Blogging

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  1. Garry Rackley

    Good post. The heartbreak of putting a dog down is devastating to say the least.

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  2. John Doe

    I was very moved by your blog about your little Nasty. It sounds like he had quality of life those extra 10 months he lived and when he was in pain, you and your family did the only responsible thing and that was to have him move to the big Dog pound in the sky. I feel we are a long,long way from Euthanasia for people because the legal system dictates that it will take years upon years to legislate that kind of law. The biggest argument against doing it would be, science progresses so fast and cures happen so often that maybe there shouldn’t be Euthanasia for people. My retort to that would be, the people against it are not the ones in unlivable pain. Let those people walk a mile in their shoes.

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  3. Terri

    Very good blog Janice. It is very hard to lose a loved one, either furry or human. My thoughts, prayers, and hugs are with you, Wayne and the girls.

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  4. Kassie

    Yes yes yes! I wrote a post on this topic myself. The quarantine idea is a ridiculous waste of money. People are freaking out that they will die from Ebola, but 50% of Americans won’t walk into their local pharmacy for a FREE flu shot! Even though over 10,000 of them will die this year from the flu. People are afraid of what they can’t control, but ironically they neglect what they can control. It makes no sense!

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    • Janice Wald

      You are right; people are afraid of what they can’t control. It reminds me of the Bubonic Plague era. People attempted ludicrous “cures” that only made matters worse. Since I’m not hearing as much about Ebola this week in the news, I thought perhaps the frenzy was diminishing, but it made the cover of TIME Magazine so maybe not. Thanks again for writing. Janice

      Reply to this message
  5. Kassie

    I’m going to try and write this without too many tears in my eyes, because I know how hard that is. We recently had to put down my 13 year old colliemix. She had been apart of the family nearly my whole life and I was devastated. When we realized she was in pain though, we knew we had to. The vet came and it was so easy. She just went straight to sleep. I have two questions here. 1. Why is it so difficult to put those on death row to sleep? Obviously I’m not a scientist, but it can’t be too much different, right? 2. How is it not cruel and unusual punishment to refuse the right of death to suffering citizens. I only hope that if I reach the point where I can no longer recover or be comfortable, someone helps me leave with a bit of dignity and happiness.

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    • Janice Wald

      Dear Kassie,
      I received your intelligent comments last evening, and, after much contemplation, here are my thoughts.
      1. Why is it so difficult to put those on death row to sleep?
      I’m not a scientist either, but I heard that they do sedate inmates before putting them to sleep, but I do not know for a fact if it’s true. If not, perhaps it’s because some people in favor of capital punishment believe those convicted of capital offenses should suffer as a deterrent to others.
      2. How is it not cruel and unusual punishment to refuse the right of death to suffering citizens?
      Clearly, this is the very heart of the controversy behind euthanasia. Fortunately, I believe those who are terminally ill can petition the courts, or their families can petition, to have them removed from life support. I agree that it is “cruel and unusual” for them to have to take this step, but at least it’s an option for them.
      Thank you for reaching out. I look forward to further blogging with you.

      Reply to this message
  6. Veena

    Hi, I work in a school too but as a counselor! Nice to meet you 🙂 Looking forward to your future posts!

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    • Janice Wald

      Hi Veena,
      Thank you for following me. Although my main theme will be news, I plan on blogging about a variety of topics. I hope you enjoy reading them. I work at a middle school; we have grades six through eight. How about you?

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      • Veena

        That’s interesting! I would love to read your future posts. I am technically with the MS too but end up working across departments. I love working in my school because unlike others, the counselor’s role is a very active one and I get to do a lot more than usual.

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  7. Mr Ben Groom

    Julie and Julia is a lovely film! It’s a crying shame that Nora Ephron passes away, she was a true great, and I can watch even her worst films again and again.

    I found your blog through Opinionated Man, and on a personal note, I already read one interesting blog on medieval writing (Chaucer in particular- I’m from Canterbury, therefore I was forced to read Middle English a LOT at school!), so I am almost certain you will be able to find an audience. Essentially- Please do!

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    • Janice Wald

      Hi,
      Thank you so much for writing me. I am having a hard time getting subscribers which is why I posted on Opinionated Man. I use “history” in my tags, yet I am having a hard time finding an audience. Can you give me any idea as to why some subscribe and some don’t? Since I’m new to blogging, I could use the guidance. Thanks. Janice

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      • Mr Ben Groom

        Well, probably 85% of it is completely random and arbitrary, so I have to apologise there

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      • Mr Ben Groom

        Sorry, I hit post while typing! The main things I find that help are:

        1- keep posting good content- the chances of somebody finding one particular post are incredibly slim- as more gets out there, the chances of somebody finding any of it increase.

        2. Be patient. Google takes a few days to index anything you write, so that will start to be useful as you go on. It’s worth setting your site up on their webmaster tools (webmaster.google.com) to find out how people find you, and improve your tags that way. It also gives you a hilarious look into the things people Google!

        3. Use the social media section in your options to share your work. More people look at Facebook and Twitter every day than they do wordpress- a share or retweet on there can get you a lot more interest than anything on here.

        4. Most importantly- be social and friendly on here. Check out other blogs and posts on here. Like and comment what you like to read. People return the favour, and more importantly, it makes wordpress a nicer place to be.

        I hope this helps! Ben

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  8. Opinionated Man

    Presidents, regardless of their party, should be honest. Obama has accomplished nothing I am proud of and has left my two daughters and their generation with a mountain of debt and very little to show for it. I thin he is a horrible president. I appreciate you sending me the link. 🙂

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    • Janice Wald

      Dear Opinionated Man,
      It is clear we disagree on POTUS’S merits. However,
      1. I think you’re a great writer–funny, serious, very poetic
      2. Thank you for the support your blog gives new bloggers such as myself struggling to find a readership. I know you don’t think it’s tacky to post blog links at your site. Do other people? Would they consider it competition? What is the protocol? Since I’m new, I don’t know the etiquette
      3. Would you possibly know of any liberal blogs that would not mind my linking my posts to their site?
      Thanks again
      Janice

      Reply to this message
  9. VB

    Janice,
    First of all you have written very well and taken into account all the minute details.
    Secondly, Presidents are human beings first. We have to stop portraying them as God and expect them to be perfect in every endeavor they take up. To err, is human.
    Obama has certainly and most positively succeeded in establishing himself as a world leader though I am a little wary of his international policies with respect to Afghanistan( particularly, the drone issue which cropped up sometime last year) and his diplomatic tactics with respect to China, India and Pakistan.
    But also, we have to keep in mind that he has put in efforts to bring up the economy from a very bad recession(2008) that ate up most of the developing countries of the world.

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    • Janice Wald

      Dear VB,
      Thank you for your compliments on the details of my writing. I have been a huge Obama fan ever since I saw that he really did mean “change”. His campaign promises were not just words, in my opinion. I initially didn’t want my readers to know that I am a liberal for fear of alienating 50% of my potential readers, the Republicans, but I guess I am too staunch to keep it in! My blogs have gotten more obviously liberal as I’ve written them. The only time I can remember disagreeing with Obama is when he and his administration came out against Israel. Otherwise, I feel as Americans, we’re in good hands.

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  10. elinwaldal

    I bet there isn’t a woman who has gone through that week of uncertainty that hasn’t had some of those same feelings. Although different, I do remember waiting for results from a massive growth that had been removed from my ovary. My memory is that I felt numb. Not panicked, just quiet. In my heart of hearts I was convinced it would be nothing and I was right. Having cared for, and lost, my husbands Grandmother who died from ovarian cancer, I knew first hand how mean it was. I would hate for my children to ever watch one of their parents die like that. Health should always be valued…

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    • Janice Wald

      Thank you for sharing your story. It’s reassuring to know that I wasn’t alone in this. The worst thing about fear is thinking you are all alone and that no one can understand what you’re going through. That is one reason I wanted to share my experience. Thank you again for reaching out. Janice

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  11. Garry Rackley

    Janice that was a very heart warming story. I think your reaction was pretty cool but I know the circumstance was terrifying. Your witty humor shines through this story and I really enjoyed it.

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    • Janice Wald

      Thank you so much for the kind words. I began the weekend concerned that my readers would be offended by my attempt to use humor to cope with a difficult situation. Instead of finding me offensive, my readers found me relatable! So many women shared their stories, and those of their loved ones with me.

      Reply to this message
  12. Patty Leonard Woodland

    It’s never easy dealing with life altering illnesses and humor is about the only thing to help keep one sane. And ice cream. Ice cream helps too

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    • Janice Wald

      I remember when my mother, who was single at the time I was growing up, was stressed, she’d take Haagan Dazs coffee ice cream with her to bed, and eat it–by the pint!

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  13. timoburke

    While you weave today with the past, don’t forget the paradigm shift from 24/7 psychological warfare from False Noise Network. NOTHING is as it was.

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    • Janice Wald

      I agree with you. We are definitely of “like minds” when it comes to this topic. I wish everyone felt this way.
      Thank you for subscribing to my blog. I look forward to more communication.

      Reply to this message
  14. Garry Rackley

    I’m not familiar with the show but it was well written and you always make me chuckle a bit. If you decide to post it on Google+ publicly that’s fine but I would also send it to any blog community that let’s you share posts. I bet there are some communities for that particular show and that would really be a good target audience!

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    • Janice Wald

      Hi Gary,
      Thank you for the comment, for commenting right on the blog, and for this resulting “traffic”. Question: How do I find a community for a particular TV show? I tried Facebook, but not much came up. Thanks for any help you can offer.
      Janice

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  15. Athenas Take

    There is an ease in your writing and the flow just made me read and enjoy the post.

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    • Janice Wald

      Thank you so much for the kind words. Again, I encourage you to follow the blog to read more of my writing which I just renamed “Reflections”. I try and have topics for all interests.

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  16. the baby playbook

    Hi Janice, I enjoyed the lion cub analogy to blogging, Simba working on his roar while we work on our voices..I’m looking forward to reading more of your posts!

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    • Janice Wald

      Hi,
      Thanks for writing and the kind words. My oldest daughter (not the one I blogged about) and I are movie trivia buffs. I love Disney movies. I’m actually playing around with blogging about the “Toy Story 4” idea. Thanks to your comment, I went back into that blog and tagged “Disney”, “Simba”, and “Lion King.” Thanks for the inspiration, and for following my blog.
      Janice

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  17. thistalkaintcheap

    Totally Team Jake. And if you want to discuss the show more, head over to Twitter. Lots of discussion there. You can follow the characters and they do a lot of tweeting on show days.

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    • Janice Wald

      Hi Carolyn,
      I did go to Twitter but did not know how to follow the characters. Do you know what hashtags to use? I haven’t gotten much response to my Pro Jake blog so I’d appreciate the tips. Thanks,
      Janice

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  18. Claudia Schmidt

    I’m so glad that the scare turned out to be just that, a scare, and not the Big C. Live long and prosper, my friend! And BTW, on your next bucket list, please at least add some wine and ice cream 🙂 xo

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    • Janice Wald

      Hi, Are you able to see other comments on the “Heaven Can Wait” blog? Someone else mentioned ice cream too, and I shared my childhood memory of my mother taking Haagen Dazs coffee ice cream by the pint to bed with her when I was a child!
      “Live Long and Prosper”–I totally get your “Star Trek” (Mr. Spock) reference. How I loved that series with William Shatner and Leonard Nimoy. I may have seen every episode! Thanks for writing.
      Janice

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  19. theoldfellowgoesrunning

    Thank you for sharing this Janice. I could feel the inner turmoil through your words, and as shared above, your humour to help your cope was AMAZING.
    You are a very strong person!

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    • Janice Wald

      Thank you so much for the kind words. I can’t tell you how flattered they made me feel. I guess I never thought of myself as a particularly strong person. Your validation meant a lot.
      P.S. Thank you as well for following my blog. I hope to have a variety of topics for all interests.
      Janice

      Reply to this message
  20. batteredhope

    I like Hawk (or is it Huck) I still don’t trust Jake and Fitz, well……he’s Fitz

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    • Janice Wald

      Hi,
      Thank you for visiting my blog! I think I saw you on the Women of Midlife Facebook group. My daughter and I love Huck. I hope his (ex) wife finally believes him and lets him see his son. I trust Jake despite his murderous ways; he killed for the good of the cause, and all that jazz… As far as Fitz the womanizer… I think Olivia’s too good for him.
      I hope her dad comes back. Joe Morton is such a great actor, and they write great speeches for him! Thanks again for coming to my blog!
      Janice

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      • batteredhope

        Nice to connect with you Janice — hope you visit me as well. Yes, Joe Morton is great but I want him GONE – LOL

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        • Janice Wald

          Hi,
          I visited your blog as soon as I got your comment. I posted under your 2013 Public Speaking post. It should say “awaiting moderation”.
          I hope “Scandal” finds a way to redeem his character somehow. Joe Morton is such an asset to that show!
          Nice getting to know you better this evening.
          Janice

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  21. Napoleon

    I don’t know if Mr.Cosby is innocent or guilty. However; there are almost 15 women who have made these allegations. All of their stories have similar patterns and contain stories about alcohol and drugs being used.

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    • Janice Wald

      True. I saw an interview with him, and I heard an interview with him. He didn’t even deny the allegations in either interview. He just kept saying he didn’t want to talk about it.
      Thank you for commenting and for subscribing to my blog!

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    • Janice Wald

      Thank you so much for subscribing and for checking it out. I think of all my posts I’m the most proud of the one I titled “Heaven Can Wait.” If you read it, let me know what you think by commenting on the blog. Thanks.

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  23. SingleMotherAhoy

    I’m not sure if you heard about it, but in the UK we had a massive scandal – there was a TV presenter in the 1970s called Jimmy Savile who was super famous, had TV shows and was famous for raising thousands (possibly millions) for charity, as well as volunteering in hospitals and suchlike. He was untouchable, and the few women who came forward saying he’d abused them before he died, were attacked and scolded for accusing a national institution of such a thing.
    When he died more allegations came out, but they were laughed off… until there was a TV documentary where the journalist actually looked into the claims properly and found several women who had been abused. Suddenly floodgates opened, and hundreds came forward – even a member of his family, I think. The BBC were involved because he had been their biggest star when this was going on – there were several allegations he’d abused members of his shows’ audiences in his dressing room. Now there’s a massive investigation that’s been going on for years and almost every “beloved” celebrity from the 1970s has been investigated.

    I think a person’s fame and on-screen persona can make us not want to believe the claims of a nobody whose words might ruin the illusion. The biggest fear for any victim of abuse is that they might finally pluck up the courage to speak, and then nobody will believe them any way. Cosby is a massive institution in America, and I really think he is using his status to keep these allegations at bay. If it was only one, it could be passed off as fantasy or a misunderstanding – but there are lots now, and more than one has been paid off to keep it out of court. I’m with you – where there’s smoke, there’s fire. And I think this will be one helluva blaze.

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    • Janice Wald

      Hi,
      No, I had not heard about the scandal in the UK. Imagine those poor women who knew what a monster he was first hand watching him pass himself off as a good guy raising money for charity. It must have been quite a scandal. You remember it so well all these years later.
      I think it’s the same situation with Cosby. Because he was an “institution” here in America, he thought he could get away with whatever he wanted (OJ Simpson comes to mind), and his victims were too afraid of ridicule to come forward, like in the situation in your country.
      For me, it was his lack of denial that sealed his guilt. However, someone responded to my blog and pointed out that the pattern of the victims’ stories was always identical: drugging and then rape. That also gave them credibility in my eyes.
      Thank you for writing me, especially from that far away. So I take it Cosby has made international news? It never occurred to me until you wrote. Thanks for researching out and responding and letting me know this situation is not limited to America.
      Janice

      Reply to this message
  24. AfterTheKidsLeave

    I heard one of Cosby’s victims interviewed on the radio yesterday. When it happened, she tried to tell her agent, but the agent told her “not to rock the boat,” and that no one would believe her word against his. When she tried to tell a lawyer a couple of years later, he literally laughed at her. So she never told anyone else–and who can blame her?

