20 years of blogging: a look back
As if I don’t feel old enough, I just realized I’ve been blogging for 20 years. 20 years! Now bring me my cane and get off my lawn.
Wait, I live in Tucson. I don’t have a lawn.
Dammit.
Now, where was I? Oh, yeah–blogging. What prompted the painful observation that I’ve been blogging since Bush 2 was president? This month’s IWSG question (thanks so much, Ninja Captain Alex J. Cavanaugh). In case you’re new here, the IWSG (Insecure Writers Support Group) is a monthly blog hop. On the first Wednesday of every month, we IWSG-ers share our doubts, fears, struggles, and triumphs. Our awesome co-hosts this month are T. Powell Coltrin, Natalie Aguirre, Pat Garcia–and me! This month’s optional question: How long have you been blogging? (Or on Facebook/Twitter/Instagram?) What do you like about it and how has it changed?
My blogging history
I started a blog called Janet’s Soapbox (yes, really) on Blogger in 2004, almost as soon as I learned what blogging was. I’d always wanted to write, and finally I had a platform. Wahoo! I blogged there off and on for about 12 years. In 2005 I started a gardening blog (Rainy Day Gardening) on Blogger, which I maintained for about 8 years. In 2016 I started a new gardening blog (Gardening with Altitude and Attitude) about my attempts to garden in a volcano field at 7000 feet elevation. I maintained that blog (very on and off) for about 3 years till I moved to Tucson.
The blog you’re reading now began with political commentary in 2016, when I was home sick with pneumonia during election season and getting crankier by the nanosecond. I vented for a few posts then decided I lacked the intestinal fortitude to be a political blogger (and it was bad for my blood pressure). I abandoned the blog until September 2019, when I decided to get more serious about my writing. I unpublished all the political posts and turned this place into an author blog (see my first post here – with a gratuitous pic of my dearly departed greyhound, Maddie).
So yeah, I’ve been blogging a long time.
Observations from 20 years of blogging
I’m sure a lot of folks will disagree, but I don’t think blogging has changed a whole lot in 20 years, at least compared to other communication tech. Themes have gotten more sophisticated, some blogs have taken off and become huge moneymakers for their creators, search engine optimization has become a very big deal, and to some degree blogging has been superseded by social media. But the experience of blogging is quite similar to what it was in 2004, at least for casual bloggers like me.
And really, the biggest thing I’ve learned from 20 years of blogging is just that: I’m a casual blogger. I write about my life, I make a lot of cheesy jokes, and I have fun. When I started this author blog, I tried to get more serious about it. I spent a lot of time redesigning the blog, I tried to learn about SEO, I tried to write about topics that would bring me an audience. I built a (very small) audience, but I don’t think I did that through SEO or thoughtful topics or branding or any of that stuff.
Blogging is about community
I built it through community. I joined blog hops (like this one) and commented on other people’s blogs. In an age of boundless information and AI and internet marketing and constant notifications, many of us are hungry for community. For connection. For friendship and an antidote to the isolation of our interconnected yet disconnected world. So if you’re reading this, thank you.
Thank you for being a part of this community. Of my community. And for allowing me to be a part of yours.
So where’ve I been lately?
After writing all that about blogging and community, I have a confession to make: I’ve pulled back from blogging this year. A lot.
Why? 3 reasons:
- Exhaustion and burnout. Towards the end of last year, I felt like I was on a treadmill that would not shut off. Work. Writing. Blogging. Chores. Rinse. Repeat. And what downtime I had was “collapse in exhaustion” downtime rather than “go do something fun with people I love” downtime. It was all too much. I wanted my weekends back.
- Work. I have a demanding job. Enjoyable, but demanding. And those demands were increasing. Some of that was self-inflicted. I’m an academic, and I’d like to go up for promotion in a couple of years, so I was editing a book and doing research and taking on significant service obligations as well as some big projects. The hours got longer, and I got tired-er.
