A Look Back

When I first started this blogging business it was on a bit of a lark. An ex kept going on an on about how talented a writer I am (!) and how it would be good practice (for what, I don't know) and how the world needs more funny people out there writing about their crazy lives. And so I did it. Flattery will get you everywhere, I guess, even if you're an ass.

Anyway, I will admit- the idea of hundreds of people reading something I've written held a wild appeal. And it still does. So against my better judgement I started this little one-girl show. And now, after a few months of working out some semblance of a style and flow, I've realized some things about the good ol' blogosphere.

Profound Blog Revelations of 2006

1. Very first thing I realized: I am not, in fact, a great writer. Sometimes when I read old stuff that I've written, it makes me want to vomit in my shoes. But this could be good for me, as I won't harbor any deep desire to become the next J. K. Rowling and I will be free to pursue my library dreams. Or it will at least make me think twice about confessing my girlhood love of Jordan Knight.

2. Most people do not give a crap about what I write. Or me, for that matter. So if a handful of people read this and think "cool", I consider myself lucky. If I get more than 2 comments in a day, it's like a gift from the heavens. (Who is the God of Blogging, anyway? I'm going with this guy... thanks for the shout out, you rock. Now when do I get to go to a Gawker media party?) It's a far cry from the "hundreds" of people I thought would flock to my witticisms, but better than the zero hits I could be getting.

3. People seem to like my Microsoft Paint drawings more than my actual writing. Appealing to the lowest common denominator is easier than I thought.

4. I like making lists. A lot.

5. I hate blogs that have no substance. Posting 12 pictures of yourself in various vain poses is not entertainment. Unless they're really interesting poses- I'm talking Emily Rose-style.

6. There are people out there who are way funnier than me. That was some shocking news to an egocentric New England girl like myself, but it's the harsh reality.

7. I put actual effort into this thing. Or at least write every day (ok, most days)- which really says something, since usually I lose interest with anything new after a day or so. Translation: I must enjoy writing in this little corner of the universe.

I'm out. Kick back this weekend- the weather is not going to blow, for once in our sad northeastern lives. So eat some hamburgers and potato salad and do it up Memorial style for the N to the P to the W.