    The Cosby allegations, the Jian Ghomeshi case in Canada, the Jimmy Savile case in England–the thing they all have in common is a powerful perpetrator who uses his authority to abuse and take advantage of others, knowing that he’ll be protected by those around him.

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    • Janice Wald

      Hi Sharon,
      I love your blog, by the way. “Midlife Boulevard”. What a funny title.
      Anyway, how sad for these women. Hopefully, they are now feeling vindicated to some degree. I am hoping, the idealist that I am, that the Cosby case gives more women the courage to come forward in the future. I look forward to more analytical exchanges with you, on both our blogs. We sure seem to have a lot in common. Janice

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  25. Bella Silverstein

    It might be possible to dismiss one claim, possibly two. But the accusers’ numbers are in the double digits. The question of why now and not then can be answered by considering these dichotomies: the mores of today vs. the mores of yesteryear; the automatic believability of child vs. adult, female vs. male, power vs. subjugation, fame vs. an unknown. Add to that the stigma of rape and the blame-the-victim mentality that still goes on today, even in institutions of higher learning; plus the well-known unhappy sociopathy of comedians (Google it), and unfortunately, it all adds up.

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    • Janice Wald

      I agree. I believe it’s celebrity worship that causes two problems. First, stars start believing their own “press” and behaving outside the law. Secondly, victims are too afraid to come forward because of the adulation the perpetrators of the crimes receive. Thanks for writing.
      Janice

      Reply to this message
  26. Lori Cohen Malin

    i have never seen the show so i have no idea who Jake or Fitz are?
    But i enjoy your writing and your humor.
    Looking forward to reading more of your “reflections”…
    Lori

    Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Hi Lori,
      Thanks for writing in and for the compliments on my writing. I try and have a variety of topics for all interests, so don’t worry about not being familiar with this one. Janice

      Reply to this message
  27. Sarah

    As a abuse victim I don’t believe the accusers. I have my own reasons but their claims all ring false to me. I’m not a Cosby fan. I can get behind him taking advantage of young women, promising to help them with their careers but left them high and dry after he slept with them. I can believe that, however, I don’t believe the rape allegations. I don’t have that gut reaction that usually get with these type of cases. I’m not saying these women are lying, I’m just saying personally that I don’t believe them or anyone else who comes forward. All I’m seeing is a mob mentality, attention seeking, not any real victims. I guess I am waiting for that ONE accuser who touches me instead of makes me roll my eyes.

    Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Hi,
      1. Thank you for being courageous enough to share your story with me.
      2. Why aren’t you a Cosby fan?
      3. As a reader said, all these women claiming to be drugged? How would they all know that was part of his M. O.?
      4. As I said in my blog, he didn’t deny it in any interview I’ve heard.
      I guess that’s enough for me. Thanks for writing.
      Janice

      Reply to this message
  28. Janice Wald

    I will start the “Follow for Follow” link list. The link to my blog is mycurrentnewsblog.com. Thank you for visiting and good luck with your blogging!
    Janice

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  32. batteredhope

    I had a hard time accepting Bill Cosby’s guilt until I read a post by my friend yesterday. It greatly disturbed me and now I have not doubt. She shared her story on her blog and I was stunned.

    Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Hi Carol,
      As you read in my post, I have accepted Cosby’s guilt. What I find interesting is that an abuse victim wrote me and doubted his guilt. Is that what changed for you?

      Reply to this message
        • Janice Wald

          No, I’m sorry if I wasn’t clear. She was abused by another man. That woman doubted Cosby’s guilt.

          Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Hi Mary,
      Sorry. On Twitter I suggested you put your link here without realizing you already had. Be sure to click “Notify Me of New Comments” so you know who else comes here.
      Janice

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      • knottymarie

        Sorry you need to find another person to nominate. The whole purpose is to help out new bloggers. So.. nope. You can’t nominate me back. 😉

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    • Janice Wald

      Hi again Mary, Are you familiar with the Lynky called We Are That Family? I frequently get traffic from their site, but their Linky seems closed. Do they have it daily? Weekly? I hate to waste time repeatedly checking back, but as I said I am still getting traffic from them! Do you know? Does Carol? Thanks.

      Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Hi Mary,
      I had a thought. What if we each brought five bloggers struggling to find readership to this page? We would each increase our traffic tremendously. Do you know any new bloggers? Please send them this link. http://mycurrentnewsblog.com/how-to-get-new-blog-followers/ Thanks. I am very excited about this idea. I hope you are too.
      By the way, thanks for all the support you give me. I know are trying to help me gain readership on Pinterest and Twitter. I do appreciate it.
      Janice

      Reply to this message
      • knottymarie

        Hey Janice.. pop on over to facebook for a minute.. I sent you a message there.

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  34. razorbackwriteraus

    When my dog passed away a month ago, we found a spot by a creek under the shade of a beautiful gum tree, and laid him to rest. We had all took the time to say a few words and even planted a tree there which we have been back to water a few times. It is a tranquil place and I couldn’t have thought of a more fitting way to give our dog a peaceful place of rest.

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  36. batteredhope

    Considering my dogs are now 15 and 18, I dread the inevitable. However, we have had and lost many dogs. I devoted many blog posts to their lives and their passing. Last month we lost two, Willow a rescue we had 6 years and Dakota, a rescue we had one year. No matter how long you have them, they are part of your life and saying good-bye is NEVER easy. I love them all deeply and would have to side with you, Janice, in the coping department

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  37. Bella Silverstein

    This is a great blog. It’s hard to part with a beloved pet. My sadness usually dissipates when I finally allow myself to get distracted by all the chewing and peeing and training and loving that takes place with the new adorable puppy.

    Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Hi Melodi,
      Welcome! I subscribed to your blog, but it says I subscribed using RSS feed; I hope that’s correct.
      May I ask how you found me? Since I’m new, I’m still trying to figure out how I’m getting traffic. Thanks for following my blog and joining us on this page! There are some great people here already.
      Janice

      Reply to this message
      • Janice Wald

        Hi,
        I went to Melodi’s site to try and remember how I subscribed yesterday. She has two links. If you click the link she said to click, you have to make a choice how you want to get her blog like RSS feed. That’s what I picked. If you click the link in the parentheses, you just type in her Email address where it instructs. However, I’m aware that’s not what she told us to do.
        I don’t know if this helps. I did tell her we were confused.
        Janice

        Reply to this message
  39. Susan

    You are correct everybody copes in their own personal way when a cherished pet dies. When my beloved pomeranian passed my family held a meaningful funeral, eulogies and all. She gave us so much joy during life that we still honor her memory even today. A prominent picture is in our family room and a painting of her is displayed near our entryway. On her birthday we pick up her favorite treat, ribs, to share with her Pom brother and sister as a celebratory remembrance. We reminisce by her grave how much she meant to us. On the date of her death we gather again to place flowers and exchange favorite stories. The spring greenery hides her gravestone for awhile and then it reappears as the autumn leaves fall. “Thanks for all your love” is engraved in the stone.

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  40. Bella Silverstein

    Ferguson’s expecting another night of rioting today. As wrong as the grand jury decision not to indict Darren Wilson may be, so too are people wrong to be violent, to destroy their community, to send 14 people to the hospital. Thankfully no one else has died — yet. Businesses, some owned by Blacks, women, Latinos, all of them owned by people unrelated to Wilson, should not bear the brunt of people’s rage against the broken justice system, however deep its racial bias is (and it’s clearly endemic.) Two wrongs don’t make a right. Michael Brown’s family is right. They’re deeply disappointed by the ruling, and they urge all protesters to be peaceful.

    Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      I heard President Obama’s reaction to the news. He also condemned the destruction. I am a huge fan of President Obama’s, but unless someone condemns what causes the destruction, I don’t see the situation changing.
      Also, the National Guard apparently was ineffective, but the violence was predictable. Why weren’t they more prepared?

      Reply to this message
  41. Napoleon

    It’s sad situation. However; I just wonder why it took so long to make a decision. DAs indict people with less. I hope some good comes of this. I would like to see police departments build better relationships with local communities. Also, make revamp their selection process for potential offers..

    Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Hi Napoleon,
      I agree. It would be nice to see some good come of this. I especially like your second suggestion. Isn’t there some kind of screening they can give potential police officers to weed out the racist ones? You don’t want to put a gun in the hands of a racist. They should give them a battery of screening tests first. Thanks for writing in. It sounds like you agree the shooting was racially motivated. Am I right?

      Reply to this message
  42. Brooks Tish

    All three autopsies verified Officer Wilson actions and statement giving the officer the right to use deadly force.

    The looting and burning that followed the announcement indicated that minds were set in concrete so hard that even Jesus Christ could not present fact.

    The black response is creating an even greater racial decide.

    When we stop being a nation of men rather than of laws we are on our way to becoming a third world nation.

    Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Hi (is it Brooks?)
      I was hoping you’d take me up on my suggestion! How fun is this!
      Did you read what I wrote? The whole thing seemed sketchy to me. First, why did the hearings take so long? The shooting was months ago. Next, the contradictory witness testimonies and the rushed way in which officer himself was interrogated gave me a feel that, because he is a copy, he will be exonerated. Like they were just going through the motions and not really looking for the truth.
      I once was given a traffic ticket. I prepared a case of defense and presented my case to the judge. The judge would not consider my evidence. He said that it was my word against the cop’s, and because he was a cop, and I wasn’t, the judge would take his word and not mine. I realize that was a long time ago. However, I doubt time has changed much. People in power will remain in power. Sadly, and cynically, I admit, I think that’s true.
      Thanks for writing. If you follow my blog, we can have lots of exchanges like this.
      Janice

      Reply to this message
  43. Pingback: Ferguson Decision: Right or Wrong?
  44. Chikexyz

    What fans in America, the world must understand is that these people they see on television/movies are actors. They are playing a role on the screen in order to entertain us, make us spend more of our money. We do not know them personally.If you fantasize about them or allow their larger than life image to seduce you then you will end up practically under their psychological control. Michael Jackson, Corey Haim, Corey Feldman, Robin Williams, Bobby Brown, the list of personal let downs is almost endless. I refuse to allow any of these people to be my heroes anymore. I am following the Good Book, paying close attention to my mom, dad, pastor, and close friends. Life is too precious and short to be following after secreted dark angels.

    Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Hi,
      I agree with you. Star adulation is what causes celebrities to believe the press about them–that they can do no wrong. Because people treat celebrities and pay celebrities like they are better than the rest of us, they believe it and think they are not accountable to the same standards the rest of us are.
      Did you see that Bill Cosby made the cover of People Magazine? I haven’t had a chance to read the article yet. Have you?

      Reply to this message
  45. Angie

    Why are the police so quick to shoot? To save their lives and the lives of innocent people. This kid was a bad guy. He grabbed the officer’s gun!! The cop did what he had to to. By the way, I hope you praised that student of yours for having the courage to speak her mind and think for herself.

    Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Hi Angie,
      I understand your position–I do. I just felt the incident is part of a larger pattern of racial problems in our country. That’s the theme I was trying to express.
      I have a question for you: Do you agree that we have racial problems in our country but Ferguson is not an example of that, or do you disagree with my point entirely?
      Thanks for reading what I wrote and for commenting.
      By the way, yes, I did praise my student for having the courage to say how she felt knowing she was the only one in the class that felt that way.
      Happy Thanksgiving,
      Janice

      Reply to this message
      • Angie

        Obviously there are racial problems but I think the African American community is their own worst enemy. There is a cycle of dependence on government, welfare, etc. I don’t know the answers but I do know that blaming a cop for doing his job and thinking it had anything to do with race is WRONG. Do you seriously think he wouldn’t have done the same had it been a white guy who had tried to grab his gun? I do not think it was a racial issue, saying everything is a “racial issue” is what sets us back, it doesn’t move us forward.

        Reply to this message
  46. Carol Graham

    The question I always ask is WHY DO THEY HAVE TO SHOOT TO KILL? A kneecap, a shoulder– wouldn’t that give cops some time to take him down without killing him? And the sad thing is all the people, businesses and towns that will never recover and it was NOT THEIR FAULT.

    Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Hi Carol,
      I agree with you, Carol. This was one of my points at the end; policemen need to make different choices. I heard that, thanks to Officer Wilson, police may be required to wear cameras on their bodies. I think that’s a great idea. Then our country would know exactly what happened. Perhaps Michael Brown did not die in vain after all if this idea is implemented.
      Janice

      Reply to this message
  47. james

    Now that the jury’s actions have been published all thinking people will agree the officer’s actions were justified.

    Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Maybe now our country can be the racial divisiveness and the unrest behind us.
      Thanks for commenting and reading what I wrote.

      Reply to this message
  48. Snarky Momma With (@SnarkyMommaWith)

    Janice, I enjoyed reading your post and applaud your student for her bravery. I cannot agree with your opinion but it has been fun reading along while you interacted. Yes, the Grand Jury took their time. But they were private citizens who when they were finally convened were doing a very difficult job. Why question how long it took for all the evidence to be gathered, evaluated, re-examined, the body to be re-autopsied two more times and then witnesses to be questioned and re-questioned. If they had rushed through it and come to the same conclusion the hew and cry would have been that they did not take enough time.

    You ask why can’t there be screening to weed out potentially racist police officers because we don’t want to put a gun in the hands of a racist. Oh heavens, that one made me laugh. There is usually a lot of testing to become a police officer. But it probably focuses on mental stability and fitness to serve. Besides who said Officer Wilson was actually racist. You assume because he killed a black criminal that attacked him first that he is a racist. Why would you assume that? If a black cop had killed a white thug for doing the same thing that Michael Brown had done, none of the rioting and uproar would have happened.

    I agree that we have a racial problem in this country. I agree that we have a racial problem within the police departments of many of the urban, suburban and rural areas. But we also have high crime rates and blaming a man for doing his job and then calling him a racist after it all goes horribly wrong is not going to solve anything.

    One of the commenters asked why they always have to shoot to kill. They shoot for the largest mass. But, of course, hitting a kneecap is easy during a stressful situation while someone is moving or running. In this case, I think the reports showed he would have survived all the injuries but the last. Which was the head shot. IMHO, that shot likely hit him as he was falling. It was the last shot. Of the second volley. Perhaps if he had stopped moving after the first volley, he would still be alive. Firing in that pattern is a matter of training. Which the officer followed.

    Nothing that happened after the Grand Jury decision was released was in any way right.

    I have nothing but sympathy for Michael Brown’s mother and father. The loss of a child is never acceptable. When the loss occurs in such a way to be taken and turned into and used as public spectacle, makes their grief that much harder to endure.

    But the sight of Michael Brown’s step-father jumping up moments after the decision was read, grabbing his wife and having his boxer shorts hanging out for all the world to see, so low that everyone could see the curve of his ass, and extorting the crowd to “Burn this bitch down” over and over, really opened my eyes. This was one of Michael’s role model’s ? Is it little wonder the guy thought he could push and shove his way through life at such a young age based on his size. He didn’t deserve to die. But he should have kept his hands to himself and out of the store cigarillo case and out of the cop car. Someone needs to shoulder some blame for this young man’s death ? Perhaps they should start by looking a little closer to home.

