Post updates by email:

When we initially start a blog, we often think in terms of SINGULAR.

Meaning, that this is OUR blog.

Which, technically, it is.

It’s our own cyber-space where we share whatever moves us, whether it be a specific topic blog on art, photography, fictional stories, crafts, or simply a personal blog where we share a mélange.

However, we eventually begin to realize that a blog is not like a private paper journal in which we write solely for our own enjoyment and fulfillment, because a blog includes readers.

A blog is a sensitive blend of staying true to what we wish to share, and at the same time never forgetting about the people who read it.

What starts off as a single thread (a post), becomes a tapestry of interaction between the author and reader.

It’s kinda like acting onstage. If you didn’t have an audience, it would merely be performing to an empty house. As a stage actor, you rely on the audience for their feedback which propels you forward.

You need to feel their energy.

I suppose that’s why I’ve always preferred the stage to screen, because I enjoy the presence of a live audience.

Performing onstage is a give and take.

You can’t do it alone.

Performing onstage is a shared experience.

And having a blog is also a shared experience.

Family and friends who read my blog have often asked me why I respond to every comment because it just seems like too much work. But for me, it never feels like work because I get so much enjoyment from it. I mean just the fact that someone would take the time to read my words and share a comment, makes me so appreciative that I WANT to respond back.

I also get so much enjoyment from leaving comments on YOUR blogs. And being YOUR audience; cheering you on, sharing support, and contributing in my own way.

Blogging is truly about community; bringing people together.

Therefore, I would like to take this time to just say, thank you.

To ALL of you who come and share your thoughts, feelings, and opinions. And for always sharing them with such openness, kindness, humor, and respect.

Honestly, I don’t think I would have this blog for as long as it‘s been, if it weren’t for you.

My sincere wish is that you always feel very much appreciated, valued, and cherished.




Have a maaaaaavalous weekend!


X

71 comments:

  1. And THANK You for writing your all inspiring words each day that keep us coming back and reading!!! I totally agree with what you say about the whole community thing. Have a Rockin' Weekend!!
    xo
    Jeanne

    ReplyDelete
  2. 'I also get so much enjoyment from leaving comments on YOUR blogs. And being YOUR audience; cheering you on, sharing support, and contributing in my own way'

    And you do that beautifully. Giving praise where it's due now.... 'cause you, my friend, have given me more encouragement than I think you realise. I am grateful for that. I know this might sound daft but on the occasions when I've felt 'what's the use' your encouragement has spurred me on. So thank YOU for THAT.

    Any road up (hahaha I hate that worthless expression) I get pleasure from reading your posts.... AND HOW!

    Have a brilliantly fantastic weekend.

    ReplyDelete
  3. Hi Ronnie,

    You are so very welcome, kiddo. Since blogging and responding to your comments are a pleasure, commenting here is my pleasure.
    Coming here links me not only to you but to other friends and(yes) to Philly.

    The subject of blogging is vast and fascinating. You said it so well and your speak the truth. and I loved it when you said:
    "What starts off as a single thread (a post), becomes a tapestry of interaction between the author and reader."
    Lovely :)

    We do blog for ourselves; choose the template that we like,the subjects, and also the degree that we reveal(or not) our "secret garden". It's all good as long as we are comfotable in sharing what we share and are true to ourselves.

    Have a good holiday; Veteran's day for you, Armistice day here in France.

    ((((((((((( Ronnie))))))))))

    ReplyDelete
  4. And thank YOU, Ron, for putting yourself out there and hosting OUR conversation. I not only read your blog, but I also read others' comments and do feel involved in the community that you've created here. Hands-claping.... Standing-O!

    ReplyDelete
  5. Good morning, Ron!

    Looks like we were on the same page again. I have a "thank you" posted today as well.

    I want you to know how much I appreciate you. You have been my single best supporter and are always there! You are so right that blogging is about community.

    I love bloggers who answer every comment. It shows that they really appreciate their readers. This is one thing that I am striving to do on my own blog. Sure, it take a little time, but I think it is well worth it. I want to "connect" with my readers. Not just fill a few minutes of boredom.

    Hope you have a wonderful weekend, friend!

