Lately I’ve lacked the creative energy to do much writing. I have, however, been doing a lot of reading. I’ve been searching the blogosphere for signs of new life. Along the way, I’ve stumbled onto some great reads. Check out my freshly updated “Referrals (a.k.a. Blogroll)”.
With millions of blogs out there, it can be hard to find those worth reading. What makes for a great blog? Here is some of my criteria and some good examples of bloggers doing it right.
1) Balance words with visuals.
Got Fruit? nestles deep Biblical truths with well-chosen catchy illustrations. Murphy Klasing’s Conservative Blog consistently features photos as funny as the stories behind them. Dr. X’s Free Association couples in-depth explorations of psychological terrain with fun vintage photos.
2) Have your own distinct voice.
Julie Clawson of one hand clapping provides distinctive analysis of post-modern living in such a way that I can almost see her lips moving in her photo. Shahrazad uses her English (as a second language)beautifully to highlight Iranian and Muslim culture. Jemila in Quirky Grace Coaching serves up blessings and well as challenges often in a single succinct sentence.
3) Don’t preach. Testify.
Though his moniker might have you think otherwise, Real Live Preacher shares faith through simple stories. Another Think delves into world events with a keen eye for the Spirit of Christ. Crooked Shore finds God being revealed in a vast array of places.
4) Have fun.
Laurie Kendrick is, in my mind, the queen of comedic bloggers. You don’t have to be funny to have fun, though (and if you’re not funny, don’t try to be – please). Sonja at Calcacirian deals with serious subjects without taking herself too seriously. By just being herself, Hope of Hope Lounge offers a nice place to hang out and enjoy being yourself.
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What do you think makes for a great blog?
Send in the name of one of your favorite blogs and share what makes it great.
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more on blogging…
I do like the pix. But what does that say about our attention spans these days? Reminds me of our 9-year old who two years ago always wanted to read the picture books. A ratio of 10 words per picture worked for her. With some fatherly prodding, however, she just finished the first Harry Potter (shh… don’t tell the hyperChristians…). We have Anna Karenina lined up for her summer reading….
I find that unless the writer is really good, at a professional level, I won’t read a real long blog. I’ll skim, but not read. So, I try to keep mine relatively short and add a lot of white space.
Humor always wins, especially the sarcastic kind.
Honesty, too.
Oh and thanks for the referral. I’m trying to pull out of my own personal hiatus.
I’m touched, as always, Peter. Thanks for the lovely vote of confidence.
I’ve not been around much, either. I’m working now full time now and that involves writing comedy (for fun and profit) for about four hours out of my eight hour day and frankly, blogging comedy is the LAST thing I want to do when I come home.
I’m thinking about a reprieve of sorts…thought I’m not sure my ego will allow the sabbatical. We shall see.
Hope you’re well, Pete.
Let’s talk soon and again, thanks for the link. That you would even think of me is praise enough.
LK
thanks a bunch pete…appreciate the link and the good words
The two things I look for in a blog are…
1. something interesting – do they tell me something I didn’t know before?
2. unique – is the blog original? Or is it the same as 1,000 other blogs? If you aren’t unique, you probably can’t deliver something interesting, because I’ve probably seen it already.
The Pistol fires back: Thanks for responding. By the way, I checked out your blog and like what you are doing. Keep up the good work.
Pistol Pete,
First, I’d like to give credit to whom credit is due, that being God our Father in Heaven. To Him be the glory.
Your vote of confidence in Got Fruit(?) as a blog worthy of reading is a testament to the fact that God is affecting this blogger’s life. Thank you for the encouragement brother, it means a lot to me as well as the visits and input from you and the other regular visitors.
In reference to the NT Blogroll tag-line for Got Fruit(?): Thoughtful Biblical reflection for today’s world. I am humbly honored to be on the Referral list and by your description of the blog. Again thanks and praise to God Almighty, and to you as well Pistol Pete for the confirmation and acknowledgment of the spiritual fruits produced at Got Fruit(?).
Grace and peace be with you brother.
Hey Pete … God be with you, and thank you for the kind words. You blow me away sometimes, brother.
Peace :D
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