    Officer Wilson fired the gun, but Michael Brown started down that path long before that day.

    I look forward to reading your other posts.

    Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Hi,
      Thank you for writing. It is obvious you have given this situation a great deal of thought. You are very analytical and have sized up this situation from every angle.
      Thank you for the thoughtful comments and your nice words about my writing. I also look forward to future dialogue with you.
      Happy Thanksgiving.
      Janice

      Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Hi Gary, This article didn’t come through on my “Comment” list. Now that I’ve seen it, I realize you agree with me and believe the idea of impeaching President Obama for what the Republicans have done 18 times is ridiculous. I am a relatively new blogger, but no one ever sent me an article before. Thanks for writing and sending it to me. Very cool.

      Reply to this message
  50. batteredhope

    My feelings exactly. I have made so many REAL friends in blogosphere. And Thank you for the mention.

    Reply to this message
  51. Garry Rackley

    Really enjoyed your post and thanks for the kind words. I will add a comment later after things quiet down here.. And of course my Google+ followers will be happy to get another “Reflections” post!

    Reply to this message
    • Garry Rackley

      I enjoyed your Thanksgiving post. I think a friend is a friend regardless of the circumstance so I totally relate to your view. Thank you again for your mention.

      Reply to this message
      • Janice Wald

        I agree. “A friend in need is a friend indeed,” virtual or otherwise. Where did that quote come from? I don’t remember. Trite, but true.

        Reply to this message
  52. knottymarie

    Thanks for the mention! There are lots of resources at our fingertips to improve our blogs. I feel like just a newbie somedays. Utilize your social media. Twitter, Facebook, StumbleUpon, Google+ Communities, Pinterest, etc.

    Reply to this message
  53. Naomi

    If a police officer asked me to walk on the sidewalk because I was walking in the middle of the road, I would do that without any hesitation….Question for those that have been blogging about the verdict being wrong…would YOU go on the sidewalk? That was the very first step that made this escalate to Michael Brown’s death. Police are humans, they do make mistakes just like everyone, but they often have 1 or 2 seconds to make a decision. I do not agree with this being racially motivated, it’s about following simple rules in life.

    Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Hi Naomi,
      How great to find you here! Isn’t this fun getting “out” with the crowd and being analytical with them? This is definitely “Janice fun”.
      Well, my opinion definitely seems to be in the minority here, so all I will say is I hope you are all correct. I still like the idea of police routinely wearing some kind of a camera to avoid divisiveness and accusations like this in the future.
      Thanks for writing in and happy Thanksgiving!
      Janice

      Reply to this message
  55. Precious Chiduku

    My blog it is more of an inspirational type of blog, to paste smiles on readers’ faces. There is too much negativity and I feel it is a beautiful thing to know that not all of us with bring others down. Thank you Janice for this. It is wonderful and a great way to learn tips from other bloggers.

    Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Hi Precious, thanks for writing. If you follow us, and leave the link to your website, we can follow you back. Our links to our blogs are in our comments. I did click on your site; it’s beautiful.

      Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Hi Precious,
      I had a thought. What if we each brought five bloggers struggling to find readership to this page? We would each increase our traffic tremendously. Do you know any new bloggers? Please send them this link. http://mycurrentnewsblog.com/how-to-get-new-blog-followers/ Thanks. I am very excited about this idea. I hope you are too.
      I thought maybe the people you nominated for the Liebster Award could join us here. It would be win win for everyone. Please send them the link to this page. Thank you so much!

      Reply to this message
  56. Anonymous

    I am so excited about blogging myself. I thought for a while my love for writing had died, but to my surprise, I have something new to write everyday!!! I do agree that virtual reality is much better. Not only is it convenient most of the time, but it also removes some negative aspects of our society that come with physically interacting with people.

    Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      How interesting! What a stance! Cline thinks reality is better, I think they’re equal, and you think virtual is better. Somehow I feel my position has been validated to a degree. I thought everyone would agree with Cline!
      I love science fiction. This was my first attempt to connect literature with real life. I’d like to encourage you to follow my blog so you can read more of my writing. How did you find me?
      Good luck with your blogging; I encourage you to do it, and thanks for reaching it out. Happy Thanksgiving.
      Janice

      Reply to this message
  58. cavellemartin

    It’s unfortunate but I think he’s guilty. It doesn’t seem like any of the women involved benefit by accusing him, other then to finally set themselves free of something that has haunted them for years. However, it’s easy to take something like this and overlook the fact that right now we don’t have the whole story but there is certainly smoke. It’s just a matter of time before we find the fire.

    Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      I love the end to your comment. I agree that the women don’t stand to gain anything but negative attention. I try to be analytical. All report similar patterns in Cosby’s behavior and stand nothing to gain but embarrassment from the allegations.
      Thanks for writing. I read you subscribed to my blog. Welcome and Happy Thanksgiving!
      Janice

      Reply to this message
  59. Jenn Alex Brockman

    This is my first visit to your blog and I’d like to say that I disagree with the author too. My best friend is someone I never got to meet, yet we did talk on the phone and via skype for several years. We met online and I miss her dearly since her passing.

    Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Hi Jenn,
      Thank you for reading what I wrote and commenting on my blog. You’d mentioned this is your first “visit” here. I would love to encourage you to follow my blog and came back again.
      As far as Clive’s theme: I am a huge sci fi fan. My Thanksgiving blog was my first attempt to reflect on the connection between literature and blogging. It’s been getting a lot of attention, so I’ll try to find a way to do it again.
      I am sorry about your friend’s passing. Definitely a loss whether it was on the computer or in person.
      Thank you again for reaching out today and Happy Thanksgiving.
      Janice

      Reply to this message
      • Janice Wald

        PS As a new blogger, I try and find out how people find me, so I know what is bringing me traffic. Do you mind if I ask how you found my blog? Thanks again,
        Janice

        Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Hi Precious,
      I just followed your blog. However, I do NOT see you anywhere on my list of followers. Can you please try and follow my blog again? You will get a confirmation, and I will get a notification.
      I don’t know about anybody else here, but I didn’t get the notice that you followed. Can you please try again? If you have trouble, write here and let me know. Thanks, Janice

      Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Hi,
      I go to your site everyday looking to link my post. I didn’t realize this was you. Wonder why you’re coming in as anonymous. Anyway, I had an idea:
      I had a thought. What if we each brought five bloggers struggling to find readership to this page? We would each increase our traffic tremendously. Do you know any new bloggers? Please send them this link. http://mycurrentnewsblog.com/how-to-get-new-blog-followers/ Thanks. I am very excited about this idea. I hope you are too.

      Reply to this message
  62. Alana Mautone (

    Blogging has been a dream come true for me. In non-virtual reality, I am introverted and do not warm to people easily. Online, I can be at ease, and am not shy. It has been liberating. The online world is also a blessing for those with various disabilities, and the elderly/housebound.

    Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Hi Alana,
      Nice to “meet” you. 1. I agree. In my daily existence I do not consider myself creative. However, when I blog my creativity and even my humor (dare I say wit?) comes out. For this reason I agree that blogging does seem to liberate our qualities that don’t come out otherwise. Interesting.
      Next, you mentioned the disabled and elderly. I assumed this was great for stay-at-home moms, and my children are grown making me an anomaly. You’re right; there are other demographics blogging works well for. Thanks for the insightful comments.
      Janice

      Reply to this message
  63. Melodi Steinberg

    is there any way to edit our comments here? I’m trying to change mine but I do not see how to do it?

    Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Hi Melodi,
      I am not aware how to edit a comment on someone else’s blog. I even Googled it needing the information myself, and didn’t come up with anything. Why don’t you post another, follow up, comment to give clarification?
      Janice

      Reply to this message
      • Janice Wald

        Hi
        Weren’t you the featured blogger on the Facebook blogging group the other day? I can’t even imagine how much traffic you must have got. Did you get a lot of “follows” from it that day? How did they choose you to be the featured blogger? I would love to be the featured blogger!
        Thanks,
        Janice

        Reply to this message
      • Carrie Ann Tripp

        Janice,

        I can’t find a reply button to your comment, but I think I was featured 3 times last month. The last one did generate a lot of page views and comments. The first time not much at all. I believe she chooses from founding and premium members of the website, but I could be totally wrong. I joined at the premium rate just as an experiment. I had my first ever 20,000 page view month and didn’t write the required 30 posts due to family life.Does that help at all?

        I really like the feedback and diversity of the group.

        Carrie

        Reply to this message
        • Janice Wald

          Hi,
          I wrote you under a different comment asking for the #1 way to increase blog traffic in your opinion. Thanks.

          Reply to this message
  66. Garry Rackley

    For those of you having a hard time subscribing to someones blog don’t feel bad. There are many blog vehicles (WordPress and Blogger for example) and each one handles subscriptions differently. Throw in the fact that each blogger can customize how subscribers and comments are handled. Then remember that 3rd party plugins are available to further muddy the water. There are usually ways to subscribe the way the blogger intended unless the blogger left that part out. The ones I have seen so far I have been able to subscribe to, though I’m not TOTALLY sure if the target blog can see it.

    The good news that even if you can’t figure out how to subscribe the way the blogger wants us to, we can still subscribe to the blog using our native blog software (the one that you blog on) or you can use a 3rd party system like Feedly.(this is what I use even if the target blog has another way of doing it, I just do both) The problem is that though you are subscribed to a blog without using their method the person you are following has no idea unless you tell them. I guess this is where the honor system Janice talked about comes in.

    These problems will probably always exist because it is not a unified system like Facebook. On the bright side it does give us many options we would not otherwise have is it was a closed system. I hope I didn’t further confuse it. I hope Janice reads over it good before she lets it through.

    Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Hi Gary,
      Thank you so much for trying to explain the discrepancies to all of us. I did not consider the variations in how we receive blogs. However, the “honor” system works for me! I hope it does for everyone else too!

      Reply to this message
  67. Opinionated Man

    I am glad some of my articles have been helpful to you and thank you for the kind mention! 🙂

    Reply to this message
  68. Carrie Ann Tripp

    I agree with so much that you have said here! I also know Carol and Mary whom you have mentioned! Woot woot! 🙂

    I love the conversations, diversity, and friendships made through this platform we call blogging!

    Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Hi Carrie Ann,
      Thank you so much for reading what I wrote and writing me. What a coincidence that we know the same people! Carol and Mary are both members of my “Follow for Follow” group since we are all interested in gaining new followers. If you are too, click the link, and put your blog link in a comment. That’s really all there is to it, except I recommended you follow the others back within three days; I heard it’s the protocol on Twitter and thought it sounded reasonable. The only other piece of advice (“rule” is too strong a word) is that you click the “notify me of new comments” box so you don’t have to keep checking back to see if there are new links left. Here is the link to the page: http://wp.me/P5jxvv-2m
      I’m glad you could relate to what I’m feeling about blogging. Thanks again for writing. Check out the link.
      Janice

      Reply to this message
  70. Anonymous

    Does anyone see me on their followers? I just want to see if am just having a problem with Janice’s Blog or everyone. Following that point, I still have zero followers on mine… am starting to think I am doing something wrong. Please help me

    Reply to this message
    • batteredhope

      You are coming up as Anonymous so I can’t help you unless you sign in with a name and a blog address

      Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Hi, Is this Precious? No, I still do not see you on my list. Garry, do you see Precious? I know you also followed her blog as well. Garry is more tech. savvy than I am and may know where I should check.
      Janice

      Reply to this message
  71. batteredhope

    This ‘exercise’ has confirmed something that is one of the rules of blogging. I wrote a post this month on 6 ways to turn a blogger off which is where I met Janice and so glad I did, as I am thoroughly enjoying her posts. My point is, if we want to have people follow our blogs than we need to make it easy. It should not take more than a minute to accomplish. If I, or any reader, has to spend five minutes or more trying to figure out how to accomplish that, they will probably not return. Your reader should not have to jump through hoops to follow you. Also, another good rule of thumb is to be sure your SHARE and your FOLLOW buttons for all your social media connections is obvious and easy to click. Of course, this only applies if you want followers 🙂 Just sayin’

    Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Thank you Carol. As you and I discussed recently, the “follow” button is hard to find on mine. I am meeting with a woman Tuesday who may be able to help me with that. We will see. I don’t think my template supports widgets on the side and I already have “follow” I think on the top and bottom. I’ll let you know.
      Janice

      Reply to this message
    • TheLastWord

      Aha! I see so many bloggers complaining about lack of visitors (Notice they don’t talk about commenters, just visitors) and then you go to their blog and what happens?

      1. You have to enter captchas. Why? Someone want’s to have a conversation with you and what you say is “Here fill out the form and submit it and we’ll get our intake department to process it. You’ll hear from us in 2-3 business days”. I mean the reader is already there, money in hand and you turn away a buyer, if I’m allowed to mix metaphors.
      2. You can’t use your blog handle but are forced to use Google+,or Disqus or some other format. I want to have a conversation and would like to use my already existing id. Why force me to register for Google+ and Disqus or whatever JUST to leave you a comment? You’re not that great!
      3. You finally manage to leave a comment. A week later they have not responded in anyway to your comment. I’ll comment a couple of times and if I find that all you want to do is complain but not react to the visitors who actually did comment, I won’t be back.

      Also: people want visitors, but don’t talk about commenters. I want to have conversations, mutual back and forth, exchanges.

      I actually started a similar thing on my blog called The Little Red Blog…. pun fully intended.

      Reply to this message
      • Janice Wald

        Hi,
        1.Ouch! I have been so great about responding. Three days go by, an anomaly for me, I promise, and you call me on it. Oh no. Another chance perhaps? My tag line says an analytical exchange of ideas is EXACTLY what I want. I use to have those types of dialogues with my daughters. When they went off to college, I thought, hey, there’s lots of people out there I could connect with through blogging. I could make excuses why I didn’t respond sooner, but they are irrelevant. Try me again. Other bloggers, I can’t speak for.
        I agree with your comments. The difference in blogging platforms, specifically WordPress vs. Blogger makes it more difficult.
        I liked your comment about the Republicans. Once again, thank you for writing. I hope you’ll overlook (if not forgive) my delay, and write again.
        Janice

        Reply to this message
        • TheLastWord

          I wasn’t calling you out, because at the time I wrote it I didn’t know you were going to over the threshhold. 🙂

          No, I have seen many bloggers who NEVER go back to check comments on their blog and then complain no on reads them. I called one guy on it and he admitted he never went back to check….

          Call me crazy and old-fashioned, but, really, that does not make sense.

          A lot of bloggers are really just advertising plaftorms, low on content, high on ads. Some write quite well about products, some are little more than the people you see on street corners dressed in chicken suits, or sandwich boards. I don’t call them bloggers, they are billboards.

          Reply to this message
          • Janice Wald

            Notice I made writing you back before going to sleep a priority. I really did think you were calling me out before! 🙂
            I agree, it doesn’t make sense. Thanks again for writing.

          • Janice Wald

            Hi,
            I wanted you to know two things.
            1. I am following you back via WordPress.
            2. I linked the blog you sent me to StumbleUpon. I hope it gets you some traffic.

          • Janice Wald

            PS My reaction to the blog you sent was that I agreed with it. I was actually glad to read it since it agreed with my hope for the future of our country.
            Also, I have also had your experience. I comment on blogs and people don’t respond to me. I don’t get it either.

          • Janice Wald

            How nice of you. You are a true loyal follower.

