Time For Feedback

I've been working pretty diligently on this blogging thing and I'm so incredibly amazed and moved that I'm at nearly 1,500 views.  I never would have believed there were that many people interested enough in me and what I might have to say about a plethora of topics.  Now I'm the first one to recognize that the number of hits doesn't mean there are that many people since a person might come back repeatedly to check out a new posting, but still, the number boggles my mind, especially since I feel like I'm just getting started.  In any case, I figured it was time to reach out for some feedback.  I really do welcome ongoing constructive criticism, suggestions and ideas that will help me grow this adventure that started out to be a continuation of my journaling about recovery but I now realize is turning into an ongoing blank canvas for self expression.

I've made some formatting changes to add different pages, represented by the links across the top just beneath the blog title.  I created places for me to add videos and links that I've found interesting or entertaining, and I think doing so will provide a deeper insight into who I am and what I enjoy or find meaningful.  At some point I want to figure out how to add an additional page where I can post more formal and different kinds of writing I've either done or want to do, but thought I'd better wait just a little bit for that until I'm confident this isn't just a fleeting fancy that will fall by the wayside at some point.  If you are inclined to do so, there is a link on the sidebar that allows you to get email updates when there's something new posted.  A little blurb is added on Facebook of course, but the email notifications are a more direct method for those who desire it.  Yes, I still think the whole project is an exercise in narcissism, but I've accepted the fact that this is pretty much what a blog is all about, and I truly appreciate those of you who continue to indulge me in my rantings and ravings.

Now here's where you come in.  I've added a general feedback page where people can comment in general about the bigger picture.  I hope that you will take the time to provide this much desired feedback so that I can continue to improve the look and feel, overall content, and even the overall design of these pages.  Is there too much purple (as if there ever could be in my mind.  LOL)?  Is the layout user friendly and easy to navigate?  Are there topics you feel I should add or write about, or are there things about me or my life experiences that you are interested in?  Just as important, are there topics you think maybe I shouldn't include?  I pledged to myself that I would strive to be open and honest in what I share in hopes that even the dark and troubling times might speak to or help someone out there, but at the same time I'm also well aware that there is such a thing as TMI!

This is the ultimate purpose for the new feedback section and I sincerely hope that people will feel free to provide their opinions.  Keep in mind that this can be done anonymously, or if you want to include identifying information, all the better!  Ultimately, having this blog being read and appreciated is what keeps me going.  It makes me feel like I have somewhat of a fan club, a cheerleading squad that keeps me motivated. and I cannot express enough just how wonderful and special it is to me.  I admit that I occasionally have fantasies that involve someone in the publishing community reaching out to me about writing the next best seller, just like in one of my favorite movies Julie & Julia.  Of course I'm far from realizing that dream, if I ever do, but until then I'm just glad that there are people out there who enjoy what I have to say.  Many thanks to all of you for helping me grow as a person and a writer , and here's to celebrating 1,500 hits!