    XOXO

    ReplyDelete
  6. Well, THANK YOU, Ron! I get so much pleasure reading your posts and seeing that you've left a comment on my own blog. Your positive energy and enthusiasm for life is a real joy for me! THANK YOU for continuing to write and read! You don't know how many times you've made me laugh out loud since I've been here. Glad I found you on Jimmy's blog (though upset that he seems to have disappeared!)

    ReplyDelete
  7. Hello Ron,

    It is us that should thank you. You provide us with thought provoking blogs and witty comments. You are like the cool breeze on a hot day. You refresh and you renew. I know that blogging can be a tool that helps with our communication skills and I welcome it.
    I learned how to read on your blog. I started out slowy ..... See Spot run, see Jane take all of Dick's money and run. Run Jane, Jane. Then I was able to put sentences together and make a paragraph Man, that was a feat. Next came the time where I learned what a comma was! You talk about the awe of discovery. But nothing compares the ability to sit on the toilet and hold up a newspaper and read it all before I put it behind me. So Ron, you have added to my education and when I receive the Pulitzer I will dedicate it to you and your blog.
    Dave

    ReplyDelete
  8. Good morning Jeanne~

    Thank you for your kind words, dear lady. And thank YOU for being a part of this wonderful community we call BLOGGING!

    Sooooooo glad we've met!

    Have a Rockin' weekend too!

    XO

    ReplyDelete
  9. You are so right! Blogging becomes more like a family. I know who usually reads and comments and if you don't "see" or hear from them in a while you miss them and worry if anything is wrong. It always amazes me sometimes when I go to tell someone something and they say "Oh, yeah, I remember reading that on your blog" and I'm like "Heck, I didn't even know they read my stuff!" It's always a joy and pleasure to get to know people. And I ALWAYS enjoy your posts no matter what you write about. Thank YOU Ron for being such a wonderful writer and commenter. Love you dear friend!

    ReplyDelete
  10. Bijoux, I think we need to send a search party out for Jimmy! I miss him and his frank writings too. Oh, Jimmy! WHERE ARE YOU???

    ReplyDelete
  11. Good morning Valerie~

    Thank you.

    And I hope you know how happy I am to have met you, and how much I LOVE your blog and all that you share.

    You're blog is a magical potpourri of photos, stories, videos, humor, insight, and life!

    So keep on blogging, dear lady! Keep on blogging!

    "Any road up..."

    HAHAHAHAHAHAHHA! OMG, I've never heard that expression before. I LOVE it!!!!

    Thank so much for stopping by. And have a brilliantly fantastic weekend too!

    X

    ReplyDelete
  12. Hey there Barbara~

    "Coming here links me not only to you but to other friends and(yes) to Philly."

    :)

    "The subject of blogging is vast and fascinating."

    Yes, it IS fascinating isn't it? And to think that when I first read about blogging, I thought to myself, "How stupid!" HAHHAAHHAHAHA!

    And to think that if it weren't for blogging, I would never have met you!!

    "We do blog for ourselves; choose the template that we like,the subjects, and also the degree that we reveal(or not) our "secret garden". It's all good as long as we are comfotable in sharing what we share and are true to ourselves."

    A-MEN! It's all good as long as we are comfortable in sharing what we share and are true to ourselves!

    Thanks so much for always stopping by and for all your loving support!

    ((((( Barb )))))))

    Have a GRAND weekend, my friend!

    And a Happy Armistice Day to you!

    XOXO

    ReplyDelete
  13. Hey, Ron, big time thanks coming right back at you!

    Your posts are always so entertaining and funny and inspirational. I'm very thankful that we met in cyberspace so I could benefit from your thoughts and insights. Have a fabulous weekend, keep up the great work, and--one more time--THANKS!

    ReplyDelete
  14. Hey there Tracy~

    " I not only read your blog, but I also read others' comments and do feel involved in the community that you've created here."

    Thank you. For me, the best part of sharing a post is the conversation and interaction amoungst the readers. It's show BEHIND the show - HA!

    Much thanks for being a part of this community and sharing yourself!

    Have a maaaaaaaaaavalous weekend!