          • TheLastWord

            Sorry – I had my 30th anniversary ( post on my blog) plus it was the weekend I go home on Friday and then fly back to work on Monday. Also since this is my last 2 weeks here in Saskatoon, things have gotten a little busy tying up all the loose balls of wool…

            Long winded excuse / reason for not getting back to you. I don’t know too many bloggers who need readers. It seems almost everyone I know I has more readers than I do. I notice that this one post of yours already has close to 190 comments. The most I’ve ever got on a post is around 23 or so….. Clearly, my blog is A Little Red Blog 🙂

            I tend not to go into the blind follow game, preferring instead to find bloggers I can interact with, as we seem to be doing here. In fact, some of the bloggers I follow seem to be clogging up my reader with daily posts…. that level of frequency is beyond my comprehension. There’s at least one who has 3-4 posts each day! Mind boggling – I’ll have to cut him loose, I’m afraid.

            I would like to visit some of the other bloggers who have commented on your post and see which ones I can follow. By the end of next week I should have some free time again, before I go away in Jan for 3 weeks.

  72. lancequadras

    Hi Janice.
    Wow, you indeed have too much in your plate.
    How do you handle all these responsibilities?

    Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Hi Lance,
      It is true. I am so much busier than I was before. However, I find I am loving the blogging and the connections I’ve made from it. I guess people find time for what they love. How do you handle it? I see you have a blog. If you’d be interested in a “Follow for Follow,” let me know. Thanks for writing. I am so sorry I didn’t respond sooner. It was rude of me and not my norm.
      Janice

      Reply to this message
      • Janice Wald

        By the way, last Friday when you wrote commenting on how busy I am, I meant to tell you I’m also my school’s Yearbook teacher!

        Reply to this message
  73. Precious Chiduku

    Ok… thank you very much for being patient with me. Janice, please check to see if am following you. I think I am now reflecting in your subscribers. And everyone else please give me some feedback if I am following you. I really do want to 😀

    Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Precious, thank you so much for your patience. As Carol said, a lot of people wouldn’t put up with this.
      Janice

      Reply to this message
      • Janice Wald

        Hi Precious,
        Great news! Yes, you are on my list of blog followers. Thank you for the follow and your patience, once again.
        When I clicked “follow”, it said it went to your RSS feed. Is that the norm? Garry?

        Reply to this message
    • Garry Rackley

      Janice, when you follow by RSS feed are you able to see that person as a subscriber to your blog? Just wondering.

      Reply to this message
      • Janice Wald

        I don’t know. (Sorry Garry, I’m still new and not tech savvy.) Precious IS on my subscriber list now. It does not give me the option to follow her back, so I assume she knows I’m following her. However, next to other people’s names, “Follow” is checked off if I’m following them or it says “+Follow” next to the names of my followers I’m not following back. Next to Precious’s name it doesn’t say anything.
        Happy Saturday
        Janice

        Reply to this message
      • Garry Rackley

        Janice we may want to try this: There are 2 major blogs, WordPress and Blogger (Blogspot in address). If you are on WordPress and the person you want to follow is on WordPress subscribe by WordPress. If you are on Blogger and the person you are trying to follow is on Blogger, choose the google+ method (there is more than one unfortunately) If it is a cross follow (WordPress to Blogspot or vice versa) subscribe by email. I’m not sure that will make a difference but it is worth a try. This was a great idea Janice. There are some very good blogs on this page!

        Reply to this message
        • Janice Wald

          Sorry Garry, I just read this. What if they don’t offer Google Plus? One Blogger user only offered Netvibes, My Yahoo, or Atom. Then, what do I pick?
          Janice

          Reply to this message
        • Janice Wald

          Hi Gary,
          Thanks for being our “tech support”. What, I feel, has been a successful experience for many of us has succeeded in very large part to your tech. help. However, can you please explain, simply, for me, (I am so not tech. savvy) how I follow people on Blogger? It was one reason I switched to WordPress. Some Blogger users only have Netvibes, My Yahoo, or Atom. Other users have Yahoo, Google, Bloglines. Which do I pick? Thanks,
          Janice

          Reply to this message
        • Janice Wald

          Atom may have worked, but what do I do if they don’t offer that on Blogger?

          Reply to this message
  74. Precious Chiduku

    Ok, I have seen two subscribers on that RSS feed, but none are showing on my stats.. But am making progress. Please Garry help

    Reply to this message
  75. Karen

    love this post, and so true. I felt so welcomed and knew I fit right in once I started blogging. There are moms just like me!!!! Happy SITS day

    Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      I’m so glad I sounded relatable. It’s really been a great time, and I’ve only been blogging for three weeks! How long have you been blogging?

      Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Hi Carrie,
      I had a thought. What if we each brought five bloggers struggling to find readership to this page? We would each increase our traffic tremendously. Do you know any new bloggers? Please send them this link. http://mycurrentnewsblog.com/how-to-get-new-blog-followers/ Thanks. I am very excited about this idea. I hope you are too.
      By the way, I’d written you asking for increasing traffic ideas other than buying a premium membership at Ultra Blog, but I put it on someone else’s comment.
      I’d be grateful for other ideas to try. Thank you

      Reply to this message
  78. batteredhope

    There you are Carrie!! I have lost contact with you. Glad to reconnect and followed you on all platforms now!

    Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Hi,
      Welcome to our Follow for Follow group! You will find everyone here is very nice, and we all have the same connection–we are looking for more blog followers. Thank you for following mine. I went to your blog, and I was given two choices, follow by WordPress or Follow by Email. I clicked Follow by WordPress. Is that the same? Garry? At any rate, I believe I followed you back.
      Janice

      Reply to this message
  80. batteredhope

    I have just checked my followers and not one of you is on my list. Weird. Have no idea why as there are two follow buttons and also a ‘follow this blog by email’ — would you be so kind to follow me (again) — my blog is at http://batteredhope.blogspot.com

    I checked for Janice, Cavelle, Garry, Knottymarie, Carrie, Precious, Melodi, Akinthari

    THANK YOU

    Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Hi Carol,
      I have those choices as well. You were right, I checked and you were not listed as someone I follow. I just clicked “follow”. Can you please confirm I am following you now? Thanks,
      Janice

      Reply to this message
    • Carrie Ann Tripp

      Ok, when I tried again it said I was already following this blog. When I checked my e-mail I had your post from 11/29/14 in my inbox. Can you see me at all?

      Reply to this message
  81. britestarlites3

    I’m in total agreement with you! Wish I had picked Interstellar too!

    Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Interstellar has a great cast. Matthew McCaunahey (sorry, don’t know how to spell his last name), Anne Hathaway… It’s on my “To See” list.

      Reply to this message
  82. cavellemartin

    lol your box of Cheerios analogy totally works btw lol.Just last night my friend was telling me how good this movie was lol she was like blown away by it. I have no intentions of seeing the movie so I asked her. Was he set up? and she was like yeah how did you know? I said well it just seemed obvious in the preview lol. Now after reading this review I’m glad I went with my gut. Thanks! 🙂

    Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      The whole plot was too obvious. I omitted in my review that he had increased her life insurance right before her disappearance which gave him motive for her murder. Indulge my sarcasm here: Wow, how original. Some plots are unrealistic; this one was too predictable.

      Reply to this message
  84. mithra ballesteros (

    Loved this post. Found much of your scorching review to apply to the book as well. And I will try to credit you for the Cheerios analogy the first three times I use it. After that, no promises. 🙂

    Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Hi Mithra,
      Thank you so much for the nice words. I really appreciate the validation since, as I mentioned, this is my first movie review. I also blogged about the deterioration of the president’s character on “Scandal”. If you’re interested, I got you the link: http://wp.me/p5jxvv-1t. It’s another “scorching” review, by the way. I plan on writing a DVD review next. You’re writing is really funny. Please give my Cheerios analogy credit, and royalties too, if there are any. LOL.
      It was fun engaging with you. I’d love it if you followed my blog, if you’re looking for a blog to subscribe to. If you have a blog, I will follow you back. Thanks again for reading what I wrote, writing me, and your kind words.
      Janice

      Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Hi again,
      I heard the book filled in some of the holes in the plot. It didn’t? I’m glad I didn’t read it.
      Janice

      Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Hi Carol,
      Can you please check again. I put in my Email (after commenting on your post–not generic WordPress site). First it said I was subscribed using RSS Feeder, but then when I went into my Email, it said I was subscribed using my Email, and I’d receive Battered Hope in my inbox. Please confirm I’m on your list of followers now. Thanks.

      Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Anytime =)
      Again, just an FYI I confirmed my subscription to your blog, but I’d like to know you see it, so let me know. Thanks.

      Reply to this message
  87. http://russ-meares.blogspot.com/

    Hi Janice, my name is Russ. My Blog is primarily poetry driven; I also try funny stories, etc. But I also follow the news pretty regularly and am certainly interested in any topic related to Ancient or Medieval History.

    Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Then, by all means, please follow my blog. We sound like a match! I regularly blog about news and frequently connect to ancient and medieval history. I will be happy to follow you back. Janice

      Reply to this message
  88. Precious Chiduku

    My best friend told me about the movie. She enjoy it very much 🙂 However, when she told me about it, it wasn’t interesting for me to actually go watch meself. I am starting to feel like all the original stories are taken now… movies are becoming stupid, and pointless with very little logic. Instead of entertaining, they are irritating!!!!!!

    Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Hi Precious,
      Are you from Indonesia? I think it’s beyond wonderful how the Follow for Follow group is evolving and how we have come together from all over the globe.
      In regards to your comment, I completely agree. They keep making sequels instead of thinking of original ideas. I am actually thinking of blogging about it!
      Janice

      Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Did I respond to you Precious? I can’t remember. I don’t know how to tell on WordPress if I’ve already replied. I guess not, so I hear I go. I agree. I was thinking about blogging about it! Toy Story 4, for example, give me a break.

      Reply to this message
    • Garry Rackley

      Welcome Suzi T!! Subscribed via Atom Feed. Posted most recent post to Google+. Added you to my Google+ circles.

      Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Hi Suzi!
      Welcome to our Follow for Follow group! You will “meet” wonderful people here from as far away as Indonesia.I tried following your blog, but I am confused about how to follow people on Blogger. I did what Garry did and picked Atom. I hope you got the notification. Could you please follow me back? Mycurrentnewsblog.com. Thank you!
      Janice

      Reply to this message
  91. Carol Graham

    Suzy T. Nice to see you here. Do you have a follow button on your site? I couldn’t find it

    Reply to this message
  93. Garry Rackley

    Welcome Celeste Glass!! Subscribed via email and friend connect. Added to G+ circles. Shared blog with G+ followers.

    Reply to this message
  95. knottymarie

    You can’t expect to have followers if you don’t offer a way to get followers. Plain and simple. An easy fix that works for all platforms is bloglovin. Join bloglovin.com connect your blog to it (once connected, your posts automatically post there). And place their button on your sidebar or somewhere easy to find. Hope this makes sense.

    Reply to this message
    • Carol Graham

      Personally I don’t like bloglovin (even though I have it) You have to look for each individual post you want to read. I love following by email because they come directly to my inbox individually and I can choose what to read and when. I agree wholeheartedly with you knottymarie and this has been a good lesson to be sure our blogs are easy to follow with follow buttons evident

      Reply to this message
      • Janice Wald

        Hi Carol,
        I never told you what play we were seeing did I? If I did forgive me. We saw “Kinky Boots.” It was amazing. Have you heard of it? I thought of blogging about it but my husband doesn’t want me to start doing too many reviews, and I just reviewed “Gone Girl.” Something about not getting pigeon holed as one “type.” Great play. It won the Tony for best musical.

        Reply to this message
  96. Garry Rackley

    I think that is a good alternative but correct me if I’m wrong, that helps on your side but if the other person doesn’t have bloglovin then they don’t “see” that you have subscribed. Am I misunderstanding that part?

    Reply to this message
  97. knottymarie

    bloglovin does send you a notification when you have new followers. AND, you are able to see who those followers are from the bloglovin website as well. I just know that I had plenty of non-bloggers complain when they tried to ‘follow’ my blog via google because they had trouble signing in to google. Bloglovin was an easy remedy,

    Reply to this message
  99. batteredhope

    YOU ARE RIGHT. I wrote a post about Texas last year. He was 16 when he was brutally attacked and bit in half by a Bull Mastif. He is a miniature Dachshund. The decision had to be made and he survived two major surgeries, which the vets could not believe. The killjoys said, “why bother – he’s old” That was two years ago and he is still jumping and playing like a puppy – just sleeps more! I hope you can read the story because as a dog lover……you will love it.

    Thanks for sharing this — I read your previous post as well when you talked about your best friend. My best friend is Texas’ sister — she is a black lab who is 15. We are inseparable — why can’t they live to be 70!!!!

    Reply to this message
  100. Garry Rackley

    As a male and an avid dog lover, I used to think maybe it wasn’t manly to show affection for a pet. Then I decided that others do not dictate how I feel or think. I politely listen to anyone’s opinion, remember what I think is useful for me, and throw away the rest! Who cares what others say or think!. Enjoy your time with your dog and remember we can only control ourselves and not the words or actions of others. Maybe even cut them a little slack because sometimes they really mean no harm.

    Reply to this message
  101. TheLastWord

    I saw a note somewhere that pointed out that Rep presidents have consistently outscored Dem presidents in the use of Executive Powers.

    Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Why am I not surprised? How do you spell hypocricy? R-E-P-U… 🙂
      I think I saw somewhere you’d linked your comment to a newspaper clipping?? I will look for it. It looked very cool. Thank you for writing.
      Janice

      Reply to this message
      • TheLastWord

        Hmm, not sure I remember.

        I think Obama has done ok, not spectacular. I think he’s done a rotten job of marketing what he HAS achieved and highlighted the difference he has made over the Rumsfeld / Cheney / Bush troika.

        Read this thing I’d written when Obama won his second term.

        http://sloword.wordpress.com/2012/11/15/if-its-over/

        Reply to this message
        • Janice Wald

          Functioning on 2 hours sleep. This weekend when I have more time. If I forget, resend. I don’t get a lot of response from my Obama blogs, so I’ve cooled them. Nice to have you to bat liberal ideas around.

          Reply to this message
    • batteredhope

      Would love to follow you — can’t find the follow button on your site +Jana

      Reply to this message
      • Garry Rackley

        Batteredhope if you look at the blog from a mobile device you may have to select use desktop view. Otherwise part of the page won’t show up.

        Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Hi Jana,
      I wrote you on your blog that I followed you via RSS feed (Atom). You should be able to follow my blog via Email. By the way, thanks for the nice comments on my Follow for Follow idea. Someone indicated they couldn’t find the “Follow” place to put in Email. Should be on the very bottom. If you have trouble, let me know. Thanks.

      Reply to this message
      • Janice Wald

        Thanks. I appreciate it. I feel I am having trouble growing a readership. How are you doing?

        Reply to this message
    • batteredhope

      Garry I am looking at it from my desktop. Where is the button? Under follow buttons, if I click on the RSS feed button, all I get is html.

