Where to Begin

Welcome one and all, to the first of what will undoubtedly be a catalog of episodes that pertain to my life's experiences. You are hereby officially entitled to my opinion, which I will share willingly and on many topics.

I've started this blog in an effort to reclaim a bit of myself through writing and humor - two things that I cherish - and only one of which I get to exercise on my own terms each day. In between the chaos of work, kid, home, pets, family, school, and whatever else can be thrown into that mix, there is a part of me that longs for the days of creative writing assignments in college. Slightly sad? Yes and no. Although it always included a deadline, I miss the "free" time associated with a good writing assignment. It was my creative outlet to show my humor, personality, annoyances, concerns, and what-have-you. (Upon finishing that sentence I hear former English and Writing majors around the world cheering in unison.) So here I am, doing the abbreviated version of a self-imposed writing assignment.

In fairness to my readers (I think at present there's a whole 1 of you. Woo hoo!), I thought I should lay some ground rules for both of us, before I really take off with this thing. Shall we begin?

Rules for Me

1. Do not be intentionally mean to or complain about people by name on this blog, simply because you have the forum to do it. People have feelings and karma is a bitch.

2. Post regularly because it's good for your sanity. Aim for weekly.

3. Be ready for feedback (good and bad) because you will get it. And depending on the post, lots of it... which you may not like.

4. Follow-up to #3... Recognize that everyone else has an opinion they usually feel entitled to share too. Don't get too bent out of shape if someone disagrees with you.

5. Do not post about work. In the immortal words of Dooce.com, "Be ye not so stupid."

6. Be grateful for the opportunity to share your thoughts.

Rules for You (my readers)

1. The Golden Rule. If you don't like what I have posted, stop reading and find another blog. Remember, you CHOSE to read my blog. It is my opinion on whatever I choose to write about and no one but YOU can make YOU read it.

2. "Rules for Me" #1 applies to you too. The comments section is not a place to pick fights, start nasty political debates, etc. Play nice.

3. "Rules for Me" #3 also applies to you. Life would be pretty boring if we all agreed all the time.

4. Share an experience if you think it will be helpful to me or other readers. Keep it positive.

5. Do not presume to know my opinion or stance on something unless I specifically tell you.

6. Don't be surprised if I correct your grammar or spelling. It's a sickness and I'm working on it.

7. Enjoy my posts!

So there you have it. My first blog. Yay me, lucky you. I look forward to sharing a lot of my thoughts and scratching that creative/writing/opinion-offering itch.

Thanks for reading!