    (((( Tracy )))))

    X

    ReplyDelete
  15. Good morning MYFWBS~

    "Looks like we were on the same page again. I have a "thank you" posted today as well."

    OMG....how IRONIC!! I can't wait to stop by later and read it!

    "I want you to know how much I appreciate you."

    Ditto, girl!

    And I can't thank you enough for stopping by and first introducing yourself, so that we could meet. I have a feeling that we will also meet in person one day. And I look so forward to that!

    "Sure, it take a little time, but I think it is well worth it. I want to "connect" with my readers. Not just fill a few minutes of boredom."

    And I feel the exact same way! For me, the best part of blogging is the interaction amoungst readers. And yes, does take time, but time well worth it!

    Have a wonderful weekend, my friend!

    XOXO

    ReplyDelete
  16. Hey there Bijoux~

    " I get so much pleasure reading your posts and seeing that you've left a comment on my own blog."

    Ditto to you, my friend!

    "You don't know how many times you've made me laugh out loud since I've been here."

    You've done the same thing to me! In fact, your last post made me HOWL!

    And thank you, thank you, thank you for stopping over from Jimmy's blog and introducing yourself. Soooooooooooooo glad we've met!

    Yes, I too am concerned about where Jimmy has gone. I stopped over last month and left a comment to see what he's up to, but did not get a response. I hope he's okay. I REALLY miss him.

    Have a GRAND weekend! And much thanks for being a part of this community!

    X

    ReplyDelete
  17. Hello Dave~

    Aw...thanks, buddy!

    You have no idea how MUCH I cherish your friendship. Do you realize that you and I (and Akelamalu) have been blogging with one another for FIVE years now? Thank you for your loyality, my friend.

    " I know that blogging can be a tool that helps with our communication skills and I welcome it."

    Me too! I have learned more about communication through blogging than anywhere else. It truly is a wonderful online medium; not only for connecting people, but also a way for us to share our talents and passions.

    "But nothing compares the ability to sit on the toilet and hold up a newspaper and read it all before I put it behind me. So Ron, you have added to my education and when I receive the Pulitzer I will dedicate it to you and your blog."

    Bwhahahahahahahahahaha! Dave...you CRACK ME THE HELL UP!!!!

    Thank you for being the wonderful soul that you are. And for all that share, both on your blog and mine!

    Have a great weekend!

    X

    ReplyDelete
  18. Hey Rob~

    Thank you for your kind and supportive words, buddy!

    "I'm very thankful that we met in cyberspace so I could benefit from your thoughts and insights."

    Ditto! And I am so happy I read about your blog over at Back2Brooklyn last year. You're truly one of the best writers I've met. You're writing style is feakin' brilliant. And your topics are so diverse. You're a joy to read!

    And also a great guy!

    Have a super weekend, bud!

    X

    ReplyDelete
  19. And your kind commentary (even commentary to our commentaries) is what has kept many of us on the blogging stage for this long, dear Ron. Thanks so much for your inspiration, your insightful writing, and your endearing kindness. It is always a pleasure to visit here, and I always smile a little when I check in and see that you have posted. Best to you, my friend. EFH

    ReplyDelete
  20. Hey there Peg~

    "Blogging becomes more like a family. I know who usually reads and comments and if you don't "see" or hear from them in a while you miss them and worry if anything is wrong."

    Yes, I feel the same way! It's funny, because I often talk about my blogging friends at work, yet my coworkers find it very challenging to understand how you can become friends online through blogging. And always say, "You have no idea the POWER of words and the energy they contain for making very real and strong connections!"

    I mean look and you and I - we met online and have become very REAL and CLOSE friends.

    " It's always a joy and pleasure to get to know people."

    I agree!

    Thank you for your friendship, Peg. And thank you for all that you share!

    Have a flawless weeknd!

    (((( Peg ))))

    X

    ReplyDelete
  21. Howdy Expat~

    Thank you for your sweet and kind words, dear man.

    And thank you SO MUCH for your presence here.

    You're one of the most sensitive and compassionate gentleman I know.

    Thank you for that!

    Have a fantabulous weekend!

    X

    ReplyDelete
  22. Hey Ronnie!! I am back and eager to start reading your hilarious posts again!! Sorry its been so long I got caught up in the "real world" and forgot how much fun I have bloggin! Miss you!!

