Killer sunset, seen from my back window
First, let me assure you that I have no intention of shutting down our blog. I have just been thinking about what it takes to produce interesting material on a regular basis, and how lately, it seems that so many of my fellow bloggers have either taken sabbaticals or stopped blogging entirely.
Every once in a while, I check our blogroll, and sometimes I find one that has languished for months. I feel I have a duty to our readers to keep all our material current, and that includes the links. So I regretfully delete those blogs that have not been refreshed for a month or so.
It takes time to decide what to write about, research the topic and take and edit the photographs. I try to put myself in the place of a reader who finds us, and then returns a week later only to see the same stale old post. I assume that he or she will simply move on. After all, the Internet offers a galaxy of sites to visit, and everyone is always in such a hurry.
I've been waiting for a chance to use this photo. I call it "Love Conquers All"
Sometimes, you wonder if anyone is reading your stuff. You can see the stats showing how many people clicked on your site, but where are the comments?
All whining aside, there are great rewards to blogging. I get to express my opinions, and write about things that are important to ME. I have knowledgeable Master Gardener friends who blog here occasionally, adding depth and perspective. It’s also so encouraging and just plain fun to hear from fellow garden bloggers – and gardeners from around the world. The other day, I had a comment from a blogger in the Philippines! I love that. Blogging also encourages me to be a more conscious and thoughtful gardener, and to always be thinking of new topics to write about. Believe me, I am always thinking of things to write about.
The rewards of blogging are many, and certainly enough to motivate me to keep at it. So far, anyway, I have yet to succumb to blog fatigue.
Digging RI 
Well, I’m glad you’re sticking around. I’m one of your followers that doesn’t often leave a comment. I think a lot of visitors are like that, although I wish some of my own would say something once in awhile, so I can say hello to them, at the very least. I really enjoy my blog; it’s fun to work on, it’s relaxing and it lets me spend time with my creative side. I don’t see myself giving it up any time soon.
Anyhow, you keep writing and I’ll keep visiting 🙂
LikeLike
Thanks, Martha – for your words of understanding (they mean more from a fellow blogger!) and for visiting the blog. I enjoy doing mine, too.
LikeLike
Hey DN, It’s easy to see that a lot of effort goes into this blog. The text is well thought out, and there’s also the effort of producing images that will be appealing.
You’ve always enjoyed writing, so keep up the good work.
For me, this is a lot more interesting to read than people rapping on FB.
LikeLike
Your blog means a lot to me and I take so much of your knowledge and tips into my own garden.
Comments alleviate the feeling of writing in a void. But rest assured that your words are read and highly regarded even if a response doesn’t come. You’ve probably inspired your readers to do something with their plants instead of sit at the computer. And that’s a good thing. 🙂
LikeLike
P.S. I always LOVE your photos!
LikeLike
I appreciate that. I am always grabbing the camera and taking pictures “just in case” I can use them in my posts.
LikeLike
Such kind and encouraging words. Thank you for being a loyal reader. Gee, I hope this post didn’t come off as a self-indulgent whine fest. It was not meant to be one of those!
LikeLike
I check in a last once a day to read your words of wisdom! Sorry I haven’t been on the ball lately, but my computer has been giving me fits, especially Word. Postings are on their way! 😮
LikeLike
Not to worry, my herbal friend. I know I can always count on you!
LikeLike
Not a whine fest, a reality check. I shunt blogs that haven’t posted for 4 weeks aside in my Google Reader. If they stay resting, they get composted. If they come back to blogging one day, I’ll find them again, or not. I hate when there is long blogroll, closing off with, We Have Moved, Given Up, Gone to Hawaii! That makes the whole blogroll suspect because it is obvious that the blogger doesn’t even LOOK at those blogs …
One of the joys of being on Blotanical is that we get read. We get comments ;~)
LikeLike
It is so great to read your wise comments, Diana – and all the way from South Africa, too! I guess it really IS the world wide web after all.
Listen, I just checked out your blog and I love it. I’m going to link to it on mine. Take care and many thanks for not only reading, but commenting!
LikeLike
Hi DN,
No, not whining…. I enjoy your writing style, content, and wit. If you do decide to take a break from blogging, please know that I would welcome your return in the future.
Elephant’s Eye blog offered an interesting perspective on gardening in a region untraveled by me. Thought her book-sorting/decision-making method was smart.
Best wishes but honestly, I hope that you stay around in blog-land….
Take care,
GP who’s excited about melting snowbanks
LikeLike
Worry not, GP. I have no intention of packing it in. I was just thinking about those fellow bloggers who have decided to stop, either permanently or for good.
Thanks for the continued support and feedback (love feedback!) and enjoy the melt.
LikeLike