The *Art* of Blogging

We've all heard the chatter (and in many cases seen signs) that in this fast paced, twitter kind of world, blogging is becoming obsolete.

Oh, I hope not!

But then, I'm still lamenting the demise of the beautifully hand written letter. ;)

Between blogging, facebook, twitter, texting, and artsy-crafty social networking sites like TheHive, Ravelry, etc, it often seems it's all we can do to keep up! And while each has it's advantages (although I'm personally holding out on the texting thing, hehe) I have a special affinity for my blog, and for the favorites I visit when I have time. I also have to give a shout out to TheHive for allowing members to import their blogs - I love that.

I realize people generally tweet more often than they post to blogs, and some prefer the immediacy of it, but I find it very difficult to post something thoughtful in 140 characters or less, and tweets just don't have those lovely visuals I find on my favorite blogs.

If I'm feeling in need for something enchanting and inspiring, a relaxing little break in my day, I can always count on a cup of tea and Vanessa Valencia's Fanciful Twist blog. Just *magical*! If I'm feeling cooped up and want a little beauty, I visit my friend Jen's GypsyMare blog and take in all that wonderful photography. If I want to touch base with artist friends and see what's happening in their worlds, I need look no further than my sidebar. And if I want music without having to sift through the rather large CD collection, there's always my blog's current playlist, or the playlist on Jenn McGlon's Noodle and Lou blog. (♥love♥ this one!)

I know I probably sound like one of those cranky old technophobes when I say I prefer more in-depth forms of communication, but I can't help it. As an artist, I'm drawn to visuals, and I like to explore.

How about you? Do you blog? Do you tweet? Do you post, do you text? Do you actually WRITE? (she says in utter shock, falling back against the wall, back of hand to forehead!)

Do you have a favorite blog you visit when you want a little beauty and magic in your life?

Inquiring minds want to know. ;)

♥ Carolee

Blog Love + Halloween and Holiday Excitement + Magical Shows!

I feel like I've been gone for AGES, but really it's just been a few days....

Can I tell you the truth? I've been busy beyond belief, but must also admit to being sucked in to the vortex that is Facebook.... And methinks I'm not the only one....There does seem to be a bit of a mass blog exodus going on, doesn't there?

The thing is, I LOVE my blog. I really do. And while keeping up in real time is fun, this feels more, well - more in depth, at least as much as that's possible on the internet. Kind of like the difference between fast food and a lovely gourmet meal. Oh! And speaking of blog love, I believe the new issue of Artful Blogging is due any day now. Can't wait to see this one - along with ADQ, Where Women Create and Holidays and Celebrations. (Stampington publications, all!) Thank heavens for birthday gift cards to Barnes and Noble, hehe....

Studio time is being spent gearing up for Halloween now, with a few commissions thrown into the mix, and of course eBay and Etsy. Today's project was a sign (or door crown) in vintage black and orange (listed now on eBay)....

Does it put you in a Halloween kind of mood?! It certainly has the effect on me, but then, so does everything this time of year! Won't be long at all until we're wearing sweaters, drinking hot apple cider and carving pumpkins....

"It's the mooooost wonderful time of the year!"....(that's me singing) ;)

And speaking of the most wonderful time, here are three reasons why....

Tinsel and Treasures, in Alamo, California. I soooooooooooo wish I could go to this one. Such an incredible lineup of artists.

Halloween and Vine, in Petaluma - Fabulous!! (perhaps next year?)...

And of course, the Ghoultide Gathering - a truly amazing Halloween Art show, not to be missed. If you're within striking distance, do try to make it! Seriously, these shows are absolutely magical, and completely infused with the *spirit* of the season (pun intended).

Okay, that's about it for tonight. If I'm not careful, I'll turn into a pumpkin myself - a Halloween pumpkin, but a pumpkin nonetheless....

So I'm off now, but not before wishing you a happy and creative rest of the week!! Back as soon as I possibly can....

♥ Carolee