    ReplyDelete
  23. Family and friends who read my blog have often asked me why I respond to every comment because it just seems like too much work. But for me, it never feels like work because I get so much enjoyment from it. I mean just the fact that someone would take the time to read my words and share a comment, makes me so appreciative that I WANT to respond back.

    My sentiments entirely Ron. Thankyou for blogging my friend. x

    ReplyDelete
  24. you're so welcome Ronnie :) and thank you for the energy you invest in nourishing this lovely community. it's so nice to click over here and find a friend. mucho xoxo, Diane (& cristybella - she's so looking forward to Twilight....soon!)

    ReplyDelete
  25. Hey there Shae~

    Yaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaay! You're back! OMG, I've been checking my google reader everyday to see if you have posted, and saw this morning that you did! I've missed ya, my friend and hope you're doing well.

    Thank you so much for being a part of this community we call blogging!

    So glad we've met!

    I'll be stopping by your blog sometime today. Can't wait!

    Have a great weekend....X

    ReplyDelete
  26. Ron, you are so sweet! It's truly a pleasure reading your blog. It's a mixture of humor and humility. And that's because it's an extension of you, the man behind the blog. You are funny, kind and thoughtful and I look forward to your posts as they let me know you even better!

    ReplyDelete
  27. Good morning Akelamalu~

    And thank YOU for being such a loyal and longstanding blogging friend, m'dear!

    You are sooooooooooooooooo cherished!

    (((((( You )))))))

    Have a great weekend!

    X ya!

    ReplyDelete
  28. Hey there Diane~

    "it's so nice to click over here and find a friend. "

    And the same goes for how I feel about you and your blog.

    You truly inspire me, dear friend! And not only with your creative crafts, but also with your sweet and kind spirit!

    Thank you for being here in blogland!

    (((((( Diane ))))))

    Much X to you and Cristybella!

    P.S. "she's so looking forward to Twilight....soon!" Meeee too!

    ReplyDelete
  29. Hey there Pamela~

    " It's truly a pleasure reading your blog."

    Ditto to you, my friend! The thing I love about your blog is your direct sense of honesty. And I also ADORE your brilliantly sarcastic wit!

    Soooooo glad we've met! And I look forward to reading more of you!

    Thank you for stopping by and for all that share!

    ((((( Pamela ))))))

    Have a great weekend, neighbor!

    Much X

    ReplyDelete
  30. ...Well, if you aren't the cat's meow! You're awesome. Simply awesome. :o)

    ...If you only knew how much I appreciate you, not only your blog and your funny and rather candid posts but the fact that you speak directly to each of us thru commenting A-N-D you leave the most sweetest, thoughtful comments at each of our own blogs. You go above and beyond what is really necessary but I appreciate it more than you will ever know. You have a beautiful heart and for that I am grateful. ;o)

    ..."Thank you" for being you!

    ...(((Ronnie))) *giggle*wink*

    ...Have a fabu' weekend my friend!

    ...Blessings all :o)

    ReplyDelete
  31. Hey there Dear TJ~

    And if you only knew HOW MUCH I appreciate YOU!

    Honestly, dear lady...you truly are one of God's angels. From the second I read your first comment on my blog, I KNEW it! Your sweet, compassionate and also HUMOROUS nature is such a blessing in my life. Thank you for initially stopping by and introducing yourself to me.

    ((((( TJ )))))

    Thank you for all that you share, here, and also on your wonderfully inspiring blog. Such a great energy there! I look forward to every post!

    Thank you for being YOU!

    Have a fabu' weekend, my friend!

    X

    ReplyDelete
  32. ron, this is such a sweet post and an example of your great big heart! I am unable to really type right now but had to come by to give you a hug. xox! you are one of the most treasured people I have met thru blogging, hoping someday we will meet in our "real bodies"! ;) much lovex

    ReplyDelete
  33. You truly cheer on and encourage, dear Ron! You have been there for me as long as we've been blog friends. I am forever grateful. Especially for last summer and when things were the toughest. Merci mon ami!