- Health. I’ve dealt with intermittent fatigue for years (since the pneumonia in 2016, to be precise). I started getting serious about working with my doctor to figure out what’s wrong. Then at the beginning of this month I landed in the ER, and I’ve spent the rest of the month with a new medication regimen and appointments with multiple specialists and a biopsy and, and, and… now I have COVID again. I don’t mean to whine. I’m incredibly lucky, and I know it: lucky to have access to excellent medical care, lucky that there’s nothing wrong that will kill me, lucky my life is pretty dang good. But if you’ve ever dealt with this kind of thing, you know it’s exhausting and frustrating.
What I’m learning is that there are seasons in life. Times when we focus on career, on family, on a side gig or hobby (like writing/blogging). But it’s really hard to give 100% to all of those things at once. I know. I tried, and I got burned out, exhausted, and sick. Don’t be me.
So I’ll still be around. I plan to keep this blog going as long as someone wants to read my drivel (please… tell me you want to read my drivel). But posts will likely be fewer for awhile as I navigate health stuff and work stuff and figure out a new, healthier balance in my life.
And… that’s enough seriousness. It’s time for:
The memery
I’d probably have at least 60 tabs open if Windows didn’t make me reboot once in awhile.
This is painfully true. Especially when those people are my co-workers.
And finally, this has nothing to do with writing, but it’s hilarious. This is an actual billboard I saw in Las Vegas:
It’s the #OhFudge that really sends me.
Happy IWSG Day to all who celebrate! Find my older IWSG posts here.
67 Comments
Susanne
I’ve always thought your blog is so pleasant! I definitely want to read what you want to share!
So sorry to hear about your health issues. And getting Covid on top of that! Do you have things figured out now so you can take your medications and move on?
I mostly agree with you that blogging hasn’t changed a lot in 20 years (I’ve been doing it on and off since 2008) when it comes to the writing, communiity etc, but it’s all the things on the sides, people making money off of it which has changed many other aspects of blogging (SEO, monetizing, same-ish content everywhere, the use of blogs as marketing etc) but not so much if you continue doing it as a hobby. I started my current blog as an accountability tool for myself but then I joined a link-up and I’m loving the community I found. I also sort of try to attract a certain audience but haven’t really worked hard enough on that yet.
Janet Alcorn
Thank you so much for the kind words!
Some health stuff is figured out, mostly ruling things out and getting used to a new medication/therapy regimen that takes about an hour a day. So much for my morning writing time. But I’m alive and mostly well, and I’ll adapt.
Link-ups are great! I was in several, but I’ve taken a break b/c I struggled to make time to visit everyone else. I hope to rejoin when life calms down a bit.
Natalie Aguirre
You’ve been blogging way longer than me. I agree with you that blogging is about community, and I’m so grateful for the IWSG.
And yes, there are seasons in life. I went through a hard phase after my husband when I had too much on my plate and was depressed and had to cut down my blogging. It’s okay to slow down when you need to, but don’t lose all you’ve gained through blogging my disappearing. Maybe just blog for IWSG for awhile. I hope you feel healthier soon.
Janet Alcorn
Thanks, Natalie. And don’t worry–I won’t disappear. My plan is to do just what you suggested–blog only (or primarily) for IWSG–until I settle into my new normal.
Joanne
I’ll happily read your drivel! 😉 I don’t really remember how long I’ve been blogging for… maybe 11 years or so and while I too tried to have a “real” go at blogging I too am happier as a hobby blogger. I blog for the community and I’m pretty sure the one I have now grew organically when I finally started leaving comments on the blogs that I was regularly reading. Eventually I “met” other bloggers mostly through link parties and now I have so many I enjoy reading and checking in with.
Janet Alcorn
Leaving comments on other blogs is one of the best ways to grow a following. The challenge, of course, is that it takes time–consistently dedicated time. I need to get better about using my downtime for that instead of mindlessly scrolling Twitter and Reddit.
Carolyn Graessle
Wow! It has been that long. Keep writing when you can. I enjoy reading your blogs; perhaps it is because I can hear your voice. ;-). I hope you feel better sooner.