      Reply to this message
  104. adrianscrazylife

    I agree too. I’ve got tons of friends that I have met through my blog. Many of them I have met in person and many of them I haven’t, but it is interesting how the online relationship kind of “layers” the in-person relationship because you know a lot about the person before you actually meet them. Have you ever been to a blog conference? I’m kind of a blog conference “junkie” – I’ve been to about 10 of them and am about to go on a blogger cruise soon. They are WONDERFUL and I am still friends with people I met at conferences more than five years ago. #SITSSharefest

    Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Hi Adrian,
      1. Thanks so much for writing. I apologize for not getting back to you sooner.
      2. A blogging cruise! They have those? How cool is that!
      3. I would love to go to a blogging conference. I badly need the networking. I have to meet other bloggers. I genuinely don’t know any in my daily life. What state are you in?
      4. What is #SITSSharefest? Is it a hashtag I should be using on Twitter or…?
      Thanks for writing. If you don’t mind writing back, I’d appreciate all the information I can get. I’m new to blogging. Thank you!!
      PS I assume you found me on SITSGirls. Do they only have a linky party on Saturday? Thanks for the information regarding both questions.
      Janice

      Reply to this message
  105. Garry Rackley

    Carol….this is the part that throws people off. When you click and get that html code do a control a (copy all)……then go to your blogger dashboard and to the left under reading list is add. Click add. That will add that blog to your list. Boom! Every time you open your blogger program there are all the blogs you added in that manner. It will update from now on every time a new post is added. You can read it there or click on it and go to the entire blog.

    By the way this applies to WordPress also but I don’t have it so I can’t describe how to do it.

    Reply to this message
  106. Carrie Ann Tripp

    Ok, I think I am caught up on adding everyone. If I missed you, please let me know! It wasn’t intentional.

    Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Hi,
      I am still blown away by your monthly stat of 20,000 views. Can you please give me advice on how to get new traffic? What worked for you? If you had to pick the #1 thing, what would it be? Thanks,
      Janice

      Reply to this message
      • Carrie Ann Tripp

        I share posts anywhere and everywhere I can find. I don’t know which one pays the biggest bang. I’m not to that point yet. I just know the more I share, especially places like #ultrablog that require members not only to visit but to COMMENT, the more my numbers go up.

        Reply to this message
        • Janice Wald

          Hi Carrie,
          I go to #ultrablog daily too, but that only guarantees two views, yes? The two above my link? Do you know any active Linky groups? The ones I try and link to daily seem hit and miss.
          Thanks for answering my question.

          Reply to this message
  107. Jess DiGiannurio

    I can not fathom someone saying any of those things to me! Shes a gorgeous girl, for any age 🙂 xo, Jess @ Dreamingofleaving.com

    Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Hi Jess,
      Thank you so much!! That’s actually a current photo of Minnie and me. I tried to write a caption, but I couldn’t align left when I did, so I just went with the photo as is. I agree for nineteen, she is looking pretty good! Thanks for writing.
      Janice

      Reply to this message
  108. Carol Graham

    I had the same problem as you Carrie. That is why I have posted my blog address here two times. I think some people were clicking on the battered hope link instead of going to my blog. The battered hope link takes you to a Word press website that someone else set up for me and I never use. That is why I did not see those of you who followed me there — it was not my actual blog.

    Also, is there a way for people to leave comments here and on other similar websites without having to fill in your name and particular each and every time. At Blogger you do not have to do this and it is so much easier. Or is there no way around it?

    Reply to this message
      • Janice Wald

        Hi again, Are you familiar with the Lynky called We Are That Family? I frequently get traffic from their site, but their Linky seems closed. Do they have it daily? Weekly? I hate to waste time repeatedly checking back, but as I said I am still getting traffic from them! Do you know? Thanks.

        Reply to this message
  109. Jenn Alex Brockman

    I love dogs. All shapes and sizes. My advice is that when someone says something lame about her age, or death being near, to acknowledge that she is special – if you need to say something snarky to them, I’d completely understand. But, in your head and heart just know how lucky you both are to have each other and that if she died tomorrow, you loved her the best you can.

    I had to put my bassett hound down last year and it wiped me out. We brought that dog from being afraid of people and peeing on sight, to having fun, chasing balls and loving people.

    Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Wow Jenn,
      That sounds really tough. I dread the inevitable. Initially, I didn’t want a dog for this reason. However, I had one young daughter at the time who begged for a dog, and another young daughter who was terrified of animals. The pediatrician said immersion would help, so we got a dog. It took a week, and we have all loved Minnie ever since, but she is my baby. Since she is my shadow, we all consider Minnie my dog. Thank you for writing me.
      Janice

      Reply to this message
  110. Ashley Gulla

    My two dogs are my family too! I completely understand what you mean by saying Minnie is a possible soul mate from another life. That’s how my Lily is. I got her a year and a half ago and it’s been bliss every single. You know what I say about those people who say that to you, DON’T MIND THEM. They may not have ever experienced such a love. IGNORE THEM! Enjoy the time with your sweet baby girl, don’t take any day for granted, be thankful and love her like you’ve never loved her before!!! They are such amazing companions! I never get sick of reading stories about people who love their dogs as much as you clearly love Minnie.

    Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Hi Ashley,
      1. What kind words. They actually brought tears to my eyes!
      2. Thanks for the feedback about the reincarnation comment. It occurred to me I’d be criticized by people for that comment. Thanks to you, the opposite happened. I also appreciated the understanding your letter conveyed.
      Janice

      Reply to this message
      • Janice Wald

        PS I got word that you are following my blog. I am following you back. I am also a sensitive girl trying to navigate her way through life!
        Janice
        PS You sound like a very nice person.

        Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Thank you so much. Despite the sadness that I’m sure came through, I enjoyed connecting it to the the John Cusack movie, “Must Love Dogs.”

      Reply to this message
  112. Elise Cohen Ho

    It is amazing to hear how rude people have been. This lack of thinking is not acceptable. I too have a pet that is in his later years and I know exactly how you feel.

    Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Hi Elise,
      Thank you for writing me. Some people feel I need to cut others slack since they don’t mean any harm, so I appreciate the validation. I guess great minds think alike! 🙂

      Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Are you even kidding me??????? I haven’t even been blogging a month!!! You are so kind. You have to know what this is doing for me. I am so excited I can’t even think straight. Thank you thank you thank you thank you. I am off to read the instructions you sent right now. I’m too exhilarated to focus, but I will try anyway. Oh, and did I mention? Thank you!!!!!!!

      Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Hi, Thanks again. Question: How do I know how many blog followers a person has? I know only if they have under 200 can I nominate them.
      Janice

      Reply to this message
      • knottymarie

        To be honest I just guessed. If they show their Google badge sometimes it says how many are following. . But is only how many following via google. So it really is just a guess.

        Reply to this message
  114. knottymarie

    Ha! I only gave 9 questions – does that tell you what kind of day I’m having? Oh,.. and you didnt answer #9. That one is most important.. It’s the one that everyone will use to connect to your social media to follow you. Be sure to edit your post with your information. (Will make it easier to follow along)

    Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Mary, I answered #9. I listed eight social media sites that I use. I listed the same as you but I left off Blogluvin since I don’t use it. Can you please check again. I don’t understand what I should fix if anything. Thanks,
      Janice

      Reply to this message
      • knottymarie

        Lol. You listed the social media but didn’t include YOUR links to each. The intent was so that you would get more followers on each of them. If someone is saying they don’t have 10 followers I would advise them to use their social media and find 10. 10 bloggers should not be hard to find.

        Reply to this message
        • Janice Wald

          Hi, What state are you in? It’s pushing 3 am here. You’re up early or late? I can’t sleep.
          Anyway, I tried to do what you did. You don’t have social media links. Your answers to #9 are bulleted.
          Where are your social media links listed? Once again, please advise. Thanks,
          Janice

          Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Hi Mary, Did you get my response that I did Answer #9? Please advise. Also, people I nominated want to know what to do if they don’t have ten followers! Once again, please advise.
      Thanks,
      Janice

      Reply to this message
  115. John Doe

    Janice, fist bump, on your nomination. You are the best. Beautiful and brains also. Your writing is fantastic.

    Reply to this message
  116. akathari

    what if I don’d have 10 bloggers to be nominated here? how to go about it?

    Reply to this message
      • Janice Wald

        Hi Precious,
        I am told the point of the nomination is to nominate other people to give them exposure. I believe we have ten (or more?) people on our “How To Get New Blog Followers Page”. Could you perhaps nominate them?
        Thanks for following the instructions. Were you able to link back to me?
        Janice

        Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Hi Andyz,
      I believe we have ten (or more?) people on our “How To Get New Blog Followers Page”. Could you perhaps nominate them?

      Reply to this message
  117. ropafadzoprecious

    Janice, thanks for the nomination 😀 I will definitely nominate you back… I only have five bloggers on my list 😀

    Reply to this message
  119. Laurel Regan

    Congratulations on your award! I enjoyed getting to know you a bit through the answers to your questions. 🙂

    Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Thank you so much for your kind words. I’m glad you found my answers revealing enough. It’s the first time being nominated, so it was hard to know what to write.
      Janice

      Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Hi Laurel,
      1. I love your blog, especially the alliteration in the titles.
      2. I started following your blog.
      3. I also started following the “Write Tribe”.
      Do you have daily links? If so, where do I click? Thanks. I look forward to reading your blog.
      Janice

      Reply to this message
      • Laurel Regan

        Thank you so much for your kind words, and for following my blog! I’m looking forward to getting to know you. 🙂

        Do you mean daily links to my own posts, or linkups to others?

        Reply to this message
          • Laurel Regan

            I do a weekly gratitude linkup, which I post on Sunday and keep open for the whole week. Participation varies from week to week, but there are some lovely bloggers who regularly add their links – definitely worth checking out. 🙂

          • Janice Wald

            Would you mind sending me the link? Because I tried unsuccessfully to try and find it, it would help a lot if you could send me the link to the linky. Thank you for the help!
            Janice

          • Janice Wald

            Hi Thanks,
            This Sunday, will it be the same link or different link?
            Janice

          • Laurel Regan

            It’ll be a new blog post and new linkup – just check in at alphabetsalad.com and it will be there!

  120. Joan Harrington

    Hi Janice,

    Way to go on your Liebster award! Sounds like a great idea to get more engagement and meet some real cool people and other like minded bloggers 🙂 Thanks for sharing 🙂

    Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Thank YOU so much for reaching out. It’s heart-warming to know other people are interested in this. I’m trying very hard to meet other bloggers.
      Janice

      Reply to this message
  121. shockinglydelicious

    Congratulations to you! How wonderful for you! (Visiting you from the So Cal Lady Bloggers daily thread.)

    Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Hi!
      First of all, thank you for the congratulations. Next, thank you for telling me how you found me. I always wonder how people find me so I know what part of my self-promotion is working. I only asked two people, and neither answered, so I stopped asking. Thank you for the insight and the kind words.
      Janice

      Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Thank you so much. I was told that would happen. How nice to hear that my words did give insight into what I’m all about. Thank you so much for writing.
      Janice

      Reply to this message
  123. theoldfellowgoesrunning

    Congratulations Janice on your award. Great to learn more about you and your passion for blogging.
    Looking forward to checking out your nominees! 🙂

    Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Guess What Carl,
      I just nominated you! I messed up and nominated the girl who nominated me, so I needed a new nominee. I didn’t think of you sooner since I know you won the award. However, that makes you perfect since you must have less than 200 followers. Congratulations! Here is the link with the instructions!
      http://mycurrentnewsblog.com/2014/12/01/liebster-award/

      Reply to this message
  124. Krista

    Congratulations! I love the shade of hunter green, it’s a very rich yet carefree color. I love your enthusiasm for blogging, it’s inspiring.

    Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      What nice words. To hear I am able to convey emotion through words tells me I’m doing something right. Thanks for writing and for the validation.
      Janice

      Reply to this message
  125. cavellemartin

    Sorry it took so long but I finally answered the questions and nominated others for this awesome award! Thanks again for your nomination. Great way to connect with others! 🙂 I just realized something. You can nominate the person who nominated you? I messed up 🙁 *sigh* is there a way to still nominate you? I am confused now lol

    Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Hi Cavelle,
      Although I nominated the person who nominated me, I am told that is taboo since the point is to expose many new bloggers, not just the same ones. It was my pleasure to nominate you; I’ve enjoyed getting to know you the last few weeks.
      Janice

      Reply to this message
  126. amybovai

    Hi Janice,
    First thing I noticed on your site was the pyramids. I was married to an Egyptian and lived for a time in Egypt. I notice pyramids. =) Congratulations on the Liebster Award. Thank you for thinking of me. I have been blogging for a few years but it’s only been a few months that I’ve been blogging more seriously. I definitely have (much) less than two hundred followers! But i’m enjoying getting to know the ones I have. You seem to be quite close with your daughters and that is so nice to read! I’m a cocoa lover at heart. So glad that you are intent on making connections. It’s a good focus. I look forward to getting to know you through your blog. =)
    Amy

    Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Hi Amy,
      What kind words. I taught about ancient Egypt for many years, and even had the pleasure of visiting there. Once of my life’s highlights was going in an Egyptian pyramid. Thanks as well for the congratulations. What a surprise; I’ve only been blogging a month. Everyone in my family loves cocoa, but I’m a coffee lover. Thanks again for writing. I look forward to more interactions with you.

      Reply to this message
  127. Erika Grediaga

    Congratulations! Definitely starting a blog is a lot of work… I have a regular readership, but I don’t have that many “followers”… how do you count yours? Blog subscriptions? Google Followers? Facebook followers? This is definitely a great way to get to know new bloggers and create our “tribe” 🙂 Super cool!

    Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Thank you so much. I hear it’s readership that counts since that’s what brings in traffic. It makes sense. If the followers don’t ever read your writing, it won’t make a difference in your traffic, at least that’s what I’m learning. I am actually looking for a “tribe”. I joined Triberr yesterday.
      Thanks for writing.
      Janice

      Reply to this message
  128. Carolyn West

    I went shopping on Black Friday once… last year… and we actually found some good deals, but I wouldn’t do it again. It’s not worth the hassle. On Cyber Monday, I was geared up to find some great online bargains… and I ended up not purchasing one thing. There was absolutely nothing I liked enough to spend my hard-earned money on. Very disappointing.

    Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Hi Carolyn,
      My husband Wayne said the same thing. He also tried but couldn’t find anything. Thanks again for all the support.
      Janice

      Reply to this message
  129. Jen Miyagishima (

    I shop Black Friday every year at a shopping mall in Arizona because we spend our Thanksgiving holiday with family in the Phoenix area. I found great deals on children’s clothes & women’s accessories for Christmas gifts this year! I hate to say it but I don’t think I would venture out on Black Friday if we were home in LA/San Fernando Valley. It’s too crowded & people can be aggressive. However as long as I’m in Chandler around Turkey Day, then I don’t mind shopping the Black Friday sales. 🙂

    Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      I’m from there. I work in the SFV area. Great weather I bet in Arizona. I was there once or twice.

      Reply to this message
  130. Erika Grediaga

    I don’t participate in any of those “sale” deals. I’ve found over the years that it is best to shop the fall sales in September-October… then wait till December, as the supply-demand thing makes every store drop their prices and offer deals — sometimes with free shipping included. As for electronics, I’d recommend following the item you’re interested in through newegg.com or B&H in NY… those are the best deals I’ve always found for electronics 😉

    Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      I heard August is the best time of year to shop, summer clearance, fall preview. Thanks for the electronics tip.

      Reply to this message
      • Erika Grediaga

        Thank you for the tip! I guess I’ll have to do Christmas shopping in August 🙂

        Reply to this message
        • Janice Wald

          I do! Stores have what’s called Christmas in July! I guess they need the business mid-year. Thanks for writing me.

          Reply to this message
  131. kleebanks

    The only time I sorta participated in Black Friday was when I worked at a Jo-Ann Fabrics store – and then it was only because I *HAD* to be there! People were lined up before I even arrived at work – and some were rude to me, thinking I was trying to cut in line!

    I much prefer Cyber “anyday” and in fact have done most of my Christmas shopping online already!

    Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      We have a Joanne’s near us. So sorry you had a bad experience. They should have been grateful you were letting them in and out of the cold! Thanks for writing.

