is not there because… well the page is down. Right? Did I miss something? I’ve visited a few times and get the same disheartening message. I hope you’ll be back!
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I go through this monthly, darling — how am I so prolific? Because I’m a terrible blog buddy! Even if I didn’t have a day job and could be writing all day, I think that would only make me 10 times more prolific and even worse a blog buddy.
You have a great knack for dropping by just when you’re needed, and I LOVE LOVE LOVE that you and Jennie chatted a bit about me — I’m FAMOUS, darling…
Thank you for this, anyway. I could blush and say it was completely unnecessary (which it was) but it was ABSOLUTELY appreciated.
MWAH!
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It scares me to think that you are only 1/10 as prolific as you could be… shudder. You are amazing, Helena! And yes, famous.
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Hi Dawn, lovely lady 🙂 For me, I can’t stand getting blogs by email – hate it in fact. They clog up my inbox and make me feel out of control 🙂 I read all blogs, WordPress and others in the blog reader, so that I know when I am reading blogs that’s all I’m doing. First thing in the morning over a cuppa is my favourite time 🙂 And…I’m fussy. I only follow people who interest me. Like you xo
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I love that you are so good about those boundaries. I’m terrible! I figure that having all my blogs sent directly to one folder is as organized as I’m gonna get. 😉 There they sit, and wait… until I catch up! (which I did this past few days… home sick). The feeling is, of course, mutual. 😉
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I must admit that I just skimmed…maybe that makes me a BBB? Ha. I’ll just blame sleep deprivation. We’ll meet one day, because we’re too close not to. Thanks for the shout out!
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Oh yes we will! And you get a pass… because, well… he’s just so damned cute. That’s all. My nephew is driving through Portland (pretty much as we speak) on route to stay with me. If only I could switch places! Yes, it will happen… when you’re more rested. 😉 xo
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Ah, to be included in such auspicious company! Thank you, my dear. And there really is no need to apologize. Holy cow, you follow a whole bunch of blogs! And you comment like nobody’s business. Which inspires.
I’m with Carrie. You’re a BBB, Beautiful Blogging Babe.
Brilliant Blog Biographer?
Bitchin’ Bloggin’ Boss (Yo)?
Or simply, an inspiring mother writer.
Blog on, brave Mama. Blog on.
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You and Carrie are the best! Thanks! I’ve already done my self-flagellation for the day, so I’ll just say Thanks. So much. xo
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Hi Dawn – thanks so much for the mention, and I’m so sorry I’m filling your inbox with my daily ditties.. Friday Fictioneers is actually the place I keep returning to.. And meeting you and your son was a real joy. I have kept out of the drama, but have been in the crossfire once on twitter… Not pleasant at all.. 🙂
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I never miss your FF, Björn, and manage a few of your wonderful poems and haikus (I am a big fan of haiku!)… but I’m not as present as I’d like to be. As for drama… I’m staying far from the flames. Although, I’ve learned that my “no filter” approach does turn on my occasionally. 😉 Hopefully, we’ll meet again in my neck of the woods! Paddling and beer. 🙂
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Hi! I am a new follower of your wonderful blog, and I would love a follow back! http://www.dramatiquedesigns.wordpress.com
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Welcome to Tales From the Motherland, dramatiquedesigns. I saw that you followed my blog a few minutes ago, and I appreciate that. As you may see from this particular post, I’m pretty overwhelmed right now. I am so grateful when people follow TFTM, but I generally don’t hit follow until I’ve read a blog many times, and then realize I want to keep up with it. I know that may not sound fair, but (as I said here) I actually read as many of the posts as I can, from blogs I follow. Right now, that is really tough! I like to take a while to get to know someone’s writing, and see if it interests me. I will absolutely stop by and check out your site. And thanks again for taking the time to say hello.
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Aren’t you the sweetest?
You should never worry about not having the time to engage. Never. Life happens. And I do notice when you’re there. Every, single time. As Samara said, it’s a gift when you do get to drop by and visit.
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Thanks Heather. I have just caught up on all the posts that were languishing in my folder, and feel like it’s a clean slate! You can be sure that if there’s a turtle or tortoise involved, I’ll be round… not to mention a certain, adorable new kitty. 😉 Thanks for your sweet feedback; it’s much appreciated!
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Hey everybody! I was the first! 🙂 And I got my name mentioned and had my photo with Dawn posted in her blog!! It may not be like winning the Super Bowl, but…Hey! We won that, too!
