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According to Annalisa, my blog is popular. (When did that happen?) She wanted to know how it became so popular. While I’m still not exactly sure, I think I can sum it up in one word - friendships.
In two and a half years of blogging, I’ve made a lot of friends. With close to1600 followers, I can’t keep up with everyone. But I’ve tried to cultivate and maintain as many friendships as possible.
I follow a lot of blogs and comment on my regulars often. (Not to scare anyone, but I visit over a hundred blogs a day.) With those I’ve made a connection, I’ve gotten to know them better. I know what they write, what movies they like, what music they enjoy, and what they like to do in the real world. I get to know their families, the events in their lives, and how they feel about life. None of that would be possible if I didn’t visit them on a regular basis.
I also try to celebrate with my blogger buddies when they achieve success. The Ninja News has become a regular feature on my blog and there is always so much good news to announce, such as book deals, awards, and new novels. I enjoy having guests on my blog several times a month so they can share their excitement with the rest of my Ninja Army.
A couple times a year I host blogfests and I’m a co-host of the A to Z Challenge. Those events really spur a sense of community. Probably the greatest thing that’s happened came from the launch of the Insecure Writer’s Support Group last September. We post the first Wednesday of every month and hundreds have signed up to participate. Reading those posts and encouraging comments has been a total blessing. And I’ve received many comments and emails of appreciation for starting the group.
It’s not the followers or hits that make a blog - it’s the friendships. Genuine friendship is something that can’t be faked, either. It’s maintaining relationships, supporting others, and making sure one’s blog is a safe and fun place to visit. That’s all I’ve ever tried to do.
I know mine isn’t the normal author’s blog, but I’m blessed and honored to have so many online friends!
Alex J. Cavanaugh
http://alexjcavanaugh.
Alex J. Cavanaugh has a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree and works in web design and graphics. He is experienced in technical editing and worked with an adult literacy program for several years. A fan of all things science fiction, his interests range from books and movies to music and games. Online he is the Ninja Captain and founder of the Insecure Writer’s Support Group. The author of Amazon Best Sellers, CassaStar and CassaFire, he lives in the Carolinas with his wife.