      Reply to this message
  132. AJ Rogers

    I don’t participate in Black Friday. My sleep and relaxation time is much more important to me. I do feel like a party pooper and left out sometimes when others want to and I don’t, but your blog made me feel much better and proved I’m not missing much – Thanks a bunch! Have a great day!

    Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Thank you so much for the validation. Your words made me feel so validated; as a new blogger, I can’t tell you how important that is. Thank you so much for sharing.

      Reply to this message
  133. Joan Harrington

    Hi Janice,

    Awesome and easy ways to avoid holiday shopping frustration! Great tips! Holiday shopping should not have to cause frustration 🙂 Thanks for sharing!

    Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Hi Joan,
      I feel like I’m getting to know you through social media. Thank you for the kind words.

      Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      So fun seeing you here! Thanks so much for getting me traffic. I had another triple digit day today! I really appreciate it.

      Reply to this message
  135. Napoleon

    They were both victims of racism. Systemic racism. Law Enforcement perceives African-Americans as dangerous and therefore are harassed. These recent decisions have reaffirmed this. As black man I can say that Black Lives don’t matter to government.

    Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      I am so sorry you are living in a day and age where this persists. I thought when Obama was elected, things would be so much better. I may blog about it again tomorrow. I’m so mad for the victims.

      Reply to this message
  136. ropafadzoprecious

    It is very sad that in this day and age we are still dealing with such primitive attitudes. There is no justification, whatsoever for killing someone (crime or no crime) everyone deserves the chance to be taken in and questioned, get a trial and sentenced.

    Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      I tried to stand up for Michael Brown (did you read my Ferguson post?) and people implied I was guilty of reverse racism! Now I am trying to stand up for Eric Garner. Racism is wrong, plain and simple.

      Reply to this message
  138. Bethany M.

    We definitely need to stand up for those suffering injustice. A tough issue to be sure, thanks for bringing it to light.

    Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Your words made me feel like a Crusader. I once wanted to be an attorney to fight for justice for people. Your comments made me feel like I did that in my blog post. Thank you for the validation.
      Janice

      Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Yes! Racism is a societal evil. I stress that when I teach how racist the Middle Ages are. Are you aware I’m a teacher? Thank you for reading what I wrote and writing me.

      Reply to this message
  140. Snarky Momma With (

    Hi Janice, I was one of those commentators who disagreed with your stance on the previous post. But I loved the post itself. But today I am torn. The video speaks for itself. That man died. The coroner said he died due to the chokehold being used. He ruled homicide. End of story as far as I am concerned. Yes, Mr. Garner was committing a crime by selling those cigarettes but he did not attack the officers. He could have cooperated more fully but I can understand his resistance to being handcuffed on the street. Yet, if he had simply stood there and let them handcuff him, he would be alive today. But that does not alleviate the truth of the issue here.

    The chokehold is banned for use in the NYPD
    .
    The officer obviously did not intend to kill Mr. Garner but this is what happened. He should have been indicted. He should have gone to trial. He probably would have been acquitted there but, he should have faced a jury. It is a totally different case than Ferguson.

    Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Interesting position. I agree with you. We are on the same side of the fence this time. I love the complimentary comments Naomi makes about your writing. I find your writing articulate and insightful as well.

      Reply to this message
  142. Judy Wasserman

    YOUR BLOGS ARE VERY INTERESTING TO READ . ONE WOULD EAGERLY AWAIT MORE TO SEE YOUR JOURNEY.

    Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Thank you so much for the praise. The adulation means the world to me. Did you like how I connected my theme to a movie? That’s what I do, connect my themes to other genres.

      Reply to this message
  143. Janice Wald

    Did my readers know the title played off the Al Pacino movie And Justice For All?

    Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Hi Debbie,
      Thanks so much for reading what I wrote and writing me. How fun to see you here! I try and write about a variety of topics. I guess my blog is still finding its “voice”. I love sharing my opinion about the news, but I realize not everybody is into that, so I try and mix it up. See you Wednesday.
      Janice

      Reply to this message
  145. Carol Graham

    I hear you and understand but I am a bit different. I have 2 stores and another business as a health coach that are all full time jobs plus I do all the bookkeeping for the stores. I am an active blogger. I travel as a motivational speaker. I have my own radio show. I also have an on-line business. Sometimes I feel a bit overwhelmed but it only lasts a day. One of the reasons is my husband is disabled as a result of a car accident and the entire household is dependent on me. I have written a booklet on organization and rarely get stressed. My gifts are bought and wrapped, Christmas baking is almost done. I never procrastinate and my motto given to me by my father works perfectly every single day — it is: Do it Right, Do it Now. I have no answers on how to avoid holiday burn-out because I have never been there – sorry.

    Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      No apologies needed Carol. It’s good not to have stress! Your dad’s motto is a good way to avoid holiday burnout. Thanks for sharing!
      Janice

      Reply to this message
  146. Amar Naik

    numbers are forced on us by bosses or in schools . during holidays time i try to avoid thinking of numbers because somewhere i know i will be back into it once i finish it.

    Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Hi Amar,
      Thank you so much for reading what I wrote and writing me. Thanks to your comment I realized my post was about numbers, and I went back in and tagged it as such. Now, more people interested in numbers can find it. So, thanks for helping me!
      Janice

      Reply to this message
  147. Joan Harrington

    Hi Janice,

    This is a great post on how to avoid holiday burnout 🙂 Enjoyed and found these 3 tips very good…thanks for sharing!

    Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Thanks Joan, as always, for your supportive comments. Happy (early) holidays.
      Janice

      Reply to this message
  148. peppylady (Dora)

    This year the holidays been so non stressful. Have a some bounds and usual it all will be good.
    Coffee is on

    Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Hi Dora,
      Thank you for writing me. The consensus seems to be that the holidays have not been stressful this year for people responding to my post. I’m glad! My husband reminded me of a 4th way I cope with everything I have to do: I multitask. Maybe the subject for a follow up blog post! I love coffee too–the more caffeine the better. Thanks for reading what I wrote and writing me.
      Janice

      Reply to this message
  149. Garry Rackley

    It never occurred to me. This is the post we should really promote! I’ll start posting it at least once or twice a week. Also, I bet it would do well in the Blog communities! At some point it might help if you count up the number of links, summarize it in one post and then pin it at the top.

    Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Hi Garry,
      Thank you so much for the support as always. I counted 16 links. Where do I post it and pin it? Post it at the top of the information?? I’m so glad you like my idea.
      Janice

      Reply to this message
  151. sophiebowns

    I really need to go on holiday.
    I think I get stressed with the packing side. However, once I’m there, I’m fine!

    Reply to this message
  152. shawn

    Great tips! Thanks for sharing. Anything to reduce or eliminate stress during the holidays (or any other time) is always welcome!

    Reply to this message
  153. knottymarie

    Oh man.. I have so much going on right now it would completely blow your mind. I try not to think about it, I just do it. My saving grace has been making lists and calendaring.

    Reply to this message
  154. icantalkoutloud

    Hello, Everyone if you would like to read about some controversial subjects then please visit my blog and give us a follow http://icantalkoutloud.wordpress.com/ I bet I have at least one subject topic you will be interested in, I vary my subjects a lot 🙂

    Reply to this message
  156. Snarky Momma With (

    I do not know how I missed THIS post out of all of your Janice. I have been loving commenting on your other postings and sitting there with my lonely blog, wishing I had people who actually wrote back to me! Lol. I must have had a blind spot on the computer screen. Thank goodness I bought a new cell phone! Cause, there it was, as soon as I checked on you today.
    So here goes..Blog is here..https://snarkymommawithlove.blogspot.com There is a subscribe by email on the right.

    or just go to http://www.SnarkyMommaWithLove.com that is my website . I am still trying to figure out how to get a subscribe button on that on.

    I will be going through the comments and reading everyone’s blogs and following.Just be patient. There seem to be quite a few of you already.
    Snarky Momma

    Reply to this message
  158. Michelle

    Great post! Thanks for the tips. One thing we try to do when it comes to holiday shopping is we start a few months early and pick things up for gifts. We are usually done by December so that takes the stress of last minute shopping away 🙂

    Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Hi,
      Profound! Thank you so much for the complimentary words. I was going to make it like a riddle. Can you find gratitude under a rock, in the breadbox… Instead, I thought the end was chilling, at least for me it had impact. When people turn lemons into lemonade (excuse the trite cliche), they are able to be grateful for what they have. Thanks for reading what I wrote and commenting.
      Janice

      Reply to this message
  161. Julia Manuel

    So pleased to hear your husband is recovering so well! Blessings, jules

    Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Hey Julia,
      Thank you so much for writing. How thoughtful of you writing me with such kind words for my husband. We got very lucky. What was the highlight of your 2014? Happy early holidays,
      Janice

      Reply to this message
      • Julia Manuel

        Of course ☺ my husband has a brutal knee, bone on bone, very painful & limiting so I can relate. Hopefully a replacement in near future. Our health is everything! My highlight to be sure is receiving the gift of a Nikon D90 DELRAY camera in the mail this week from a dear friend & photographer who’s going to mentor me in photography ☺ I’m bursting with joy!!! My first “real” camera ☺☺☺☺

        Reply to this message
        • Janice Wald

          I’m sorry to hear about your husband, but how thrilling about your camera! You should use it to take blog photos. Thanks for writing.
          Janice

          Reply to this message
  162. John Doe

    Sometimes the dealer gives you a royal flush, sometimes he gives you a pair. You have to play the cards you are dealt. It is not always the cards you have it’s what you do with them that determines your future. For those having a bad 2014, remember the good things no matter how few they were

    Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      I think that’s a beautiful philosophy. It’s a very positive outlook, and reminds me of what my husband would say. Thank you for reading what I wrote and commenting.
      Janice

      Reply to this message
  163. carla

    Sounds like you are a very humble person!
    I am grateful for my familys continued support with my life goals!

    Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Humble? What a nice thing to say. Thank you for reading what I wrote and answering my question. You are right. I am very grateful for my family’s support of my blogging and other goals. Happy (early) holidays,
      Janice

      Reply to this message
  167. Laurel Regan

    So glad your husband is healing well! And I’m glad you added your post to this week’s Gratitude Linkup – such a wonderful addition to the collection! 🙂

    Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      People are writing me nice comments. Thank you for the inspiration.
      Janice
      PS You have become one of my top commenters!

      Reply to this message
  168. Michelle

    Glad to hear your husband is healing well now! Love your post as it reminds us to always take a moment to remember what we are grateful for.

    Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Thank you so much for writing. I think it’s beautiful that I ended with an inquiry as to what others are grateful for, and you and so many others said you were happy my husband was doing well. Thanks for reading what I wrote, and writing me.
      Janice

      Reply to this message
  170. Ashley Gulla

    Aww, I love this. I’m glad it was just a cancer scare!!!! It’s funny you’re posting this today. I just wrote about 3 simple ways to change your life and practicing gratitude was numero uno on my list! It really can change your life 🙂

    Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Hi Ashley,
      I think around the holidays people do reflect, so not really a coincidence. Nice to know great minds think alike, though. 🙂 Thanks for writing me. I hope all is well.
      Janice

      Reply to this message
  171. Kathy

    Hi Janice! I just found your link over on Twitter on @Mondayblogs and then I started reading and saw you are a friend of Laurel Regan’s (which I am sorta too!) Isn’t the blogging world such an amazing way to reach out and connect with others? I LOVE gratitude and being thankful and just finished my own 30-day gratitude challenge for the month of November so I’m still in that mode. So when I saw the title of your post I just had to read. And it’s true. We CAN find gratitude everywhere if we look. Thank you for the reminder! ~Kathy

    Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Hi Kathy,
      1. Thank you for reading what I wrote and writing me.
      2. Thanks for telling me where you found my blog. It’s hard to know sometimes what I’m doing right! LOL
      3. The blogging community–it’s so great how we network. It’s become one of the joys of blogging for me. Thanks for reaching out. It was nice meeting you. Any friend of Laure’s is a friend of mine 🙂

      Reply to this message
  172. icantalkoutloud

    A truly inspirational piece of writing, I am grateful that I have beaten depression this year and I am looking forward to the next year 2015 🙂

    Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      You made it through! Focus on that. Thank you for reading what I wrote, writing me, and the support.
      Janice

      Reply to this message
  173. Joan Harrington

    Hi Janice,

    Really enjoyed your post today, thank you for sharing 🙂 There is so much to be thankful for!!! Finding gratitude daily is so important, and I am so happy to hear that your hubby is doing better and improving, tons to be thankful for!

    Great post and a fantastic share 🙂

    Thank you!

    Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Thank YOU. As you know, I consider you a blogging guru, so your opinion means such a great deal. Thanks for the kind words about Wayne.
      Janice

      Reply to this message
  174. lancequadras

    I say one line….. and you made a post out of it… Yeah now i do understand how you handle all such things on your plate!! 🙂

    Reply to this message
        • Janice Wald

          You sound like a funny guy. Fun to be corresponding with you. If you ever get insomnia again, please write; it might be motivation for a new blog post hahaha.
          Janice

          Reply to this message
          • lancequadras

            I’ll try to keep surprising ya 😉

          • Janice Wald

            I read today that someone wrote about the holidays and got a quarter of a million views of their post! If my “Holiday Burnout” post went viral, I would owe it all to you, so, yes, please, keep your one liners coming!
            Janice

          • lancequadras

            Wow, that must have been epic… Yeah, I’m hoping you get that many views too.. 😉

          • Janice Wald

            Thanks. You and me both.

  175. knottymarie

    Why do I feel like I’ve read this post before? I certainly hope your hubby heals quickly. (and be sure to make that grocery store cover ALL of the medical expenses). As you know I, too, have had a really bad year. Had a difficult time finding something to be grateful for. I was laid off from job, lost my insurance, and now Having surgery next week to hopefully eradicate cancer, 2015 can not get here fast enough.

    Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Hi,
      As far as reading the post before, I had 3 things to be grateful for this year. The first two I’d already written about which is why I linked back to those posts. I know you didn’t know about Wayne. That part was new. As far as the suing the grocery store… They are actually refusing to pay us a penny. Their stance is they keep their floor as clean as they can. We have a lawyer but our case isn’t heard until 2016 in case they want to settle sooner.
      As far as you go, yikes! I assume then, blogging has been such a blessing for you. It sounds like the preoccupation that blogging brings could not come fast enough for you.
      Thanks for sharing personal facts. They are “craptastic” 🙂 But I do like that we are getting to know each other better.
      Janice

      Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Thanks Dorothy!
      For writing, and supporting my opinion. (Seriously, though, controversy is fun too.) However, we seem to be in the minority. So far, I’ve responded to three people who disagree with us and say environment is at least as strong. I haven’t had this much debate since I said Office Darren Wilson was racist. LOL

      Reply to this message
  177. Christine Gallagher

    Hello everyone, I am very new to blogging and any tips or suggestions are more than welcome, I am going up the list from here and follow some blogs in the comments, is it ok to add an alternate email when subscribing so I don’t get a bunch emails mixed in with my blog business? Visit my blog at
    http://www.chrisyisblogging.net/

    Reply to this message
  178. Christine Gallagher

    I guess I signed up for this after I already a wordpress blog so I posted my blog links in the links section, hope that helps, sorry for the confusion I am very new at all of this =)

    Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Hi Christine, Thanks for joining us here! We were all “new” once, so don’t worry at all. I have only been blogging for five weeks myself. I appreciate you following me. Thank you. I am having trouble following you back. It keeps on spinning and saying “connection timed out.” I promise I will keep trying, and welcome, once again. We have a great group here. Nice, genuine, people.