Dawn, I am blessed to have not only discovered you, but to also call you my friend. I have never felt the least bit slighted, and I know our paths will cross again. And when I see you again in person, I am going to give you a big, warm hug. In the meantime, try not to let the anticipation get to you. Can you feel the love? – Mike
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Hey everybody! I can feel it! I can feel that big warm hug, Mike!! Thanks! And yes, you were my first… 😉
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I feel so flattered to be included in such great company!
In regards to feeling badly, a real friend understands that your whole life isn’t surrounded by their every activity. I’ve never once thought, “I wonder why Dawn doesn’t read all of my posts?” I know how it goes when everything gets in the way. I don’t have an ego about this so no worries on accidentally bruising it.
Thank you for putting this together. There were quite a few people listed here I didn’t know, and I’ll be checking out their blogs.
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Everyone in here is special to me for a reason, and they are all worth checking out… so yes, do that! I appreciate you letting me off the hook… I’m beginning to the think I’m the only one who sulks when people don’t come by! Damn! I want you all to be here all the time!! Oh, sulking away now… Hope all is well in the new digs, Jen!
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Maybe you just care more about your writing than I care about mine 😀
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Ooh, ooh! Yes, I like that one… I just care about my writing more than you. Bahahaha!
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Hi Dawn. Thank you for this post. Damn, now I suddenly feel like I need to apologize to everyone as well,lol I’m guilty of being a BBB myself!
About the whole book promotion thing, I know not everyone is into horror. I get that and I always respect other people’s preferences.
I know we all have lives outside the blogging world.There are a lot of things going on for me right now that I’m pretty sure I’ve neglected my blog and my blog friends.
I’m happy that you got to meet many bloggers and even FF friends like Björn and Amy. I hope that someday, I’d be able to do the same thing. 🙂
I don’t thing you’re a bad blog buddy at all. Just keep doing whatever it is that you’re doing and more power to Tales from the Motherland. xo
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Thanks KZ… of course, it’s sure nicer when I share links to your book and tell people it’s crazy ass scary good! Let’s be honest. No, I am not a horror fan, but I am a fan of YOUR writing. It’s good! Thanks for stopping by. xo
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Reblogged this on ugiridharaprasad.
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Pingback: Yeah, Yeah, I’m a Bad Blog Buddy… But Hear Me Out. | ugiridharaprasad
Thank you so much for sharing my work! I appreciate your kindness.
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I think there are millions of blogs on WordPress! Yes. We all just do our best. I just skim the surface it seems of the people I follow. I totally get you. I’m with Samara on this one, you don’t need to apologize. I do my best, and that’s all I can do. I think we are all in the same boat! I have great memories about meeting you. Until next time..xoxo
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Thanks Amy… I’m beginning to think I should have titled this: Yeah Yeah I’m Like Everyone Else! 😉 I’m so glad we had a chance to meet too!
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Right! That is more accurate. 🙂 See? Can I say, I told you so?
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Oh, Dawn. There’s no need to apologize. I think we all know that real life can get in the way of blogging time. I know I’ve certainly had my ups and downs with it. Thank you for the shout out! You are definitely not a bad blogging buddy, just a busy one. And that’s okay!
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I’m beginning to feel even worse! You’re all way too nice! I need someone to say: Damn straight! You’ve been aloof. Thanks for owning it and making this effort to grease my palms. 😉 All kidding aside, you are genuinely a t-rrific buy, Twindaddy!
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There’s nothing to feel bad about!! I’ve made my disappearances, too, you know (or maybe you don’t, slacker 😉 ). As I said, nothing to feel ashamed of.
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What did you say? I was in the other room. 😉
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And here I am, talking to the wall again. I feel like we’ve gotten so very close.
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See what a little dialogue can do. 😉
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Indeed.
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Um. That’s my word. (just sayin’)
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Pfft. I’ve been using that FOREVER.
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Yeah, well I’m older, so my forever is more ever than yours. Seriously.
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I don’t think I’ve ever had the “I’m older” card played on me…
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Well… game over.
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So it seems.
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Indeed.
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Thanks for the lovely mention, Dawn. So much fun to share the wealth.
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It was fun to sit and think about who are my go-to folks. Who makes me smile each time? Who do I seek out? Whose gravitar is so f’ing awesome , with that raggedy anne hair? Why you may dear… on all counts.
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Hello –
I’m a new blogger here, and it was nice to get insight on what a seasoned blogger goes through. My blogs are not brief by any means, so it was nice to get a heads up about the 500 word average. I think my college education is going to work against me in the blogosphere, as I have heard it called, because I have a degree in English Literature, I like to write, and I like to flesh out my ideas extraordinarily. Thanks for the post, and I hope as many people find my posts as intriguing as yours.
