Calling It Quits (Not Me)

No, I'm not talking about myself, at least not right now. There's far too many ideas in the to blog about someday stockpile of mine. More ideas than time to post, but better to have them, then not.

That said, I have read several recent posts in which the blogger has "talked" about giving up his.her blog for a myriad of reasons: for some it has become a time issue with other demands (such as family, medical) others have said they've run out of topics (really?) and still others have claimed it's no longer fun for them. And, as we all know, when the fun stops, it's really no fun at all.

We blog for many reasons — to share our life, home, family, travel and personal viewpoints. Granted, sometimes a blog post (or many) may be annoying, irritating, and even contrary to our personal and fast-held beliefs, but they are that individual's. There's no need for vehement comments unless. of course, the blog thrives on that activity, which some do. It remains your right to read, comment or not, and the level at which you choose to do so — nicely or not — it's your choice. You could also choose not to read certain posts and maybe not raise your BP. (Mine is already a bit elevated these days.)

Which brings me in a very roundabout way to the topic of this post — a blogger who is signing off from blog-land and one who I will miss reading. Of course, quitting isn't unusual and others have done so before. Some return after an absence; others have quit without a final post.

This week, I read a final post from Valerie, a blogger from the UK, on her blog, A Mixed Bag. In her words: I am quitting. Yes, you read that right. Thing is, I am  too old for this game or any other game and it is all down to age and degeneration. 

Valerie wrote that she's blogged for many years, enjoyed it and the friends made. Rather than repeat her brief farewell post, you can follow the above ↑ blog link.

It was disappointing to read that Valerie not would be putting her books away and forgetting that she wrote stories and books (her words).  That's unfortunate as her stories were a joy to read. She's is a talented and creative writer who created visual imagery through words. If her blog remains online, you may be still be able to read some of her stories.

This isn't the first time, a blogger that I and others have enjoyed has decided to quit blogging. And, most likely, it won't be the last. As stated above, lives change as do people's needs.

Backtracking a bit to this date in late February, I wrote about fellow blogger Laurie, a talented artist, who posted that she was quitting her blog, Where the Spruce Trees Grow, for medically related issues. Laurie was always open in sharing her blogging difficulties after a brain injury and failing eyesight. She left blogging, returned briefly, but eventually announced that she was quitting permanently (failed eyesight was her reason). Sadly you won't be able to see her artwork. While her blog title remains, all posts have been removed.

So once again, another blogger is leaving the blog world. I wish Valerie all good things in her blog "retirement." Admittedly, I will also miss hearing about the antics of her cat, Charlie.

Thanks, Valerie, for sharing such wonderful stories and unfailing good humor on your blog. I, and others, will miss reading them. And, if you ever want a guest blog post, just let me know. Please stop in for a visit, every now and then. I (and others) would like to know how and what you're doing.

OK, your turn, any other bloggers thinking about quitting? Do comment on why or why not.

Speaking for myself, Blogging is a wonderful outlet and I appreciate that others share a similar opinion. Like some, it's my only form of social media. My regret is that it's difficult to comment on everyone's posts in a timely manner as some blog often. I try to visit everyone's blog at least weekly, more often if possible. My own posting has been cut back to 3X a week and there's still a stockpile of ideas. Thanks, as always, for your comments, ALL are much appreciated.