    ReplyDelete
  34. Thank you for sharing your life with us. My bloggimg world would not be complete without you.

    ReplyDelete
  35. Hello Linda~

    Thank you, dear friend. And I BIG ditto back at ya! And yes, hoping someday we will meet too. I have a feeling we WILL!

    Sooooooooooooooo happy that we met through blogging. And thank you for sharing your awesome art and life on your blog. Know that you touch MANY lives!

    Hope you're feeling better. I stopped over to your blog several times this week because I saw on my google reader that you posted a Wordless Wednesday photo, but when I clicked over, I didn't find it.

    Anyway, thank you so much for taking the time to stop by and sharing a comment. Very much appreciated and enjoyed!

    (((( Linda ))))

    Have a wonderful weekend.....XOXOXO

    ReplyDelete
  36. Hiya SuziCate~

    "My blogging world would not be complete without you."

    Same here, my friend!

    Thank you sooooooo much for sharing all your wonderful insight through your blog. Honestly, I thoroughly enjoy stopping by each day and seeing what awesome words of wisdom you always have for us!

    And GREAT photos too!

    Have a wonderful weekend! Enjoy your time away!

    X

    ReplyDelete
  37. Bonjour Susu~

    Thank you so much for stopping by last year and introducing yourself to me. Your blog is not only filled with beautiful fashion, style and art. But also filled with the energy of your sweet soul. I feel it every time I visit you!

    Merci mon ami!

    Have a wonderful weekend, beautiful lady!

    (((( Susu ))))

    X

    P.S. and please say hello to your mother for me!

    ReplyDelete
  38. I get upset when folks disappear. I hope Jimmy shows up or gets in contact with someone soon. I mean, I understand decisions to not post--it's the disappearing bit that upsets me.
    I'm glad you've not disappeared. You're one I've been connected to for a chunk of time now--an integral part of the bigger 'here'.
    You just are.

    (Oh gawddddd.....I'm going to get mushy and it'll be your fault. LOL JUST sayin'.....)

    I get attached. I guess it's just that simple, yaknow?

    Now, I know some folks say 'just words on a screen'.
    But it's never been 'just words on a screen' for me.
    I've always connected dots--there's people behind the words.....ones with lives, with feelings that matter. Maybe it's because of all the connections I've made through this medium--maybe it was the Big Guys way of making me STAY connected at times when being connected was horribly difficult. Dunno. But I do know that it's never been about 'just words on a screen'.....not for me. It's been about the people--about her and him and......YOU.

    I think I'll blame being a Libra. LOL I get less emotional when I do that. ;-)

    I'm honored to have crossed paths with you. I get so much cuz I can come here--you're just a giving person, whether you intend to be or not. It happens. I suspect that's what others experience here, with you.....in this little community you created bit by bit. We all 'get'....a LOT.
    If we give something back--that's cool. REALLY cool. But you need to know that you GIVE a whole lot just by showing up....here.......there....... It just happens and it's cool.
    I'da missed out on that.
    I'm glad I didn't.

    .......oy......

    SEE!
    YOUR fault I got all mushy, dangit.......

    ((((((((((((((((((((( Ron ))))))))))))))))))))))

    ReplyDelete
  39. Hiya Mel~

    "I get upset when folks disappear. I hope Jimmy shows up or gets in contact with someone soon. I mean, I understand decisions to not post--it's the disappearing bit that upsets me."

    Me too. It must be a "Libra thing" because I get VERY attached to people, and worry about them when they disappear. I do hope Jimmy shows up eventually, because I truly miss him.

    "Now, I know some folks say 'just words on a screen'.
    But it's never been 'just words on a screen' for me.
    I've always connected dots--there's people behind the words.....ones with lives, with feelings that matter."

    I TOTALLY agree with you, dear lady. It's never been about 'just words on a screen' for me either. It's always been about the PEOPLE behind the words. Always.

    "I'm honored to have crossed paths with you."

    Same here! And can you believe it's been over FOUR years??? You were here when I first started this blog and have been here ever since. Thank you for loyality, Mel. It means the world to me.

    And please know how much YOU give, not only through your comments, but also through your blog. I can't tell you HOW MANY times something you've shared has hit home so strong, that I KNEW it was meant for me to hear it. Bless you and your wonderful fairies for always passing along such great wisdom.