-Nae 2Real
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Welcome to Tales From the Motherland, Nae 2Real; I appreciate you taking the time to stop by, read and comment.
I rarely get my posts in in under 500 words (only on Friday Fictioneer days, when it’s 100)– but it’s what all the “famous” bloggers say. 😉 I do think that the shorter the better, in terms of holding attention. That said, there’s an entire “longform” movement. For any post over 1,500 words, you can add WPLongform and longread to your tag, and the WordPress people will check them out.
There are lots of college educated writers on-line, so that’s only a hinderance if you make it one. I have my Masters, and I write professionally as well as for fun. There are some brilliant writers out there… many of the links here will take you to some very well written posts. 😉 Welcome to the wonderful world of blogging, and thanks again for stopping by!
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Top of the list of my BBB: Dawn. Ha! Just kidding! Everyone else has already said what I was going to say. Those of us who really appreciate your work and your attention to our writings understand the ebbs and flows of life. Hell, most of us are all in the same boat. We spend what little free time we have actually writing our own blogs, leaving even less time to read. As you know, I am a spotty blog friend at best. I was especially bad over the summer. I know you will check in when you can, and I will do the same. That’s what I love about you and so many of the people I have come to interact with here. We don’t sweat the small stuff. I will always welcome you with open arms, no matter how long you’ve been away.
And thank you so much for the very, very kind words. I am honored and feel the same way about you. One of these days, we will get that coffee…or maybe something stronger!
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I surrender! You guys are all much nicer than me. I sweat. Everything. But, I will keep this in mind whenever I’m feeling down, so that I can write something like this and have all you nice people come out of the woodwork to set me straight! It is so true, that getting our own writing done takes so much time, it’s a wonder we get any reading done! I try… I really do. It’s great to know that others struggle too, and the I’m surrounded by much nicer people than me! wink wink
I really do hope that one day we can hang out and compare notes in person. And yes, beverages should be part of that. 😀 Thanks for always being supportive and light, Kelly. It’s only one of the many reasons I have that mad love.
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Hey I have real hissy fits and drama a plenty to deal with, thanks to my little guys. I have to keep it light here for my own sanity 🙂 But truth be told, every time I see some sub-par viral post, I wonder if I would have more hits if I “worked the room” a little better. Either that or put a lot of f-bombs in my posts. That seems to go over big 😉
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No fucking shit!
We could co-author a clichéd viral post!
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That would be kind of fucking awesome
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You could call it “3 fucking awesome ways to make a blog post so fucking epic that the fucking internet literally fucking explodes” 🙂
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I like it. Dawn, I think we have our title.
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That’s the fucking bomb! (no pun intended)
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See, we broke the F boundary… that’s one step closer.
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Wow, this was a jam packed post and an impressive game of catch up! And holy crap I was going to say something else but I clicked on your link to last January and LC and it stirred up so many memories of that crazy ass time. Wow.
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Well Aussa, I just felt inspired. I feel like I’m always falling behind, and this was just wanting to be written. As for the whole January debacle, it definitely messed with my head on so many levels. I’m not sure I’ll ever let my guard fully down, in blogging, again… in certain respects. I am generally a person with few filters. I’m genuine in nothing else… it works for some people and turns others off. I’m also a bit naive. I felt really duped by a lot of things… and now, I just don’t trust everything I read. Which, may mean I misjudge new things. Alas… Glad you stopped by, and sorry if you’re stirred up.
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Well done Dawn, you certainly covered a lot of ground there, I felt breathless by the time I got to the end!
Becoming a blogger has its ups and downs, the ups – meeting great people like you outweigh the downs – never having enough time to write those posts you keep meaning to get out there. So I guess we just keep slogging away..
Take care
Dee
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Yes, there was a lot of ground to cover! Thanks for sticking around long enough to finish it, Dee. We keep slogging along, indeed. 🙂
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Dawn,
I knew something was up with all the Twitter notifications in my email yesterday. I check my email a few times a day but since I’m in with patients non-stop except for a quick lunch which involves returning phone calls and writing notes, I didn’t get to actually see what it was all about until this morning! Thanks for the shout-out here and the Twitter mention, dear friend. I’ve been away, too and am struggling to keep up with my blog post notices so I think I’m a BBB. But trust me, you’re soooo not!
As others have said here, you totally sum up the blogging experience in this post. I adore blogging and I have now been at it for about 2 1/2 years. It is one of the richest, most fun things I’ve ever done in terms of sharing and creativity and it certainly makes my life richer. And you are a special part of it for me. Thanks for being here and for sharing your heart and mind.