Janet Alcorn
LOL, yeah, you probably have a better sense of my snarkiness than most of my readers, seeing as how you had to deal with me in person when I was even less mature and more obnoxious.
I’ll definitely keep writing. I just need to find a sustainable schedule for it again. I’ll get there.
Denise Covey
I started a travel blog in 2007, then morphed into writing, and it seems a long time, but you’ve been at it way longer. You said you don’t think blogging has changed much. You’re correct up to a point. It’s we who change as our interests and motivations change. I really like the feel of your blog.
Janet Alcorn
Thanks! And I agree—we change more than blogging itself. And that’s actually pretty cool. We can watch and interact with people as they move through the seasons of their lives.
Sonia Dogra
Wow, it was great to read about your journey and the different blogs you had. It’s almost been like changing jobs. I am so impressed and inspired.
Janet Alcorn
Aww, thanks! I’ve enjoyed playing with different topics while trying to find my voice.
alexjcavanaugh
Really sorry you’ve had fatigue that long. They do need to find out what is causing it – and fix it. However, after reading all that, I can tell you are a fighter. And twenty years of blogging? You win!
Thanks for co-hosting today. Hopefully despite all that is happening, you don’t give up this blog. I blog once a month just so I don’t wear myself out, so I hope that works for you.
Janet Alcorn
Thanks. And no worries—I have no intention of giving up my blog. IWSG gives me a great reason to post regularly without overtaxing my time.
Kristina Kelly
You started about 4 years before me! I also deleted a lot when I decided to focus more on writing related content. That didn’t help me get people to read it either. Ha. I’m thinking about changing up my social media habits and try interacting on more blogs.
Janet Alcorn
I also need to focus more on interacting with other blogs instead of scrolling socials. It’s hard, though, when I’m brain dead at the end of a workday.
Liza
I think blogging is about connecting with people too. I’m so grateful for the folks I’ve met as the years have progressed. Thank you for hosting this month’s IWSG.
Janet Alcorn
Absolutely! It’s all about connection and community. Thanks for stopping by!
T. Powell Coltrin
Well, get me a cane, too. I started my blog in 2009. I stayed at it for years. Now I’m in and out but hoping to get back full time.
Janet Alcorn
I hope to get back to regular blogging too. Right now I’m in a weird transition period and haven’t quite found my footing.
Toi Thomas
Happy IWSG Day! Thanks for co-hosting this month.
Thank you for sharing your story. Blogging for me has also been a up and down experience but I’ll keep doing it for as long as I can, as long as I have a place to do it. It’s okay to pull back if that’s what’s going to give you the most success.
Janet Alcorn
Happy IWSG Day! I’ll keep doing it too, just have to find a better balance with everything else in my life.
Diane Burton
I like that you have fun blogging. It shows in your humor and longevity. Thanks for cohosting this month.
Janet Alcorn
Thanks! Blogging is fun. It’s just hard to carve out the time sometimes.
Lynn
I love your sense of humor, especially the opening. I send you thoughts of encouragement and healing as you regain your health. Thank you for co-hosting our April blog-hop.
Cheers to Janet and IWSG from Lynn @ Lynn La Vita
Janet Alcorn
Thanks so much! I’m always happy to bring the laughs.
Lidy
Thanks for co-hosting!
Wow 20 years? You’re ahead of me by nine years. Of course I didn’t think I’d still be blogging as long as I have. Only started after reading a blog saying how blogging is a good way to build your author platform. Even if you don’t have anything published yet. Because by then you’d more than likely have your own following/reader’s base.
Hope you reach your new, healthier balance soon.
PS That memery is so me. I have multiple tabs open. Windows too. It shocks my sons and hubby on how I have so many of them. But TG for restore and ‘history’ because I don’t know what I’d do if lost it all.
Janet Alcorn
I think blogging can be a good way to build an author platform, but it’s so hard to carve out an audience when there’s so much competing for people’s attention. The other challenge I have is balancing time spent blogging with time for writing fiction (and my day job and chores and family time and sleep and relaxation and…)
Lidy
So true to both. The struggle is real. And so are the friendships made which makes it a bit worthwhile.