    And also, for sharing the breathtaking beauty of your photographs. You truly have a gifted eye for the camera!

    Rock on, Mel!

    Have a wonderful weekend. And thanks oodles for stopping by!

    ((((((( Mel )))))))))

    X ya bunches!

    ReplyDelete
  40. Even though I don't have a blog myself (as you know, I'm solely a reader), I can see how blogging is like a community. It's amazing how powerful this medium is in bring people together.

    I love your analogy of blogging to performing onstage, because it's true. Blogging, like acting, is a shared experience.

    Thank you for always making me feel welcomed and a part of your blog. I so enjoy coming here and reading your posts, Ron.

    Have a nice weekend!

    ReplyDelete
  41. Hola Denise~

    "It's amazing how powerful this medium is in bring people together."

    Yes, it is amazing. And not only in bring people of 'like mind' together, but also people from all walks of life. I feel very blessed in knowing a diverse and eclectic group of bloggers -artists, photographers, teachers, etc. And I've been inspired by them ALL!

    Thank YOU for always stopping by and sharing on my blog, girl. And if you ever do start a blog, I'm there!

    Have a wonderful weekend! Say Hi to Florida for me!

    X

    ReplyDelete
  42. Thank you, Ron! It's always fun to come by here. The behind the scenes commenting that you have going on is fairly unique and interesting. Not that others don't respond, but not too many at length like you do. I'm sorry I don't always have time to read all of the comments but it's so nice that everyone is very open and friendly and is willing to share with you like they do.
    Your comments to everyone here and to others on their blogs are always so loving and generous. That's very cool!
    I don't respond back to comments on each and every post at my own blogs. There have certainly been plenty of times I did respond (and will continue to try and keep up!) but whether anyone came back to check, I don't really know. It doesn't appear so when I've looked at the live visitor feed although I don't always bother with that.
    I have mixed views on blogging/commenting. Sometimes I read a blog for awhile and see that the person doesn't get any or only a few comments and wonder why. Their content is interesting and they write very well, etc. Other times I've seen people get a ton of comments but their posts are generally boring. I can't figure it out. LOL

    Have a wonderful weekend, my friend! Thanks for being one of my biggest fans, I appreciate each and every comment you leave, whether I respond or not. x

    ReplyDelete
  43. Psst! Did you get paid? Did you little bit o' honey do the trick? Cause I bet you could sweet talk the spots off a cheetah.

    And thank you Ron. It is people like you that remind me why I am here and keep me writing. Have a wonderful weekend my friend.
    xo

    ReplyDelete
  44. Hey Mary~

    Aw...you are so welcome! And it's ALWAYS so fun when you stop by and share a comment because I LOVE how you express yourself so FULLY. It's like having a conversation with you!

    My wish is that everyone feels comfortable to express themselves anyway they wish. And whenever they fee like stopping by.

    "I don't respond back to comments on each and every post at my own blogs."

    Yes, there are other bloggers who do the same. I think we each have to blog according to how we feel. Some respond to comments, others do not, and some occasionally. And that's perfectly okay, because there are no rules in blogging.

    For me, it's always been about responding to comments. But, that's just how I am. I don't expect others to do the same.

    I love coming to your blog and commenting regardless of whether you respond. I enjoy what you SHARE!

    Thanks soooooooo much for stopping by and adding your thoughts and feelings to this post. You and I have been blogging together now for MANY years, and just know how much I cherish that!

    Have a FAAAAAAABULOUS weekend!

    X

    P.S. aren't you lovin' this COLD weather?????

    ReplyDelete
  45. Getting to know you over the years has been a real pleasure. The energy you bring to this blog and to the ones you visit is so amazingly cool. I know I've said it before, but I'll say it again, I really hope we get a chance to meet in "real life" sometime.

    I agree with you about how we typically start blogging one a singular level and then quickly realize it's much more of a social event than we might have imagined. Like you, I want to respond to each of the compliments that are left on my site. Kind of a mutual respect thing I suppose, but more so is that I truly like all the people that take the time to read.