      Reply to this message
      • Christine Gallagher

        Thank you so much, I did get a mail-chimp plugin so people can subscribe or follow via email but I am not sure if it’s working as of yet, let me know if you don’t mind and if that doesn’t work I will keep looking for a new option. thanks for the heads up.

        Reply to this message
  179. Jenn Alex Brockman

    I think in some aspects, nature wins, but our natures have changed so much and the ways our bodies are formed now is changing. nurture absolutely has an affect on behaviors and responses to our life.

    Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Hi,
      As I mentioned to Joan, I love that we are debating this age-old controversial issue! Definitely Janice fun! I know a couple, infertile, adopted two daughters who turned out NOTHING like them as far as morals, values… Sorry Joan, Dora, and Jenn… my observations and what I’ve read convince me it’s genetics that is the stronger factor.

      Reply to this message
  180. toxict15

    I am totally and completely in the same point as a “brandless” type brand that is more lifestyle than anything else. Thanks for linking up to WW

    Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Hi,
      Thank you for writing me, but please forgive my question. I’ve only been blogging for five weeks. What is WW? Is it Twitter? If yes, thanks for telling me how you found me. I always wonder what I’m doing right when I try and promote my blog.
      Janice

      Reply to this message
  181. peppylady (Dora)

    I’ve always want a DNA test. Sure genetics plays a major roll in our life. But two other things plays a choice on how we may live our life. Environment and Choice.
    Coffee is on

    Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      I love coffee too. LOL So, you think environment and DNA have equal weight in what a person is like?
      Janice

      Reply to this message
  182. Joan Harrington

    Hi Janice,

    I think that definately our environment plays a very important role, but so does our choices, like Dora says….totally agree 🙂 DNA not so much, just my thoughts 🙂 Thanks for the great post!!

    Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      1. As always, thanks for the great comments. Someone mentioned how I found a blogging community, and I thought of you. Awww…. 🙂
      2. How fun to be debating a controversial issue on my blog. I am opinionated and love supporting them, analyzing other people’s, so this is fun for me. As you read in my post, I disagree for the reasons I stated. According to Abby (while not an authority, certainly someone who has heard a lot about life), DNA is stronger. How do you explain Lisa’s story then? Thanks for writing Joan.
      Janice

      Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Hi Shawn,
      Welcome. I will follow you as soon as possible, and I hope you will follow me as well. I agree that it is important that we all “share”, “comment”, and “like” since it gets us all more traffic. I was afraid to verbalize this, so thank you. Once again, welcome. We have a nice group of people here.
      Janice

      Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Hi Shawn,
      I followed your blog via WordPress. I saw you on my list. I wanted you to know I Followed Back! By the way, thanks for your supportive feedback the last view days.
      Janice

      Reply to this message
  184. shawn

    Thanks for sharing! Even when things are down, I believe that it is for the best that we focus on the good in our lives. We tend to manifest the things our mind dwells upon. If we think down and gloomy thoughts, guess what? We’ll have down and gloom in our lifes. That doesn’t mean thinking sunshine and roses will make everything better, but it may just give us that extra mental edge when we need it most! Here’s wishing everyone an #AWEsome 2015!

    Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Hi Shawn,
      You sound like an up-beat, positive person. We should all have your attitude especially when things get down. Thanks for reading what I wrote and responding to my writing.
      Janice

      Reply to this message
  185. Dorit Sasson (

    I too agree that our environment plays a huge role, and like Joan says, so do our choices. We can outsmart our environment (if the experience wasn’t positive) if our choices are sound.

    Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      I love that people are having dialogue on my post. I hear you saying we can outsmart our environment, and I agree, but… I wrote that I felt DNA was stronger than our environment. Do you think we can outsmart our DNA…?

      Reply to this message
  186. Kelly

    You are so right. Adversity makes us prioritize, reflect, and focus on what really matters. This year I am thankful for health and safety. When either of these aren’t present, worlds are turned upside down. I hope I can help those who are experiencing unfortunate circumstances and help them as I’m able. Great post.

    Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Thank you so much. I’m glad you liked the ending. I was toying with… is it in a breadbox…? is it under a rock…? LOL I’m very lucky; my husband too. You’re right. Without health and safety (they kind of go together) we have nothing. Thanks for responding to my writing, and of course, for reading it.
      Janice

      Reply to this message
  187. akathari

    Hi All..
    http://andyzduniya.blogspot.in is my blog address. This is really a nice initiation by Janice and would like to thank her for the efforts she is making. I would take some time and check all the comments in this blog to follow you all, hoping to get follow-back from you too.

    Reply to this message
    • akathari

      Janice.. there is one tricky issue I found.. as you see my main blog is in blogspot.in but when I follow WordPress blogs I will have my wordpress ID shown. But I can not get follow-back on my real blog in this way.. bit tricky isnt it

      Reply to this message
  188. Kristen from The Road to Domestication

    This is a very thought-provoking post! I would make sure my husband, dog and cat were out, and then I would grab my portable hard drive, since it has EVERYTHING on it. That would take care of all the important documents and photos, etc. If I had time at that point, I would grab the trunk that holds all of my grandmother’s photos, too. At that point, I think I’d be feeling good at what I was able to get a hold of!

    Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Hi Kristen,
      I’ve visited your site before. Thank you for the compliment. It sounds like I may be inspiring people to get plans, so this is rewarding for me. Every thing important on my laptop I put in my Dropbox on the Internet, so I’d probably get my family members and dogs and my purse. Maybe warm clothes.

      Reply to this message
  189. Ashley Gulla

    If my apartment building was on fire the most important things I would not leave without would be: my two kids (obviously), my two dogs (again, another obvious choice), my two cats (which would be more challenging than the kids and dogs) and my laptop. I’m pretty certain everything else I could live without. I would have my daughter take my laptop and one dog. My son is too small to carry anything. My other dog and two cats would be very hard for me. This makes me think I need to get a plan in order just in case something does happen!

    Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      It would make me feel good if I motivated your family to have a plan. You never know when you might need one. How old is your little boy?

      Reply to this message
  190. knottymarie

    A few years ago one of the apartment buildings just 2 buildings away from me in my complex caught fire. I did not realize what was going on until I heard someone on my porch – it was a tv reporter doing a news story. That’s when I noticed the 7 firetrucks in the parking lot. Lots of lights, What would I take if I needed to evacuate in a hurry? I keep important documents handy, and of course I would take bank cards and my purse. I’d have to remember shoes though.. I rarely wear shoes, so I forget.

    Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Are you in a warm weather climate that you rarely wear shoes? I always wear flats; I love boots in the fall and winter, and even spring.
      I’d remember my purse, my family members and dogs (not in that order, LOL), I’d probably forget important documents. Once upon a time I heard to bring photos, but today mine are on Dropbox and Facebook.

      Reply to this message
      • knottymarie

        I live in the Pacific Northwest. But I have worked from home for the past 7 years.

        Reply to this message
  191. Susan

    Given that I live in a high fire danger area I have experienced the potential for flames to consume my home on numerous occasions. The first time I saw flames on a nearby hill while driving home with my young son…I just continued driving out of the area for concern about our safety. Another time when fires were raging I intently listened to the local news which gave out potential evacuation reports that evening. Since we live in a state known for earthquakes I always have emergency supplies in my car which include extra changes of clothing so that was already done. The family got jackets on, I got my invalid father dressed in sweats in two minutes (a record), scooped up pets with harnesses along with a box for our turtle, put my family’s most important documents as well as photo albums/portraits into two bins, loaded up everybody and everything into two cars. Then we waited for the final call to evacuate. The fire department using bull horns told us and all of the other cars line along the street and in driveways facing the direction of safety to get ready to move. In the meantime a dear friend whose husband is a Boy Scout leader readied their home with cots and such to receive 7 of us plus our three pets. Their kindness was the bright spot in the rush to avoid tragedy. We could still see flames in the distance but the next time the fire trucks came by was to tell us the evacuation was called off as the fire shifted direction away from us. When up against potential disaster one is faced with what is the most important things in life. That’s the key “life.” All the rest is just stuff.

    Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Wow! Scary times! That was nice of your neighbor whose husband is a Boy Scout to prepare to house you all. It’s the true meaning of community. Glad you’re all okay.
      Janice

      Reply to this message
  192. Joan Harrington

    Hi Janice,

    Enjoyed your post on the 2 wrong ways to evacuate 🙂 This subject of evacuation is important as it brings to mind the things and the people that are so precious to me if I ever had to evacuate from any place…..my kids and my cats are my #1 priority then I would definately want to take all of the baby photos and memories of my kids childhood……all that I could get my hands on……that is about it 🙂

    Great thought-provoking post! Thanks for sharing 🙂

    Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Thanks. It’s interesting to hear what people would bring with them if they had to leave in a hurry. I retweeted your Twitter post tonight.

      Reply to this message
  193. DebraBlock

    My mom brought her conteseptive, wiglet and photo alum. I would bring my wedding alum and scrapbooks. Debra Glock

    Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Hi Debbie,
      How great, again, to see you here! How fun too! Contraceptive? That’s funny! I agree with you since photos are irreplaceable.
      Janice

      Reply to this message
  194. Bella Silverstein

    Firstly, great post, very timely. Secondly, what a creative lesson plan you invented! You remind me of the best of the best teachers mentioned in Alfie Kohn’s excellent book, “The Schools Our Children Deserve.” Thirdly, I’m reminded of a very odd question posed by my Shakespeare professor in college. She once asked the class: If you were visiting the Louvre in Paris and it caught fire, and you were alone with the Mona Lisa and a child and could only save one, which would you choose? I thought it a very stupid question, with only one possible and extremely obvious answer. After all, paintings are man-made objects that feel no pain, produce no progeny and leave behind no grieving family. I was amazed to hear not only my classmates, but the professor as well, ponder this “dilemma” out loud and at length, long and hard, as if there were something deep to think about. I was shocked. It was my first experience with moral relativism, and the almost unbelievable differences in the way people think. But getting back to your question, the only non-humans I’d try to save in an emergency are my pets.

    Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      I agree; I’m not going anywhere without my family members and dogs. I was told you’re supposed to grab your cash and your photos. Cash you’ll need and photos are irreplaceable. Read the post I just wrote tonight on “How To Embrace Nature,” and let me know what you think. Thanks.

      Reply to this message
  195. Christine Gallagher

    In a hurry I would grab my kids and go, everything else can be replaced and the safety of your family is the most important.

    Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Hi Christine,
      My mother actually read the post and thought she looked bad, but she laughed it off, and so did I. We actually all remember the apartment fire with great humor. Thankfully, we can.

      Reply to this message
  196. carla

    I think I would wake my children and grab shoes and atleast a coat or blanket and my pet tortoise. I don’t think I would worry about much except making sure my loved ones were safe!

    Reply to this message
  197. Michelle

    Years ago when I lived in an apartment, there was a fire in the middle of the night. I remember people yelling outside the window. When I woke up enough to figure out what was going on, I grabbed my cat and pocket book which was right there and got out as quick as I could.

    Reply to this message
  198. Janice Wald

    Hi Everybody,
    I hope you are all doing well. I wanted to let you know that a blogging columnist, Weird Wally, gave our Follow to Follow page publicity in his column this week! We are blogging sensations! Here is the link if you’d like to read about us!
    http://www.blogcatalog.com/discuss/entry/is-it-worth-the-trouble-to-get-an-email-following-on-my-blog
    I guess we’re doing something right if people are mentioning us on the Internet and recommending our Follow to Follow list! Keep up the good work; we’re famous!
    Janice 🙂

    Reply to this message
  199. John Doe

    As usual I disagree with almost everything you said but I do like the way you said it

    Reply to this message
  200. Bella Silverstein

    I’ll try to by cryptic for readers who haven’t seen the movie. I liked Gone Girl, even though it was dark. My gripes: the big payoff comes in the exact center of the film, when it’s revealed what’s really going on; and the ending was a disappointment, as well as a big mismatch between what the character played by Ben Affleck knows and feels, and what he does at the end.

    Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      I agree, but it sounds like you’re criticizing the movie. Why did you like it?

      Reply to this message
  201. Carol Graham

    Love Scandal and The Black List. You are absolutely right — I think Spader is playing himself. I think How to get away with murder is a bit disjointed. I never missed an episode so I guess they know how to get you hooked,

    Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Hi Carol,
      Do you watch Orange is the New Black? One of the students is a regular on the show (he plays John, an officer in the prison) , so I’m guessing he doesn’t stick around. I found her character wasn’t likeable, and my husband told me she gets worse in future shows, so I never watched another episode. I want to try and pick up Nashville. My kids love it.

      Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Me too. I hope readers get that’s what is funny about my review. I’m critiquing performances and shows I haven’t seen! I’m doing it again on Sunday for the comedies!

      Reply to this message
  203. Ashley Gulla

    Oh wow, I loved Gone Girl. I think it was Ben’s best acting performance to date!

    Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Hi Ashley,
      Did you read my scathing review of Gone Girl: How to Save Two Hours of Your Life? What did you think of the plot? Why would they reconcile at the end? They hated each other.

      Reply to this message
  205. K. Renae P.

    1. I’m so excited about ‘Into the Woods’!! I hope it is everything and more.
    2. I love Louie and Louis CK. I get how many people don’t. I’m actually excited (and surprised) that he is nominated for best actor.
    3. Madonna as Evita still breaks my heart to this day.

    Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Hi,
      I’m so glad we are following each other. We have a lot in common, even movie preferences it sounds like. You might inspire me to take a WordPress course like you did. Can I ask a question though? In your post you said that you’ve been blogging six month so you have 1/16 knowledge. I didn’t understand what you meant. Can you explain? Thanks. You have such an impressive blog. I can see by the amount of comments you get that you have a strong following.
      Janice

      Reply to this message
      • Janice Wald

        PS I’m sitting here staring at the stats like you did, but I have to go lesson plan.

        Reply to this message
      • K. Renae P.

        I tried to figure out how much of an expert I was mathematical. So I decided I was about 1/16 of an expert . It is a pretty low number, but I’m not much of an expert yet. 🙂

        The WP courses are great and you can meet a lot of supportive bloggers. I like you work at your own pace. Thanks again.

        Reply to this message
          • K. Renae P.

            Yes. And you can do as much or as little as you choose. I did Blogging 101 about a month after I started. I think it’s the only reason I’m still blogging. It helps you understand all the ins and outs of basic blogging.

        • Janice Wald

          I like the idea of meeting new bloggers. Maybe I’ll look into it when I’m home over Xmas break. Thanks for sending me the information.
          Janice

          Reply to this message
          • Janice Wald

            I’m really looking for increasing blog traffic ideas, but I saw they have that course.

          • Janice Wald

            Do you have any tips that worked for you?

    • Janice Wald

      Did you read my review Sophie? I actually called it “How to Save Two Hours of Your Life!” I meant it too; I thought it was awful. The people I went with liked it, but I’m still not sure what they found redeeming about it. Someone wrote and complimented Ben’s acting. Okay, to each their own!

      Reply to this message
  208. queenmommyjen

    I have never seen Oculus, but my cursor for the Roku has lingered on it a few times! Great list! This time of year can be so overwhelming we really have to set limits for ourselves!

    Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Hi Jen!
      “Oculus” might be a good rental for what it was worth. I don’t want to divulge anything, but I’m tempted to. I don’t want to give you a spoiler alert. If you see it, you can write me again and we can compare opinions. We saw Brendan Thwaite in the Giver, but it was really the woman who played his sister who I thought carried the movie. Someone actually suggested I become an entertainment blogger yesterday. I don’t think I will since I like offering my opinions about many topics, but I sure do love reviewing movies and television shows. I have a review set to go on Salmon Fishing in the Yemen with Emily Blunt. Thanks again for reading my writing and reaching out to me with your comments. I appreciated your compliments. An entertainment blogger, no. An advice blogger, sure thing! 🙂
      Janice

      Reply to this message
  209. queenmommyjen

    We did a ton of Black Friday shopping, but all online in our house. It was fabulous! We also love Cyber Monday and scored some much needed computer items for my husband’s business. You have to be smart though and not just buy it crazily. We do a ton of research and buy only the items we know are a good price and deal!

    Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Hi Jen!
      Thank you for reading what I wrote and writing to me. I’m glad you did well on Cyber Monday. As I said in my post, the one year I tried, all I could find was a few scarves because electronics were fair market items. I wonder how you were able to find computer items. I would think those would be fair market too. You did get lucky. If you have the time to do research, that is definitely the way to go. Was it Amazon.com?

      Reply to this message
  210. Scott

    I haven’t seen a single one of those you mentioned, so cannot comment on their worthiness. There has to be more comedies in the category!

    Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      I said in my post that I only addressed the ones I had knowledge about (at least I thought I did–I wrote about the dramas two days ago, so maybe I said it in that post LOL. At any rate, you ask, you shall receive! Here is the link to all the nominees. http://www.goldenglobes.com/2015_72nd_Golden_Globes_Nominees Thank you for reading what I wrote and taking the time to write to me.
      Janice
      PS Someone suggested I become an entertainment blogger yesterday! I don’t think I will specialize. I like airing my “Reflections” about all sorts of things :).

      Reply to this message
  211. salmadinani

    I actually haven’t seen any of the ones you mentioned, but they sound interesting!

    Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Into the Woods comes out Xmas Day so there’s time! Thanks for the nice comments.

      Reply to this message
  213. Celeste (Leapfrogandlipgloss.com)

    I went shopping for Black Friday this year just for the fun of it… I didn’t end up with much, but I never do this sort of thing and just wanted to see what the big deal was. Usually I like to buy gifts throughout the year to spread out my finances.

    Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Hi,
      I like to start shopping in July. Great “Christmas in July” sales and gives me lots of time to gift wrap. Thanks for reading what I wrote and writing me.
      Janice

      Reply to this message
  216. carla

    I don’t tend to watch many programmes or films right now so I’ve no idea about most of the ones you talk about. I am however very intrigued!

    Reply to this message
  217. knottymarie

    I dont watch the awards. I think they are just an excuse for a party, and everyone has a different perception of what is ‘good’. I do think James Spader plays himself, Have you seen any of his earlier work? I’ve enjoyed binge-watching House of Cards, but to get the full appreciation of the show, you should watch the UK version as well.

    Reply to this message
  218. Pingback: How to Get Rid of Racist Cops
  219. Cynthia

    Hello everyone. I am a new blogger and of course looking for followers. I will gladly follow back. thank You 🙂

    Reply to this message
  221. chroniclesofacoldtexan1

    I’m a bit behind, but am trying to follow everyone. I’m not techy to i’m having to do a lot of back and forth and I’m losing my place figuring out who I followed and who I accidentally passed.

    Reply to this message
  222. Tom Kindon

    Thanks for the link, Janice!

    Hello everyone, I’m a relatively new blogger, and i cover everything fashion related! This varies from menswear and womenswear, to my life as a fashion student! I post atleast 3 times a week, and try to make my posts unique and interesting.
    Check me out!

    Reply to this message
  223. Carol Graham

    Is there a way you could make a list of all the contributing bloggers? I don’t know who I missed and who I got as the thread gets longer and longer. That would be a tremendous help as I want to be sure we all get to follow each other.

    Reply to this message
  224. gigarack

    You want to keep it at the top of the page so if you don’t see a way to pin it there you could edit your original post and say something like Update 12-16-14: blah
    Blah
    Blah
    Then next month you could just change the date and add the additions. Just an idea.

    Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Gary is it possible to embed a doc in a blogpost?

      Sent from my iPhone

      >

      Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      When you say the top, are you saying just make it part of the page information or the first comment. I could easily add a bulleted list to the page info!

      Sent from my iPhone

      >

      Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Good idea to give the date I updated it last. Check the top of the page out now. Better?

      Reply to this message
  225. gigarack

    I’m not sure….you could load it to a cloud service and link to that. Or couldn’t you just copy and paste the document in a comment? Long pressing on a comment brings up several options such as edit or delete on my android phone. With Blogger from the laptop it is edited from the dashboard.

    Reply to this message
  226. Janice Wald

    I just wanted to make sure everyone knows there is now a Master List at the top of the page. This should make it easier to know who we have already followed, and who we still need to follow back.
    Janice

    Reply to this message
  227. knottymarie

    Thank you Janice. I would also like to remind everyone here that if you are asking to be followed, your page should have something on it that makes it easy to follow with. New blogspot users are especially bad at forgetting to include this on their page, I’ve noticed. Keep in mind, not everyone wants to follow via RSS feed.

    Reply to this message
  228. batteredhope

    Thank you so much Janice — this is awesome. I will go through it and make sure I am following everyone.

    Reply to this message
  229. lysamebee

    What a great list with even better tips to avoid holiday burnout this year. Thanks for sharing.

    Wishing you a wonderful week!
    xx
    Lysa

    Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      You too Lysa. What a nice person you sound like! Thanks again for the compliments on my writing. The validation means a lot.
      Janice

      Reply to this message
      • lysamebee

        Thank you Janice for the sweet compliment and I’m glad my words were the validation you needed… I feel honored to have been able to do that for you!
        xx
        Lysa

        Reply to this message
  230. lysamebee

    This year I didn’t leave the house or go online for Black Friday but Cyber Monday was a great day to be me online as I found some steals! Although I still have some presents to buy I’m thankful that I have Amazon Prime…lol I don’t deal well with the holiday crowds so the rest of my shopping will also be done online unless my husband forces me out of the house!

    Wishing you a wonderful week!
    xx
    Lysa @ Welcome to My Circus

    Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Hi,
      Thank you for writing me! I am so excited about your Wednesday Linky! Thanks for Emailing me about it. Is it every Wednesday? I love Amazon Prime as well. My husband sees the yearly membership fee pays for itself. Thanks again for inviting me to your Linky. What does holding a Linky entail? I am interested in doing it. Thanks for writing me.
      Janice

      Reply to this message
      • lysamebee

        Yes it is every Wednesday but we usually go live on Tuesday… So you can get in on the top of the list. I’m just co-hosting the Linky but I can find out exactly what it entails for you and let you know. Oh and you are very welcome!
        xx
        Lysa

        Reply to this message
  231. Roseanne

    Thank you for the invite, Janice. I am so glad you started this. I think it is going to be a great asset to all of us! 🙂

    Reply to this message
  232. Ashley Tukiainen

    I think I’ve managed to follow everyone except the select few who don’t have follow or subscription boxes

    Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Thank you so much for this validation! Please feel free to share! Thank you! Janice

      Sent from my iPhone

      >

      Reply to this message
  235. Tami Principe

    Music is so important in our lives. It brings peace where there is chaos. It soothes the soul. Nice blog.

    Reply to this message
  236. Tom Kindon

    Hi Janice, I also see no follow button on your site, but it might be because I’m on the mobile site. I’ll check the iPad site later. There is also a widget on the side of my blog on the desktop or iPad site to allow you to follow me!

    Reply to this message
  237. Joan Harrington

    Hi Janice,

    Music is so very important as I agree with Tami, it definately brings more peace and it soothes the soul, I find that listening to music brings a kind of soothing peace to me 🙂 Great post! Nice share!

    Reply to this message
  238. Barbara

    I agree. Music lifts our spirits. I even went so far as to only put music with positive lyrics in my iTunes library. No, I don’t even want to sing a sad song. (one exception, I love the whole Carole King Tapestry album)

    Reply to this message
  239. Fantabulous Frugal Finds

    Hello,
    My name is Christy and I am new to blogging, and currently run a money maker/saver page.
    Check it out.

    FantabulousFrugalFinds.blogspot.com

    Reply to this message
  240. batteredhope

    Thank you for making the list Janice. I went through the whole thing again to be sure I was following everyone. Four of the bloggers do not have follow buttons. Also, for those of you who only have a Follow me at Bloglovin button — rarely will that get you followers. I will click on the button but you have to scroll through so many blogs to find the ones you want to read. The follow by email is so much better — then I can see instantly your post title in my inbox and decide immediately if I want to read it.

    Reply to this message
  243. joanncrohn

    I love Green Day. We went to go see their musical a few years ago where most of these songs were featured. Its amazing how so much of their music is rather insightful when they’re regarded by most people as just a pop/ punk band.

    Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Hi,
      I wanted to write about music which I hadn’t done before, and then the horror in Pakistan occurred and the economic problems in Russia. I thought combining them would send a message, so I researched the meaning of the songs. I always felt Green Day’s music was anti-war but I had a debate with someone who vehemently disagreed with me, so I Googled meanings. It was someone I went to see American Idiot with. It turns out you and I are both right–definitely insightful, hopefully not prophetic…
      Thank you for reading what I wrote (my very first music post!) and writing me.
      Janice

      Reply to this message
  244. findingmysunshine86

    Congratulations! And wow thanks for the nomination! I only just saw it 🙂 I will complete all the stuff then get back to you 🙂

    Reply to this message
  246. Alana Mautone (

    I had not seen the movie (and I watch few movies, compared to many other people). I had wondered about the title, which I loved. Now I know something about the story.

    Reply to this message
  247. Amy

    I’d love to see this movie, after reading your review! It really does sound intriguing.

    Reply to this message
  249. mariet

    I sometimes feel overwhelmed by the amount of things that has to be done in an active household with five kids.
    My family started saying: ‘do what is in front of you.’
    For us it means not worrying too much about everything and focusing on what needs to be done first.
    I like your personal reward system and think I will get my kids to give it a try.

    Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Hi,
      Thank you for reading what I wrote and writing me. I’ve actually shared that “personal reward” system with parents at Back to School Night. Let the students do 10 math problems and then take a break, etc. It was well received then too. You’ve reminded me to go back in and tag it “parenting”. I think it could help them as well as others. Thanks for the feedback. Janice

      Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Watch it with your daughter. My middle daughter Hayley and I watched it together. As I mentioned, it was a nice evening, and we got to analyze it afterward.

      Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Hi Lux,
      Thank you so much for reading what I wrote and writing to me. I’m glad we agree on PEOPLE’S choice. So far, no one has disagreed!

      Reply to this message
  252. John Doe

    Again your blog is a home run You are on a roll. Keep the good ones coming

    Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Hi Mary,
      1. I was glad to hear you’re home from the hospital.
      2. Thanks for writing!
      3. I meant to write to you that I love Lady Gaga but never got the chance.
      Merry Christmas my new blogging friend.

      Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Hi Mary Were you aware I dedicated a post to you? How to find instant happiness

      Sent from my iPhone

      >

      Reply to this message
      • knottymarie

        I didn’t know. I know I removed a post from the main page. It needs to be posted in the comments of the pinned post. The main page is for blogging tips and questions and for our other weekly threads.

        Reply to this message
        • Janice Wald

          Mary,
          Don’t you follow my blog? You should have gotten this in your Email. At any rate, here’s the link so you can see it. I dedicated the post to you and linked back to your site. It’s about music which is your theme. http://wp.me/p5jxvv-9p Happy New Year!
          Janice

          Reply to this message
          • knottymarie

            I do follow your blog. I don’t have it coming to my email because I get too much Email as it is. Also I should point out I was in the hospital when you wrote the article so I wouldn’t have seen it right away. Thank you for the shout out in the post. Did you know the link to my blog is http://www.jinglejanglejungle.net ?

          • Janice Wald

            No. I didn’t know. I went back into the post and fixed it Thank you for letting me know, and you’re welcome. My pleasure. I feel you’ve given me a lot of valuable time and information. I was happy to do it. I’m sorry the link was wrong.
            Janice

          • Janice Wald

            By the way, thank you for the active Linky party list. I have now bookmarked your site, and I’ll be going often–possibly daily. Great way to get traffic Mary! Good idea!

  254. knottymarie

    December is always full of hustle and bustle. But I also enjoy the sounds and smells of Spring in April.

    Reply to this message
  255. John Doe

    I think there was a lot of thought in this post. Your conclusion you reap what you sow says it all. If your kids turned out the way you wanted and you are proud of who they are then you did a great job. Perfection is a realatve word in this sense. I substituted the word great job. It sounds like you raised three girls that go or went to college,are sweet, and did not get pregnant. That sounds like perfect parenting to me

    Reply to this message
  256. Chinemerem Ifeoluwa

    you did a great job. Parents need to balance being parents and being friends with their children at the same time, by so doing, your children will know that there is a thin line between you being a loving, friendly, understanding parent and a strict parent who disciplines her/his children. #join me at http://www.nemerulez.blogspot.com

    Reply to this message
  257. Alana Mautone (

    For me, the best month is May – spring has come to my upstate New York and there is green, and flowers, everywhere. But December, with its lights and its aromas, can be nice, too.

    Reply to this message
  258. BritishMumUSA

    Ooooooooh, I love this post… Thank goodness there is another parent out there that recognizes that a) each parent is different, so how the heck can you write a book on perfection b) no one is perfect, NO ONE!!! We are constantly learning and growing, so how can one be perfect??? I parent with humor, sarcasm, and wine on occasion 😉 I have never wanted to be their friend as they grow up, I have always wanted to be their mum. Friends leave, let down don’t tell you the truth. I won’t leave any time soon, I will do my up most not to let you down, and I will always tell you the truth. (Yep, that outfit is ugly) I have a 17 y/o who will be leaving next year for San Francisco to study, we live in the Midwest, I know I have done a good job as she feels comfortable enough to go and do this. I also have a 12 y/o who is rocking it.. Yep we butt heads on occasion, it could be daily, weekly or monthly, but you know what they come home, they live, they laugh and they cry and they go out there and make me proud. Again, I love this post, it is REAL!!!!!!

    Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      Hi,
      1. Thank you so much for your kind words, specifically your last sentence. You’re the only one who has written that comment to me. I always write from the heart. The truth I write comes from the personal experiences I’ve lived and observed.
      2. You sound like a great mom. Sometimes I wish I could be funnier, and other times I feel I’m so funny I will lose their respect. We walk a fine line.
      3. I love the way you compare Moms to friends, and Moms come out the winner. I may quote you.
      Thank you again for reading what I wrote, commenting, and your flattering words.
      Janice

      Reply to this message
        • Janice Wald

          Thank you so much, and again for getting my writing exposure. I put it on my “About” page that you are regularly featuring my writing.
          Janice

          Reply to this message
          • NIMWOwl

            Ms Wald, have you written anything for Young Parents concerning dealing with day-to-day stress?
            I am getting ideas, and asking Our Circle for their ideas on drawing young Parents on Google to Our Circle. Our Circle is Role-Model Rich, and all very good people, and Parents. Many of these young parents just might benefit from the wisdom and family-oriented environment of Our Circle.
            I am getting more and more caughtup, so I also have more and more time for reading, but feel free to point me in a direction when you can Please..
            GOD Bless You and Your Family,
            Aida

  259. John Doe

    I am so happy you have realized on a consistent basis the short comings of your beloved president. Keep up the digs. They are refreshing.

    Reply to this message
    • Janice Wald

      I have no comment to your criticism of our president, but I am glad you find my writing “refreshing”.

      Reply to this message