Loni Townsend
Gah! That sucks with the health issues. I got pneumonia some 8 years ago and it took me out of the game for a long while. I recall trying to run a 5K within the months that followed and I had to walk the whole way. I hope the doctors get you back on track because it really sucks. And I do enjoy reading your posts, but I totally understand that your health (both mental and physical) comes first. Sending positive vibes your way!
Janet Alcorn
Thanks so much! Pneumonia is awful. It took me about 18 months to feel like I’d come back to anything close to baseline, and of course I still have some lingering issues. I’m glad you enjoy the posts. I’ll keep at it, just at a slower pace for awhile.
PJ Colando
I’m a casual blogger, too, and crave reading your ‘drivel’. Your spunk is discernible, Janet – in living and in writing! Via your future promotion dreams –
Janet Alcorn
Thanks so much!
cleemckenzie
Recharge and keep going! I’m sure your blog would be greatly missed.
I agree that blogging hasn’t changed much, but the look and feel of the sites are sleeker and there are more “gadgets” to catch the eye.
Thanks for today’s great post and for co-hosting.
https://cleemckenziebooks.substack.com/
Victoria M. Lees
Thank you so much for cohosting this month, Janet. And yes! I will read your “drivel.” It’s entertaining. And please, please be careful with your health. You are needed by many. Including we readers of IWSG. Stay strong. I’m praying for you!
Janet Alcorn
Thanks very much. I’m not used to dealing with health stuff (I know, I’ve been very lucky), so I’m still figuring out the balance between being careful and not letting illness take over my life. It’ll take time.
Melissa Maygrove
I agree about feeling like being on a treadmill. I’m reducing my work hours to help with that…also getting more organized and trying to work smarter.
Thanks for co-hosting. 🙂
Janet Alcorn
Yes to organization and working smarter! I’m not at a place where I can reduce work hours much, but I can change how I work so I can be more effective in less time (and I can stop overcommitting myself. I really need to learn the word, “no.”)
Nancy Gideon
Emotional and physical burnout is a real thing! Sometimes you just have to STOP and think of yourself first and foremost (I know. What a strange and unique concept!). I’m OCD/ADD so I absolutely HAVE to get things done . . . maybe tomorrow. If not for that last minute . . . LOVE Tuscon. One of my bestie critique group pals moved there from here in Michigan and visiting her was wonderful – especially at Book Festival time. My retirement dream – oh, yeah, I am retired!
Janet Alcorn
Oh, the book festival is fabulous! If you ever come out here for it, let me know–would love to meet up and say hi in person.
And you’re right about putting ourselves first. For me, that looks like being more selective about the commitments I take on, something that’s always been hard for me.
Nancy Gideon
Thanks for co-hosting this month, Janet! I know I you feel about that treadmill – unfortunately, it doesn’t help fat burn or tone no matter how much time I expend on blogging! But it’s so much fun with friends.
Janet Alcorn
I really think writing should count as exercise!
emaginette
You need to take care of yourself first. We’ll still be here if you need us. 🙂
Anna from elements of emaginette
Joyana Peters
Thanks for co-hosting this month. I’m just getting started in the IWSG community and am looking forward to getting to know everyone more. Reading about your blogging journey has certainly helped. Community really does make the treadmill life feel less tedious!
Janet Alcorn
Welcome to the IWSG! This is such a kind, supportive community. I hope you love it.
jlennidorner
It’s amazing how looking back can help us see where to go next. Or just make us feel old. Ha ha ha. Great post, really. I’m glad you shared it and I got to read it today.
Janet Alcorn
Thanks! Definitely hear you on the feeling old thing. Someone posted on X-Twitter last night about 1984 being 40 years ago, and I wanted to curl up in a fetal position and cry.