    So to your thank you I say, "Your welcome." and here's a big thank you right back at ya.

    !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

    ReplyDelete
  46. Hiya Katherine~

    "Psst! Did you get paid? Did you little bit o' honey do the trick? Cause I bet you could sweet talk the spots off a cheetah."

    HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA! OMG...how funny! "Sweet talk the spots off a cheeta!"

    And yes, I DID get paid on time. The honey worked! Yaaaaaaaaaaaaay!

    You are very welcome, my friend. And just know how MUCH I enjoy your blog and your writing. You are TRULY gifted!

    Thanks for stopping by, and also for being a part of this community.

    Have a peaceful and beautiful weekend!

    X

    ReplyDelete
  47. Howdy Jeff~

    Thank you so much for your first paragraph - that really touched me. And please know that I ditto your words. And YES! I too hope that we get the chance to meet in "real life" sometime. I bet we will!

    "Like you, I want to respond to each of the compliments that are left on my site. Kind of a mutual respect thing I suppose, but more so is that I truly like all the people that take the time to read."

    Yes, you took the words right out of my mouth.

    "Kind of a mutual respect thing."

    And yes, because more so we like all the people that take the time to read.

    The community!

    Thanks for being a part of this blog for so long, my friend. I really cherish your loyalty.

    Have a fantabulous weekend!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

    X

    ReplyDelete
  48. and thank YOU for sharing so many wonderful and stories with your readers.

    ReplyDelete
  49. "Blogging is truly about community; bringing people together."

    AMEN, Ron!

    And that's exactly why I also take the time to answer every, single, comment too!

    ReplyDelete
  50. This is something I used to have on my blog comments form.

    "A blog without comments is like toast without butter and I do love a bit of butter on my toast"

    I truly believe that we need a reaction to what we write. Even if we start out thinking it's just an online journal. In truth, I don't think it is. It's a way of communicating and we need the two way conversation for that. What it then grows into is something we couldn't have imagined.

    ReplyDelete
  51. Oops! You see, I forgot again. Thank you also!

    ReplyDelete
  52. You put the "social" in social media, my friend. It truly is about connecting and community. I have to keep reminding myself of this when I get discouraged about the blog. I've made so many worthwhile connections since I've been writing online. If you had asked me about doing this ten years ago, I would have said it was crazy. Well, sometimes it's a little crazy but it's definitely fun!
    Have a fab weekend.

    ReplyDelete
  53. Hey ladyV~

    You are so welcome, girl

    And thank YOU for being a part of this wonderful community called blogging!

    Soooooooooo glad we met! You truly have been such an inspiration to me in so many ways, especially through your amazing photography!

    ROCK ON!

    (((( You )))))

    X

    ReplyDelete
  54. Hey there my Libra friend Meleah~

    "And that's exactly why I also take the time to answer every, single, comment too!"

    You GO, girl!

    And can I just tell ya what a freakin' joy it's been getting to know you through our blogs.

    Thank you....

    ((((( Meleah )))))

    Hope you're having a faaaaaabulous weekend!

    X

    ReplyDelete
  55. Hiya Babs~

    ""A blog without comments is like toast without butter and I do love a bit of butter on my toast"

    OMG...I LOVE THAT! It's BRILLIANT!!!!!

    I ADORE your last paragraph and agree with every single word!

    "It's a way of communicating and we need the two way conversation for that. What it then grows into is something we couldn't have imagined."

    You said it, my friend!

    Thanks so much for being a part of this community. And I am so glad you decided to continue with your blog after having such difficult technical issues with your hosting company. I know it was hard to go through that, and I'm so PROUD of your efforts to regroup.

    Please know what a pleasure it's been getting to know you this past year. You're a sweetheart and a GEM!

    Hope you're enjoying a wonderful weekend!

    X to both you and Mo!

    ReplyDelete
  56. Hey Jen~

    Thank you for your sweet words.

    And I totally agree....

    "I've made so many worthwhile connections since I've been writing online. If you had asked me about doing this ten years ago, I would have said it was crazy. Well, sometimes it's a little crazy but it's definitely fun!"

    If someone had told me 6 years ago that I would be blogging for this long, I would have said, "NO WAY!"

