I just received the winter issue of Stephanie and Mav's 3191 Quarterly. It is a paper copy of the visual blogging they have become well known for. This is the third one in my subscription. I have enjoyed them, very much like reading their blog. But, I think I like the blog better. Maybe if the magazine were different than the blog - a new project rather than an extension.
And that is an interesting question in itself. How does one translate the material of a blog into the material world? Some days I feel a deep integration of my blogging and my daily life. Other times, my blogging may seem foreign, a construct of my imagination. I can create and recreate myself through pictures and words. Previous generations never had this complicated web of possibilities to navigate.
I do know that I have met people, lovely people, I never would have met if not for this blog. I have been inspired in my creative pursuits, exchanged ideas, offered support and been given support in return. There is something powerful in knowing we can connect groups of like-minded people in the blink of an eye through our blogs and web sites.
There is also a balancing game. Too much time on the computer is no good for me. I have family, friends, work, and my strong draw to the natural world that keep me engaged away from the online world.
But, I guess it is not a black and white equation. This blog has come to serve as a connection to things very much real, and very dear. The things that happen online - blogs, social media, and the like - do translate into quality of life away from the technology. Just look what is happening in the Middle East right now. I think that the ability to connect and share across distances and cultures has strengthened this generation's belief in POSSIBILITY.
Thank you.