Samantha Bryant
I’m amazed how time flies myself. Congrats on 20 years though and all the community you’ve built in that time! @samanthabwriter from
Balancing Act
Janet Alcorn
Thanks!
Olga Godim
Yes, you’re right. Having fun and building your community are two of the most important reasons for blogging, at least they are for me.
Janet Alcorn
Yep! Without the community, it’s just the electronic version of shouting into the void.
F. Stone, Author
Life can be a royal pain. When my husband died, I lost the desire to do much of anything. Just keeping up with adapting to a different way of living occupied my time and sucked out all creative impulses. Something told me to be patient, allow time to reawaken my passions. It worked. Blessings to you
Janet Alcorn
I’m so sorry for your loss.
Time and patience really are key to adapting to change and finding a new balancing point. I’m learning–slowly–to be patient with myself.
mlouisebarbourfundyblue
Please, Janet, I want to continue to read your drivel! And thank you so much for co-hosting today, especially when you have so much going on. I love to blog, and that’s because of all the relationships I’ve built through blogging over the years. I’m not planning to go anywhere! Take care! feel better!
Janet Alcorn
Thanks! Co-hosting is fun even though it takes time. I love catching up with everyone and having the reminder that I’m still a part of this wonderful community.
Jemima Pett
That’s a wonderful post, and I’m in accord with nearly everything. In fact, it reminded me that I have been blogging for much longer than Jemima says, since my alter ego has various ancient free WordPress sites around the blogoverse, and I even had a couple of pre- WordPress basic html websites. On one I masqueraded as Hermione Grainger… it was after book 4 or 5, I think! And I was convinced I couldnt write…. Insecure writer indeed. Gosh…it takes me back!
Keep doing what you can, and rest when you can’t.
And thanks for co-hosting this month!
Janet Alcorn
Thanks!
I remember building websites in raw HTML, both for work and personal stuff. I got pretty good at hand coding, but now it’s been so long, I have to look up even the most basic HTML.
Kate
Gah! I know exactly what you mean about life getting in the way and not being able to give 100% to everything. The last few years have definitely been about work for me and my writing output has suffered so much as a result.
Janet Alcorn
Sometimes the day job has to take priority. I’m definitely in that phase of life right now.
Rebecca Douglass
Love the memes!
And you’ve been blogging since well before I knew what a blog was… which mostly says something about how old I am, not the other way around, since I’m sure younger people figured that stuff out well before I did.
Janet Alcorn
I’m a librarian, and the library where I was working did an online workshop series on emerging technologies that included blogging. So of course I had to start a blog 🙂
Steven Arellano Rose
You have a good number of blogging years. And a lot of interesting changes it’s gone through!
Thanks to you and the others for co-hosting!
Janet Alcorn
Thank you for stopping by!
J.Q. Rose
You offer so much wisdom and insight in your blog post. I love your history of blogging. Quite a variety of interests. It made me remember the blogs I started and then dropped. You are wise to discover your limits and to focus on YOU. I believe in a season for everything too. Tis the season now to regain good health. Thank you for co-hosting!
Janet Alcorn
Thanks! I’d love to resume the garden blog, but I barely have time for gardening anymore, let alone writing about it. I’m trying to focus more in my life so I spend time and energy on the things that matter most.
Beth Camp
Wow! Thank you for that thoughtful post about blogging and how it’s affected you. I’m with you every step of the way, signed up for your newsletter and will follow your blog. Sorry you got Covid but know you will persevere, hopefully with a stronger sense of balance. Sometimes the ‘shoulds’ get us down. I’m trying to turn my ‘shoulds’ into ‘wants’ — to work to limit what I do. And, yes, I want you to keep blogging and writing!
Janet Alcorn
Thanks so much for signing up for my newsletter and following my blog! I appreciate that more than I can say. This year has been rough, so it’s reassuring that someone out there wants to read what I write. I’ll definitely persevere, and I’ll restructure my life in a way that works in this new season I find myself in. We humans are nothing if not adaptable.
I love your line about turning shoulds into wants. That’s so wise. I’m going to remember that.