Hugs,
Cathy
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Awwww. Cathy, you rock! I’m so glad that blogging has introduced me to so many amazing people. You’re way up on that list! Does it make me a BBB to say that I get a certain amusement out of imagining your Tweets coming in, while you were trying to stay focused? Cause it does. Hugs back at you! dawn
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🙂
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Dawn, The thing I wonder is how you fit everything into a 24-hour day. You do so much. I’m sure no one expects you to read everything all the time. I sure don’t. I enjoy reading your blog though, as I’m sure many people do. I try to read all the Friday Fictioneer’s stories, but have been having trouble with the internet service here and my computer. The electricity sometimes goes off and on so many times it knocks the cable service out. I then have to use a flash drive that moves about as fast as a sick snail. My computer acts like it’s having a nervous collapse. I just got the cable back after 6 days! Take care. 🙂 —Susan
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I can’t stand when my cable goes down, or I lose my wifi… addict I am! Thanks so much for your kind words, Susan. I so appreciate your constant support. 😀
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Wow, you are amazing. I don’t think I took a breath until I read the WHOLE post. I especially related to your beginning journey into the blogging world. I can’t seem to move as quickly as you. Set backs, fear, and soooo much more have given me oodles of excuses.
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Welcome to Tales From the Motherland Lolly! Let go of your fears and just put it out there. That’s my advice… easier said than done; I know! But really, if you read these comments, you can see: this is a mighty fine world of people. Come in, the water’s fine! Thanks for stopping by and taking the time to share. It is much appreciated.
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No need to apologize. Always appreciate when you stop by my way no matter when or how many times. Also thanks for the mention in this post. All the best.
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You are welcome Eleanor! I always enjoy your posts… I need to pack for the ride, but then this post of mine required a tent too! 😉 You rock.
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How sweet of you to thank everyone! I’m a much worse blog friend than you- my blog and hence blog friends have plateaued— you inspire me to get back into it and reach out to others more. Time, time, time. Hugs.
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You’re steady and true Lisa… but clearly this took a few days to get to you, so you have better things to do! Many would argue that THAT is the way it should be! 😉
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I’m overwhelmed that you had over 3000 emails in your “Blogs I follow” folder. I don’t even follow 100 blogs. Just don’t have the time. That said, I am honored to be one of the bloggers you follow because I so very much admire your writing prowess. Especially when I read the Friday Fictioneers. How the hell do you write those pieces and convey what you do so eloquently and concisely into 100 words? Thank you so much for the mention!
Now that I’ve whittled away my entire morning reading blogs and writing comments, there is a huge yard and a sunny day calling me outside to do yard work.
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I don’t follow anywhere near 100 blogs, Susan (I’d lose my mind)! I probably follow about 20. Some post daily (harder to keep up with) and several post frequently… a few post quite infrequently. I’d hit 3,000 because I stopped keeping up at the end of May– when I was traveling so much. I kept thinking I’d get back and read through them, but I didn’t! Eventually, I read as many as I could and deleted the oldest ones… now, I’m back on track– reading on time. 😉 Thanks for your kind words about my writing. I LOVE Friday Fictioneers and I think the weekly challenge has really helped my writing overall. I think more about each sentence. 😉
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LOL! Here I was, imagining that you followed a few hundred blogs *snort*.
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Snort, back at you!
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Wow, Dawn, this is one long ass post. I too have been over extended lately. Catching up now, though. See ya round! Someday in Texas perhaps.
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Long ass indeed! I appreciate you taking the time Honie. I just felt like I needed to give some shout outs and own my lameness of late. 😉
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Imagine my surprise discovering myself in this post when I was reading just to read. What fun! And I will never forget your expertise with that jello shot…
By the way, I don’t think anyone ever needs to call themselves a BBB for not always managing to keep up with 3,000 blogs.
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I do NOT follow 3,000 blogs! Oh my, that would just about do me in! :-p I just had 3,000 emails because I had not read them in a few months… all the traveling, etc took a toll between May and September. Now, I’m back on track and keeping up a bit better. I try really hard to read the blogs I follow. I may not always comment, but I try. But, I appreciate the reassurance. 😉
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Haha, if I had 3,000 or even 1,000 email notifications from blogs, I may as well follow 3,000! I’m terrible at keeping up.
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I think I follow about 20-25… but some post daily. I can barely keep up with that! I try to keep them in the “folder” until I can give them their fair due. We’re all out here writing, because we have something to say. I try to honor that… but yes, it’s not easy keeping up sometimes. So, I don’t. 😉
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