That’s the theme of the next I and the Bird (#79, to be hosted at the mothership, 10,000 birds).
Apropos for me, as it’s my sort-of anniversary. I started this iteration of the blog a year ago, in July 2007. I’d re-entered the blogging world a little earlier on another venue, in January, after a two year hiatus.
So why am I doing this?
The short answer is that I enjoy it.
I should preface that by saying that I’m not sure I’m a bird blogger per se, as I blog about animals, plants, weather, nature, and occasionally other parts of my life rather than just birds. And I’m not a birder, either, in the sense of all those wonderful folks out there who keep lists, travel to the ends of the earth, and even (huge shudder) camp out (/shudder) to see lifers. Even my photos are hit and miss, but I’m happy to have a bad photo of a great bird, because I can fill the rest with memory and imagination.
So, back to the question: what’s in this for me? Quite honestly, a lot of return on my investment of time and energy. I have an outlet for my words and pictures. I am de facto a member of a community of people who care about baby robins, who share my appreciation of and joy in the great world unfolding outside in my back yard, and who in turn share their stories, pictures, adventures, and concerns with me.
I would probably never have started a traditional pen-and-paper nature journal, because I always thought I hated to write. Instead, I’m learning that I rather enjoy it and I wish I had more time to hone my words. The more I write, the more I pay attention to the world around me, the more questions I think of, and the more I want to know and understand and – yes – write about it.
Welcome, Larry!
Hi Wren,
I really identify with your comments about writing. I didn’t realize I could enjoy writing until I started blogging about the things I love. Keep up the good work and come visit my blog: http://Birdmansblog.com
Mike, Thanks, that means a lot, and I’m happy to have the opportunity to participate. I think this may be the best IATB I’ve read.
liza – thanks, it’s very mutual.
Wren, I am glad you are still blogging. I really enjoy your thoughts and observations. Happy blogiversary!
I’m glad that you enjoy nature blogging, Wren, because I and a lot of other readers enjoy that fact that you do it so well! Thanks for being a part of our IATB anniversary.
Klaus, thank you! I’ll look forward to reading your post in IATB.
Uh – that’s a good read. I did mine a couple of days ago! Liked it!
Cheers, Klaus
mary – you’re probably the only person who’s interest in both blogs! I hope we can meet at an MLA meeting one of these days.
fishing guy – thanks – you are right and I appreciate the encouragement. I’m still learning as a I go.
suzanne – thank you so much!
I’m glad you do, Wren. I just love visiting your blog.
Wren: Those are some good reason to blog. Remember you are doing it for yourself and all should remain special for you.
Hi Wren. I was so glad when you “returned” to blogland. Just about the time I was seeking you out (via David Rothman), I was told you had discontinued blogging for awhile. Glad to have you back, and congrats on your blogiversary. I haven’t figured out yet if I’m going to contribute to IATB #79 because I also thought the same thing — that I’m not just a birder. I guess I should start with that phrase and expound on it. I am mostly a backyard “birdwatcher.” Well, anyway, I like what you wrote. You have inspired me to contribute to IATB #79. See that? You are an inspiration to other bloggers — a great reason for you to blog and share your insights from your “corner of the world.” ;o)
ann – I needed to think it over for a while, too. I actually wrote the first draft a couple of days ago and finally decided that it was ready to release last night.
jayne – thanks, it’s been – and still is – fun
sherry – thank you for visiting and commenting
lin – I’m glad you enjoy.
jade – thank you and welcome back to the blogosphere
The more I write, the more I pay attention to the world around me
Well said Wren! Thanks for offering such a lovely, reflective blog.
Best,
Jade
Hi Wren, This is an interesting post. And congratulations on your blogging anniversary. I share the same sentiments and reasons behind blogging. Have a great day!
Lin
Dear Wren,
Happy anniversary!
I am looking forward to reading your journal and getting to know you.
I am glad you are blogging!
Sherry
Perfectly stated wren. :c) Happy blogiversary to you!
This is really interesting and a topic I love to think about. I like what you have written. I wish I weren’t so scheduled today or I would pursue it more. Maybe I can check the topic out more tomorrow.
ann