I began blogging in November 2011, with no clear intention other than to write something every day, which I have for the most part. The subject matter meandered from birds to Anthony’s Parkinson’s disease, to Ming’s teenage-hood and scoliosis, to our personal struggles. I dabbled in novel and romance writing, briefly promoted my book about Alzheimer’s disease, attempted some poetry, began to write about Anthony’s and my love story, posted pictures, and generally wrote a whole lot of this-and-that.
In view of the miscellaneousness of my posts, I suppose “Wings and Things” isn’t a bad sort of blog title so I’m sticking with that because it allows me to meander in the usual way. This is obviously not good for the stats as themed blogs get more ‘hits’ but, despite wanting to make more people aware dementia sufferers should be treated with more respect, I don’t care any more about the stats.
One of the things that has astounded me about my blog journey so far has been the incredible friendships wrought (with people I may never meet in person), and the mutual support system enabled via WordPress. The blogs I subscribe to are an eclectic mix of bird, photography, illness, writing, grief, dementia and philosophical blogs (to name a few) and it is often very difficult to keep up. The good thing is that most bloggers understand this difficulty and don’t mind if you don’t read their every word/post – phew!
I would never go to a support group, I already have enough friends in my non-blog life, and I am not naturally gregarious, so I am rather astounded at how much I have come to depend on the bloggers with whom I have become close – an extraordinary community made up of some of the kindest people I have ever come across. I also enjoy offering my own friendship and support to these fellow bloggers and this has become a meaningful part of my life.
This blog has also connected me better to my already-there friends and family, sometimes disconcertingly. For example, I said to my friend the other day, “Guess what happened yesterday?” and she said, “I already know, Jules – I read your blog.”
Oh!
So, in the spirit of miscellaneous gratitude, here is Diamond, our shyest goose….
…. saying thank you with me!
jmgoyder 
I was also pleasantly surprised by the community here. Here’s to I our continued success!
Sorry – auto-correct- YOUR continued success!
Yes!
And YOURS!
I echo so much of what you wrote… coincidentally I started writing in Nov. 2011 as well… but I’ve averaged about every other day posting. Yes, the themed blogs do get more hits I suppose but I set out to write whatever came to my mind (when I have one that is). I treasure the friendships I’ve made on WordPress…. Diane
We are twins!
To be quite honest with you Jules, you’ve been the one who has kept me going at times when I’ve thought about just packing my blog in. Even when you just offer a quick “haha” comment I feel a lot better – like I’ve been heard, ya know?
Thank you so much for supporting us too!
It is so weird – I feel like I know you so well now – a lovely feeling
Thanks to you right back! I also began my blog in November 2011 but I’m afraid I’m more of a sporadic poster. I agree wholeheartedly about the friendships you make. People are amazing.
Yes, and I am a rather sporadic replyer!
It has been such a delight to have come to know you, your family, your joys and struggles. You are a gifted writer, but of greater importance, you are a lovely, loving soul and someone with whom I have felt a connection for a long time. So glad to have ‘met’ you in this blogosphere.
Mimi – you are one of the people who I have come to adore and you are always inspirational and thought-provoking. I cannot thank you enough! Jx
I think the appreciation is so mutual Jules – you have no idea..xo
I echo your sentiments here as well, the support and friendships built in this cyberworld mean so much.
It’s true.
I am happy to have met you and count you among my friends–you are always supportive and clever in your remarks
You too!
Yes , the support you get from others is really uplifting.
Exactly! I can’t believe it sometimes – we are lucky to have each other.
Thank you Jules, for being genuine, for your raw honesty, for your amazing attitude, for your beautiful stories, for caring so much. You’re right. We may never meet. But you are one the most wonderful people I’ve never met. Hugs.
Diana xo
Well that is a definite ditto, Diana – you give me heart!
Well said, keep blogging.
It gets a bit compulsive!
Thank YOU. Keep up the great work.
You too!
Dear Jules, you have bolstered me and read my blog for a long time now. You are kind and faithful, and I love reading your posts. All of which is to say, I am so happy you found me. You and your writing are both blessings in this world. Much, much respect and love. Judith
I, too, have been bolstered by your presence in my life, Judith.
I feel exactly the same way, I look forward to your posts and I feel like a part of your family; human and fowl. lol I definitely get a kick out of the few times I have said something to either my daughter or my mother and they both responded “I know, I read your blog” 🙂
Even though I don’t always keep up with your posts, I do feel as if I know you and that we are friends and that means a lot to me – thank you!
Me too! Hugs 😀
Julie, You know how special you are to me, and I am so so grateful our paths crossed and we have become such wonderful friends. You have touch many lives with your stories of Ants and Ming, and let’s not forget Gutsy9, soft smile. The comments are a tribute to you, your kindness, and the spirit of the blog world. Yes we may never meet face to face but I feel we have been friends forever. Take care, Bill
The feeling is mutual Bill.
you are welcome. and thank you.
xxx
i couldn’t have said it better my friend. blogging has brought many blessings and more love in to my life. your friendship has come to mean more to me than you know. i hope you keep blogging, whatever the topic, i will be reading.
I have been thinking about you so much lately, Sandra – you are extraordinary.
it has been my pleasure to get to know you and your family, jules. and you are very welcome )
Ditto +++
I’m so glad you’re going to continue with your miscellaneous blogging theme. I’ve so enjoyed following your journey, your family story and the antics of your beautiful birds!
Me too – about you Trisha.
Happy Blog Blessings Julie, you’re one of mine. 🙂
xxx
I know what you mean.
I know.
I like you blog no matter what you write about the blogging community is a wonderful one in my opinion
I love your honesty – always.
❤
xxx
can’t imagine NOT knowing you…and don’t want to. you know….xoxo
Sharing, Caring & Friendship is priceless.
How could we not support such a kind and generous person as yourself.
Vicki
xox
You are a wonderful friend, Vicki.
It is an interesting phenomenon. 🙂 I had to start for a class I was taking, and then never looked back. I don’t any of the others in the class continued, but it is an important creative outlet for me. The connections made are often surprising and fun.
Exactly!