    And please know what an absolute joy and pleasure it's been getting to know through blogging. I feel blessed in knowing you!

    (((( Jen ))))

    Blog on, my friend!

    Have a fab weekend!

    X

    ReplyDelete
  57. Same to you, Ron!
    And I really do feel like I *know * you.

    ReplyDelete
  58. I've always enjoyed coming here and reading your posts. I'm a fan. So thank you!

    ReplyDelete
  59. Hey there Constant Complainer~

    Grrrrrrreat to you see you! Thank you so much for stopping by!

    And thank you for your kind words. You a true gentleman.

    Hope you're enjoying your Fall and doing well!

    Have a great rest of your weekend, buddy!

    X

    ReplyDelete
  60. And me with you!

    Keep on blogging, girl!

    X

    ReplyDelete
  61. Aw shucks. You're welcome ;-)

    Hey man, thanks for putting on a great blog! It's people like you who contribute quality material that makes blogging fun.

    My current blog is the third blog I've had, and so far the most fun. I think the first initial posts of any blog helps us find our voice and defines what we'd like to share. Once you do that and you remain true to your vision, all else is gravy.

    Oh, and having readers doesn't hurt either ;-)

    Here's hoping you don't stop blogging any time soon, Ron!

    ReplyDelete
  62. Howdy Herman~

    Aw....thank you, buddy!

    "I think the first initial posts of any blog helps us find our voice and defines what we'd like to share. Once you do that and you remain true to your vision, all else is gravy."

    I LOVE how you said that! And it's SO true! When I first started this blog I wasn't exactly sure where I was going with it. However, the longer I posted, the more I began to find my voice; giving me definition.

    I didn't realize your current blog was your THIRD!?! WOW!

    Please know what an absolutely joy it's been getting to know you through our blogs. You truly have a unique and awesome style, all your OWN! It's a pleasure reading you. And I'm lovin' your Monday Morning 5 Minute Fictions.

    Blog on, my friend!

    Hope you had a great weekend!

    X to you and the family!

    ReplyDelete
  63. Thank YOU, for writing a blog that is funny, warm, intelligent, informative and just all around brilliant!

    ReplyDelete
  64. Good morning Nitebyrd~

    Aw, shucks...thank you, Sis.

    And please know what how much I cherish our friendship. Thank you for being one of my first blogging buddies and for your longstanding loyalty.

    Thank you for being the kind, generous, thoughtful, and AWESOME lady that you are!

    I'm honored to know you!

    ((((( You ))))))

    X ya bunches!

    Have a grrrrrrrreat week!

    ReplyDelete
  65. I love the word melange. It sounds like either a tasty French pastry or a really fun night in bed. Either way...it's a win!

    Thank YOU for your excellent comments, Ron. You put more thought into them than anybody else I know, and I for one appreciate that!

    ReplyDelete
  66. Howdy Mark~

    "I love the word melange. It sounds like either a tasty French pastry or a really fun night in bed. Either way...it's a win!"

    Bwhahahahahahahahahahahaha! Mark, you SLAY ME, man! That was freakin' HILARIOUS!

    Yeah, and agree....or a really fun night in bed.

    Like a melange a trois - HA!

    Thank you for stopping by and for your sweet words, my friend. It's always sheer pleasure to read and comment on your posts!

    So glad we met in blogland!

    Have a great week!

    X

    ReplyDelete
  67. Oh, Ron, this is SO well said! You know, I've been having such a tough time with the upcoming holidays that I NEED to get back to this blogging world of ours to lift me back up. xoxo

    ReplyDelete
  68. By the way, LOVING this new commenting method!

    ReplyDelete
  69. Hey Chrissy~

    Thank you.

    "You know, I've been having such a tough time with the upcoming holidays that I NEED to get back to this blogging world of ours to lift me back up."

    And you've been soooooooooooooo missed too!

    Thanks so much for stopping by, girl. And thank you for being such a great friend!

    ((((( Chrissy ))))))

    Have a wonderful week......X

    ReplyDelete
  70. Thank you! Isn't it great?

    And it works really well with Blogger!

    X

    ReplyDelete

I moderate all comments before publishing. Thank you for stopping by.